A bag for every eventuality
The good weather is settling in on our waterways and the summer period will soon begin. This is the perfect time to indulge your passion by hoisting the sails or by activating the throttle to set sail for the vacations. It's also the opportunity to welcome on board friends and family, perhaps novices. And it's also an opportunity for us to remind you what equipment you need to pack in your sailor's bag, even if it's common sense. Because if it has been an automatic for you for a long time, it may not be for your summer crew.
We are not talking about a grab-bag you will need all the necessary equipment for a safe day at sea. If in most cases, sunscreen, a cap and sunglasses are enough, it is better to have something to protect yourself in case of weather changes or unexpected damage. Also make sure you have all the regulatory equipment on board (and in sufficient number): life jackets in working order, circuit breaker for motorboats, fire extinguisher
For comfort
First and foremost, choose a waterproof bag to house your equipment. At sea, depending on the boat you are sailing on, you can get spray and the cockpit is often wet. If you ever have to leave the boat in a dinghy, you can also take your bag with you more easily without the risk of getting it wet.
They protect your eyes from the sun and the reflection on the water, but also on the deck of the boat, often white. Without the sun in your eyes, you will also better distinguish the elements of the water. Choose glasses with polarized lenses that optimize contrasts and suppress reflections on the surface of the water.
Sunscreen
With the sea air and the reverberation of the sun, we are more subject to sunburns while sailing. It is important to protect yourself well to avoid burns. While you're at it, opt for a non-polluting model.
Anti-UV clothing
If we tend to favor bathing suits to enjoy the rays that warm our skin, UV rays are harmful. To avoid applying sunscreen regularly, you can opt for specific clothing. In addition to stopping UV rays, they are also breathable and suitable for many activities: fishing, water sports, etc.
A cap or hat
Sunstroke happens quickly. When you are at sea and far from the coast, it can be difficult to manage. Think about protecting your head. You can take hats with a wide brim or with a neck protection and especially with a fastener to avoid losing it in case of wind. For cooler evenings, a fleece hat will do the trick.
Shoes for the boat
On a cruise, we often tend to walk around barefoot. However, deck equipment can be a real trap for your toes, especially when you are not used to it. You have the choice: mesh deck shoes with water drainage system, boat shoes or even boots. In any case, reserve this pair for navigation and choose white soles to avoid marks. Also choose non-slip soles, even on a wet deckeuros A fall is quick to happen in a rush.
An outfit for cold and rain
Even if it's just a squall, you'll appreciate being sheltered from the rain. Choose a watch jacket that you will adapt to the outside temperature, equipped with a hood. You can also choose a softshell, warm and water repellent. For the day crew, a good waterproof jacket will do the trick.
A bottle of water
Do not assume that you will have water on board and take your own bottle. At sea, you get dehydrated quickly and drinking regularly is important.
For safety
A waterproof phone protector
Lock your phone in a waterproof case that will allow you to use it at any time and prevent it from getting wet. Choose a model that does not require you to take the phone out of the case and that can be worn around the neck with a strap.
Lifejacket
If your host does not have one on board, bring your own safety equipment. Especially for children. Choose a self-inflating one for more freedom of movement and adapt it to your practice: water sports, board sports, etc. You can find them at all prices, from the foam vests at about 15 euros to the self-inflating models whose cheapest prices are around 50 euros.
Whistle
In case of an accident, if you need to warn people, a sound device can be useful. A simple water sport whistle attached to your vest can be handy.
Flashlight
Choose a waterproof model and remember to check the batteries.
A portable VHF
This equipment is more for the regular sailor than for the one-day crew. If the boat is equipped with a fixed VHF, it must be coupled with a portable VHF, preferably with DSC position, for safety reasons. Slipped into your bag, it will allow you to warn the emergency services via channel 16.
PLB or personal locator beacon
It is personal and can be attached to a life jacket. If this may seem like an exaggeration for a simple day trip, it will allow you to signal your position anywhere in the world in case of distress.
