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Of course, a day trip isn't the same as a long voyage. While sailing means accepting a certain degree of the unexpected, there are a few habits worth adopting so you don't ruin a beautiful day at sea and miss out on a good deal of the fun.
Checking the weather forecast
Although we?ve been looking forward to the forecast conditions for several days now, it?s only on the day itself that we?ll be able to make any plans based on the weather. Just before casting off for this lovely little trip out to sea, we need to make sure to check the latest weather update.
Thanks to our cell phones, there are many apps that let us plan our sailing and, most importantly, get a good idea of how weather conditions will change throughout the day. The wind can change quickly during the day, just as with the sea breezes or a Mistral .
It?s wise to remember that these are only forecasts. They?re always more accurate than predictions, but by definition they can turn out to be wrong. We must therefore remain alert to changes in the weather, which are sure to affect our sailing plans.
Sun Protection Accessories
Skipping sun protection, forgetting your sunglasses, a hat, or sunscreen are the best ways to ruin a beautiful summer day on the water.
In addition to direct sunlight, you also need to protect yourself from reflected sunlight. Without protection, we are at the mercy of the sun and its harmful rays, which are reflected off the water, the deck, and the sails.
High-quality sunglasses are essential not only for visual comfort but also for safety, since the course you?re following may require you to face the sun. A UV protection rating of 4 is highly recommended; plus, with polarized lenses, you?ll enjoy a clearer view of the water and the clouds.
A cap is the bare minimum you need to avoid heatstroke or headaches. Better yet, a wide-brimmed hat with a drawstring will offer you superior protection. It might take a hit to your ?old sea dog? image, but out at sea, that doesn?t matter at all.
Keep a change of clothes
When the sun goes down or is obscured by a few clouds?or even when the wind picks up?you need to be able to put on a windbreaker. This is essential for continuing to enjoy the day and avoiding a battle against the cold.
It?s just as important to have a few changes of clothes on hand in case you need them. A small wave or a few pesky spray droplets that get your clothes wet can definitely ruin the outing. So, pack a (waterproof) bag with a windbreaker, a sweater, and a spare pair of pants. Then you?ll be able to face the occasional spray flying over the side with a big smile and without worrying about ruining your day.
Waterproof socks can handle anything! (Plastimo)
Food and Beverages
There's nothing worse than having to cut short a great time at sea because the crew gets hungry or thirsty. Even for a trip lasting just a few hours, make sure you have enough food?and, above all, a meal that's appropriate for the occasion.
While at anchor, you can take the time to put together a mixed salad, but out at sea it will be easier to have sandwiches on hand.
Hydration is essential; the wind, sun, salty air, and physical exertion will quickly dehydrate us, so there?s never been a shortage of fresh water on board.
Safety Equipment
Boat safety regulations require that there be one life jacket on board for each person. Regardless of wind conditions or your level of experience, it is recommended that you wear one, even for a day trip.
An experienced skipper taking beginners out to sea must be the first to put it on, not only to set an example, but also because the beginners will, by definition, have a hard time coming to his rescue. Today?s life jackets are designed so that you don?t feel weighed down, even in the middle of summer.
