As the summer beckons, it is natural to start thinking about your next holiday adventure. If you are looking to do something a little different this year, taking to the high seas on a yacht may just be the experience you are after. There are few things that will make you feel quite as liberated as cruising on the water with the wind in your hair and nothing but the horizon in the distance.
Anyone who has been sailing for some time will tell you that it is a rewarding pastime for anyone who is willing to invest the time and effort into learning the ropes. Regardless of whether you are planning a holiday with your best friends or looking for a romantic honeymoon, sailing trips are a great option for all.
If you plan on having a sailing holiday this year, whether it be through the Greek Islands, around the Algarve, Croatia or the Florida Keys, there are a few essential things you need to consider before embarking on your trip.
Plan Your Route and Get Familiar With Weather Patterns
Every sailing destination has its own appeal as well as drawbacks, all of which have the potential to impact your sailing trip. It is important to research your route and plan where you want to moor for the night. For instance, if you are sailing close to Seattle, then Emerald Landing comes highly recommended. You’ll also need to factor in weather patterns as these can alter your plans quite easily.
Decide the Type of Boat You Want to Charter
There are three main charter experiences to choose from. Bareboat chartering isn’t the best idea for novices, as this means you are only hiring a boat. A skippered charter is a better idea, as you’ll be in the safe hands of a seasoned captain. However, if you have the money, the best experience is to sail on a crewed charter. With this option, all you’ll need to concern yourself with is having fun, as the crew will take care of the rest.
Ensure That You Can Always Find Your Bearings
It’s surprisingly easy to get lost at sea, especially if you are new to sailing. Ensure this doesn’t happen by either ensuring the boat you charter has a GPS system or you load a reliable GPS app onto your smartphone. In fact, many smartphones have this function pre-installed, so you only need to familiarise yourself with the app. It is also wise to prepare yourself for technical issues by having a map and compass close to hand onboard your vessel.
Learn the Lingo
Regardless of whether you have a professional skipper on board, have a whole crew or are sailing solo, it is wise to brush up on your sailing vocabulary to ensure that communication between you and the others on board is seamless. It is also wise to familiarise yourself with the vessel and its components so you can take action or follow commands if the need arises.
Establish Your Roles
When sailing, it is important for everyone on board that vessel to have a designated role. This ensures that things go smoothly and you don’t end up doubling up on tasks. It is important to know your role and where to position yourself when it comes to navigating the high seas. Although sailing is a magical pursuit, it also involves hard work so delegating tasks properly will ensure that the experience is simply more enjoyable for all parties.
Plan Your Meals in Advance
Whether you’re planning on being out at sea for a week or just a day, remember this isn’t just like any other regular holiday where you can pop to a grocery store, market or cafe for a meal. Regardless of whether you are going it alone or sailing with a crew, it is important to plan your meals ahead of time. If you are hiring a crewed charter make sure the team knows about food allergies. If you are doing the catering yourself, you’ll need to consider which food items will keep well on board.
Don’t Forget a First Aid Kit
We always hope our holidays will go smoothly, but it is important to prepare for the worst (or the odd cut or scratch). So pack yourself a basic first aid kit and include band-aids, antiseptic cream, painkillers, and a bandage or two. Most outdoor stores will have ready-made first aid packs, but you can pack your own as well. You should also consider the specific medical needs of your fellow travelers and ensure everyone carries their own medication as well.
Footwear Matters
Remember that boats get slippery, and this is the reason why your footwear might be one of the most important items you bring aboard. Go for rubber-soled boat shoes or sandals that cover your toes. These are the best options when it comes to preventing injuries.
Seasickness Is a Very Real Problem
If you haven’t quite tested out your sea legs yet, there’s a good chance you might get seasick at some point during your trip. Simply staring at the horizon is one way to alleviate seasickness, but often you’ll need something strong. Over-the-counter medication such as Dramamine is a good option, or you try out an acupressure wristband if you aren’t a fan of medicating.
Waterproof Your Precious Electronics
We live in a technological age and are increasingly reliant on our electronic devices. If you plan on sailing with items such as a cellphone, a laptop, a camera or a bluetooth speaker, it’s imperative that you store them appropriately. Most outdoor retailers stock waterproof bags that are specifically designed to protect electronics from the elements, so invest in these and keep your devices in full working order.
A sailing holiday is truly a unique travel experience that everyone should try once in their lives. However, traveling on a boat away from all major amenities does require a little forethought and planning. Remember that all the preparation you do beforehand will serve you well during your travels.
