Preparing for a private charter in Miami requires a bit more coordination than a standard day at the beach. Once your vessel leaves the marina dock, you cannot turn around for forgotten sunscreen, extra towels, or ice.
Whether you are heading out for a 4-hour sandbar raft-up at Haulover or a quiet sunset cruise across Biscayne Bay, this checklist gets your crew to the dock fully prepared.
1. What Every Guest Must Bring
Every person boarding the yacht should pack light in a soft duffel or tote bag (hard rolling suitcases damage teak decks and are difficult to stow in marine cabins).
| Item | Why It Is Mandatory | Pro-Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Beach Towel | Charter boats do not supply towels for day charters | Pack lightweight microfiber towels that dry fast |
| Lotion Sunscreen (Reef-Safe) | Aerosol spray sunscreen is strictly banned on yachts | Apply the first layer before boarding at the dock |
| Government Photo ID | The primary charterer must show ID matching the reservation | Keep your ID in a water-resistant pouch |
| Polarized Sunglasses | Cuts intense water glare across Biscayne Bay | Use a floating sunglass strap so they don't sink |
| Cash for Captain's Gratuity | Standard 15%–20% gratuity is handed to the skipper | Prepare cash in an envelope ahead of departure |
Deck Footwear Rules
- Barefoot or Boat Shoes Only: Street shoes, dark rubber sneakers, and high heels are strictly forbidden on private yachts because they leave scuffs on fiberglass gelcoat.
- Expect to take your shoes off immediately upon stepping onto the gangway; most yachts provide a clean deck basket by the boarding gate.
2. Food & Beverage Provisioning Checklist
Almost all Miami private charters operate under a BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) and outside catering model without corkage fees. Reputable yachts provide onboard coolers, ice, and bottled water.
What to Bring:
- Canned Drinks & Seltzers: Aluminum cans chill faster, stack easily in coolers, and don't shatter if dropped on moving decks.
- Pre-Made Finger Foods: Charcuterie boards, wrapped sandwiches, skewers, and fruit platters are much easier to eat while underway than messy meals requiring knives and forks.
- Extra Ice & Mixers: While captains supply baseline ice, bringing an extra 10-lb bag ensures your drinks stay ice-cold during hot South Florida afternoons.
What is Strictly Banned on Board:
- Red Wine & Dark Cranberry Juices: Red liquids leave permanent stains on white marine vinyl cushions and porous teak decks.
- Glass Beer Bottles: Broken glass on wet boat decks creates severe safety hazards.
- Loose Glitter & Confetti: Small decorative plastic particles clog bilge pumps and are universally barred by all Miami fleet owners.
3. Arrival & Dockside Logistics Checklist
To maximize your paid charter hours on the water, smooth dockside arrival is essential.
- Arrive 15–20 Minutes Early: Marina parking, security check-in, and walking down long floating docks take time. Your charter clock begins at the scheduled departure time, not when you finish boarding.
- Designate One Provisioning Coordinator: Have one person communicate with the captain upon arrival to load coolers first before guests step on board.
- Listen to the Captain's Safety Briefing: Prior to casting off lines, the licensed USCG Master Mariner will explain the location of life jackets, fire extinguishers, and marine head (toilet) operation.
- Communicate Your Cruise Preferences: Let your captain know your preferred vibe early—whether you want lively music at Haulover Sandbar or a smooth, scenic cruise past Star Island.