10 Essential Items to Pack for a Day on a Catamaran

Stepping aboard a day catamaran promises an incredible mix of high-speed sailing, salt spray, and sun-soaked relaxation. However, the unique movement of a multihull combined with open-water exposure means standard beach gear simply won’t cut it. Packing the right marine-grade equipment ensures your personal belongings stay dry, your eyes and skin remain protected, and your day on the water is comfortable from launch to dock.

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What to Know Before Boarding a Day Catamaran

Catamarans are famous for their stability, but they still tramp over waves and kick up a surprising amount of fine salt spray. Because they sit low to the water and often travel at higher speeds than monohulls, wind and water will find their way into almost every corner of the deck. Understanding that everything onboard will get damp—either from direct spray or high humidity—is the first rule of multihull prep.

Storage space on a day catamaran, especially trampolines and open cockpit areas, is highly exposed. You cannot just throw a canvas tote bag on the deck and expect your dry clothes to stay dry. Furthermore, boat captains are highly protective of their gelcoat and trampolines, meaning your gear choices need to be deck-friendly and free of sharp metal edges or marking soles.

The sun reflects intensely off both the water and the white fiberglass decks of a catamaran, doubling your UV exposure. Wind speeds feel higher when the boat is underway, which can easily blow away loose hats, towels, and unsecured bags. Preparing for these elements means securing your gear and protecting yourself before you even leave the slip.

Dry Bag – Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag

A dry bag is your primary line of defense against the relentless salt spray and occasional rogue wave that washes across a catamaran’s trampoline. Without one, spare layers, dry towels, and sensitive electronics are guaranteed to end up soaked by lunchtime. It serves as your personal, watertight locker in an environment that has no dry closets.

The Sea to Summit Big River Dry Bag stands out because it is built from heavy-duty 420D ripstop nylon, making it incredibly abrasion-resistant when slid across rough non-skid decks. It features TPU roll-top closures that prevent water ingress even if the bag is temporarily submerged or left sitting in a wet cockpit. The multiple lash points allow you to secure it directly to the catamaran’s rigging or stanchions so it won’t slide overboard during a sharp tack.

• Capacity options: 5L, 8L, 13L, 20L, 35L, and 65L (the 20L size is ideal for a day trip)
• Material: 420D waterproof nylon with TPU lamination
• Base: Oval shape to resist rolling on moving decks

While the heavy-duty construction makes it incredibly durable, the stiffer fabric requires a tight, triple-roll of the closure to ensure a true waterproof seal. It is not designed for prolonged underwater submersion, so do not use it as a flotation device. This bag is perfect for active sailors who need rugged, puncture-resistant protection, but it might be overkill for someone who only plans to sit inside a covered cabin.

Polarized Sunglasses – Costa Del Mar Fantail PRO

The glare off a white catamaran deck combined with the sun’s reflection on the open ocean can quickly cause severe eye strain and headaches. Regular sunglasses only darken your field of vision, whereas polarized lenses are essential for cutting through the glare so you can see shallow reefs, waves, and obstacles clearly.

The Costa Del Mar Fantail PRO is designed specifically for harsh marine environments. It features 580G glass polarized lenses that filter out harsh yellow light while enhancing greens and blues, offering unmatched clarity on the water. The frame includes sweat channels, eyewire drains, and side shields to keep spray and sweat from fogging up your vision when the wind picks up.

• Lens Material: Lightwave 580 Glass for maximum scratch resistance and clarity
• Frame Fit: Regular-to-large fit with Hydrolite nose and temple pads
• Lens Colors: Blue Mirror (optimized for open water) or Green Mirror (optimized for flats and shallow water)

Glass lenses offer superior scratch resistance against salt crystals, but they are heavier than polycarbonate and can shatter if dropped on a hard fiberglass deck. A high-quality retainer strap is mandatory to prevent these premium glasses from slipping into the deep. This is a must-have investment for anyone serious about spending long hours on the water, but casual beachgoers who rarely boat may find the price tag steep.

