Style guide - what to wear on a yacht.
Published 11 July 2023
Ditch the excess baggage on your next superyacht holiday with this simple how-to guide to pack an elegant and practical capsule wardrobe for your superyacht stay
Whether you are cruising off for a romantic weekend on board a luxury charter yacht, stepping aboard for a family celebration, or spending the weekend basking in the Mediterranean sunshine with friends, a superyacht charter is a heady mix of glamour and barefoot luxury. So, when it comes to looking the part, what should you pack to ensure you looking effortlessly cool?
A superyacht charter demands a certain dress code that is both comfortable and stylish at the same time. This might sound simple, but ccreating a capsule wardrobe for every scenario and occasion is no mean feat when it comes to the glamorous world of yachting. However, although there are certain designer names that are synonymous with the superyacht set, it doesn’t mean it’s all designer suits and gowns – quite the opposite in fact. Here is the Burgess guide to everything you need to pack - and the luggage to pack it all in...
Clothing Essentials
The majority of superyacht cruising grounds are in warmer climates, so lightweight clothing is a necessity for both daytime and evening. The perfect daytime outfit will be suitable for just about any occasion – the whole attraction of yachting is the freedom to go anywhere you like and do anything you like at any given time. One minute you might be heading ashore for a coffee in the harbour, only to find that the cobblestone streets are lined with boutiques just waiting to be explored, or that fellow guests would like to take in a dose of culture ashore, followed by an impromptu swim in a secluded cove on the return tender journey. Being ready for every eventuality is the key to keeping your cool.
When it comes to a superyacht, swimwear is an outfit in its own right and one of the most important items to pack. For ladies looking for true, dolce vita style, a one-piece swimming costume not only looks stylish but will allow you to mess around worry-free on the watertoys, both above and beneath the surface. Meanwhile, those looking to simply bask in the Mediterranean or Caribbean sunshine and relax on deck might prefer to opt for a strapless bikini to avoid tan lines visible under the evenings attire. A selection of classically styled cover ups to wear for al fresco dining or a beachside lunch are a must, and for visits ashore a light dress, such as Heidi Klein’s Sunset maxi dress, is perfect.
For men, being in the sunshine is the perfect excuse to inject some colour into your outfit, perhaps with a nautically themed pair of swim shorts, such as Frescobol Carioca’s tailored swim shorts. For al fresco dining on board, or visits ashore, simply add a stylish linen shirt and loafers, and you will be ready for any occasion.
Evening options
From canapes and cocktails or dinner aboard to dining in the Michelin-starred restaurants and family run tavernas, every evening brings a different social activity when cruising aboard a superyacht. What to wear in the evening obviously depends on the climate of your destination, but rest assured on board a superyacht there is always an excuse to wear something glamorous. While cruising the Mediterranean, ladies might choose to wear a statement dress and elegant accessories, while the Caribbean calls for a more casual approach. Pack plenty of light and comfortable fabrics but remember to take a few warmer items too, in case the evening segues into a nightcap on the breezy aft deck, or perhaps a late-night return by tender – while out at anchor you will of course be open to the elements.
For men, evening usually calls for a smart-casual look. Pare down your summer tailoring with a stylish linen shirt, perhaps in a cotton-blend to add subtle texture. Lightweight trousers, rather than shorts, are also a must when heading ashore for dinner.
Layering options
Although the majority of cruising is in warmer climates, the sea breeze can pick up and add a chill, especially at night once the sun has set. From cover ups for the daytime, to light jumpers and wraps for the evening, clever layering, come rain or shine, is a skill. Pack several options to take you seamlessly from dawn until dusk, al fresco to inside. Whether returning from an evening ashore or getting cosy during an al fresco movie night on board, the key is to stay warm and stylish with layers. Opt for a statement scarf draped as a blanket or sumptuously wrapped around your shoulders, providing the perfect accompaniment to any outfit, while men can take a favourite sweater.
Don’t forget the accessories
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.
Bags of style
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.
For more information, please contact your Burgess broker .
To find out more about Burgess’ yachts for sale and yachts for charter , please contact a Burgess broker . Alternatively, get in touch with one of our offices directly: London , Monaco , New York , Miami , Singapore or all other locations .
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11 men's yachting wardrobe essentials
Yves Salomon tracksuit
A perfectly tailored suit, a cashmere sweater, leather loafers: there are certain pieces no man's wardrobe would be complete without. Featuring iconic items by designers including Larusmiani, Gucci and Ralph Lauren, we uncover the heritage, history and design features that make these items indispensable to the modern superyacht owner .
Athleisure has been fashion’s favourite buzzword for (too) many seasons – and often used to mask sartorial laziness. Not the case with this leather tracksuit by Yves Salomon: with buttery soft leather and a slimming cut in a chic mustard shade, it screams private jet, not grocery run. For extra style points, wear it with an untucked shirt and white trainers.
Leather jacket in mustard brown, £1,310; trouser, £950, yves-salomon.com
Larusmiani swim shorts
After more than a decade in the fashion wilderness, the camouflage print re-emerged in 2017, when it was spotted everywhere on the runway – from street-style favourites Off-White and Vetements to sartorial powerhouses Bottega Veneta and Cerruti. Since then, it has shown no sign of disappearing from the world’s wardrobes – you’ll find it on jackets, shirts, trousers, backpacks and more. That’s hardly surprising, since the camo pattern acts like a neutral and goes with pretty much everything. Wear it on deck this Caribbean season with these Larusmiani swimming shorts.
