Practical guide for a relaxed charter
Simple tips that make the day feel effortless
A relaxed charter isn’t about bringing more — it’s about bringing the right things and keeping plans simple. Whether you’re heading out for a few hours or staying overnight, a little preparation helps the day unfold smoothly and comfortably.
This guide is designed to answer the practical questions people often ask before their first charter, without overthinking or overpacking.
What to pack for a boat charter
Think comfort, sun protection and flexibility.
Most guests find the following works well:
Soft bags rather than hard suitcases
Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses
Towels and swimwear
Comfortable shoes with good grip
A light jacket or layer, even in warmer months
Because space onboard is thoughtfully laid out, packing light helps everything feel calm and uncluttered.
Food ideas for a day on the water
Food on a boat tends to be simpler — and better for it.
Easy options that work well onboard include:
Picnic-style lunches
Pre-prepared salads or wraps
Fresh fruit and snacks
Simple meals that don’t require much preparation
Many of our boats have BBQ's for an easy meal prepared above deck.
Many people enjoy preparing food ahead of time so they can spend more of the day swimming, relaxing and enjoying the surroundings rather than cooking.
Keeping things simple onboard
The most enjoyable charters often share a common theme: they’re unhurried.
A few gentle habits help keep the experience relaxed:
Choose a couple of destinations rather than trying to see everything
Allow time to simply stop and enjoy where you are
Let the boat become part of the experience, not just transport
Pittwater and the Hawkesbury reward a slower pace — there’s no need to rush from place to place.
Travelling with kids on a charter boat
Boating with kids can be a wonderful shared experience, especially in calm, sheltered waterways like Pittwater.
Families often enjoy:
Swimming straight from the boat
Spotting birds and marine life
Simple onboard meals and snacks
The novelty of moving between bays
In the evenings cards & board games can be a fun way to spend some time.
Keeping the day flexible, planning swimming stops, and allowing downtime onboard often leads to the happiest outings.
What people often overthink (and don’t need to)
Many first-time guests worry about:
Bringing too much
Planning every detail
Filling the entire day with activities
In reality, most people find the charter feels best when they leave space for spontaneity. Calm water, beautiful surroundings and time together tend to do the work for you.
A mindset that makes the difference
Approaching the day with a relaxed mindset often matters more than any checklist.
Think of your charter as:
A chance to slow down
Time spent together without distractions
An opportunity to enjoy simple pleasures
When expectations are gentle, the experience usually exceeds them.
