Packing smart for a catamaran day from Vivo Resorts

The waters off Oaxaca's Pacific coast reward anyone who plans ahead, and a sailing day out of Playa Palmarito is no exception. Catamaran charters from Vivo Resorts glide past rocky headlands, sheltered coves, and the occasional pod of dolphins. With so much sea, sky, and sun to enjoy, a bit of thoughtful packing turns a good day on the water into a great one.

Australians tend to arrive at boat trips with high expectations, having grown up watching yacht races in Sydney Harbour or weekend sailing on the Swan River in Perth. The same appetite for time on the water travels well to Mexico's south coast. A few items that feel obvious at home, such as reef-safe sunscreen or a wide-brim hat, become even more important when the Pacific sun reflects off every wave for hours.

The resort makes the logistics easy, from arranging charters to setting out towels and coolers. Travellers who know what to bring, and what to leave behind, get the most out of those long, salty, sunlit arvos on deck.

Sun protection that holds up offshore

The Mexican sun is strong, and the breeze out at sea tricks people into thinking they are not burning. A reef-safe SPF 50+ applied liberally before departure, and reapplied every couple of hours, is the single most important item in any day bag. Wide-brim hats with chin straps stay put when the catamaran picks up speed, and polarised sunglasses cut the glare that bounces off the swells.

Long-sleeve rash shirts or lightweight linen cover-ups protect shoulders and backs that are easy to forget. Many Aussie travellers already own a favourite sun shirt from Bunnings' summer range or the local surf shop, and that is exactly the kind of kit that earns its place on board. Avoid aerosols, as they tend to drift across other guests and can be unpleasant in a confined cockpit area.

Clothing, layers, and what to wear on your feet

A sailing day rewards layers more than any single outfit. Mornings start cool on the Pacific, and once the trade winds fill in, the temperature drops again. A light jumper or windbreaker is useful, and quick-dry shorts or board shorts handle the inevitable spray. Pack a spare set of clothes for the return trip, because spray, sweat, and the occasional wave all conspire to leave everyone damp.

Footwear is straightforward. Thongs are perfectly fine on a catamaran, since the deck is usually soft and grippy, but water shoes come in handy when stepping onto rocky shores for a snorkel stop. Leave the dressier sandals at the villa, as there is nowhere on a boat for heels or stiff leather straps. A small dry bag keeps a phone, wallet, and a clean shirt safe from rogue splashes.

Hydration and snacks for the arvo

The Pacific dehydrates faster than most people realise, and a steady supply of water is essential. The resort can fill reusable bottles before departure, which is both eco-friendly and kind to the wallet since buying bottled water at every stop adds up quickly. Electrolyte sachets are a smart addition, especially for guests arriving from a chilly winter who are not yet acclimatised to the tropical heat.

Snacks should be light, non-messy, and able to survive a warm esky. Think trail mix, dried mango, muesli bars, and crackers with hard cheese. The crew usually serves fresh fruit and ceviche, but families with fussy eaters often pack their own backup, and the family-friendly dining options at Vivo cover picky eaters well back at the resort. Avoid glass containers and anything that crumbles easily, as both tend to end up in the drink of whoever sits downwind.

Waterproofing phones, cameras, and gear

Saltwater and electronics do not mix, so a waterproof phone pouch or a small dry bag is worth its weight in gold. Most catamarans offer a dry storage hatch, but anything that travels to the swim platform or the snorkel site needs proper protection. A floating camera strap is a small detail that prevents the heart-stopping moment of a phone slipping from a hand at the surface.

Underwater cameras, whether a simple disposable or a GoPro with a red filter, capture the best of the afternoon without requiring a steady hand. Memory cards and spare batteries belong in a sealed zip-lock, since the spray that makes hair salty finds its way into every gap. A microfibre towel tucked into the dry bag wipes lenses clean before the next shot.

Documents, money, and resort extras

Passports, room keys, and a small amount of Mexican pesos belong in a zipped pocket or a neck wallet. The resort does not require ID offshore, but a photocopy or digital scan on the phone helps if anyone misplaces the original. The concierge can also advise on tipping etiquette, which differs from the Australian practice of GST-inclusive service charges.

Guests who fall in love with a hidden cove often ask about returning on their own terms, and Playa Palmarito's safer waters make that easy to arrange. The front desk can suggest quieter anchorages nearby or help with boat hire for a private afternoon.

Snorkel gear, fins, and aquatic extras

The resort provides masks, snorkels, and fins, but experienced swimmers often prefer their own. A well-fitted mask makes the difference between a frustrating hour of leaks and a magical drift over coral gardens. Defogging solution, applied before the swim, prevents the constant clearing that ruins most sessions.

Pack an extra towel, as the catamaran supplies a limited number, and a rashie adds both warmth and sun protection during longer swims. Rash vests designed for kids are particularly useful for little ones who burn easily, and they let parents relax. Fins should fit snugly without pinching, as cold feet and cramping end the fun far sooner than tired arms.

For anyone who falls in love with a particular cove, private boat transfer options to secluded beaches can be arranged through the concierge, complete with snorkel gear and a picnic hamper for the next day's quieter adventure.

Health, safety, and seasickness remedies

Even on a stable catamaran, the swell can catch people off guard. Seasickness tablets, taken thirty minutes before departure, are far easier than trying to recover once the symptoms start. Ginger lollies and acupressure bands are popular alternatives, especially for guests who prefer to skip the medication. A small first-aid kit with bandaids, antihistamines, and paracetamol covers most minor mishaps.

The crew are trained in basic first aid, and the calm coastal conditions make most outings uneventful. Travellers with specific medical needs should let the concierge know in advance, so the charter company can accommodate them properly.

Pack the night before, lay out the towels, and tuck the reusable bottles by the door. The morning rush at the dock moves quickly, and a tidy tote saves the scramble for sun cream, room keys, and that one thong that always ends up under the bed. Once the catamaran leaves the bay, the only thing left to worry about is choosing between a forward hammock and a quiet spot in the shade.