What Should You Bring on a Private Boat Charter? A Complete Checklist

One of the questions I get from people planning a day on the water is, “Scott, what should we bring with us?”

It’s a great question, especially if you haven’t booked a private boat charter before. Whether you’re planning a relaxing cruise, an afternoon at the sandbar, a fishing adventure, or a celebration with friends, bringing the right things can make your day more comfortable and enjoyable.

I’m Scott Fleischer, owner and captain of Bottoms Up Adventure Charters in Pompano Beach, Florida. I want my guests to spend their time enjoying the water, not wishing they had packed something important. That’s why I recommend keeping things simple, thinking ahead, and packing for the kind of adventure you want to have.

Here’s my captain’s checklist to help you get ready for your trip.

1. Sun Protection Is a Must

South Florida sunshine can feel fantastic when you’re out on the water, but it can also catch people off guard. The breeze may make the temperature feel comfortable, even while the sun is beating down.

I recommend bringing:

• Sunscreen that is water-resistant.

• Sunglasses with UV protection.

• A hat or visor that fits securely.

• Lightweight clothing that covers your shoulders if you burn easily.

• A long-sleeved sun shirt if you prefer extra protection.

Apply sunscreen before you arrive and remember to reapply according to the product instructions, particularly after swimming.

I also suggest choosing sunscreen that won’t easily wash off when you’re in the water. A little preparation can make a big difference in how you feel at the end of the day.

2. Bring the Right Clothes and Footwear

What you wear depends on what you plan to do. A group heading out for sunset views may pack differently from guests planning to swim, snorkel, or spend time at the sandbar.

For most trips, I recommend bringing:

• A swimsuit if you plan to swim.

• Comfortable, lightweight clothing.

• A towel for drying off.

• A change of clothes for after your trip.

• A light layer for the ride back if you tend to get chilly.

• Secure, boat-friendly footwear.

If you plan to get in the water, wear your swimsuit under your clothes to make changing easier. Footwear should be comfortable and appropriate for a boat environment. Avoid bringing shoes that could damage surfaces, and check with me beforehand if you have questions about what’s suitable.

For a sunset cruise, you can keep things casual and comfortable. For birthdays or bachelor and bachelorette boat parties, feel free to coordinate outfits for photos, but choose clothing you can move around in safely.

3. Pack Drinks and Snacks

Being out in the Florida sun can leave you thirsty, especially if your trip includes swimming or fishing. Staying hydrated is important, so I recommend bringing plenty of water for your group.

Depending on your plans and the arrangements for your charter, you may also want to bring:

• Water and your preferred nonalcoholic drinks.

• Easy-to-eat snacks.

• Sandwiches or simple food for longer trips.

• A small cooler, if permitted and arranged in advance.

• Any specific dietary items you know you’ll need.

  
  

Choose snacks that are easy to handle and won’t create a mess. Remember that space on a boat is more limited than space at a vacation rental, so compact packaging is usually best.

If you plan to bring alcoholic beverages, check with me before your trip about what’s permitted and how to prepare. Please drink responsibly, and never let alcohol interfere with anyone’s safety in or around the water.

4. What to Bring for Fishing, Swimming, and Sandbar Adventures

One of the best things about booking with Bottoms Up Adventure Charters is that you can customize your trip. You don’t have to choose a rigid package that includes only one activity.

You might want to spend part of the day fishing and the rest relaxing at the sandbar. Another group might prefer sightseeing, swimming, and looking for dolphins.

Here’s how I’d pack for each type of adventure.

If You're Planning a Fishing Trip

For guests interested in a fishing charter or private fishing excursions, I recommend bringing:

• Polarized sunglasses to help reduce glare.

• Sun-protective clothing.

• A hat and sunscreen.

• Drinks and snacks.

• Any personal fishing gear you’ve discussed bringing in advance.

Before purchasing or packing equipment, ask me what’s already provided and what you may need to bring. That way, you won’t carry unnecessary gear.

You don’t have to be an experienced angler to enjoy a fishing trip. If you’re hoping to catch your first fish, tell me when you book so we can discuss your goals and plan accordingly.

If You're Visiting the Sandbar

For a relaxing stop at the Pompano Beach sandbar, consider packing:

• Swimsuits and towels.

• Sunscreen and sunglasses.

• A change of dry clothes.

• Waterproof phone protection.

• A reusable water bottle.

• Any personal swimming accessories you want to use.

I may have water toys or equipment available for your planned activities, depending on the trip, so ask me what’s included before bringing your own. Conditions, weather, and water depth can affect which activities make sense on a particular day.

If You're Taking a Sunset Cruise

For guests interested in sunset cruises Fort Lauderdale visitors love, I recommend bringing a camera or phone, a light layer, and whatever you need to feel comfortable.

Sunset is a wonderful time to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and take a few pictures. You don’t need much equipment to make the most of it.

5. Protect Your Phone and Bring Your Essentials

A phone is useful for pictures, communication, and keeping track of the memories you make. But water and electronics aren’t always the best combination.

Before your trip, consider packing:

• A waterproof phone pouch or protective case.

• A portable power bank, if you need one.

• Your booking details and any relevant instructions.

• Personal medication you may need during the trip.

• A small bag for personal belongings.

Keep valuables to a minimum. Large bags, expensive jewelry, and unnecessary electronics can take up space and create extra worry.

If you need medication during the trip, bring it in its original packaging when appropriate and let me know about any practical considerations that could affect your comfort or safety. Don’t leave essential medication behind just because you expect to be on the water for only a few hours.

6. What You Should Leave at Home

Packing well also means knowing what not to bring. Space is limited aboard a boat, and too many belongings can make it harder for everyone to relax.

I generally recommend leaving these items behind unless we’ve discussed them beforehand:

• Oversized luggage or large bags.

• Fragile items that could easily break.

• Glass containers if they aren’t permitted.

• Unnecessary valuables.

• Items that could blow away or become hazards.

• Personal equipment that hasn’t been approved for the planned activities.

If you’re organizing party boat tours, a birthday outing, or bachelorette boat parties, coordinate with me before bringing decorations, large coolers, or bulky party supplies. I want you to have fun, and a little planning helps us make the most of the available space.

7. My Captain's Final Checklist

Before leaving your hotel or vacation rental, run through this quick list:

• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.

• Swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes.

• Water and snacks.

• Phone and waterproof protection.

• Personal medication and essentials.

• Appropriate footwear.

• Any activity-specific items we discussed.

• A positive attitude and a willingness to enjoy the day.

Most importantly, check the weather and review your trip details before heading out. If you’re unsure about what’s included or what you should pack, ask me ahead of time. I’d rather answer a few questions before your charter than have you bring things you don’t need or forget something important.

Let's Get Your Adventure on the Calendar

At Bottoms Up Adventure Charters, I believe a great day begins before we even leave the dock. When you know what to bring and have a plan that fits your group, you can relax and focus on the experience.

Whether you’re looking for family boat tours, private fishing excursions, a laid-back sandbar day, or bachelorette boat parties with your favorite people, I’ll work with you to create a trip around what you want to do.

I’m proud that Bottoms Up Adventure Charters has earned a perfect 5-star Google rating. Customer satisfaction is my highest priority, and that means helping guests feel prepared, welcome, and excited about their time on the water.

Don’t spend your South Florida vacation wondering what you might be missing. Let’s plan a day that fits your interests, your group, and your idea of a great adventure.

Visit Bottoms Up Adventure Charters to start planning your private trip. Tell me what you have in mind, and I’ll help you prepare for a memorable day exploring South Florida from the water.