What to Pack for a Boat Trip in Greece

The Essential Boat Trip Packing List

Planning a boat trip from Preveza? Whether you are joining a private cruise with a skipper or taking a self-drive rental, packing the right items makes all the difference between a good day and a perfect one. The Ionian Sea offers calm waters and stunning scenery, but spending 6 to 8 hours on the water requires some preparation.

Here is our tried-and-tested packing list, based on years of experience taking guests from Preveza to Lefkada, Paxos, Meganisi, and beyond.

Sun Protection: Your Number One Priority

The Greek sun is intense, especially between June and September. On a boat, there is no escape from UV rays — the water reflects sunlight and doubles your exposure.

• Sunscreen SPF 50+: Apply before boarding and reapply every 2 hours. Choose a reef-safe formula to protect the marine environment
• Wide-brim hat: A baseball cap is not enough. Bring a hat that covers your neck and ears
• UV sunglasses: Polarised lenses reduce glare from the water and protect your eyes
• Light long-sleeve shirt: A breathable UPF-rated cover-up is ideal for the midday sun

What to Wear on a Boat

Forget fashion — think comfort and function. You will be sitting, swimming, and moving around on a rocking surface all day.

• Swimsuit: Wear it under your clothes so you are always ready for a swim
• Quick-dry shorts: Cotton gets heavy when wet. Choose synthetic or quick-dry fabric
• Non-slip shoes: Deck shoes or rubber-soled sandals. Never wear heels or leather shoes on a boat
• Light windbreaker: Even on hot days, the breeze at speed can feel cool. A thin jacket is a lifesaver

Food and Drinks

Our cruise boats come with a cooler and ice, but you need to bring your own food and beverages.

• Water: At least 1.5 litres per person. Dehydration sneaks up fast on the sea
• Snacks: Fruit, sandwiches, crackers, and nuts. Avoid anything that melts or spoils quickly
• Light lunch: A Greek salad in a sealed container, wraps, or cold pasta work perfectly
• Cold drinks: Juice, soft drinks, or a bottle of white wine for a celebratory toast at a secluded bay

Swimming Essentials

You will be stopping at some of the most beautiful swimming spots in the Ionian. Come prepared.

• Towel: A microfibre towel dries fast and takes up minimal space
• Snorkelling mask: The waters around Meganisi and Paxos are crystal clear with visibility up to 30 metres
• Waterproof phone case: Protect your phone while still taking underwater photos
• Water shoes: Useful for rocky beaches and sea urchin areas

Tech and Gadgets

• Waterproof camera or GoPro: You will want to capture the sea caves and turquoise water
• Portable charger: A power bank ensures your phone lasts the entire day
• Bluetooth speaker: Many guests bring a small waterproof speaker for background music
• Dry bag: A 10 to 20 litre waterproof bag keeps your valuables safe from splashes

Health and Safety

• Seasickness tablets: Even in calm Ionian waters, some people feel motion on smaller boats. Take tablets 30 minutes before departure
• Basic first aid: Plasters, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medication
• Insect repellent: Useful for evening stops near the coast

What NOT to Bring

Keep it simple. Space on a boat is limited.

• Large suitcases or hard bags — use soft bags that can be stowed
• Glass bottles — they break and are dangerous on deck
• Expensive jewellery — the sea is not the place for it
• Anything you cannot afford to get wet

Ready to Set Sail?

Now that you know what to pack, the only thing left is to book your boat trip. Whether it is a full-day cruise to Paxos or a quick self-drive adventure around Preveza, the Ionian Sea is waiting. Need help choosing the right experience? Get in touch with us and we will plan the perfect day on the water.