10 Essential Items for Your Family Catamaran Day Trip

Stepping onto a spacious catamaran for a day on the water promises unmatched stability, plenty of room to lounge, and the perfect platform for family memories. However, the open water can quickly turn a dream outing into a stressful ordeal if the crew is sunburned, cold, or unprepared. Bringing the right gear ensures everyone stays safe, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the unique rhythm of a day under sail.

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How to Prepare Your Family for a Day on a Catamaran

Catamarans offer a unique sailing experience because they sit on two hulls, minimizing the rolling motion that often causes seasickness on monohulls. Despite this stability, they move quickly and are highly exposed to wind, spray, and intense sun reflection off the water. Preparing your family starts with setting expectations about movement on deck, especially when transitioning between the sheltered cockpit and the open trampoline area at the bow.

Hydration and sun protection should begin the night before your trip, not when you step onto the dock. Pack plenty of fresh water and plan for a high-energy menu, as active sailing and swimming drain energy faster than a standard beach day. Lastly, establish a “one hand for yourself, one hand for the boat” rule to keep everyone secure while the vessel is underway.

Kids Life Jacket – Mustang Survival Rev Kid’s Vest

A high-quality life jacket is non-negotiable for any child on a catamaran, where open decks and netting invite constant movement. Standard, bulky orange vests are uncomfortable, leading to complaints and resistance from kids who just want to play. A proper vest must provide maximum buoyancy while allowing full range of motion for swimming, climbing, and lounging on the trampoline.

The Mustang Survival Rev Kid’s Vest excels here with its revolutionary shaped chassis and ultra-soft stain-resistant fabric that prevents chafing against bare skin. This vest features a cooling mesh back panel, a sturdy grab loop for quick retrievals, and a secure crotch strap to prevent the jacket from riding up over the child’s chin.

• Weight Range: 33–55 lbs (Child size)
• Approval: USCG Type III Approved
• Primary Use: Active boating, sailing, and swimming

When fitting this vest, ensure the weight range matches your child exactly to maintain proper buoyancy. Check the straps for a snug fit before leaving the dock, and rinse the vest in fresh water after use to prevent salt crystal buildup in the buckles. This vest is ideal for active kids who spend hours in and out of the water, though families with older youth or infants will need to look at other size models in the same lineup.

Marine Cooler – YETI Tundra 45 Hard Cooler

Sailing under the hot sun means food and drinks will spoil rapidly without a dedicated, high-performance marine cooler. A standard grocery-store cooler will slide across a moving deck, sweat condensation everywhere, and lose ice before lunchtime. You need a heavy-duty cooler that locks in cold temperatures, resists UV damage, and stays anchored in place even when the catamaran hits choppy waves.

The YETI Tundra 45 Hard Cooler is built precisely for this demanding marine environment. With its rotomolded construction and three inches of PermaFrost insulation, it easily keeps ice frozen for days on end. It features non-slip BearFoot rubber feet that grip fiberglass decks securely, preventing dangerous sliding when the boat is in motion.

• Capacity: 28 cans (using a 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio)
• Dry Weight: 23 lbs
• Key Features: T-Rex lid latches, molded tie-down slots, and InterLock lid system

This cooler holds enough food and drinks for a family of four or five on a full-day sail. It is heavy when fully loaded, so utilize the military-grade polyester rope handles for two-person carries down the dock. While it represents a significant upfront investment, its virtually indestructible build means it will outlast dozens of cheap coolers.

Waterproof Dry Bag – Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag

Catamaran decks are notorious for wind-blown spray, and the netting at the bow is a guaranteed splash zone. Storing dry clothes, car keys, and towels in standard backpacks will inevitably lead to damp, salty gear by the end of the day. A heavy-duty dry bag keeps your essentials bone-dry, even if a stray wave washes over the deck or the bag accidentally goes overboard during a dinghy transfer.

The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag is the gold standard for rugged marine environments, constructed from 420D waterproof nylon fabric that resists punctures and abrasions from rough fiberglass decks. It features triple-coated TPU oval bases that prevent the bag from rolling around, alongside heavy-duty lash loops that let you secure it to the catamaran’s railing.

• Material: 420-denier waterproof nylon
• Available Sizes: 5L, 8L, 13L, 20L, 35L, and 65L
• Best For: Storing towels, spare clothing, and sensitive electronics

To use it effectively, roll the top down at least three times before clicking the buckle to ensure a watertight seal. This bag is highly water-resistant and floats if dropped, but it is not rated for prolonged submersion, so avoid using it as a pull-behind float. It is perfect for active boating families who need a tough, reliable barrier against the elements.

Reef Safe Sunscreen – Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen

The sun is twice as intense on a catamaran due to the double reflection off the water’s surface and the boat’s white fiberglass hulls. Traditional chemical sunscreens contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which bleach sensitive coral reefs and harm marine life when you jump in for a swim. Protecting your family requires a high-performance mineral sunscreen that stays on during activity but washes off clean without leaving a toxic trail.

Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen is a dermatologist-recommended mineral formula that relies on 20% non-nano zinc oxide for broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. It achieves the highest level of water resistance (80 minutes) and is completely free of biologically harmful chemicals, making it safe for both sensitive young skin and delicate marine ecosystems.

• Active Ingredient: 20% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ Broad Spectrum
• Water Resistance: 80 minutes

Because mineral sunscreens sit on top of the skin rather than absorbing into it, they require thorough rubbing during application to avoid a white cast. Apply it 15 minutes before stepping into the sun and reapply strictly after every 80 minutes of swimming or towel-drying. This formula is perfect for safety-conscious parents and ocean lovers, though those who prefer quick aerosol sprays should note that pump sprays or lotions offer more consistent, wind-resistant coverage on a breezy deck.

Marine Water Shoes – Astral Loyak Water Shoes

Going barefoot on a catamaran seems idyllic until you stub a toe on a metal cleat, slide on a wet deck, or step onto hot fiberglass. Flip-flops offer zero stability when the boat is moving and easily fly off in a gust of wind. A dedicated marine water shoe provides the necessary grip on wet surfaces while protecting your feet during rocky beach landings or shallow-water wading.

The Astral Loyak Water Shoes look like casual sneakers but perform like high-performance marine gear, featuring a G.15 high-friction rubber outsole that grips wet fiberglass like glue. They are built with a durable Cordura nylon upper and a mesh tongue that drains water instantly while keeping out irritating sand and gravel.

• Outsole: G.15 high-friction, non-marking rubber
• Upper Material: 1000D Cordura nylon with stretch mesh
• Drainage: Built-in flush holes at toe and heel

These shoes are designed to be worn without socks, so select a snug fit to prevent your feet from sliding around inside the shoe when wet. They dry quickly in the sun, but you should rinse them with fresh water after salt-water use to prevent odor and stiffening. They are the ultimate choice for boaters who want a shoe that transitions seamlessly from the helm to a beachside restaurant.

Waterproof Phone Case – JOTO Waterproof Pouch

Taking photos of your family lounging on the bow trampoline is a highlight of any catamaran trip, but a single slip can send your expensive smartphone to the bottom of the ocean. Salt water is highly corrosive and will instantly ruin non-waterproof electronics, while wet fingers make touchscreens unresponsive. A reliable waterproof pouch keeps your phone dry and functional, letting you capture memories without anxiety.

The JOTO Waterproof Pouch offers universal compatibility for almost all smartphones and features a simple, secure snap-and-lock seal that provides IPX8 certified waterproof protection up to 100 feet. It is constructed with clear scratch-resistant windows on both sides, allowing you to use the touchscreen, take photos, and record videos underwater or in heavy spray.

• Waterproof Rating: IPX8 certified (up to 100 feet)
• Compatibility: Fits devices up to 7 inches diagonally
• Inclusions: Adjustable neck lanyard

Before trusting the pouch with your phone, perform a quick paper towel test at home by submerging the empty pouch in water for 30 minutes to check for leaks. Note that touchscreen functionality can be temperamental under deep water due to water pressure, so use the phone’s physical volume buttons to snap photos when submerged. This affordable pouch is a must-have for every family member on board, though it does not provide flotation, meaning you should pair it with a floating wrist strap for absolute security.

Marine First Aid Kit – Adventure Medical Kits Marine 100

Out on the water, even a minor cut from a barnacle, a jellyfish sting, or a sudden bout of motion sickness can quickly derail the day if you don’t have medical supplies handy. Marine injuries are unique because they are highly prone to infection from saltwater bacteria, and professional medical help can be miles away. A marine-specific first aid kit contains specialized supplies tailored to boating environments that standard home kits lack.

The Adventure Medical Kits Marine 100 is housed in a water-resistant outer bag and organized into clear, injury-specific pockets to help you find what you need in an emergency. It contains marine-grade components including antiseptic wipes, waterproof bandages, wound closure strips, motion sickness medication, and specialized treatments for marine bites and stings.

• Case Type: Water-resistant padded zipper case
• Group Size: Best for 1 to 6 people
• Key Contents: Marine medicine, wound care, and CPR shield

Keep this kit stored in an easily accessible, dry location inside the catamaran’s cabin or cockpit locker, and ensure all adults on board know where it is located. Check the expiration dates on medications and sterile items before the start of every boating season. This compact kit is ideal for day trips on coastal waters, though those planning multi-day offshore passages should opt for a larger offshore medical kit.

Quick Dry Towel – PackTowl Personal Quick Dry Towel

Traditional cotton towels are heavy, take up massive amounts of storage space, and stay damp forever once wet, creating a musty smell in the boat’s cabin. On a catamaran, space and dry storage are premium commodities, especially when managing gear for a whole family. You need a highly absorbent, fast-drying towel that packs down small and can be used multiple times throughout the day.