Marine Cooler – RTIC 52 Ultra-Light Cooler

Staying hydrated is critical when you are exposed to wind, salt, and sun all day on a catamaran. A reliable marine cooler keeps water, sports drinks, and lunch ice-cold, preventing food spoilage under the beating sun. Since catamaran decks can get incredibly hot, a standard cooler will quickly lose its ice and leave you with warm drinks.

The RTIC 52 Ultra-Light Cooler delivers rotomolded-like ice retention while being up to 30% lighter than standard rotomolded coolers of the same capacity. This weight reduction is crucial when carrying gear down a long dock or lifting it onto a high catamaran deck. It features heavy-duty rubber T-latches that seal the lid tight, keeping salt water out and cold air in, even when the boat is bouncing over chop.

• Capacity: 52 quarts (holds up to 78 cans without ice)
• Weight: 21 lbs empty
• Ice Retention: Up to 5 days under ideal conditions

Because this cooler is so lightweight, it can slide across a wet deck more easily than heavier models if not secured. It comes equipped with non-slip rubber feet, but tie-down straps are still highly recommended on a moving multihull. This cooler is the sweet spot for families or small groups spending a full day on the water, though solo paddleboarders or kayakers will find it too bulky.

Deck Shoes – Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoe

Walking on a wet, moving catamaran deck can be a slipping hazard, especially when crossing from the cockpit to the forward trampolines. Bare feet offer zero traction on wet fiberglass, and standard sneakers can leave permanent black scuff marks that ruin the boat’s gelcoat. Proper deck shoes provide the grip you need to move confidently while respecting the vessel.

The Sperry Authentic Original Boat Shoe is the gold standard for marine traction. Its signature non-marking rubber outsole features Razor-Siping, which channels water away from under the shoe to maintain grip on wet, slippery surfaces. The hand-sewn leather upper conforms to your foot over time, and the 360-degree lacing system ensures a secure fit that won’t slip off if you have to move quickly.

• Material: Genuine leather upper with rustproof eyelets
• Outsole: Non-marking rubber with Razor-Siping technology
• Sizing: Available in slim, regular, and wide widths

These shoes are designed to get wet, but they require proper rinsing with fresh water after saltwater exposure to prevent the leather from drying out and cracking. They do not offer high arch support, so they are not meant for long-distance hiking once you hit land. These are perfect for boaters who want a classic, durable shoe that transitions seamlessly from the deck to the shore, but not for those looking for a modern, quick-dry mesh water shoe.

Reef Safe Sunscreen – Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen

Sunscreen is non-negotiable on a catamaran, but traditional chemical sunscreens contain ingredients that actively damage marine ecosystems, particularly sensitive coral reefs. Many popular snorkeling and catamaran destinations now legally ban non-biodegradable formulas. Packing a mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen protects both your skin and the vibrant underwater environments you are sailing to see.

Thinksport SPF 50+ Sunscreen is a dermatologist-tested, mineral sunscreen that uses a 20% non-nano Zinc Oxide formula to provide broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. It was the first sunscreen to pass the Whole Foods Premium Care requirements, ensuring it contains no harmful chemicals like oxybenzone or octinoxate. Its water-resistance rating of 80 minutes means it stays on through heavy swimming, snorkeling, and sweating.

• Active Ingredient: 20% Non-Nano Zinc Oxide
• Water Resistance: 80 minutes
• Formulation: Gluten-free, vegan, and biodegradable

Because it is a mineral-based sunscreen, it is thicker than chemical sprays and requires thorough rubbing to avoid leaving a white sheen on the skin. Apply it at least 15 minutes before stepping into the sun to allow the physical barrier to set properly. This is the ideal option for eco-conscious swimmers and snorkelers, though individuals who demand completely invisible, instant-dry sprays may find the application process tedious.

