September 24, 2026 · By CDM Yachts · 4 min read
The yacht, the captain, and the crew are all taken care of when you charter with CDM Yachts. What you bring is up to you — and a little planning makes the difference between a group that settles right in and one that spends the first hour wishing someone had packed a jacket. Here's what to bring, what to leave at home, and what's already on board.
Already on board — no need to pack it
- A USCG-licensed captain and crew on every charter.
- Life jackets for every passenger, including children. There's no minimum age for passengers.
- Enclosed, sheltered areas on every vessel, so a cool evening or a bit of wind doesn't end the party early.
What to wear
Layers, even in summer. San Diego Bay is noticeably cooler than land once you're underway, and evening charters cool off fast after sunset. A light jacket or sweater you can take off is the single most useful thing to bring.
Shoes you won't slip in. Flat, soft-soled shoes are the safest choice on a boat deck — skip heels and hard-soled dress shoes. Plenty of guests go barefoot once aboard.
Sun protection. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat that won't blow off. The sun reflects off the water, so you'll get more exposure than you would on land, even on an overcast day.
Food and drinks
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and beverages, including alcohol, on every CDM Yachts charter. That's one of the easiest ways to make a charter your own — a favorite bottle for a toast, a batch cocktail, or a spread from your go-to local spot.
- Finger food travels best. Anything you can eat standing up or from a small plate is easier on a moving boat than a full plated meal.
- Cans and plastic cups are the practical choice. Spills and breakage are easier to deal with on deck, and they're simpler to carry aboard.
- Bring ice and a cooler if you're bringing a lot. Refrigerator space varies by vessel, so a cooler keeps a larger group's drinks cold without depending on the galley.
- Prefer not to handle it yourself? Catering and beverage service can be arranged in advance — mention it in your availability request.
For the ride itself
Seasickness remedies, if you're prone to it. San Diego Bay is generally calm, protected water, which makes it a comfortable option for most guests — but if you know you're sensitive, take whatever usually works for you before boarding rather than after.
A charged phone. Between the downtown skyline, the Coronado Bridge, and Point Loma, you'll want it for photos.
Occasion extras. A ring for a proposal, a cake for a birthday, or matching shirts for a bachelor or bachelorette party. For decorations, check with our team first — deck space and layout differ from yacht to yacht.
What to leave at home
Per our charter policies, smoking, illegal drugs, and pets (other than documented service animals) aren't permitted on board. Beyond that, pack light: a soft bag is far easier to stow than a hard-sided case, and anything you don't want to get damp from ocean spray is better left in the car.
Before you leave the house
Your booking confirmation email includes your boarding location and instructions, so have it handy. For charters departing near the Shelter Island pier, public parking is available in the lot across the street. Give yourself a few extra minutes for parking and the walk down the dock, so the whole group is aboard and ready to go at departure. And the renter — the person who booked — must be 18 or older.
Still deciding on a vessel? See our guide to choosing the right yacht or the FAQ, or request availability and we'll help you plan the rest.
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