Before You Board
Most first-time guests have the same set of questions: what do I wear, what do I bring, will I get seasick, and what actually happens when I arrive? This guide covers all of it so you can show up confident and relaxed.
What to Wear
Dress for a day at the beach, not a formal dinner. Swimwear with a cover-up is the standard. Bring a light layer if your charter extends into the evening, as the breeze picks up after sunset. Footwear should be flat-soled and non-marking. Most guests go barefoot once onboard. Avoid high heels, hard-soled shoes, or anything that could scuff the deck.
What to Bring
Sunscreen is non-negotiable. Singapore’s equatorial sun reflects off the water and burns faster than you expect. Bring sunglasses, a hat, and a change of dry clothes for the ride home. A waterproof phone pouch is useful if you plan to swim. We provide ice, cups, basic amenities, and towels on request. If you are bringing your own food and drinks, pack them in cooler bags.
The Boarding Process
You will arrive at the marina (Marina @ Keppel Bay or ONE15 Sentosa Cove) and meet your captain and crew at the dock. They will help you board, stow your belongings, and walk you through a brief safety orientation covering life jacket locations, emergency procedures, and vessel layout. The whole process takes about 10 minutes.
What Happens During the Charter
Once underway, the crew manages everything: navigation, anchoring, setting up water activities, and serving food if you have arranged catering. A typical 4-hour charter follows a pattern of cruising out (20 to 30 minutes), anchoring at Lazarus Island or a similar spot (1.5 to 2 hours of swimming, sunbathing, and water activities), and cruising back (often timed for sunset).
You do not need to manage any of this. The captain adjusts the itinerary based on weather, tides, and your group’s preferences. If your group wants to spend the entire time anchored and swimming, that works. If you prefer a longer cruise with multiple stops, that works too.
Seasickness: How to Handle It
Singapore’s waters are generally calm, especially around the Southern Islands. That said, if you are prone to motion sickness, take a standard motion sickness tablet (such as Dramamine) 30 to 60 minutes before boarding. Sit on the upper deck where air circulation is best, look at the horizon rather than your phone, and avoid heavy meals right before departure. Our catamarans (Aquila 48 and Leopard 51) offer the most stability if seasickness is a concern.
Onboard Etiquette
A few practical points: remove shoes before stepping onto the main deck (the crew will guide you), dispose of rubbish in the bins provided rather than overboard, and let the crew know before you jump in the water so they can watch for your safety. Smoking is permitted on designated areas of the deck only.
After the Charter
The crew will help you disembark and carry your belongings back to the dock. There is no formal checkout process. If you had a great time, reviews and referrals are always appreciated, and we are happy to help you plan the next one.
Ready to Book?
Contact Avelis at +65 8980 2262 or shaun@avelislifestyle.com. Tell us your date, group size, and any questions, and we will take it from there.