Waterproof Phone Case – CaliCase Floating Case

A catamaran trip offers endless photo opportunities, but keeping your phone loose on deck is a recipe for disaster. One sudden lurch of the boat or a splash of water over the gunwale can ruin your device or send it straight to the bottom of the ocean. A waterproof, floating phone case allows you to capture memories without constant anxiety about water damage.

The CaliCase Floating Case offers dual-layer protection with high-quality TPU plastic that maintains full touchscreen functionality, allowing you to take crisp photos underwater. What sets it apart is its built-in foam padding, which ensures your phone actually floats on the surface if dropped overboard rather than sinking like a stone. The heavy-duty lanyard keeps the phone securely strapped to your neck or wrist while walking along the catamaran’s trampoline.

• Waterproof Rating: IPX8 certified up to 100 feet underwater
• Buoyancy: Built-in foam materials for reliable floating
• Sizing: Fits phones up to 6.1 inches (standard) or 7.0 inches (extra-large)

While the touchscreen works perfectly through the plastic, facial recognition and fingerprint scanners generally will not function inside the case. Always perform a simple paper towel test at home before trusting the case with your expensive phone in open water. This product is an absolute necessity for anyone taking photos near the water’s edge, but it is not meant to replace a dedicated action camera for deep-diving adventures.

Quick Dry Towel – Nomadix Original Towel

Standard cotton beach towels are bulky, heavy when wet, and take hours to dry, especially in the humid air of a catamaran deck. Once damp, they quickly develop a musty smell and collect sand that gets tracked all over the boat. A high-performance, quick-dry towel packs down small and sheds moisture rapidly, keeping you dry and warm between swims.

The Nomadix Original Towel is crafted from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, making it an eco-friendly choice that outperforms traditional fabrics. It absorbs four times its weight in water and dries four times faster than standard cotton towels, meaning it is ready to use again after a quick drape over the catamaran’s lifelines. Its tight, weave construction ensures that sand slips right off, keeping the boat’s cockpit clean and grit-free.

• Dimensions: 72.5″ x 30″ (full beach size)
• Material: Micro-terry made from 80% recycled polyester and 20% nylon
• Weight: Only 1 lb, packing down to the size of a water bottle

The texture of microfiber feels different than plush cotton, which can take some getting used to if you prefer a fluffy feel. Because it is lightweight, you must secure it with a towel clip or weigh it down on deck to prevent the wind from blowing it away while sailing. This towel is perfect for minimalist travelers and active boaters who value space-saving gear, but less suited for those who prioritize plush, heavy luxury towels.

Portable Power Bank – Anker PowerCore Solar 20000

Between taking photos, running GPS navigation apps, and streaming music to the boat’s speakers, phone batteries drain incredibly fast during a day on the water. Catamarans rarely have accessible passenger charging ports, and those that do are often slow or exposed to the elements. A rugged portable power bank ensures your devices stay charged for safety and entertainment.

The Anker PowerCore Solar 20000 is built for outdoor survival and marine use. It features an IP65 dustproof and water-resistant rating, meaning it can handle occasional splashes and sandy environments without short-circuiting. With a massive 20,000mAh capacity, it can charge an iPhone several times over, and its integrated solar panel offers emergency recharging capability when you are far from an electrical outlet.

• Capacity: 20,000mAh / 74Wh
• Outputs: Dual USB-A ports with PowerIQ high-speed charging
• Durability: Reinforced corners for drop protection

The built-in solar panel is designed for emergency top-offs and takes a long time to charge the massive battery fully; you should always charge the bank via a wall outlet before boarding. Keep the ports sealed with their rubber protective flaps when not actively charging a device to prevent salt air corrosion. This power bank is perfect for gear-heavy groups spending long, off-grid days on the water, but it is too heavy for casual users who only need a quick phone top-off.

