How To Get The Most Enjoyment From Your Sailing Charter
If you are new to sailing or prone to motion sickness, we recommend booking a morning trip, lets say from 10 am till 12 noon. The reason why is because the seas are generally calmer out and there is less wind. Also, it’s easier to spot our wildlife during these conditions as we don’t confuse their splashing with wind driven white caps. If you want more of an adventurous cruise, then we would recommend an afternoon booking, let’s say from 2 pm till 5 pm as our daily trade winds are at their peak during this time It’s not uncommon for our coastal breezes to reach 15 to 18 knots which is ideal for an adventurous sail. If you want a combination of adventure, gentle breezes and a little romance, then our sunset cruises are the answer. We leave two hours before sunset and return to the dock just after dark. Typically our guests will bring along various food items and assorted drinks. Alcohol is perfectly acceptable although we prefer cans instead of bottles.
Depending on the time of the day, especially in the morning and evening hours, we can expect cooler temperatures so a light jacket is in order. The temperature tends to be cooler on water than on land, and even on a nice day, it’s a good idea to be prepared for cooler weather. We have plenty of blankets on board for those extra cold days. We also recommend water friendly soft soled shoes that stay on your feet, similar to a tennis shoe or sneaker. Not only are they comfortable, they provide great traction when walking around the deck. Many of our captains go “barefoot” as there is no better traction than what nature has provided us. You are welcome to go barefoot as well.
The summer months on the water can get quite warm during the day so bring along some good quality sunscreen and apply it liberally, especially on your arms, neck, face and under your chin. Sun reflects off the water and the white surfaces of a sailboat. This means you will burn much faster on a sailboat and in places you don’t normally worry about like under your chin. Bring high SPF sun screen, a wide brimmed hat and UV blocking sun glasses. Our deck is a great place to relax and get some rays but we don’t want you to get burnt and ruin the rest of your vacation.
Deal with seasickness, don’t let it ruin your trip. Approx 5% of our guest will experience at least a mild case of motion sickness. The best way to avoid this is to not think about it, which is easier said than done. If you feel it coming on, watch the horizon and avoid going below deck. Try timing your breathing with the motion of the boat. Believe it or not, we have found that a light breakfast or lunch prior to your cruise will HELP prevent seasickness. Also if you are prone to motion sickness, there are many over the counter medications that work well such as Bonine or Dramamine. Make sure you take it at least 1 hour prior to departure. Although some people swear by the “Wrist Band”, ginger, or other holistic ways to prevent sea sickness, it has been our experience that these methods aren’t real effective for most people.
Sailing is a sport. Most of the time, we will be sitting and relaxing, but you should be prepared to move around and perform tasks that the captain asks you to do. A task you’ll likely be asked to do is to pull the lines (ropes) that pull the jib (front sail) from one side of the boat to the other. We love to keep our oceans clean so we routinely swoop up balloons and other plastic debris from the sea using a hook and pole. Our guests seem to really enjoy this task. Know that the sailboat will heel over. Sailboats are designed to tip over as much as 45 degrees in some conditions. This may startle you due to the unexpected and unforeseen motion of the boat. Be aware that this is normal. Sailors love it! Be safe. Life jackets are available on the boat. All passengers under the age of 14 MUST wear a lifejacket.
The summer months are the busiest time of year for local charter companies so make sure you call and reserve your date as early as possible. Once we leave the dock, we leave our fast paced, hectic life behind and enjoy the serenity and peacefulness of the sea. We don’t talk politics, religion or other controversial topics. We are out there to relax and enjoy ourselves in a stress free, non-judgmental environment. Forever views, Fantastic friends and Lifelong memories, EXPERIENCE LIFE! Hope to see you on the water soon.