For a day of boating, safe shoes, room to move and an extra layer in the wind matter more than a fixed colour or fabric. Ask beforehand which rules apply on the boat and match your outfit to the type of boat, the weather and how much you yourself will need to move on board.
What is different about a day on a small boat?
On an open boat or small boat you sit close together, on cushions or benches and close to the water. You step in and out, duck for a bridge and sometimes sit for hours in the same spot. That calls for different clothing than a terrace or an office. You want comfort and freedom of movement, clothing that can take a bit of water and a finish that still looks polished at lunch on the shore.
Five things to look out for
- Grip when stepping aboard. Choose shoes that are safe on the deck in question and ask the owner whether sole rules apply.
- Soft fabrics on the skin. You sit for a long time. Choose fabrics that feel soft and do not chafe.
- Colour to your own preference. Mid-tones may show some stains less quickly, but white or bright colours can work too.
- A layer for changing weather. Bring a jacket or cardigan when wind and temperature give reason to.
- Few loose parts. A hat, scarf or loose sleeve can blow away or snag.
For Men: polo and trousers in calm shades
The cool grey Julian is a regular-fit quarter zip polo with a piqué structure. Combine it with the khaki Vincent, slim-fit mid-rise trousers. The blue Montgomery is a slim-fit alternative with the current size advice to go one size up from your usual.
For Women: T-shirt, skort and a light layer
The pink Lenora is a slim-fit fine-knit T-shirt. The Lavinia skort in glacier blue has a skirt look with shorts underneath and is 35 cm long in size S. That can be practical when stepping aboard, as long as the length gives you enough freedom of movement.
Getting in and out
When stepping aboard you want your hands free and enough room to move at hips and knees. Stretch can help, but is not necessary. Pay particular attention to long hems, loose straps and shoes that slip off easily.
Sun protection without effort
On the water the sun reflects off the surface, so you receive more light than you think. A cap or hat with a strap and sunglasses are then no luxury. Thin clothing with long sleeves can be pleasant if you sit in the sun for hours, provided the fabric is light and airy. Apply sunscreen well before you leave and bring the cream along to top up.
What you leave at home
- Clothing you do not want to expose to water, sunscreen or stains.
- Shoes with smooth soles or heels.
- Expensive jewellery and watches that could fall into the water.
- Wide, fluttering skirts and long scarves.
A day on the water in four moments
| Moment | Clothing | Extra |
|---|---|---|
| Departure in the morning | Polo or T-shirt, trousers, thin jacket | Cap or sunglasses |
| Middle of the water | Jacket off or on, depending on the wind | Sunscreen |
| Lunch on the shore | The same outfit, a layer added | Clean handkerchief or wipes |
| Back in the late afternoon | Jacket or cardigan on | Dry socks in your bag |
Colours and prints
Grey, blue, sand, khaki and off-white give a classic nautical look, but colour and print are completely free. Above all choose a combination you will still want to wear after the boat trip.
For those who sail along as a guest
If you are not the skipper but a guest, you bring a small bag instead of a large suitcase. Ask beforehand what is on board and what you need to bring yourself, such as towels, drinks and an extra layer. Wear clothing in which you can sit, stand and walk. That way you are a pleasant guest and do not have to keep thinking about your outfit.
Lunch on the shore
A polo, T-shirt or blouse can all be suitable for a lunch on the shore after sailing. The most important thing is that your clothing stays dry and comfortable. For more pieces, see the collections polos for Men and T-shirts for Women.
Looking after your clothing after the trip
A day on the water leaves traces: sun, wind and splashes. Hang your clothing up to air and wash it at the temperature on the label. With fine-knit pieces it is sensible to dry them flat, so they keep their shape. You will find more explanation on our care instructions page.
Shop the look
Julian: knitted polo with quarter zip, cool grey
Vincent: slim-fit trousers, khaki
Montgomery: softly draping modal polo, blue
Lenora: fine-knit two-tone T-shirt, pink
Lavinia: tweed skort, glacier blue
Frequently asked questions
What do you wear on an open boat?
Choose clothing in which you can sit and step aboard easily, shoes with enough grip and possibly an extra layer for wind.
Which shoes do you wear on a boat?
Shoes with a flat, grippy sole, such as low sneakers or loafers with a rubber sole. Avoid heels and smooth leather soles.
Is white a good colour to wear on an open boat?
Yes. White can be perfectly fine; it just shows some stains more quickly than mid-tones.
Should I bring a coat if it is warm?
Bring an extra layer if the weather forecast, sailing time or evening temperature gives reason to.