Marine Binoculars – Bushnell Marine 7×50

Navigating a catamaran requires keeping a sharp lookout for shallow reefs, distant buoys, sandbars, and other vessels. Additionally, spotting marine wildlife like dolphins, turtles, or seabirds is half the fun of a day sail. A quality set of marine binoculars brings the horizon into focus, helping with both navigation safety and sightseeing.

The Bushnell Marine 7×50 binoculars are specifically engineered for the unstable platform of a moving boat. The 7x magnification is the industry standard for boating because higher magnifications make it impossible to keep an image steady on rolling waves, while the large 50mm objective lenses let in maximum light for dawn and dusk viewing. They are nitrogen-purged and O-ring sealed, making them completely waterproof, fogproof, and resistant to saltwater corrosion.

• Magnification & Objective: 7x50mm
• Prism System: Porro BaK-4 for bright, clear images
• Protection: Non-slip, heavy-duty rubber armor

These are large, traditional marine binoculars, meaning they are relatively heavy and bulky compared to compact hiking binoculars. They feature an individual eye focus system, which requires adjusting each eyepiece separately for perfect clarity. This product is a vital tool for serious boaters, navigators, and wildlife enthusiasts, but may be too heavy and specialized for casual tourists who prefer a lightweight pocket monocular.

Sailing Gloves – Gill Championship Gloves

If you plan to help the captain trim the sails or handle the dock lines, a pair of sailing gloves is essential safety gear. Catamarans feature large sails that generate immense tension on the sheets and halyards, and handling these lines barehanded can lead to painful rope burns or blisters in seconds. Even if you are just passenger-assisting, protecting your hands ensures you stay useful and injury-free.

Gill Championship Gloves are designed with Dura-Grip fabric on the palm to provide incredible grip on wet or dry ropes while maintaining flexibility. The offset finger seams eliminate pressure points, and the pre-shaped construction fits the natural contour of your hand to reduce fatigue during a long day of sailing. Their short-finger design keeps your fingertips free so you can still tie knots, operate touchscreens, and open dry bags with ease.

• Material: Dura-Grip fabric with UPF 50+ sun protection
• Style: Short-finger (cut-off fingers for dexterity)
• Closure: Wide neoprene wrist band with secure hook-and-loop closure

These gloves will stretch slightly when wet, so it is best to buy them with a snug, secure fit initially. After sailing in saltwater, they should be rinsed thoroughly in fresh water and air-dried away from direct heat to prevent the synthetic grip material from stiffening. They are an essential purchase for active crew members and passengers who want to participate in sailing, but completely unnecessary for guests who plan to lounge exclusively on the trampolines.

How to Secure and Waterproof Your Gear Onboard

Once you step onto a catamaran, everything not tied down is at risk of sliding or blowing away. The high winds generated by sailing, combined with the motion of crossing waves, can quickly clear a deck of hats, towels, and loose bags. Use carabiners or heavy-duty gear ties to secure your dry bags and coolers directly to the boat’s stanchions, lifelines, or the frame of the bimini top.

True waterproofing on a boat relies on a system of layers rather than a single barrier. Place highly sensitive items like car keys, wallets, and passports inside small ziplock bags or hard-sided waterproof cases before packing them into your main dry bag. This double-layer approach ensures that even if your dry bag is opened on a wet deck to grab a towel, your most critical valuables remain completely sealed off from moisture.

Where you store your gear on the catamaran matters just as much as how you pack it. Avoid leaving bags on the forward trampolines, as this is the wettest area of the boat where waves regularly crash through the netting. Keep your gear tucked under the hardtop bimini or inside the cabin companionway, keeping it elevated off the cockpit floor where pooling water can accumulate during a sail.

Equipping yourself with the right marine-grade gear ensures a day on a catamaran is filled with adventure rather than wet belongings and sunburnt skin. By investing in durable, waterproof essentials and securing them properly, you can focus on the wind in the sails and the horizon ahead. Prepare smart, respect the water, and enjoy every moment of your open-ocean excursion.