The perfect provisions for your sailing trip: planning, tips and checklist

A sailing trip promises freedom and adventure; therefore, good meal planning before departure is essential. Whether you're sailing for a few days or embarking on a multi-week journey, systematic provisioning saves space, reduces stress, and ensures a pleasant atmosphere on board.

Planning is Key

Before filling your shopping cart, consider a few important questions:

• How many people are on board?
• How long is the trip?
• Are there resupply options along the way?
• What storage options are available (fridge, freezer, storage space)?
• Are there any food intolerances or special dietary habits on board?

A rough meal plan per day helps keep track. Remember to include snacks, drinks, and emergency reserves.

What Belongs on Board? – The Basics

Breakfast

• Muesli, oats, cornflakes
• Milk or plant-based alternatives
• Bread, crispbread, toast
• Jam, honey, nut butter
• Coffee, tea, instant cocoa

Lunch/Snacks

• Wraps, sandwiches, couscous salad
• Rice cakes, nuts, granola bars
• Fruit (preferably sturdy: apples, oranges, bananas)
• Vegetable sticks (carrots, bell peppers, cucumber)
• Canned fish, hummus, spreads

Dinner

Head to the nearest restaurant/tavern or enjoy quick one-pot meals together as a crew. With these ingredients, you can prepare simple meals:

• Pasta, rice, instant mashed potatoes
• Pesto
• Vegetables, lentils, chickpeas
• Grill items – many of our yachts are already equipped with a grill, or you can add one as an extra at many bases

Beverages

• Plenty of water (at least 2-3 liters per person/day)
• Juices
• Alcohol in moderation

Special Supplies

• Spices, oil, vinegar
• Salt, pepper, sugar
• Onions, garlic (sturdy, long-lasting)
• Emergency food: instant soup, instant noodles

Cooling and Storage

Sailboats often have limited cooling options. Therefore:

• Opt for durable, non-refrigerated foods
• Organize chilled products by expiration date (use soon-to-expire items first)
• Store fruits and vegetables separately (e.g., bananas can speed up ripening of others)
• Use boxes to keep order and protect food from moisture

Hygiene & Waste Management

• Bring paper towels, dish soap, sponges, trash bags
• Buy minimal packaging, as trash often needs to be carried to the next port
• Use biodegradable cleaning products (for the sake of the environment!)

Tip: Communal Cooking & Variety

Especially on longer trips, a rotating cooking schedule brings variety. Each day is planned and cooked by a different crew member. This brings new ideas on board and ensures no one feels permanently responsible.

Have Provisions Delivered – Easy & Stress-Free

Especially in countries like Croatia, you don't have to carry everything yourself or shop locally. For example, you can order provisions through JAM Yacht Supply. You can assemble your supplies online in advance and have them delivered directly to your booked yacht – just in time for your check-in.

Similar services are available in many other regions. You can find out which providers are available and how to order in the Base Info, which you receive with your boarding pass. This includes all important information about the marina, check-in, and local provisioning.

This saves time, provides security, and ensures you can enjoy your trip from the very first moment.

Checklist – To Check Off Before Setting Sail

• Water for all days
• Breakfast supplies
• Snacks for the journey
• Main meals planned
• Fresh fruits & vegetables
• Hygiene items & dish soap
• Trash bags & storage boxes
• Emergency food
• Spices & basics
• Considered cooling capacity

Conclusion

A well-thought-out provisioning makes your sailing trip more relaxed, delicious, and sustainable. Plan with foresight – but also with a love for cooking by the sea. Because: Good provisioning is half the trip!