Tested and Approved: The Ultimate Boating Tips & Packing List

By George's Boat Hire News and Events 8 April, 2025

Let’s set the scene!

You’re standing on the dock, sunglasses on, ready to conquer the sea. The boat is gleaming, the sun is high, and the world is your playground. This is your moment. Nothing can ruin it… except realizing you forgot sunscreen, water, or worse—your swimsuit.

Cue the slow-motion facepalm!

We’ve seen it all: the guy who thought one bottle of water was “probably enough,” the family who packed a complete picnic but forgot towels, and the legendary soul who somehow turned up without a swimsuit (we have questions). Don’t be that person. Be the legend who has everything they need and sails into the horizon like they were born for this by following some simple boating tips.

At George’s Watersports in Latchi Harbour, we’re here to make sure your Cyprus boat day is nothing short of epic. No panic, no regrets—just pure Mediterranean magic.

it’s Your Boat, Your Crew, Your Adventure

When you arrive at George’s Boat Hire, Alex the go-to guy for all these boating tips is there to greet you with a smile. Need help stowing your bags? Sorted. Unsure how the anchor works? He’s got you. He’ll run you through a quick and easy safety briefing, make sure you’re comfortable at the helm, and then—boom—you’re ready to set sail.

If you’re taking out one of our sleek self-drive boats, you’ll love how easy they are to handle. Prefer a bit more luxury? Our private charter boats come with an experienced captain, so all you have to do is sit back, relax, and let the adventure unfold.

boating tips: The Must-Haves: Skip These at Your Peril

Essentials That’ll Save Your Bacon

Medication & Driving License: Inhalers, allergy tablets, that weird cream your mum swears by—pack ’em. Keep your Driving License/ID card in a waterproof pouch. You won’t need a passport, but having a card and a little cash is always a good idea—especially if you fancy an impromptu seaside lunch.
Sun Protection: SPF 50 (slathered on before boarding). A hat without a chin strap is a hat for the fish. The same goes for sunglasses without a retainer strap. Secure them or say goodbye.
- Hydration: One giant water bottle per person. Add electrolyte tabs if you’re prone to prune.
- Phone + Waterproof Case: One wave. One clumsy moment. One lost phone. Keep it dry, keep it safe, and keep your Insta stories rolling.
- Lightweight Layers: A salty breeze combined with wet clothes is a recipe for shivers. Quick-dry fabric is your best friend.

Alex’s boating Tips: We have waterproof phone cases available for purchase at the dock because we’ve seen enough phones meet a watery demise!

Snack Savvy
Crumbly biscuits? Melted chocolate bars? Nope. Stick to wraps, nuts, and fruit. Pro tip: Private charters can include pre-ordered snacks—hangry crews sink vibes.
Towels & Layers
One towel per human (wet towels = chaos). Pack a light hoodie for when the sea breeze gets cheeky.

Next-Level boating Tips: Be the Hero of Your Own Story

Water-Friendly Extras (Because ‘Oops, I Didn’t Think of That’ is Avoidable)

Snorkel Gear: The sea is teeming with wonders. Be ready to explore. But we provide these for you, free of charge.
Floating Keychain: There’s a special kind of heartbreak reserved for watching your keys sink into oblivion. Prevent it by picking up one of our low-cost floating keychains when you book.
Waterproof Speaker: Because a boat trip without music is just a floating picnic, bring the beats. If you don’t have ‘sounds,’ you can plug it into our boat stereo.
GoPro or Waterproof Camera: Some moments deserve better than a grainy phone pic.
Comfort Hacks
1. Dry Clothes: Post-swim bliss = changing into something warm.
2. Trash Bag: Leave the sea sparkling—take your rubbish home.

Alex is our Chief instructor and is George's eldest son. — Meet Alex (Alexis), our Chief Instructor and George’s eldest son—a true maritime maestro! Born and raised in Cyprus, Alex practically grew up on boats, and his deep connection to the sea is evident in all he does.

Before You Go: The Legendary Last-Minute boating Tips

Sunglasses?
Swimsuit?
Sense of adventure?

Your Boat Awaits – Don’t Just Be Ready, Be Legendary – The boat is prepped. The sea is waiting. The only thing missing? You—completely prepared, fully stocked, and ready to own the water. If you haven’t booked your self-drive boat or private charter yet, now’s the time. Click below, and let’s make this the best day of your summer. If you’d like to share your own boating tips with us – get in touch.