What to pack for a boat trip: the complete checklist

Nothing is more frustrating than realising, once you are out at sea, that the sunscreen, the snorkel or the water bottle got left behind. Packing well is the key to a comfortable, worry-free boat trip from Propriano. This checklist, drawn from the experience of hundreds of trips in the Valinco Gulf, covers everything you need -- from the bare essentials to the small extras that make all the difference. Save it to your phone or print it out, and tick items off the night before your departure.

The essentials: things you must never forget

Sun protection

At sea, UV exposure is dramatically amplified by reflection off the water. UV intensity is roughly 40 percent higher on a boat than on land. Sun protection is not optional -- it is an absolute necessity, even under overcast skies.

SPF 50 sunscreen: choose a water-resistant or very-water-resistant formula. Apply generously 20 minutes before departure to every exposed area: face, neck, ears, shoulders, feet. Plan to reapply every 2 hours and after every swim. A 200 ml bottle is the minimum for a full day.

Hat or cap: a wide-brimmed hat is the most protective, shading face, ears and neck. Choose one with a chin strap so it does not blow away in the wind. A cap shields the face but leaves the neck exposed -- add a light scarf if you go this route.

Sunglasses: essential at sea, where glare is constant. Choose polarised lenses, which eliminate reflections off the water and protect the eyes effectively. Attach them with a floating retainer strap: sunglasses overboard are sunglasses lost.

Swimming and snorkeling

Swimsuit: wear it under your clothes before you leave. This avoids awkward changing on board in a cramped space. Pack a dry spare for the journey home if you prefer not to sit in a wet suit, especially on longer trips.

Towel: a microfibre towel is ideal -- it dries fast, packs small and absorbs well. Classic cotton towels take hours to dry at sea and add unnecessary bulk to your bag.

Mask and snorkel: snorkeling gear is generally provided on board, but if you own a mask that seals well on your face, bring it. A poorly fitting mask that leaks ruins the fun. Short fins are a welcome bonus for exploring the Valinco's rocky seabed.

Hydration and food

Water: at least 1 litre per person, more for longer trips and hot days. Dehydration at sea is insidious: wind and spray mask perspiration. Drink regularly, without waiting until you feel thirsty. Insulated bottles keep water refreshingly cold for hours.

Snacks: fruit, cereal bars, dried fruit. For half-day and full-day trips without a meal included, pack a proper picnic in a cool bag. Avoid greasy or spicy food before and during the trip, especially if you are prone to seasickness.

Recommended extras: for maximum comfort

Clothing

UV rash vest: the single best investment for a day at sea. It protects against sunburn better than any cream, needs no reapplying and lets you stay in the water worry-free. Essential for children, highly recommended for fair-skinned adults.

Light windbreaker: even in high summer, the apparent wind from the boat's movement can feel cool, especially late in the day or at speed. A thin windbreaker or a light hoodie slips easily into your bag and proves invaluable on the return trip.

Water shoes: Valinco coves often have rocky footing. Aqua shoes or reef walkers protect your feet when stepping into the water and on the rocks. Flip-flops are fine on deck but inadequate on pebble beaches.

Gadgets and accessories

Camera or smartphone: the Valinco's scenery deserves to be captured. Protect your device in a waterproof pouch (cost: a few euros). Spray and splashes are inevitable. A wrist lanyard prevents the dreaded drop overboard. Action cameras like a GoPro are ideal for underwater footage during snorkeling.

Dry bag: a small 5 to 10-litre dry bag is extraordinarily useful for safeguarding the things you absolutely cannot afford to get wet: phone, wallet, car keys, change of clothes. They are widely available at sports shops and nautical stores in Propriano.

For families with children

If you are heading out with children or a baby, a few extra items will ensure everyone has a great day.

For babies and toddlers: wide-brimmed sun hat, UV bodysuit, swim nappies, baby sunscreen, shade (a compact pushchair sunshade), comforter, bottles or pouches, tissues, wet wipes. Children's life jackets are provided on board.

For older children: UV rash vest (a must on longer trips), junior snorkeling mask (children's gear is usually available but quantities may be limited), compact beach toys (bucket, folding spade), disposable waterproof camera (kids love these), and plenty of snacks. Children dehydrate faster than adults, so pack extra water.

Seasickness prevention tips

Seasickness affects a significant proportion of passengers, particularly on their first outing. The good news is that the Valinco Gulf offers relatively calm sailing conditions, and most trips stay close to the coast in sheltered water. Here are the best strategies for keeping nausea at bay.

Before departure: eat lightly but do not set off on an empty stomach. Avoid alcohol the night before and on the morning itself. If you know you are susceptible, take an anti-nausea tablet 30 minutes to an hour before boarding, following the product instructions. Acupressure wristbands are a popular natural alternative that works for many people.

During the trip: stay outside in the fresh air, preferably at the stern, where the boat's motion is least pronounced. Fix your gaze on the horizon -- this is the single most effective tip. Avoid reading, scrolling your phone or going below deck. Breathe slowly and deeply. Nibble a dry cracker or a piece of bread if nausea starts.

Also worth knowing: seasickness nearly always disappears as soon as the boat stops for a swimming break. The calm of a sheltered cove gives your body time to reset. If seasickness is a real concern, opt for a short 2-hour trip that stays within the protected gulf.

Adjusting your bag by season

In early season (May-June) and late season (September-October), add a light fleece or thin jumper. Mornings and late afternoons can feel cool on the water. A shorty wetsuit (2-3 mm neoprene) greatly extends comfort during swims when the water is below 22 degrees. Some boats lend them out -- ask when you book.

In high summer (July-August), your bag can be lighter. The focus shifts to sun protection (sunscreen, hat, UV rash vest) and hydration. The windbreaker still earns its place for the late-afternoon return. Whatever the season, check the weather forecast the day before and adjust accordingly. Our best-time guide gives month-by-month air and water temperatures. For the full lowdown on trip preparation, see our complete practical guide.