The must-have Checklist to Plan Your Itinerary
One of the most glorious aspects of chartering your own private sailboat is the fact that you can literally plan and design your own itinerary from the moment the sun rises to the moment it sinks down below the horizon again.
However, if you actually do not want to have all of the plans placed in your hands, you can, of course, make use of the example itinerary we provide you with to gain a better idea of your options while sailing in your destination of choice.
But for those of you who do like to be in control of your activities, adventures, and explorations, then right now is the perfect time to pull out your laptop and start researching. Start by looking up some great spots like islands, coves, bays, and local harbors you can head to during your time aboard and also when you anchor in. This is key to your success out on the sea and something you won’t want to put off for very long. So, start planning out your itinerary of the perfect sailing trip!
The must-have checklist for Packing your Luggage
First of all, being aboard a sailboat will be quite different than your typical hotel holiday. In many ways, it is a very good thing as you will not need to bring nearly as much as you would if you were staying at a resort on land. The very first thing to make sure of is to acquire the right type of luggage. Know that the cabin space is quite limited. Therefore will require that you bring a smaller suitcase/backpack/duffel bag than you usually do on holidays. You won’t want to be hauling a massive suitcase that weighs more than you up and down a small stepladder. It’s no fun. When you do decide what type of luggage is best, here is what to pack in it…
What to pack?
- Closed-Toe Shoes: Non-slip shoes are essential when you are walking around on the boat and exploring lands.
- Hat: Make sure it fits properly.
- Jacket: Though the days are warm, once the sun is gone it can get quite chilly on board the boat.
- Dressier Outfit: Or an eveningwear outfit that may come in handy when you want to anchor in and spend a night out in the town.
- Towel: Unless provided by the charter, bring one for showering and one for the beach.
- Toiletries: You won’t want to keep having to anchor in and buy more essentials.
- Camera: It’s best if it is water proof but if not, bring a case and start snapping pics!
- Universal Adapters: This is always important whenever heading outside of your home country.
- Prescription Meds: Mark sure it is labeled clearly and that you have enough to last you the whole trip.
- Small Flashlight: This is going to come in handy during the nights when you can’t find where you placed your pajamas or beer bottle.
- First-Aid Items: Although the charter will have some on board, be sure to take a small bag of extra essentials like band aids, aspirin, bug spray, etc.
- Sunscreen: One of the most important items to remember!
- Proper Documents: This should be discovered through your research above where you need to find out what documents such as visas, passport, copies of both, and any travel insurance papers.
- Currency & Credit Cards: You don’t need to bring only one or the other, and it is smart to make sure you have enough for the trip and for emergencies that may come up.
- Downtime Items: Though you are on quite an adventure, there will be some downtime where you can spend part of your days relaxing, listening to music on your iPod, reading a book, watching a movie, etc. Don’t forget these items!
Shaking Off Your Sea Legs
Your first time aboard on any type of boat is likely to give you those infamous shaky sea legs. To avoid this, be sure to familiarize yourself with the boat and what it does. Adapt to being aboard by taking it easy at first, resting, and relaxing whenever necessary. You'll get used to it in no time!
The must-have checklist to Combat Seasickness
Being sick on holiday is absolutely no fun at all. To combat this fear that most first time sailors have, do the following…
- Lie Down: Go somewhere quiet and comfortable to lie down and rest.
- Avoid Going Below: You need fresh air and a place that doesn’t feel like you are rocking.
- Look Out: Find a solid vantage point and focus your eyes on that.
- Take the Right Meds: Stock up on some over-the-counter meds before your trip.
- Eat Something: Never sail on an empty stomach!
Checklist for Food & Booze
This is obviously a huge part of your trip. You don't want to get hungry and thirsty or planning out meals! First, you need to discuss with your charter on what is provided for you during your sailing trip. Often times, you can pay a fee for having both food and booze provided during your trip. Others will provide only some meals and some drinks. And yet still others will provide nothing at all based on your requests. Decide what is best for you and your sailing group and start planning!
It may seem like a lot to plan and prepare for. Once aboard you forget completely about the time it took to make sure this sailing holiday was the perfect one. Pretty soon, you’ll be sailing through a beautiful destination of your choice having the time of your life!