Gear List - What to Bring

Following are some thoughts on what to pack for your charter aboard Alchemy. Keep in mind that only you know what you really need and the following is simply to serve as guidance. One major consideration is that Alchemy is a relatively cozy size sailboat and storage is limited. Try and pack only what you need and as compact as possible. For example if you can get by with a compact microfiber camping towel over a jumbo costco sized towel, all the better. Especially when sailing with a full crew of guests. In terms of clothing fabrics, think in terms of any other outdoor adventure. Synthetics can be fantastic as they dry more quickly, feel less salty, and tend to do better in a potentially wet environment. Please pack your gear in bags that can be easily collapsed and stored. Wheely bags are frowned upon.

General/Entertainment

Dry Bags - When anchored off beaches, we take a dinghy into shore. If you have any electronics or items that you want to keep dry, a dry bag is essential. Plan on the possibility that anything you might want to take to shore may very well wind up soaked so size your dry bag accordingly. Amazon sells varying sizes.

Day Bag - There’s plenty of hiking opportunities on the islands. A small day bag is recommended to carry your gear.

Sea Sickness Medication - We will have several options available aboard Alchemy but if there is anything specific you might want please bring it. A tip to avoid drowsiness and increase effectiveness is to start taking half doses at least a day before to get it in your system early while minimizing the side effects.

Hat Clip - Keep that hat on yo head! Not going back for it.

Sunglasses Lanyard/Croakies - Keep those glasses on yo face! Sunburned eyeballs suck.

Headlamp - Why would you ever leave home without one? One with a red night mode is ideal for reading a book under a starry night.

Snorkel Gear - Mask, Snorkel, Fins, should you desire. Anti fog lens treatment is great. Spit works in a pinch.

Camera/Battery/Drone - Something to capture the moments is highly recommended. We have charging capability on board. Drones can be a blast however make sure you have insurance if possible. Landing on a small moving target can be challenging. Many a drone lives on the seafloor. GoPros go without saying if you have one. If you are into proper camera gear, a wide angle lens makes capturing moments aboard a small space much easier. The 16-35 mm lens rarely comes off of my camera.

Music - We have bluetooth speakers on board. Bring whatever tunes suit your fancy. Be aware that cell reception in the Channel Islands or while offshore can be sketchy at best. Don’t plan on using streaming services.

Phone/Charger - Do you seriously ever leave home without one? Recommended you leave it on airplane mode and use it for the camera and truly necessary communications. Connect with nature and detox from the gram… but still bring it.

Good Book

Headphones

Laundry Bag - A small stuff sack to separate your dirty from the clean can be useful.

Handkerchiefs - Don’t know that I’ve ever used one but some might find them handy.

Towel

Clothing

Bathing Suit - You’ll probably want to jump in the water. If you don’t your friend will probably throw you in.

Shirts/tanks - Not mandatory but you’ll probably regret not bringing any.

Shorts - Sometimes its nice to get out of the salty bathing suit

Pants - It can get chilly out at the Islands. Recommend bringing at least a pair of pants to stay warm for an evening cocktail or stargazing.

Light Layers - Again, it can get a little chilly in the evenings. If you get cold easily pack some layers. You might not need them but they pack easy and you might regret not having a little extra warmth.

Sweater/Puffy Jacket - A bit of warmth for your upper half. A definite yes. I never leave the dock without a puffy patagonia style jacket. Synthetic is great as it handles getting wet a bit better than down. A cozy sweatshirt works also.

Rain Jacket - Sometimes we might see a bit of weather. If not rain then waves and spray from the ocean. Staying dry is nice when you want to.

Flip Flops/Sandals - Yes.

Hiking Shoes - If you anticipate hiking trails beyond the limitations of your rainbows.

Sunglasses - A must. Polarized recommended. The reflection from the white sails and water can be brutal on your eyeballs. If you’ve ever had sunburned eyeballs you know. If you haven’t, keep it that way. A pair of croakies or sunglass lanyards can be invaluable. Polarized lenses can cut through glare making colors pop while making it easier to see through the water and watch the dolphins and sealife below.

Sun Hat - Keep the sun off your face and oppotrunity for style points.

Tighter Hat - While sailing we will likely see some breeze that will take that sun hat and send it flying. Baseball style cap or something more secure fitting is great to have. Hat clips have saved many a hat. Worth looking into.

Toiletries

Shampoo and Conditioner (reef safe) - We have a solar shower on board. We have ocean friendly shampoo and conditioner on board. Keep in mind that fresh water is a limited resource aboard a vessel and we will conserve as necessary but with a bit of mindfulness should be able to retire each evening clean and de-salted.

Body Wash - We also have ocean friendly body wash on board. If you’re picky feel free to bring your own.

Waterproof sunscreen - Obviously Key

After sun lotion - Just in case. We also have some on board.

Chapstick with SPF

Moisturizer - If you must

Razor/Shaving Cream

Deoderant - Please

Toothbrush and Toothpaste

Floss

Leave in conditioner - Some might enjoy

Medications - Please bring any medications you might require. There is a good chance we will be beyond reach of prompt medical support so bring anything you need to keep you healthy and safe. If you do require medications or otherwise have any medical conditions, please inform us prior to our departure.

Surf Gear

Board - Keep in mind Alchemy is a relatively small vessel and while underway all boards will be stowed below. Number and size of boards will be influenced by the number of guests aboard.

Wetsuit - The Channel Islands can stay quite chilly. Plan on water temps in the low 60’s and pack your wetsuit accordingly.

Fins/Wax/Accessories - Don’t forget your fins, leash, wax, fin key or any other accessories you might need.