What I Packed for Our Croatia Yacht Cruise

Let’s be honest — I am absolutely not a sailor. But when you give me a sun-drenched yacht, a Below Deck fantasy, and ten days of Adriatic coastline? You better believe I’m packing like I’m the guest of honour.

We’re about to set sail on the MV Princess Eleganza, a small ship cruise through Croatia, and packing for this kind of trip is all about balance: comfortable meets chic, capsule meets a little bit glam, and everything needs to fit in a medium suitcase… with just enough space left for my shopping (thanks, Ash).

Here’s how I built my Croatia capsule wardrobe — with a few luxe extras that make it feel like I belong in a Below Deck confessional.

🧳 My Croatia Cruise Capsule Wardrobe

☀️ Daywear Light, breathable and easy to throw on after a swim or before a wine tasting. I stuck to neutrals, rusts, and some bold prints to keep things mix-and-match friendly.

• 4 x breezy midi dresses (linen, cotton or gauze – perfect for hot days)

• 2 x patterned maxi dresses (easy to glam up with jewellery for dinner)

• 2 x light shorts + 3 flowy tops (for excursions or land days)

• 1 x neutral skirt + tank

• 1 x swimsuit (my go-to is a structured one-piece that holds you in and looks elegant poolside)

• 1 x stylish cover-up/kaftan (bonus if it makes you feel like a Bond girl)

  
  

👗 Evening Outfits Yes, it’s a relaxed cruise — but I love a reason to dress up. You never know when the mood calls for sunset cocktails or a surprise dinner under fairy lights.

• 3 x “evening dresses” (one satin, one bold patterned, one with a bit of sparkle)

• Statement earrings (these [gold drop earrings on Amazon] are so good!)

• A [mini perfume atomiser] so I can spritz before dinner without lugging full-size bottles

👡 Shoes I Packed

You’re barefoot on deck a lot, so no need to overpack here.

• White sneakers (for city strolls and airport days)

• “Glam” sandals (okay… they’re actually Crocs, but you’d never know. They’re comfortable and perfect for dressier nights)

• Slides or thongs for pool + beach days

  
  

👜 Bags & Accessories

• Crossbody bag – My hero travel item. Hands-free, stylish, goes with everything.

• Packable day bag – I always bring a [foldaway tote or backpack] for excursions, markets, or beach trips.

• Sun hat – Soft brimmed and rollable so I don’t have to wear it on the plane.

• Silk scarf – Wear it as a hair tie, neck scarf or bag accessory. Instantly elevates an outfit.

• Sunglasses – At least two pairs… because I will lose one.

  
  

💦 Beauty + Self Care On Board

This trip is all about feeling good — not spending an hour doing a full glam routine in a tiny yacht bathroom. So I keep it simple:

• Mini skincare kit – cleanser, moisturiser, hydrating mist (try [this travel face mist])

• Lip balm with SPF – Must-have in the sun

• Perfume minis – I decant my faves into these [refillable atomisers from Amazon]

• Silk sleep mask – For luxe naps and early nights (especially handy with jet lag)

• Hand sanitiser + wipes – Always.

  
  

👙 Pro tip for swimming days…

A one-piece with a plunging neckline or an open back makes me feel polished but still practical. I also pack a chic cover-up (mine is rust-toned and looks like something you'd wear at a resort, not a swim-up bar). And don’t forget your sunscreen – reef safe if you're swimming in the ocean!

🎒 Travel Tips From the Bag Lady (aka me)

• Always book a hotel transfer from the airport — Bali taught me this, but honestly, it applies everywhere. It removes so much arrival stress.

• Use a clear toiletry bag (these [TSA-approved zip pouches] are a dream) so you're never that person holding up security.

• Leave some room in your suitcase — Trust me. Croatia has excellent shopping, especially for natural fibre clothing, jewellery and ceramics.

  
  

Final Vibe Check

This isn't a trip about looking perfect — it's about feeling in your element. Think European coastal elegance with just a touch of yacht glam. You don’t need designer bags or heels to feel fabulous. You need:

• A comfortable dress that makes you feel beautiful

• A cold drink in hand

• A golden sunset off the bow

…and maybe just one pair of sandals that are undercover Crocs. 😉

– Mish x