Chartering a yacht in the Pacific Northwest is one of the most liberating and spectacular marine adventures one can take. A bareboat charter is even more empowering, providing you with the opportunity to plan and take charge of your experience, without help from a crew. This is your fully immersed seafaring vacation from beginning to end amidst the stunning coastal seascape of the region.

But wait. What to pack?

Answering that question can sometimes be a little overwhelming. In the relative confines of a charter yacht, you may be wondering how much space you’ll have, what to bring and what’s already supplied. You don’t want to double up on anything, and yet, realizing you’ve forgotten a critical item at home can be very distressing when you’re in the middle of the ocean.

You may have already started talking to other boaters or researching online the plethora of information available. There is no shortage of suggested items or lists available, but everyone has different opinions and it can be more confusing than helpful.

Rather than leaving you to the masses, we have compiled this Bareboat Charter Checklist. It will help ensure you have everything you require before you depart the dock. From essentials and personal items you’ll require, to a comprehensive list of pre-supplied items onboard, you’ll know exactly what to bring and what can stay at home.

No leaving the harbor with anxiety. No sudden distress when you’re halfway through the trip and realize you forgot a critical item that you supposed may have been on board.

Better to think and plan now. We’re here to help.

NWE’s Bareboat Charter Checklist

Firstly, try and pack as light as you can. Soft-sided luggage is best for easy storage. The yachts are outfitted with all the bedding and towels you’ll need, but you will need to bring clothing, provisions and personal gear.

As the weather can vary quite a bit in the Pacific Northwest (remember: this is a temperate rain forest region), be prepared for everything from cool and wet to hot and sunny. Think layers. Bring mostly casual clothing but a “casually smart” outfit is a great idea to pack along for a dinner out or excursion in the bigger towns you might visit.

Personal items to bring:

Clothing

• T‐shirts and zip‐off pants (creating shorts)
• Hat and loose long‐sleeved light shirt for sun protection
• Waterproof shoes
• Rain gear – including maybe a cheap poncho that also

covers a backpack

Toiletries

• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Pepto‐Bismal, seasickness medications, Neosporin, and Ibuprofen
• Insect repellant
• Prescription meds
• Extra contact lenses and prescription glasses as backup
• Tooth brush and paste

Miscellaneous

• Camera, spare battery, 12‐volt inverter to charge batteries
• Dry bag for camera and other non‐water‐proof items
• Small notebook
• Cell phone charger
• Backpack for going ashore
• Copy of passports kept separately
• Pocket packs of tissues and antiseptic wipes
• Smaller lifejackets for any kids aboard

Provisions:
Your meals are your choice of course.  You can stock up on provisions just prior to your departure. There are several 24-hour grocery stores within driving distance of the NW Explorations office. Costco, Trader Joe’s, liquor, sports equipment, clothing and pharmaceuticals are also nearby.

Personal items already aboard (NO NEED TO BRING):

• Marine toilet paper
• Dish soap
• Hand soap
• Body wash
• Pillows
• Blankets
• Bedspreads
  Sheets
• Hair dryer

So, you’ve covered the bare essentials. But is there anything else critical you should add to your boating trip checklist? There may be a thing or two you want, but certainly nothing else you’ll need.

The charter yachts of NW Explorations come fully stocked with exceptional safety, operating, galley, electrical and cleaning equipment. Really, everything you need for a safe, well-planned voyage.

You’ll find the full equipment list here of what’s on board, but below is a general overview.

What’s cooking in the kitchen?

The galley is your kitchen-away-from-home and contains everything you need to prepare robust (or simple) meals with maximum space efficiency. Beyond cutlery, accessories and dishes, you’ll have everything from casserole dish and muffin tin to crab cracker, juicer and stock pot. Your culinary imagination will be far from limited aboard.

Stately Staterooms

The stateroom keeps comfort at a premium with full bedding and pillows supplied as well as hangers for your clothing.

Safety First

Being prepared for any eventuality is the backbone of marine adventures. Full tender equipment is a critical component. On a NWE bareboat charter, equipment runs the gamut from dinghy to spare fuel filter, and manual pull start cord to navigation lights. There is a spare set of keys, drain plug and kill clip in the dinghy dry bag, manual bilge pump, waterproof flashlight and more. Extensive equipment and a tool set equaling that of a tradesman, means repairs of all kinds can be done effectively.

Electronics/navigation

You’ll also be able to chart your course with the assistance of full electronic aid. On board are devices like VHF radio, autopilot navigation, radar, plotter and depth sounders as well as NMEA Service/diagnostics port. There is also a full set of charts for US and Canadian waters as well as publications covering local tides, currents, ports, boating rules and more. To assist your charting, the helm navigation station includes items like a parallel rule, drafting compass, chart magnifying glass and binoculars.

Can’t forget the entertainment

What’s boating without music or a late-night movie? Your charter yacht includes a TV monitor, DVD player and DVDs, AM/FM/CD stereo and iPod docking station or AUX input cable.

With 25 years’ experience in the business, we at NWE truly have the expertise and knowledge to provide unparalleled bareboat charters that leave nothing amiss. We pride ourselves on thinking of everything: and we mean EVERYTHING.

Making your boating trip checklist doesn’t have to be difficult and it can certainly be stress-free. Knowing exactly what to bring and what’s aboard eliminates any of the questions and doubts you may have about being properly equipped.

Cruise with confidence that you have everything in hand to enjoy an exquisite voyage with your bareboat charter.

Book your bareboat charter with NWE by visiting our website or call 360-676-1248.