BY CLAY LARROY
Traveling can
be an important part of your life, whether for business or for pleasure. You
need to do all of your research so that you don't forget to pack something
important, see what the best methods of transportation are, etc. Avoid crowds
and save money by visiting in the off-season. If you want to be able to enjoy
your vacation without having to battle a crowd of people everywhere you go,
learn when the popular months are for the location and plan your vacation for
the less popular time. Be aware, while it can save you money, in some locations
you may have to contend with less than ideal weather. When you want to plan a vacation contact me!
Sailing
insurance is always a good idea. Mishaps can occur, from bent or broken
propellers to collisions with docks or other vessels. Although seldom serious,
such accidents can be expensive if uninsured. As the charter guest, you are
financially responsible for any damage to the boat. Your responsibilities will
be set out in a "charter contract" which should be read closely.
Insurance will reduce your responsibility over any deductible and is a
worthwhile investment, regardless of your sailing experience.
Sailing
vacations are also excellent opportunities to mix sampling local cuisines with
eating meals aboard ship. Provisioning a boat is a matter of developing a day
by day menu of food and perishable supplies and purchasing those supplies at
either a local grocery store, marina or through your charter company. Having
your boat pre-provisioned is more convenient, but typically involves a modest
surcharge over the cost of the food, and the food selection may be more
restrictive than if you self-provision. Take the boat’s galley and
refrigeration capacities into consideration, as well as plans for the number of
people on board, including the skipper and other crew. In addition to each
meal, plan for plenty of high energy snacks and other "goodies" and
beverages to stay well hydrated and to satisfy the demands of an active
vacation.
Charter
companies will furnish a boat with the basic requirements required by law,
including personal floatation devices, appropriate lights, sound devices and
safety equipment. In addition, the boat will have a compliment of kitchen
equipment and utensils, navigation equipment and charts, bedding and other
linens. Prior to leaving shore, the charter company will require you to
"inventory" the gear, indicating that each item is indeed on board.
Note to self - you are also required to "inventory" upon return to
ensure that you still have all of the equipment you left with.
Many
charter companies give certification courses that teach travelers to sail a
boat. Such "Learn to Sail" courses are excellent individual and
family adventures. A combination of classroom and on-board experience teaches
the basics of sailing and wind power. Advanced courses cover off-shore cruising,
navigation and "passage making". By the end of the course, students
are typically versed in topics like routine engine maintenance, anchoring,
docking, radio skills and basic chart navigation. It’s a great experience and
confidence builder for children and adults alike.
Remember
that if sailing to foreign ports, travel documentation is necessary. Although
in the Caribbean a passport is not required by every country, it is still a
good idea to carry one for entry and exit purposes. Your travel consultant can
help you determine what documentation you need, based on your itinerary.
Is a
sailing vacation safe? While all travel inherently involves some degree of
risk, tens of thousands of travelers each year charter boats and enjoy a very
safe, exciting vacation on the water. Here are a few tips to keep you safe and
sound:
- If
you captain your own boat, spend lots of time familiarizing yourself with
the local charts and waters
- If
the trip involves new skills, seriously consider a skippered vacation
- Know
the "rules of the road" in every location and scenario, and do
not deviate from them
- Drinking
and driving, anywhere, do not mix, so if you are drinking, drop anchor
- Keep
someone above board at all times when under sail - auto-pilot is not a
replacement for a pair of eyes
- Plenty
of sunscreen, sunglasses and hats will ensure that you enjoy all of your
vacation, not just the first day
The
cost of a sailing vacation is usually comparable to a mid-range land or cruise
vacation. In addition to the cost of a bareboat charter and insurance, take
into consideration the cost of a captain and crew, if any (and do not forget to
consider their tips as well - typically $10 - $20 a day). Take into account the
cost of provisioning the boat with food and the cost of any docking or
"moorage" fees if you overnight at a marina. Note if the charter
company includes any meals or an open bar with skippered cruises or if this is
an optional amenity. Off-boat activities and meals are, of course, additional
expenses. Your travel consultant will obtain a line-itemed itinerary and price
sheet from the charter company, so you fully understand all of the costs and
tariffs.
Water,
water everywhere...and all of it a playground. Explore the possibilities of a
bareboat or captained sailing adventure.
REFERENCE SITES:
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