The PackTowl Personal Quick Dry Towel is crafted from a microfiber blend that absorbs up to four times its weight in water, yet wrings out almost completely dry with minimal effort. It dries up to 70% faster than cotton and features an antimicrobial treatment that keeps odors at bay, even after a full day of use.

• Material: 85% Polyester, 15% Nylon microfiber blend
• Sizes: Face, Hand, Body, and Beach sizes
• Key Feature: Integrated snap loop for easy hanging

These towels pack down to the size of a water bottle, leaving plenty of room in your dry bag for other essentials. Wash them before your first trip to maximize their absorbency, and avoid using fabric softeners as they can clog the microfiber pores. They are perfect for space-conscious families who swim frequently, though those who prefer the plush, thick feel of a luxury home towel may need some time to adjust to the thin, functional texture of microfiber.

Handheld VHF Radio – Uniden MHS75 Waterproof Radio

Cell phones are notoriously unreliable on the water due to spotty coastal coverage and the risk of battery death. A handheld VHF radio is the primary safety communication tool for any boater, allowing you to call for assistance, monitor real-time NOAA weather alerts, and communicate with other vessels. It is your lifeline to the Coast Guard and local marine assistance in the event of an engine failure or medical emergency.

The Uniden MHS75 Waterproof Radio is a rugged, compact lifeline featuring a submersible JIS8 waterproof rating and a large, easy-to-read backlit display for nighttime operations. It operates on 1, 2.5, or 5 Watt transmitting power, letting you adjust the strength based on how far you need to broadcast, and includes a Dual/Triple Watch feature to monitor emergency channels simultaneously.

• Waterproof Rating: JIS8 (submersible up to 5 feet for 30 minutes)
• Battery Life: Up to 12 hours on a single charge
• Power Output: Selectable 1W, 2.5W, or 5W

Ensure the battery is fully charged before leaving the dock, and familiarize yourself with basic VHF etiquette—Channel 16 is strictly for hailing and emergencies, not casual conversation. It comes with a desktop charger, but purchasing a 12V marine adapter ensures you can charge it directly from the catamaran’s power outlets. This radio is an essential safeguard for any family venturing beyond swimming distance from the shore.

Floating Sunglasses – Rheos Gear Eddies Sunglasses

Glare off the ocean surface can cause severe eye strain and headaches, making high-quality polarized sunglasses essential for a day of sailing. However, standard sunglasses sink like stones the moment they slip off your face during a gust of wind or an active sail adjustment. A pair of floating, polarized sunglasses ensures your eyes stay protected from harmful UV rays while eliminating the risk of losing an expensive accessory to the depths.

The Rheos Gear Eddies Sunglasses are built with a featherlight TPX frame that naturally floats on the water’s surface without requiring bulky foam straps. The lenses feature premium polarization with double-sided anti-fog and scratch-resistant coatings, providing crystal-clear visibility and 100% UV protection while cutting through intense water glare.

• Frame Material: Lightweight TPX floating polymer
• Lens Type: Polarized NYPO nylon lenses
• Protection: 100% UV protection

While these glasses float reliably, they can still drift away with the current, so retrieve them quickly if they fall overboard. Clean the lenses only with freshwater and a microfiber cloth, as wiping salt crystals with a dry shirt can scratch the protective coatings. They are perfect for anyone spending active days on the water, though individuals with exceptionally narrow faces may want to look at Rheos’ smaller frame styles for a tighter fit.

Essential Catamaran Safety Rules for a Smooth Sail

A catamaran provides a stable, wide-open layout that can easily lull passengers into a false sense of security. Because catamarans do not heel (lean) as much as monohull sailboats, guests often forget they are on a moving vessel subjected to sudden wakes and wind shifts. Before casting off, gather the family to establish clear safety boundaries, starting with a strict “no running on deck” policy, as wet fiberglass can instantly become slick.

Pay special attention to the boom—the heavy horizontal spar at the bottom of the mainsail. During a maneuver called gybing or tacking, the boom can swing across the cockpit with incredible force; passengers must always stay clear of its path when the sails are active. Additionally, while the forward trampoline netting is the most popular spot on the boat, passengers should never sit on the very edge of the bow where a sudden wave could pitch them forward into the water directly between the hulls.

Finally, reinforce the practice of maintaining three points of contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) whenever moving around the deck. Ensure everyone knows where the safety gear is located, including the life rings and the VHF radio. By instilling these simple habits early in the day, you ensure your family focuses on the fun of sailing rather than recovering from preventable mishaps.

With the right gear packed and safety protocols established, your family is ready to experience the pure joy of a catamaran day trip. By investing in reliable, marine-grade equipment, you protect your crew from the elements and ensure a stress-free adventure. Pack up your cooler, secure your life jackets, and head out for an unforgettable day on the water.