Articles - Sailing Gadgets & Travel Accessories for 2026

Gadgets and accessories tested at sea, in 2026, those we use at charterAyacht

After enough miles around Halkidiki, you stop trusting glossy specs and start trusting what survives salt, sun and the odd drop on a teak deck. The kit below is what we have actually used on motor yachts and sailing boats on day trips and multi-day charters, from the Toroneos Gulf to the calmer anchorages off Sithonia.

Halkidiki sits southeast of Thessaloniki, with three peninsulas reaching into the North Aegean. Most of our departures are from the Central Halkidiki and Sithonia side, and the conditions change fast. A quiet morning can turn into a breezy afternoon with a typical summer northerly, and that is when small accessories suddenly matter a lot.

Gadgets and accessories tested at sea by professional skippers

As technology advances, so do the gadgets and accessories available for boating enthusiasts. From handheld GPS devices to waterproof Bluetooth speakers, there are countless options on the market. But with so many choices, how do you know which ones are worth investing in? That’s where professional skippers come in.

Professional skippers spend a lot of time at sea and have first-hand experience with many different boating gadgets and accessories. They know what works and what doesn’t, and they’re often eager to share that knowledge with fellow boaters. In this article we’ll look at some of the gadgets and accessories tested and approved by professional skippers.

Before the list, one practical note from our area. In Halkidiki you often anchor in crystal-clear water with a sandy patch between posidonia meadows. You want gear that can handle spray and sand, and you also want it to be easy to stow. Space on board is always less than you think, even on a big motor yacht.

Handheld GPS devices

A handheld GPS device is a must-have for any boater. It can help you navigate unfamiliar waters, mark your favourite fishing spots, and even send distress signals in an emergency. Professional skippers recommend the Garmin GPSMAP 78s as a reliable and durable option.

Even if your boat has a plotter, a handheld unit is the backup that keeps you calm when something goes wrong. Around Sithonia you might tuck into a bay for lunch and then hop to the next anchorage before sunset. Having a simple, battery-friendly GPS that can be used from the cockpit or even from the tender is a real comfort. Just remember, electronics are not a substitute for good seamanship and keeping a lookout.

Waterproof phone cases

Protecting your phone from water damage is crucial when you’re out on the water. A waterproof phone case can provide peace of mind and allow you to use your phone for navigation, communication and capturing photos and videos. Professional skippers recommend the Lifeproof FRĒ Series case for its rugged construction and waterproof capabilities.

In our waters the bigger risk is not a dramatic wave; it is the small stuff: wet hands after a swim, spray when you are docking, or the phone sliding off a cushion at anchor. A good case also helps with fine sand that gets into charging ports. If you use your phone for photos, test the touch response before you leave the dock, because some cases get picky when the screen is wet, and it’s annoying at the worst moment.

Boat hooks

A boat hook is a versatile tool that can help you dock, moor and retrieve objects that have fallen overboard. Professional skippers recommend the Davis Instruments Telescoping Boat Hook for its durable construction and easy-to-use telescoping design.

Halkidiki has a mix of small fishing harbours and busier marinas. In tight spots a boat hook saves you from risky stretching and keeps fingers away from cleats. It is also handy for picking up a mooring line without scraping gelcoat. If you do only one thing, rinse it after use — salt in the telescopic sections is what kills them.

Waterproof Bluetooth speakers

Listening to music while on the water can enhance your boating experience, but traditional speakers are often not waterproof. Waterproof Bluetooth speakers, such as the Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 2, let you enjoy your favourite tunes without worrying about water damage.

On day cruises a small speaker is enough if you place it well. The trick is not volume, it’s clarity in wind. We like models that can be clipped and won’t roll around. Also, keep music respectful when you are near other boats at anchor, especially in smaller bays where sound carries far.

Portable air compressors

A portable air compressor can be a lifesaver if you need to inflate a dinghy, water toys or even your boat’s tubes. Professional skippers recommend the VIAIR 85P Portable Air Compressor for its compact size and ability to inflate up to 31-inch tyres.

