We have all started on a boat at some point. The new medium that is offered to us is so vast and composed of so many factors (tides, winds, sun, clothes, speed, cartography, mechanics...) that mistakes are inevitable.
1 - Understanding the tide when you run aground
Beaching on a beach can be tempting when you are sailing a motorboat in particular. But did you think that the tide could change? Either you find your boat completely stranded after the walk on the beach, or, it took the powder with the rising tide!
Tip:
Be sure to record the tide times before you run aground. Remember that even in the Mediterranean, the sea is always moving.
2 - Water to drink and avoid dehydration
At sea, the sun, the wind, the salty atmosphere and the ambient humidity make us consume up to twice as much water as on land. With the wind drying out the skin, you don't see yourself sweating and the feeling of heat disappears. But dehydration is there.
Tip:
To be on the safe side, plan on 2 to 3 liters of water per day for each crew member (adult and child). And don't hesitate, as soon as you come across a drinking water tap (in a port for example), to top up your reserves.
3 - On the water, the sun is an enemy
When you sail under the sun, you don't realize how powerful the rays are. With the wind, you don't feel the burn. On board, the sun comes from all directions. First, from the sky, directly from the sun. Then from the water, by reverberation. From the boat, often white, which reflects all the ultraviolet rays.
Tip:
Wear a T-shirt for as long as possible and, as soon as you take it off, apply sun cream. Also protect your head (hat, bob, cap...). Wear and have someone wear sunglasses, bought from an optician, with sufficient UV filtering power (index 3 to 4).
4 - Wearing the right shoes to protect your feet
Barefoot on the boat is extremely comfortable. As long as you stay in the cockpit and don't go out to do any maneuvers, you can stay that way. But, as soon as you move, especially to take a trunk, drop the anchor, moor up or go to the fenders, you absolutely have to wear shoes. The shoes we wear every day, even the most comfortable or fashionable ones, are unsuitable for use at sea and will almost certainly be damaged by sea water.
Tip:
Take shoes that hold the foot well and that do not slip on the deck. But above all, avoid black soles that leave big marks on the white gelcoat.
5 - Cover up to keep warm
On a boat, temperatures can become cold and less pleasant. With the humidity and the wind, the difference between the daytime and evening temperatures can become quite uncomfortable. It is therefore necessary to cover up.
Tip:
The 3-layer method is the ideal way to stay warm and regulate your temperature. Layer 1: underwear against the skin to wick away moisture. Layer 2: fleeces to keep warm (but allow perspiration to pass to the outside). Layer 3: to protect from the wind and sea spray (but still breathable).
6 - In maneuvers, do nothing rather than hurt yourself
During a maneuver, especially when approaching a pontoon or in a lock, the reflex is common to try to avoid hitting the boat by using one's hands or feet. In addition to being completely ineffective, this method is extremely critical.
We have the tools on board the boats to carry out this type of maneuver. So, plan a flying fender that a crew member will judiciously place at the point of impact of the hull at the desired moment.
Tip:
Place a sufficient number of fenders (protective buoys) around the boat. At least 3 per side to protect the boat from hitting a wall or a pontoon. And, during approach maneuvers, use the flying fender.
7 - Mechanics: essential checks
A damage or a breakdown, on land, have only exceptionally major consequences. At sea, the fact of not being able to pull up your anchor can quickly become dangerous. An engine that stalls in front of rocks is just as dangerous. Without becoming an expert mechanic or sailmaker, it is important to maintain your boat properly.
Tip:
Make a list of items to check and keep it with you. On each trip and on your return, go over it and check off the items that were checked. During the trip, look at the most critical items (anchor and engine) from time to time and, if in doubt, take the time to look a little more carefully. Often, a problem detected beforehand will be easily corrected. Finally, on board, have the necessary basic tools, along with its joints, fittings and other useful hoses.
8 - Beware of objects in your pocket
On a boat, Murphy's Law is true almost every time. Transposed to our practice, this adage will make your car keys fall into the water, your phone get wet by a wave or your glasses sink... From not having anything in your pockets to a waterproof phone pouch, solutions to reduce the impact of these incidents are at hand.
Tip:
Take only what is strictly necessary on a boat. In case of a major mishap - imagine the worst, the boat sinks - you will lose less. And protect your belongings with waterproof bags or cords.
9 - Pass the time to avoid boredom
If you're feeling seasick or don't want to give it space, consider keeping yourself busy. Everyone has a different way of killing time and none is better or less satisfying than the other. In any case, you should have something to do.
Tip:
Think about several activities and alternate them. Plan to do these activities with others as well as solo, which can multiply the opportunities and create good and beautiful memories.
10 - Anticipate the weather conditions
At sea, the weather changes quickly. The bright sun at noon can hide the storm at 3 pm. And being prepared for this will allow you to approach this not-so-famous weather passage with the necessary serenity. Keep your eyes open and observe the water and the global state of the environment (wind, sky color, noise, birds' movements...) remains the best forecast.
Tip:
Anticipate taking the weather forecast several days before the outing. This will allow you to have a good idea of the current phenomena.
