What to Wear and Pack for a Catamaran Trip in Lanzarote
To make the most of it (swimming, anchoring, sunshine, sea breeze), here’s what to wear and what to bring. The idea: stay comfortable, dry when you need to, and respect the marine environment.
The essentials not to forget
Towel & swimsuit
Go for a microfibre towel that dries fast and takes up little space, and a comfortable swimsuit that stays put in the water.
Reef-safe sunscreen
A must under the trade winds. Choose broad-spectrum protection (UVA/UVB), SPF 30 to 50, water-resistant (ideally 80 min).
Sunscreen and the marine environment: choosing and applying it right
Filters to choose
- Mineral filters: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (preferably non-nano).
- Fragrance-free formulas without heavy oils where possible.
Ingredients to avoid where possible
- Oxybenzone, octinoxate, octocrylene (often singled out for their impact on marine ecosystems).
- Sprays: they spread particles everywhere, make the deck slippery, and much of the product ends up in the air or the sea rather than on your skin.
Applying it properly
- Apply 15–20 min before boarding, on dry skin.
- How much: about a teaspoon for the face/neck, a shot glass for the whole body.
- Reapply after swimming or every 2 hours.
- Add an anti-UV T-shirt: it’s the best sunscreen there is.
Why it often feels cooler at sea (and why it's nicer at anchor)
While sailing
Between the sea breeze, the trade winds and evaporation on wet skin, the perceived temperature drops compared with on land. The wind speeds up heat loss, so you cool down faster.
At anchor
The boat is sheltered from the wind (bay, terrain, how it’s moored). It’s much more comfortable: the air is calmer, you dry off, and you can enjoy the sun and the clear water.
Clothes & accessories that make a difference
Light layers & a windbreaker
Bring a light layer (thin fleece or sweatshirt) and a windbreaker. Especially useful on the way out and back.
Sunglasses & hat
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- Polarised sunglasses + a strap (it’s windy out there).
- A hat or cap with a chin strap.
Shoes & feet
- On board: barefoot or non-slip soles (boat shoes).
- Swimming/beaches: water shoes are handy on rocks or pebbles.
Dry bag & little essentials
- Waterproof pouch for your phone, compact power bank.
- Microfibre towel, anti-UV T-shirt, SPF lip balm.
Quick checklist
- Microfibre towel, swimsuit, reef-friendly sunscreen SPF 30–50.
- Anti-UV T-shirt, light layer, windbreaker.
- Polarised sunglasses + strap, hat/cap with a chin strap.
- Reusable water bottle, snack, waterproof pouch for your phone.
- Non-slip shoes / water shoes depending on the spot.
- Kids: life jacket provided, baby carrier recommended, UV protection.
Related questions to explore next
Seasickness on a catamaran: how to prevent and handle it
Where to sit, watching the horizon, staying hydrated, tips that work.
→ How to deal with seasickness
Catamaran trips in Lanzarote: are they suitable for children and people with reduced mobility?
Kids’ equipment, boarding with reduced mobility, comfort and safety.
→ Trips for children and people with reduced mobility
Catamaran in Lanzarote: private or shared trip, which to choose?
Atmosphere, budget, flexibility: when one becomes better value than the other.
→ Private or shared catamaran trip?
What's next
- Check out the Papagayo catamaran or private catamaran pages for info and prices, then message me on WhatsApp at +33676820702 to book your slot.
- Papagayo catamaran page → Click here
- Private catamaran page → Click here