Before you sail with us for the first time, we usually get the same question: what to actually bring. The answer is simpler than it sounds, but a few things are worth sorting out beforehand so the cruise is comfortable from the first minute to the last. Here is a short guide, laid out the way we explain it to guests at booking.
Layered clothing
Water and land sit at different temperatures, and that can catch you off guard even in the middle of summer. It is always a bit windier out on the open bay than on the boulevard, and when the sun slips behind a cloud for a moment, the temperature can drop noticeably. A layering system works best: a light shirt or top, a thinner jumper or hoodie over it, and something windproof on top, a light jacket will do. During the day you can peel off layers as it warms up, and in the evening, especially on the Sunset Cruise, put them back on.
Shoes that will not let you down on deck
A catamaran deck can get slippery, especially once spray starts to come over the side, so good footwear is not a luxury, it is a real matter of comfort and safety. Flat, closed or sporty sandals with a sole that grips wet surfaces work well. We would steer you away from stilettos and high heels: not only uncomfortable, they can also damage the deck coating. Flip-flops are fine for a calm cruise, but for longer stretches on your feet, and dancing at the Golden Hour Club, something that holds your foot more securely works better.
Protection from sun and wind
The sun hits harder on the water than it seems, because there is also reflection off the sea surface to reckon with. Sunscreen is essential, even on a cloudy day, and it is worth applying before you set off rather than mid-cruise. Sunglasses come in handy all day, not just at sunset, since the glare off the water can tire your eyes even in moderate sunshine. Wind on open water is usually stronger than on land, so if you have long hair, a hair tie or a scarf will save you a fair bit of fuss.
Phone and electronics
Photos from the deck are usually some of the best you will take all year, so it is worth keeping your phone handy, but also protected. A waterproof case, or even just a zip-lock bag, is a simple way to make sure a stray wave or a splash of water does not cause any trouble. It is worth charging your phone fully before the cruise, since the camera and music tend to drain the battery faster than usual. If you are bringing a camera or extra gear, a light waterproof backpack you can leave in a safe spot on deck is a good idea.
The most common mistake is dressing too lightly for an evening cruise. Even in July, once the sun sets it gets cooler than most guests expect, so we always say: bring one more layer than you think you will need.
What to wear depending on the type of cruise
Morning Escape, Sunset Cruise and Golden Hour Club differ in time of day and character, so it is worth keeping that in mind when you pack. For a morning cruise, something light but still warm works well, since the early hours on the water can be cool before the sun properly takes over. For the Sunset Cruise, usually planned for the evening, we always recommend an extra layer for later, once the sun goes down and it gets noticeably cooler than during the day. For the Golden Hour Club, where a fair bit of time is spent moving to the music, comfortable, breathable clothing works better than anything restrictive, and it is worth having a light cover-up on hand for the later part of the evening, when the energy dips and it gets cooler.
Checklist before you leave home
So you do not have to remember it all, we have put it into one list:
- light layered clothing plus something for the wind and evening chill
- flat, grippy shoes, no high heels
- sunscreen and sunglasses
- a fully charged phone in a waterproof case
- a small amount of cash or a card, just in case
- good mood and an appetite for the views
First time on a catamaran: what is worth knowing
If this is your first cruise, a few extra words might ease any nerves that sometimes show up before stepping on board. A catamaran is far more stable than a traditional single-hulled boat, thanks to its two side hulls the rocking motion is usually gentle, even in a moderate swell. The crew explains the basic safety rules right after you board, so there is nothing you need to know in advance. If you are worried about seasickness, let us know when booking, we will suggest the best spot on deck and share a few simple tips to keep the cruise comfortable from the first minute.
What is better left behind
Heavy suitcases and large bags do not have a good place on a catamaran deck, so if you are planning a longer day in the Tricity, leave them at the hotel or in the car before the cruise. Stilettos and jewellery you care about are also better left on land, wind and salt water are not their friends. Heavily perfumed sun lotions can bother other guests in the enclosed space of the deck, so it is worth using them sparingly. The rest, catering, drinks, music, is usually our job.
What to bring if you like to have a backup for every occasion
Some guests prefer to always have a little extra on hand, and that is a completely understandable approach to a cruise where you spend several hours without easy access to a shop. It is worth thinking about a spare hair tie, wet wipes, and a small pack of plasters, in case of a minor scrape while boarding. If someone in the group is prone to seasickness, a motion sickness tablet taken in advance, before setting off, can save the whole evening. It is also worth keeping some chewing gum or mints handy, a small pleasure that comes in useful on a longer cruise with an open bar.
If you have any further questions
Every cruise is a little different, so if you have questions about a specific date, the weather, or a special occasion, such as an engagement or a birthday, write to us before the cruise at [email protected] or call +48 888 797 988. We are happy to advise on what is worth bringing for your particular date and chosen format, whether that is the relaxed Morning Escape, the romantic Sunset Cruise, or the energetic Golden Hour Club.
Frequently asked questions
It is not necessary, but if you would like the extra comfort, for instance lying on the catamaran roof, a light blanket or towel can come in handy.
Yes, as long as you take basic precautions. We recommend a waterproof case or a sealable bag, especially if you are expecting some spray.
Flat, closed or sporty sandals with a sole that grips wet surfaces. Avoid stilettos and high heels.