From women’s designer swimwear to men’s luxury watches, we share our best fashion tips to make your next yacht charter as stylish as possible.
Whether you are planning a stylish French Riviera cruise or a week off-grid island hopping Greece, holidays don’t get much more glamorous than chartering a luxury yacht, so one thing is for certain: you want to look fabulous while doing it.
Holiday packing always begins with good intentions, envisioning chic outfits for every occasion—only to deteriorate into a last-minute panic. The result? A suitcase that looks more like the aftermath of a clearance sale than a thoughtfully curated capsule wardrobe. To navigate the packing process with ease, we offer a guide that helps you to prepare for a yacht charter, focusing on essential, stylish selections that ensure you shine in every setting.
FOR THE WOMEN: YACHTING STYLE GUIDE
Craft your sun-kissed Mediterranean adventure wardrobe with versatility at its heart—where a spontaneous dive into azure waters or a leisurely beach walk is always on the cards. Embrace the sweet life with Solid & Striped block colour vibrant swimwear, layering with elegant cover-ups, a plethora of stylish swimsuits for endless choices, and whimsy dresses that whisper of sea breezes and cobblestone strolls. Don’t forget the finishing touches: trendy sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and headbands that effortlessly elevate your yachting style.
If you’re looking to inject some glamour into your wardrobe, take inspiration from style icons like Elizabeth Taylor and Jackie Kennedy Onassis. Both knew how to make a statement with their jewellery and accessories. Think oversized sunglasses and bold necklaces that elevate a simple outfit into something glamorous, or boatneck tops and wide-leg trousers that have become emblematic of chic, timeless yachting fashion.
These styles not only reflect personal flair but also capture the essence of Mediterranean sophistication. As you curate your seaside ensemble, don’t overlook the importance of a stylish swimsuit. Whether it’s a sleek one-piece or a modern high-waisted bikini, the right choice can ensure you’re prepared for both relaxation on the deck and dips in the refreshing sea, all while maintaining an air of fashion-forward comfort.
WOMEN’S SWIMWEAR
On a yacht sunbathing as you cruise between islands, and swimming in secluded coves are a daily occurrence, the right swimwear becomes a vital part of a woman’s wardrobe. With a vast array of styles and brands available, finding the perfect fit really boils down to what makes you feel the most comfortable. There are endless designer and boutique swimwear brands to choose from but for us Hunza G, Eres, and Léa The Label are all top choices.
COVER-UPS
A yachting wardrobe isn’t complete without the breezy elegance of cover-ups, tunics, kaftans, and airy dresses. These essentials gracefully complement your swimwear, ensuring both style and comfort under the sun. For a touch of sophistication, choose a maxi or lace cover-up. If casual is more your vibe, a sundress cover-up or playful romper fits the bill perfectly. Linen dresses and side-tie skirts offer a chic daily option for your maritime adventures. Top it off with designs from beloved brands like HERMES, NET-A-PORTER, and ZIMMERMANN that specialise in versatile and elegant beachwear.
ACCESSORIES
When preparing for a yacht charter, it is important to choose accessories wisely. Hats, sunglasses, and jewellery are essential not just for style but for practical reasons like sun protection and keeping hair out of your face. You won’t need formal attire for every evening; the setting is casual on board but taking a few versatile accessories to enhance your wardrobe without overpacking can make all the difference. To make a statement with your eyewear, MAX&CO and ILLESTEVA are hard to match, and to add a touch of elegance on those special evenings, fine jewellery from GLENN SPIRO or GRAFF will effortlessly elevate your look from casual to sophisticated.
FOR THE GENTLEMAN: YACHTING STYLE GUIDE
Comfort should always come first, especially when you are relaxing on a deck or enjoying a chat over drinks. Choose light and breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, which allow you to move freely and stay cool, all while looking the part. Blend comfort and class with classic, easy-to-wear pieces—think well-fitted blazers, white linen shirts, comfortable trousers, and loafers. This combination creates a look that is both relaxed and refined, perfect for any casual yet stylish setting.
But male yacht fashion isn’t just about classic staples, there’s room for fun with lively prints and vivid colours too. The bright sun and pastel colours often seen along the Mediterranean coast invite you to add a splash of colour to your outfits. Consider choosing swim shorts with subtle patterns for a hint of flair during alfresco lunches, quick swims, or spontaneous trips ashore. Combine them with a comfortable shirt, classic boat shoes, and a pair of stylish sunglasses for an effortless holiday look.
For cooler evenings, particularly during the off-season in Europe, a snug sweatshirt, pullover, or jacket becomes crucial. Your travel plans might also necessitate dressier attire for evening events, but this guide aims to help you assemble an easy yet stylish daily wardrobe.
LINEN SHIRTS
Linen button-down shirts are a top pick for a yacht charter, thanks to their lightweight and breathable fabric. Opting for vibrant hues brings a touch of summer beach flair, while whites and soft blues offer a crisp, nautical vibe.
Throughout the day, these shirts stand out as a stylish yet comfortable choice, providing a smart alternative to the common pairing of polo shirts with shorts or swim trunks. Not only do they give a classy boho chic appearance, but they’re also perfect for evening occasions. Whether it’s for a relaxed drink at sunset or a dressier gathering, Loro Piana or Luca Faloni linen shirts are the perfect attire for a luxury yacht charter in the Mediterranean or Caribbean.
SWIM SHORTS
Next up, swim shorts are seemingly the most relevant item while on a yacht. You’ll spend most of your time in your swimwear. Whether you are diving in the Mediterranean ocean from your yacht’s private beach club, sipping champagne in the flybridge Jacuzzi, or heading ashore, here’s our top three brands making a splash this summer: Frescobol Carioca, Ripa Ripa, and Apnée Swimwear.
ACCESSORIES
Eye protection, along with skin protection, is of the utmost importance while on a luxury yacht charter, especially if you plan to be soaking up the sun for hours at a time. An elegant pair of shades are a staple of men’s yachting fashion, and the right pair will unquestionably elevate your style. For us, top picks include Garrett Leight, Ray Ban, and Tom Ford.
Providing an elegant yet understated flair, complete your nautical attire with stylish deck shoes from Velasca or Quoddy, and for that quintessential maritime elegance, a distinguished timepiece is essential. Favourites include the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms Automatic Bathyscaphe and the Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean 600m.