In summer guests love SUPs and towables, and the tender is often used for quick shore runs to a taverna. A compressor that can run from a 12V socket is worth its weight. If you are inflating a dinghy, do it gradually and avoid overpressure when the sun gets strong. Air expands a lot in the heat, and it can surprise you.

Navigation apps

In addition to handheld GPS devices, navigation apps can be a valuable tool for boaters. They offer real-time weather updates, detailed charts and even route-planning capabilities. Professional skippers recommend Navionics Boating App and iNavX as reliable and user-friendly options.

For Halkidiki, apps are great for planning and for checking wind shifts, but you still need to cross-check with official forecasts. When the meltemi influence reaches the North Aegean, conditions can be choppy outside sheltered gulfs. For weather, I often point guests to the Hellenic National Meteorological Service for the official picture, and then we match it with what we see on the water.

Headlamps

When you’re out on the water at night, having a hands-free light source can be incredibly useful. A headlamp, such as the Black Diamond Spot Headlamp, can provide illumination without impeding your movement or vision.

Headlamps are not just for night sailing. They’re for early starts, checking a locker, reading a gauge or finding a dropped shackle pin under a seat. Bring one with a red-light mode if you can; it helps keep night vision when you are moving around the deck.

These are just a few of the gadgets and accessories that have been tested and approved by professional skippers. By investing in high-quality equipment you can enhance your boating experience and ensure your safety while out on the water.

Now, below the general skipper list, you will find the extra items we keep coming back to on charters in Halkidiki. Some are comfort upgrades, some are small problem-solvers, and a few are just things that make life on board smoother when you are moving every day between bays.

Safety note: gadgets are helpful, but they never replace briefing, good decisions and proper equipment on board.

Sea and outdoor activities depend on the weather and your own fitness level. Always follow local safety advice and skipper instructions.

Vacuum Storage Bags with a hand pump

On a boat, packing is half the battle. Vacuum storage bags are a simple way to shrink bulky clothes like hoodies, spare towels and even soft jackets. They also help keep things dry if a locker gets a bit damp. For multi-day trips this is one of those boring items that ends up being a hero, especially when families bring more than they expected.

Travel Adapter Uppel Dual USB All-in-one Worldwide

Most charter guests arrive via Thessaloniki Airport and then drive down to Halkidiki. By the time you step on board phones are low, cameras are hungry and everyone wants to charge at once. A solid travel adapter with USB ports keeps the cabin sockets from becoming a daily argument. If you are on a sailing yacht with limited shore power time, efficient charging matters more than people think.

Buff original tubular scarf Lightweight Merino Wool Tubular Second Life

In the shoulder season mornings can feel cool on the water even when the day ends in a T-shirt. A lightweight merino buff is easy to stash and works as a neck warmer, sun cover or even a quick headband when the wind picks up. It’s also nice on longer passages when the spray is fine and you want something soft against the skin.

HooToo Wireless Travel Router, USB Port

Connectivity in Halkidiki is generally good near towns, but in some bays you will get weaker signal. A small travel router can help you manage devices on board, and it is useful if you work remotely between swims. For guests who want to upload photos from anchor, it can make things smoother. Still, I always tell people to plan for a few offline hours. It’s part of the sea mood anyway.

S’well Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle, 25 oz, Teakwood, 18/8, 25 Ounces

Hydration is the quiet issue on summer charters. Between swimming, sun and a little wine at lunch, people forget to drink water. An insulated bottle keeps water cool even when it is sitting in the cockpit. It also reduces plastic waste, and on a boat that is a big deal because storage for rubbish is limited until the next port.

Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle

For day trips a collapsible bottle is ideal. It packs flat in a beach bag, and it is handy for kids because you can clip it and not worry about it rolling. Just rinse it well after salty hands and sunscreen, otherwise the taste can go odd fast.

Musto Sardinia BR1 Jacket men

A proper light spray jacket is underrated in Greece. Even in summer a fast ride on a motor yacht in the morning can feel chilly. In May, June and September you will use it more than you expect, especially if you sit forward. Musto gear holds up well to salt and sun, and it does not feel like overkill.

