What to wear on a yacht or motorboat trip on the Neva

An open deck can feel hot in sunshine but cool in the wind or towards evening. Choose clothes that let you sit, stand and move around the boat comfortably. Even with a light summer outfit, bring a sweater, cardigan or another warm layer.

Before departure, check the forecast for the entire trip, including the return to the pier. For an evening outing, choose an outfit you can layer up. How it feels on shore is not enough on its own to decide what to wear.

It is important to stand securely and avoid slipping on board. Comfortable shoes with a non-slip sole are more practical than high heels: the boat moves, and boarding may involve steps and changes in level. If the event calls for dress shoes, discuss bringing a spare pair with the organiser.

For a daytime trip, bring a hat, sunglasses and sun protection. Do not assume you can stay in the shade throughout: the canopy and enclosed areas depend on the chosen boat.

You can bring a separate outfit for photos and keep comfortable clothes for the rest of the trip. Ask in advance whether the chosen boat has somewhere to change, and agree the timing of the shoot. A dressy outfit should not make boarding or moving around unsafe.

Look at photos of the deck and cabin, ask about shelter from the wind and agree the boarding point. If you still have questions about clothing, duration or conditions on board, include them in your request when choosing a boat. That helps you prepare for your particular trip.