What to Pack for the Ultimate Sandbar Snorkeling and Party Adventure

Hey friends — Scott Fleischer here, owner and captain of Bottoms Up Adventure Charters in sunny South Florida. If you’re dreaming about crystal-clear water, music in the background, a drink in your hand, and the kind of ocean day you’ll talk about for years… you’re in the right place. I run unforgettable days on the water out of the Fort Lauderdale and Pompano Beach area, and today I’m going to help you get ready for the ultimate sandbar snorkeling and party adventure.

And fair warning: once you experience this, ordinary beach days just won’t hit the same. If you’re even thinking about booking one of our trips, do yourself a favor and read this all the way through — then lock in your date before someone else grabs it.

Why This Isn’t Just a Boat Ride

Before we get into what to pack, let me set the scene.

This isn’t a crowded ferry or a generic tour where you’re one of 30 strangers. With us, you’re stepping into a fully customizable day on the water. Want to snorkel reefs? Done. Chill at a sandbar with floating mats and music? Easy. Cruise the Intracoastal and check out waterfront mansions? Let’s go. Mix it all together? That’s my favorite kind of day.

We host everything from laid-back family outings to high-energy party boat rides that turn into floating celebrations. I’ve taken groups out for birthdays, bachelor weekends, and more than a few legendary bachelorette party boat trips that people still message me about months later.

The key to making it perfect? Showing up prepared. So here’s exactly what you should bring.

Sun Protection: Your Future Self Will Thank You

South Florida sun is no joke — and trust me, you do not want to spend the rest of your vacation looking like a lobster.

Bring:

• Reef-safe sunscreen (spray or lotion, but reapply often)

• A hat with a strap or snug fit (the wind loves stealing hats)

• Polarized sunglasses

• A lightweight cover-up or long-sleeve sun shirt

Even on party boat rides where you’re mostly dancing and relaxing, you’re still in direct sun reflecting off the water. That reflection doubles the intensity. I keep some shade on board, but smart sun prep is what keeps the day fun instead of painful.

Swimwear (Yes, Wear It There)

Sounds obvious, but you’d be surprised how many people show up in regular clothes planning to “change later.” Boat bathrooms are tight, and once we’re anchored at the sandbar, you’ll want to jump right in.

Wear your swimsuit under your clothes when you arrive. For snorkeling stops and sandbar hangouts, you’ll be in and out of the water all day.

Ladies on a bachelorette party boat especially love bringing a second swimsuit for photos or just a fresh change after snorkeling. Guys doing private fishing tours often pack quick-dry shorts so they’re comfortable whether they’re reeling in a fish or hopping in the water to cool off.

Towels and a Dry Bag

Bring a towel per person — not just one for the group. Between snorkeling, swimming, and lounging on floats, you’ll use it.

I also highly recommend a small dry bag. It’s perfect for:

• Phone

• Wallet

• Car keys

• Extra sunscreen

Even on calm days, water splashes. A dry bag keeps your essentials safe so you can relax and enjoy the moment instead of worrying about your stuff.

Snacks and Drinks (Let’s Make It a Party)

One of the best parts about booking with us is flexibility. You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks, and yes — that includes adult beverages for guests of legal drinking age.

Great options:

• Sandwiches or wraps

• Fruit (grapes, pineapple, watermelon are perfect)

• Chips and easy snacks

• Plenty of water (more than you think you’ll need)

  
  

If you’re planning party boat rides, think like you’re hosting a floating picnic-meets-celebration. I’ve had groups bring themed cups, matching koozies, even decorated coolers for a bachelorette party boat vibe. The more fun you bring onboard, the better the energy gets.

For private fishing tours, I always suggest protein-packed snacks. Fighting a big fish works up an appetite faster than you expect.

Footwear: Easy On, Easy Off

You don’t need fancy shoes. In fact, leave them at home.

Best choices:

• Flip-flops

• Slides

• Barefoot once we’re cruising

We’ll often anchor in shallow sandbar areas where you can hop off into knee-deep water. Complicated footwear just gets in the way. Simple is best.

Your Phone (and a Charger)

You’re going to want photos. Trust me.

Between turquoise water, marine life, and your group having the time of their lives, this is social media gold. I’ve seen entire engagement announcements, birthday reels, and bachelorette party boat recap videos made from our trips.

Bring:

• Your phone fully charged

• A small portable charger if you have one

• A waterproof phone pouch if you want underwater shots while snorkeling

I’m always happy to help snap group photos too — just ask.

Motion Sickness Prep (Just in Case)

Most of our sandbar and Intracoastal cruising is smooth, but if we head offshore for snorkeling or private fishing tours, there can be some movement depending on conditions.

If you’re prone to motion sickness:

• Take non-drowsy motion sickness meds before the trip

• Avoid heavy, greasy food beforehand

• Stay hydrated

Most people are totally fine, but planning ahead means nothing interrupts your fun.

Layers for the Ride Back

South Florida is warm, but after a few hours in the water and wind, the ride back can feel cooler than you expect — especially near sunset.

Bring a:

• Light hoodie

• T-shirt to change into

• Dry shorts

This is especially true on sunset cruises or evening party boat rides when the breeze picks up. Being comfortable keeps the good vibes going all the way back to the dock.

Extras That Take It to the Next Level

Want to level up your day? Here are some fun add-ons guests love bringing:

• Waterproof speaker (we have sound, but playlists are personal)

• GoPro or action camera

• Themed decorations for birthdays or a bachelorette party boat

• Matching shirts or hats for your group

• Floating drink holders

I’ve hosted everything from classy champagne sunset cruises to full-on floating dance parties. If you can dream it up, I’ll do my best to help make it happen.

What You Don’t Need to Bring

Let me make this easy too. You don’t need:

• Snorkel gear (we’ve got it)

• Fishing equipment on private fishing tours (fully provided)

• Life jackets (onboard and Coast Guard approved)

• Stress

Seriously — my job is to handle the boat, the route, and the safety so you can focus on having the best day of your trip.

This Is More Than a Tour — It’s Your Day

What makes Bottoms Up Adventure Charters different is simple: this isn’t a preset script. It’s your day, your group, your vibe.

Some trips are chill and scenic. Others turn into legendary party boat rides with music, dancing, and swimming at the sandbar. Some groups split the day between snorkeling and private fishing tours so they get adventure and relaxation in one trip. And when it comes to celebrating, nothing beats a high-energy bachelorette party boat surrounded by sun, water, and your favorite people.

I’ve built this business around giving people the kind of day they can’t get on land. No crowds. No waiting. No rigid schedule. Just you, the water, and a captain who genuinely wants you to have an unforgettable experience.

Ready to Pack Your Bag and Make Some Memories?

Now you know exactly what to bring. Sunscreen, swimsuits, snacks, good vibes — that’s the recipe.

All that’s missing is your date on the calendar.

If you’re coming to Fort Lauderdale or Pompano Beach and want a day that blows a normal beach trip out of the water, let’s make it happen. Whether you’re planning wild party boat rides, laid-back snorkeling, exciting private fishing tours, or the ultimate bachelorette party boat celebration, I’ll help you build the perfect adventure from start to finish.

Don’t wait until your trip is almost here — the best days fill up fast, especially weekends and sunset slots.

Head over to https://www.bottomsupadventurecharters.com and book your unforgettable boat adventure now. I’ll see you on the water.