Swim shorts, €225, larusmiani.it
Ecoalf jacket
Spanish brand Ecoalf was founded by Javier Goyeneche to create clothes from recycled material and today it collects hundreds of tonnes of discarded plastic from the bottom of the Mediterranean to create cool outerwear – so far, it has recycled 70 million plastic bottles. This Tucson waterproof jacket is made with 100 per cent recycled nylon fashioned from discarded fishing nets.
Jacket, £200, ecoalf.com
Stefano Ricci trainers
Photographer: Josh Hight; Stylist: Sam Smith
Perfect for pairing with everything from summer shorts to a modern slim-cut suit, dress trainers are the new men’s wardrobe must-have and few do them better than Stefano Ricci. Founded on a 100 per cent made in Italy ethos, each pair is handcrafted in fine leather or crocodile skin, with inspiration taken from the eponymous designer’s Florentine heritage. Choose a bold blue hue for spring or, for something truly special, make use of the brand’s bespoke accessory service.
Trainers, £2,600, stefanoricci.com
Loro Piana bomber
Photographer: Josh Hight, Stylist: Sam Smith
For most yacht owners and guests the Loro Piana brand needs no introduction. Whether it’s the Storm System gear for regatta-goers, highly sought after Vicuna wool knits, or breezy linen shirts, the chances are there’s something with a Loro Piana label on board wherever you’re sailing. And now you can add to your collection with this super soft cashmere and jersey hooded bomber – ideal for braving the worst of the winter elements.
£2,300, loropiana.com
J. M. Weston loafers
Founded in 1891 by Édouard Blanchard, JM Weston’s elegant loafers have been a staple of Parisian style for more than a century. Still handmade in the Limoges factory from which they originated, Weston’s ‘mocs’ became a cult hit in the 1960s when worn by rebel French Mods known as the “Bande du Drugstore”. New interpretations under current creative director Michel Perry remain primed for the modern wardrobe. This turmeric-hued pair is a case in point.
Calfskin Le Moc’ loafers, £420, jmweston.fr
Brioni shirt
Founded in Rome in 1945, Brioni has been a trailblazer since it staged the first ever men’s fashion show, at the Palazzo Pitti, Florence in 1952. Now helmed by Australian creative director Justin O’Shea, the house’s booming bespoke and ready-to-wear lines are a perfect example of prized Italian craftsmanship. A case in point is this classically elegant fitted shirt – add a simple Brioni gold pin for unexpected edge at your next formal yacht dinner. Zoe Dickens
White cotton formal shirt, £400; Gold pin, POA, brioni.com
Tod's loafers
Todd Marchard
Diego Della Valle, the chairman and CEO of Tod’s, is a man who loves the sea. He also loves the mythology of American casualwear and sees this epitomised in the enduring style of one John Fitzgerald Kennedy. These two passions combine happily in the fact that since 1998 Della Valle has been the owner of Marlin , a boat that was for many years in the Kennedy family.
Della Valle’s forebears were shoemakers in the Marche region of Italy, where Tod’s is still based, and the company has been built on a combination of Italian craftsmanship and the relaxed weekend style of the US, which the young Della Valle saw while working there for his father’s shoe business. It struck him that, while Italians oozed style, it was based around formal wear, while the Americans dressed down to relax. Della Valle recognised in the humble driving shoe a perfect opportunity to express his new vision for an Italian casual lifestyle and created the now famous Tod’s moccasin, the Gommino. It has a sole covered with 133 rubber pebbles, or gommini. Since its launch in the 1970s, the model has been rendered in a multitude of versions in a variety of materials and colours, featuring various details. Peter Howarth
Tod’s Leo Clamp Gommino, £380, tods.com
Ralph Lauren shirt
Sean Gleason
There are few better suited to dress the aspirational world of yachting than Ralph Lauren. His curated mix of preppy youth, classic cuts and all-American appeal make his designs favourites for life at sea.
Nowhere is this more evident than in the brand’s signature chino. With a broad following, these trousers have cemented their place as the stylish choice for the wealthy at play. How to wear yours this summer? Keep things simple with a tailored white shirt and rolled cuff. Zoe Dickens
Polo Ralph Lauren Oxford cotton sport shirt, £110 and slim-fit Hudson cotton chinos, £110, ralphlauren.com
Persol sunglasses
Like many of the best designs, Persol sunglasses (from the Italian per il sole, meaning “for the sun”) were born out of necessity. In 1917, Turin photographer and optician Giuseppe Ratti began making eyewear for Italian air force pilots and Alpini soldiers fighting in the snowy Dolomites.
After the war, these goggles and later, sunglasses, with the famous Silver Arrow hinge, caught on among yachtsmen and petrolheads alike. By the 1960s, Jack Kennedy was wearing them and Marcello Mastroianni donned the classic Persol 649 in the 1961 comedy Divorce Italian Style . Seven years later, Steve McQueen ensured continued “cool factor”, when he wore the folding version of the 649, the 714, with striking cobalt-blue lenses, in The Thomas Crown Affair (1968). The 714 was (and is) made with natural cotton acetate, photopolarising lenses and flexing cylinders in the arm to create a more personalised fit. Chris Madigan
Persol sunglasses, from £185, David Clulow
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