On board
A short list of personal items that genuinely improve safety, communication and life on board.
Retailer links: Links marked * lead to external shops. Keelwake currently receives no commission from them. Selection and order are independent of retailers. Requirements from authorities, flag state and skipper always take priority.
Choose by function
On a charter yacht, the charter company and skipper provide boat equipment, but personal readiness remains individual. Pack by function and area: protection, communication, first aid and dry organisation. Check what is already on board before buying duplicates.
Focused selection
The images illustrate the type of equipment. Compare approval, compatibility and service status for the actual product before buying.
Personal safety
When charter lifejacket fit and equipment are uncertain
Your own lifejacket is useful when it fits correctly and suits the area. A crotch strap, service status and harness matter more than a long feature list.
On deck
For night, heavy weather and work outside the cockpit
A tether only works with a suitable harness, strong points and a planned route around the deck. Agree the system with the boat and skipper.
Health
For medication and immediately accessible basics
Add personal medication, allergies and a small accessible kit to the boat supplies. Scope and requirements depend on area, duration and crew.
Organisation
For documents, electronics and dry reserve clothing
A compact roll bag stows more easily than a suitcase. Separate important items in labelled inner bags; waterproof does not always mean submersible.
Links checked: 2026-08-30. Availability and legal requirements can change.
FAQ
Not necessarily if suitable, serviced lifejackets are provided. Your own can improve fit, familiarity and personal equipment integration.
Hard-shell suitcases, duplicate boat gear that was not agreed with the skipper, and devices whose authorisation or operation is unclear.