Helly Hansen crew hooded midlayer Jacket for men

For spring and late autumn charters, a midlayer that blocks wind is perfect. Halkidiki can be sunny but breezy, and the humidity near the sea makes it feel cooler. This style also works well for evenings in port when you walk to dinner.

Helly Hansen crew hooded midlayer Jacket for women

Same logic for women. A hood is useful when you are on deck and the wind is in your face. If you are planning a couple’s trip in September, this is the kind of thing that keeps you comfortable without packing heavy.

Dubarry of Ireland deck shoes for men

Deck shoes are not about looking nautical. They are about grip and not marking the deck. In the Aegean decks get slick with sunscreen and a bit of spray. A good sole helps, especially when you step from the dock to the boat with a bag in hand. If you are unsure what to bring, ask your skipper, because some boats prefer bare feet on board.

Dubarry of Ireland Deck Shoe for women

For women, the same rule. Comfort and grip first. For shore, pack simple sandals that can handle a bit of water when you step off the tender. High heels on a quay are a bad idea, even in the prettiest harbour.

Tumi International Front Lid 4 Wheeled Carry-On

Hard luggage looks nice in an airport. On a yacht it is usually a headache. If you do bring a wheeled carry-on, pick one that is compact and easy to stow. For most charters a soft duffel is still better, but some guests like the organisation of a front-lid case.

Samsonite Andante 2 22″ Wheeled Duffel

A wheeled duffel is a good compromise if you have transfers from Thessaloniki and you do not want to carry everything. It is softer, easier to squeeze into a locker, and you can still roll it on the dock. For multi-day trips around Halkidiki this style is usually the most skipper-friendly luggage.

Aquapac Waterproof mobile Phone case

This is the kind of case we see a lot on board because it is simple and it works. It is also useful when you go snorkelling and want a few underwater shots near the boat. Just test the seal and keep the lanyard on. The sea is generous but it does not give phones back.

Victorinox swiss army Ranger Grip Boatsman

A proper sailor’s knife is not about looking tough. It is about having the right tool when you need it, fast. If you do not know how to use it, keep it for simple tasks like opening packages, cutting light line and general boat chores. On crewed charters the skipper handles the serious stuff, but guests still appreciate having a good tool in their bag.

Victorinox skipper

This one is a classic. Compact, practical and it fits the boating vibe without being bulky. If you are flying in, check airline rules for luggage and packing, because you do not want to lose it at security.

Hawkers Polarized Carbon Black Dark One sunglasses

Polarised sunglasses are not optional on the water. They reduce glare, help you spot changes in water colour, and make the whole day more relaxing. In Halkidiki the midday sun bouncing off flat water can be intense, especially in July and August. If you are prone to headaches, good lenses help a lot.

Pentapharma Italian style UV 400 sunglasses

UV protection matters more than brand. If you bring one pair only, make them comfortable and secure. A simple floating strap is also nice if you are the type who drops things when you jump in for a swim.

Sunshine Code Women’s Memory Foam Cotton Washable Slippers

On a yacht you often go barefoot, but slippers are great for evenings and for chilly mornings in the cabin. They also keep feet clean when you have been in and out of the tender. Washable is the key, because boats and sand are best friends.

Kobo Aura H2O

A waterproof e-reader is perfect at anchor. Halkidiki is made for slow afternoons in a bay, with a swim, a snack and a book while the boat swings gently. If you are sailing with kids, it is also a calmer screen option than a phone.

Xiaomi Mi Sphere 360

360 cameras are fun around Halkidiki because the scenery is all around you. You get the pine-covered coastline, the water colour changes and the boat itself in one shot. If you plan to shoot a lot, bring extra storage and keep the lens clean. Salt spots show up immediately in bright Greek light.

Xiaomi Madventure 360 Camera

Same category, same idea. For couples and groups a 360 camera makes it easy to capture everyone without asking a stranger on the dock. If you are doing a special occasion trip, it is a nice add-on without bringing a full camera kit.

