Style guide - what to wear on a yacht.

You might think that you don’t need to consider shoes as barefoot chic is the only way on board, but a couple of pairs of sandals and high heels for the ladies, and loafers for the men are always an essential for excursions ashore. Although you won’t be wearing them on board, a pair of slip-on boat shoes for stepping ashore are usually perfect for men. A pair of trainers are also essential, for the on board gym or adventures ashore, and, given the glamorous surrounds of the Mediterranean cruising grounds, a pair of leather, smart shoes could also be needed when heading ashore for the evening.   

Sandals for ladies are an essential for excursions to the beach or an afternoon browse around boutiques, while come the evening, a pair of heels or wedge sandals are the perfect addition to any glamorous outfit.  

A superyacht wardrobe isn’t complete without a classic Panama hat. A Panama is a favourite item to take on board, but all types of hats warrant a spot in any superyacht suitcase. Not only do they provide protection from harsh UV rays, but they also keep you cool should you find yourself without shade during the hottest part of the day. A number of different options should ideally be taken, so that you can select the style to suit the weather and activity. On still days glam it up poolside with a wide brimmed straw hat, and when the wind picks up don a stylish cap, which can also be used to provide shade for that morning beach run. 

Wherever you are exploring, be it in cooler climes or chartering in the Mediterranean or Caribbean, it goes without saying that a great pair of sunglasses is a superyacht wardrobe essential. Not only do they complete the superyacht look, they also provide essential protection from both UVA and UVB rays. On that note, check the UV protection – just because you might have a designer pair of glasses, a high price tag doesn’t always mean they have polarised, UV protection lenses. Take at least a couple of pairs, or even perhaps one for each deck, so that you are never caught without, and remember, a pair of chic sunglasses are the perfect finishing touch for every look. Whether you prefer cat-eye sunglasses or oversized, round-frames, square-frames or classic aviator styles, use them to liven things up a little, or add a dash of youth and vibrancy to your outfit.   

Time on board means a break away from timekeeping, but although telling the time on board is incidental rather than functional, watches still have their place on the packing list. Watches are the most popular and prestigious jewellery available for men, and always add timeless glamour to ladies' attire. Fortunately, yachting has become the most prominent port of call for watchmakers and as such there is a wealth of nautical collections for both men and women. From serious submersibles to refined pieces to wear on deck, seaworthy or yacht-worthy, a watch makes a fine addition to any outfit.  

Whether celebrating with cocktails on board or accessorising swimwear, earrings, bracelets and necklaces add sparkle and glamour to any outfit. From fine jewellery for evenings to layering for a luxe-vibe poolside, add some summer sparkle and enhance your outfit, day or night. Choose brightly coloured stones to bring light and warmth to the skin, or mix or clash colours, turning up your brights with vivid hues. Match the shade of your jewels to your swimsuit for a timeless and sophisticated look, and layer jewellery alongside summer dresses. Combine gold jewellery with corals and shells, as well as semi-precious stones for that cool, summer look. Top tip – sun lotion will cling to your jewellery and can dull even the brightest of diamonds, so take them off while applying sun cream, and let it soak in before replacing. Gold and diamonds worn by the pool or on the beach won’t be damaged by the elements, whereas semi-precious stones can sometimes be porous, so better to leave them to be worn in the evening.  

Arriving in style is an important factor for many charterers and guests, and so your luggage needs to be as stylish as your outfit. Those heading off on a sailing yacht cruise should opt for soft luggage for easy stowing, while the larger motor yachts will always have space for your Goyard or Louis Vuitton case to be stowed away. Whether you opt for a deluxe luggage brand or a classically styled holdall (think Daniel Craig as James Bond), you can make a powerful statement with the stylish luggage.