When you’re planning a boat trip, the first thing you need to think about is what to wear. There are a variety of different types of boat trips, from leisurely cruises on a pontoon boat to sailing expeditions in the Caribbean.
No matter what type of boat trip you’re taking, there are plenty of outfit options that will make you look and feel your best. And I can tell you from experience, that being comfortable makes the trip ten times more enjoyable. In this post, I’ll take a look at some cute sailing outfits for women and show you how to put together the perfect summer yacht party outfit.
Be sure to also research what you should be eating on a boat trip to ensure you don’t go hungry anywhere along the way.
Casual Boat Ride Outfits


Casual boat trips are complimented perfectly by comfortable boat ride outfits. And what you’re wearing should certainly be the first thing on your boat trip checklist. Here are some of the essential items of clothing to make up your boat attire.
Casual loose fitting shorts
Comfort comes first when it comes to casual boat rides. And what says comfort more than a pair of loose-fitting shorts. They are perfect for the warmer weather as they’re airy but still allow your legs to catch a tan (if you enjoy that sort of thing).
Peak cap or hat
Having a peak cap or hat with you is essential for keeping the sun off of your face. The last thing you want is to get off the boat only to discover that your face is a brighter shade of red. It also comes in handy to shade your eyes from the sun and the glare on the water, which can get quite intense on sunny days.
Boho pants
If you are not one for wearing shorts, then a pair of boho pants might be a better fit for you. If you’re looking for boat cruise outfit ideas for ladies, then pairing your boho pants with a strappy top will not only be a good look but be incredibly practical at the same time.
The loose-fitting pants will ensure you don’t get too hot when the weather is warm, but there is also enough material to keep you covered from a chilly breeze on the water.
Jumpsuit
A jumpsuit is the ideal summer boat cruise outfit because it is light and flowy. If you are planning on hopping off the boat for a little swim, then you can simply wear your jumpsuit over your costume, which is my go-to.
T-shirt
If you plan on wearing long pants or shorts, then a t-shirt is an ideal option for those with pale skin or who tend to burn easily. Keeping your shoulders covered goes a long way in protecting your most vulnerable areas from the harsh sun’s rays.
River rain jacket
Weather can change so quickly when you’re on the water, so it’s important to take something to keep you warm. A river rain jacket is ideal as it’s waterproof, so you’re safe from splash, mist, and rain if the weather takes a turn for the worst.
Boat Party Outfit


If you have the pleasure of partying on the ocean, then you need a killer yacht party outfit. Luckily, yacht party attire for women is not that hard to come by, but it does need to cover a variety of criteria. While looking good maybe your number one, being comfortable and warm are also both essential.
Here are some of my top recommendations for adding to your yacht outfit ideas.
Two-piece outfit with a maxi skirt
If you’re wondering what to wear to a boat party, then a two-piece outfit might be the way to go. Not only is it a head-turning look, but it is incredibly comfortable and shows just enough skin to make it yacht party appropriate.
Mesh dress
The great thing about a mesh dress is that it can be worn over a bikini or swimsuit to take the chill out of the air, and to make you feel slightly more clothed. It’s easy to get in and out of if you are planning on swimming and allows your bikini to dry through your mesh dress.
Summerlong jumpsuit
If you want to look great without showing off too much skin, then a long jumpsuit might just be the female yacht party attire for you. It’s fashionable and flattering on all body types, allowing you to look put together without much thought at all about what you need to wear.
Long summer beach dress
A long dress with strategic cutouts allows you to show off some skin while still keeping it classy. It’s another piece that can be thrown over a bikini when you are finished tanning or swimming, making it ultra-convenient.
Outfit for Sailing


If you are going sailing on the open ocean, then you need boat gear to suit your needs. These are some items you could be adding to your sailing outfits to make your experience a whole lot more comfortable. Whether you’re rafting in Glacier National Park or heading out on open waters, these clothing options are sure to come in handy.
Rashguard
A rash guard is something that acts as a swimsuit but prevents you from getting rashes when you are walking around wet for too long the way a swimsuit would cause a rash. This is perfect to go under other clothes and be worn by itself on the warmer days.
Waterproof and windproof pants
Waterproof and windproof pants are an absolute must. As we all know, the weather on the water can turn in a matter of seconds, and you don’t want to be caught in the cold. These pants will protect you from the spray of the water, but also from the icy oceanic breeze while you’re sailing.
Waterproof and windproof jacket
This can be worn over your rash vest to keep you warm when the weather turns. A waterproof and windproof jacket is one of those things that are essential to take with you, whether or not the weather is good when you’re leaving on your sailing expedition. I have never regretted having that extra layer of protection from the cold.
Water shoes
If you go sailing, you’re going to get wet. To avoid getting your new pair of sneakers soaked to the brim by taking water shoes. They won’t get damaged by the salty water and will help you to grip the deck even if there is plenty of water on board.
Life vest
It’s not uncommon in sailing to get swept overboard, but when you do, you want to make sure that you’ll remain bobbing on the surface of the water. The easiest way to do this is to wear a life vest.
Frequently Asked Questions:
When it comes to what you should be wearing on a boat, there are a couple of other questions that people generally ask. As I tend to take boat trips rather regularly I feel that I can help you out if you are wondering any of the following questions.
Should you wear jeans on a boat?
Although jeans are alright for a boat party, they are generally not your best bet. When they get wet they can be very uncomfortable to wear, which means you are likely to take them off at some point or another. If your heart is set on wearing jeans on your next boat ride, I would recommend taking a change of clothes with you just in case you happen to get wet somewhere along the way.
What should I wear on a boat when it’s cold?
it’s best to layer your clothes when the weather is a little on the cold side. This way, when it warms up you can always peel off a couple of layers. It’s important to take a windbreaker with you to fight off the sometimes icy winds that work their way across the water. Anything waterproof is likely to come in handy when you are aboard a boat.
How cold is too cold for boating?
Boating when it is too cold can become a risky ordeal so it’s best to stay on dry land at any temperatures below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This is because falling into the water can cause hypothermia to set in rather quickly, and that isn’t something anyone wants to have to experience.
Final Thoughts on What to Wear on a Boat Ride


Now that you have a better idea of what to wear on a yacht day trip, you can make your experience a whole lot more comfortable and enjoyable. Pack these items in for a cruise in New Jersey or a yacht party off the coast of Miami and you’ll be styling the whole way.
Whether you’re wondering what to wear on a pontoon boat or simply what to wear boating of any kind, this post will help you find the right clothing items to make up your outfit. Wherever you’re heading off to, enjoy the boat trip!