Sailing is a great way to discover the world, however, planning the perfect sailing trip means taking lots of things into consideration. If you’re heading on a sailing holiday soon or are just dreaming of getting back on the water, here are some essentials to keep in mind:
- Decide the right destination for you
Whether it’s somewhere in the UK, or a little further afield, there are so many great places to go sailing. However, choosing the right destination for you (and your crew mates) will ensure you enjoy your sailing trip as much as possible. Consider things like the weather where you’re going, the sailing conditions to get you there, and what attractions there are tempting you on land.
- Choose the right boat
Unsurprisingly, choosing the right boat is important when planning a sailing trip. You’ll need to consider factors like the size of the boat, the number of cabins, and if you’ve never sailed before, getting a skipper to come onboard. Looking to head out to seas without a skipper? An RYA qualification in sailing will help you sail more confidently and mean you might be able to avoid hiring a skipper.
- Don’t overpack
Space is a luxury when it comes to a sailing boat, so it’s important you don’t bring anything with you that you don’t need. As well as not overpacking, before hitting the water it’s a good idea to have in mind exactly which food dishes you’ll want to make during your trip so you can avoid buying useless products and save yourself even more space on board.
- Think about your connectivity needs
The chance to be completely disconnected from the world might be appealing, however, sometimes connecting to the outside world occasionally is important for staying safe on your sailing trip. Planning marina stops is an easy way to know exactly when you’ll be able to get back online while rigging your boat with a Wi-Fi Ranger can also ensure you get some signal while you’re far away from land.
- Don’t forget to bring a medical kit
When it comes to medication, you never know what you might need while you’re away. Remember to pack a comprehensive medical kit that covers all ailments, including any additional medication that you normally use at home. Most importantly, don’t forget treatments for seasickness! While there are some natural methods to help nausea like ginger, anti-nausea bracelets and specialist chewing gum are also good alternatives to combat the first mild symptoms.
With a little advance planning – including keeping the above tips in mind – you’ll be sailing on pristine bays, discovering secret spots, and strolling on endless sandy beaches totally to yourself in no time. Happy sailing!
