The Best Insect Repellents to Bring on Board

For those planning a superyacht cruise in an exotic destination, we've rounded up the best insect repellent sprays and gadgets to keep the mosquitos at bay while on board

Penhaligon's Elixir Candle

Forget citronella – when it comes to insect repellents eucalyptus candles are a far more effective (and pleasant) option. Penhaligon's Elixir candle is scented with green eucalyptus, Turkish rose and jasmine and packed with essential oils. The hand-blended candle is also made with a naturally derived soy wax that keeps it burning for longer. Replace your usual scented candles with these for romantic and bug-free al fresco dining or dot a few around your saloons and outdoor spaces for extra protection.

Let’s be honest, bug sprays don’t always smell amazing and can be prone to leaving stains on your beach cover-up. Thermacell’s mosquito repellent lamps use a chemical called Allethrin to reduce mosquito and sand fly populations by up to 99% and are flame-free - making them ideal for family friendly yachts. Each one covers an area of 15 square metres so place a few around your yacht to enjoy the top deck in peace.

If you’re looking for a natural way to repel insects that doesn’t involve low-range candles or lots of fuss, a simple essential oil could be the answer. Balm Balm’s Soil Association certified organic essential oils come in eucalyptus globulous, lemon, atlas cedarwood, lemongrass and patchouli – all of which boast bug repellent properties. Simply mix a few drops with your daily after sun for all over coverage.

If you arrive on board and realise you’ve forgotten to pack your bug spray, don’t panic. Thanks to a new app by Pico Brothers all is not lost. The programme works by emitting a high-frequency sound which is inaudible to humans but deters female mosquitoes – the only ones who actually bite – from attacking.

This technology has been trialled to varying degrees of success by other companies and, while Pico Brothers admit their version isn’t perfect, it does get generally good reviews. Ideally you would use the app in conjunction with a conventional spray or candle but, in a pinch, it’s better than nothing.

It may not be particularly chic but if you like to put your money on the tried and tested it doesn’t get much better than Sawyer’s Fisherman’s Formula. The active ingredient in both the spray and lotion versions is picaridin which has been proven to repel mosquitoes, ticks, sand flies, black flies, biting flies, gnats and stable flies – plus it’s virtually odourless and will last up to 14 hours. After all, who better to take advice from than your fellow sailors?

Possibly the best known insect repellent brand on the market, Jungle Formula’s maximum strength spray contains 50% DEET and is endorsed by the Hospital of Tropical Diseases. The high-protection version comes in a compact aerosol spray can for easy application and is small enough to carry around on the go.

Promising effective protection from biting insects without the use of artificial chemicals, Mrs White’s Unstung Hero offers four hour coverage with a pleasant, fresh fragrance. Branded as a lemon tea Eau de Cologne, the light fragrance is pleasant enough to replace perfume and worlds away from the chemical smell of other insect repellents. Reapplying every few hours with the large glass bottle isn’t ideal for those on the move but the brand has a 100ml metal travel size perfect for handbags.

Though the Jungle Formula spray is the company's most popular product, they have also developed a mosquito-killing device for those with an aversion to the smell and feel of wearing bug repellent sprays. Jungle Formula’s plug-in repellent emits a non-toxic vapour of prellethrin and promises to rid you of mosquitoes, midges and other flying insects for up for 45 nights. Silent, odourless and with a built-in child lock, it is the perfect way to ensure a peaceful night’s sleep on board.

Formulated to withstand even the most bug-friendly climates, Lifesystems Expedition Plus contains 50% DEET and offers 10 hour protection. The Sensitive version is a DEET-free 20% Saltidin formula for eight hour coverage.The Sensitive version is perfect for children and both ranges come in small, tough bottles with no noticeably unpleasant smell.

These discreet bands are micro-encapsulated with DEET insect repellent that is slowly released to form a protective ‘halo’ around the wearer for up to 100 hours. While perhaps not ideal for pairing with your evening party looks, these wristbands are perfect for day and bedtime wear – particularly if you are not a fan of traditional insect repellents. Available in almond and grey, they contain enough repellent to last for an entire two week vacation and are so comfortable you’ll barely notice you’re wearing them.