1. Sun & Weather Protection: Non-Negotiable Defense Against the Elements

Why It Matters

Mallorca’s summer sun is intense, with UV indexes frequently reaching 9-10 (extremely high exposure). Combined with reflective glare off the water, sun protection isn’t just about comfort—it’s a safety priority to avoid burns, heat exhaustion, and long-term skin damage.

Key Items Explained

• Polarized Sunglasses (with a strap)
  
  • Why? Polarization cuts water glare, improving visibility safety, for navigation and sail trimming. A strap prevents loss overboard during maneuvers.
  • Pro Tip: Avoid cheap plastic lenses—opt for UV400 protection (blocks 100% UVA/UVB). A €2 string can save your €200 sunnies or more if they are prescription lenses.
• UPF 50+ Clothing
  
  • Why? Unlike sunscreen, UPF fabric doesn’t wear off. A long-sleeve rash guard protects during drills without constant reapplication especially if taking a dip to cool off. Be wary though as many t-shirts or thinner materials will only stop a certain amount or UV damage.
  • Alternative: A lightweight, breathable shirt (e.g., polyester or merino wool) if you don’t have UPF gear.
• Wide-Brimmed Hat
  
  • Why? A wide brimmed hat or sailing cap with neck flap shields ears and neck—areas often missed by sunscreen. You will sail every afternoon with any luck when the wind and sun are strongest
  • Caution: Avoid large hats that fly off in wind; we are sailing and there is always wind a hat strap is a must.

2. Clothing & Footwear: Balancing Function and Comfort

Why It Matters

Sailing involves wet, slippery surfaces, sudden wind changes, and temperature shifts. Your clothing needs to dry fast, stay secure, and resist chafing during repetitive motions (e.g., winch grinding) and protect you from the sun.

Key Items Explained

• Non-Marking Boat Shoes
  
  • Why? Deck shoes provide grip without scuffing the boat and needn’t cost a fortune
  • Alternative: any clear soled shoes, look in Decathlon or other discounters as they will carry them every summer, if you are on a budget.
• Quick-Dry Shorts/Swimwear
  
  • Why? Cotton absorbs water and stays soggy; synthetic blends (nylon/polyester) dry in minutes. Surf shorts are ideal, with pockets or without.
  • Pro Tip: Avoid zippers/metal hardware—they corrode in saltwater.
• Light Windbreaker
  
  • Why? Mallorca’s winds can kick up unexpectedly. A packable jacket stows easily and blocks wind chill especially in the mornings or evening sails.

3. Safety & Comfort: Avoiding Mid-Course Hassles

Why It Matters

Even in a supervised course, personal preparedness ensures you stay focused on learning—not battling discomfort or emergencies.

Key Items Explained

• Inflatable PFD (if you own one)
  
  • Why? We supply modern lightweight approved PFDs.  However if you have your own bring it along, you can carry a PFD with 2 gas cartridges on board most airlines in Europe. An auto-inflatable PFD is low-profile, including our course vests, and cooler in heat.
  • Note: We will require all students to wear PFDs during courses at all times.
• Waterproof Dry Bag
  
  • Why? Electronics, passports, and cash stay safe. Use a 5-10L bag for essentials + a smaller one for phone/keys. You will be on a boat surrounded by deep salty water, personal items will at some point end up in the water.
  • Pro Tip: The most common lost items are phones, sunglasses, hats, compasses and torches.  Strap them on or into the bag they go.
• Hydration
  
  • Why? Dehydration causes fatigue and poor concentration. A 1L insulated bottle keeps water cool for hours.
  • Trick: Add electrolyte tablets to combat saltwater exposure.

4. Learning & Extras: Small Items, Big Impact

Why It Matters

Sailing courses blend practical drills with theory sessions. The right tools help you absorb knowledge efficiently.

Key Items Explained

• Notebook + Pen
  
  • Why? Writing down terms (e.g., “lee shore,” “reefing”) reinforces memory better than typing.
  • Alternative: The RYA course books have note taking areas and a pencil will be all you need to notes and chart work.
• Waterproof Phone Pouch
  
  • Why? Nowadayswe all use our phones for navigation and weather (e.g., Windy) or photographing the wonderful Mallorca scenery.
  • Caution: Test pouches beforehand—some blur photos or fail under immersion.

Pro Packing Strategy

• Roll, Don’t Fold: Saves space in your duffel.
• Pack in Layers:
  
  • Day 1 Essentials: Sunscreen, hat, water bottle, PFD.
  • Stowed Gear: Evening layers, spare shoes.
• Label Everything: Use waterproof tags to avoid mix-ups on shared boats.

Final Thought

Packing smart ensures you spend less time fixing problems (sunburn, wet phones, blisters) and more time mastering sailing skills in one of the Mediterranean’s most stunning playgrounds.