UBeesize Tripod S

A small tripod is useful on board because surfaces are rarely stable. At anchor you can set a time-lapse of sunset, or just take a proper group photo without balancing your phone on a winch. If you are filming while underway, do not put gear where it can fall or interfere with lines and deck movement.

Sony DSC-QX100 Smartphone Attachable Lens-style Camera

If you like better optics but still want phone convenience, attachable lenses can be a fun compromise. They are also easier to store than a full camera body. Just keep them in a dry pouch, because humidity in cabins can be sneaky.

AUKEY Ora mobile Phone Camera Lens, 0.45x 1206 Wide Angle + 15x Macro Clip-on mobile Phone Lens

Wide angle is great for cockpit shots and coastline, macro is fun for small details like shells and textures in the rocks when you stop for a swim. If you are on a sailing trip you will end up shooting more than you expected because the boat gives you new angles every hour.

Steiner 7x30 Navigator Pro C binoculars

Binoculars are useful in Halkidiki even on relaxed cruises. You can spot a quiet corner of a bay, check a harbour entrance, or enjoy the coastline from offshore. They are also great for nature lovers. You might see seabirds working the surface, and sometimes dolphins further out if you are lucky. If you want a little background on the wider region and geography, the Chalkidiki page on Wikipedia is a decent starting point.

How these gadgets fit a real Halkidiki route

Most guests picture Halkidiki as a beach holiday, and it is, but by boat you experience it differently. You can start near a marina or harbour, cruise along the coast for swims, and finish in a different bay for sunset. That is why compact, waterproof, easy-to-charge gear wins every time.

If you are planning a day trip you usually want: phone protection, sunglasses, water bottle and a small light layer if you are sensitive to wind. For multi-day trips add vacuum bags, a proper jacket and a charging setup that does not depend on one socket.

For official travel info and local updates, the Greek National Tourism Organisation is a reliable source, especially if you are coordinating flights and a road transfer from Thessaloniki to the marinas of Halkidiki.

Seasonal feel on the water (what we see every year)

June is one of the best months for water clarity, and the bays look almost unreal in the morning. July and August bring the biggest crowds, more boat traffic and warmer water. September is calmer again, with warm sea and softer evenings. In May and October the sea can still be beautiful, but you need a warmer layer and you should be more flexible with route planning.

Wind is the main factor. Inside gulfs you can often find shelter, but outside exposed points it can get bumpy. That is why we like redundant navigation and simple gear that can be used one-handed when the boat is moving.

Who this setup suits best

Families tend to love the practical items: waterproof cases, bottles, slippers and a good speaker for relaxed anchor time. Couples usually care more about comfort layers and camera gear for photos and video. Groups doing a birthday or a chilled party day appreciate easy charging, music and a simple way to keep things organised in cabins.

Local tips for reaching the marinas and starting your trip

Halkidiki is reached by road from Thessaloniki, usually after landing at the airport. From there you drive south and split toward Kassandra, Sithonia or the Central Halkidiki coast depending on your departure point. Parking near marinas can be busy in high season, so arrive with some buffer time and keep luggage soft and easy to carry.

Timetables, opening hours and routes can change without notice. Always double-check locally before you travel.

Snorkelling and sea-life moments (a quick note)

Many guests ask about snorkelling spots and underwater visibility. In calm weather Halkidiki can be very clear, especially away from busy beaches. If you want to mix your yacht day with a more organised dive or snorkelling plan, have a look at portoscuba.com for local diving activities and info. It is a nice add-on when you want something more than casual mask-and-fins near the boat.

Want us to help you match gear to your charter plan?

Tell us your dates, group size and whether you prefer sailing or motor yacht comfort, and we will suggest the right setup and route for the conditions in Halkidiki.

Not sure where to start? Contact our local travel agency for friendly, personalised advice, seasonal offers and travel options.

Don’t forget to mention:

Number of persons, possible dates
The hotel you’ll be staying
The activity you are interested in

Our local team of skippers, travel agents and scuba instructors with over 20 years of experience in Halkidiki is here to help you.

If you’d like to explore the coast, ask us about day trips at sea and sailing boat options.

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Sailing Gadgets & Travel Accessories for 2026 — Halkidiki