Has anyone ever been on a sailing trip?

climbingsingle · April 2014

We're sailing FI's friends' sailboat up from SC to NY. I've been on boats and sailboats many times, but never for a trip like this! I'm super excited but I'm also nervous. Anything I should pack that I'm not thinking of? Any tips?

I don't get seasick, thankfully. And FI and his friend both have their captain's licenses, so we're sailing with experienced people.

Also, I will be wearing my life jacket the entire time, no matter what.

lyndausvi · April 2014

How exciting. When are you doing the trip?

Packing - pack really light. It's a boat, they are small without much room. Make sure you have a hat, sunblock, rain gear (including pants) and layers for when it gets a little nippy at night.

climbingsingle · April 2014

A hat! Yes! I did not have that on my list. Thank you!

We're leaving next Friday (taking the train down to SC) and then we plan to get to NY by the 2nd, I believe.

mbross3 · April 2014

I've been on a few sailing trips--but never in the part of the world that you're talking about! Sounds exciting!

Definitely light layers--it'll be cooler at night or when it's windy! I'm sure sunscreen is on your list. I always bring a book too, sometimes there's not that much to do--I don't know how familiar you are with sailing, but there can be long periods where there isn't much activity required.

It's good you don't get seasick! Will you be sleeping on the boat as well?

climbingsingle · April 2014

I will definitely be bringing my Kindle along!

We'll be sleeping on the boat. I've been on it before for a few day trips. It's a 42 foot boat (I think). We have our own cabin with a king bed and our own bathroom. The boat is amazing!

kbsmom1 · April 2014

Sounds awesome!!!! Probably go up part way through intercostal waterway. Bring insect repellant .... Practice your y'all

RosieC18 · April 2014

Bug spray definitely if you'll be on the intetcoastal. If you're taking the ocean route, I'd bring seasickness things (pills, ginger, etc.) even if you don't normally get sick. Passages are a whole new level.

I need a ton of hair ties when sailing, as the wind will wreck havoc and otherwise it will be a huge pain to untangle. I'd also think about bringing a headlamp if you're going to be taking any overnight shifts (or even if you aren't).4 people on a 42 footer probably won't be much of a stretch but any way you can save power/rely on batteries is good. Same goes for fresh water. How do you feel about dry shampoo?

This sounds like a blast - I'm sure you'll have a great time! Don't forget to get a lot of sleep. Boat sleep is the best thing you will ever experience - it's like being rocked in a cradle!

climbingsingle · April 2014

We are taking the Intercoastal. I will make sure to pack bug spray!

My hair is pretty long so I'm always armed with at least 4 hair ties. I will pack more just in case. I've actually never used a dry shampoo before. Can you rec a brand? Something not that expensive maybe.

larrygaga · April 2014

I went on a hobie trip in Canada. Bring warm, waterproof clothes.

RosieC18 · April 2014

I can't think off the top of my head, but if you pm me I can find what my mother (who lives on a boat 4 months of the year) uses. If your hair is extra long, I recommend braiding. You could also ask how often/if you're planning on taking on water during the trip and whether you'll stop in any marinas on the way. The trip will feel very different if you're docking/anchoring/mooring at night or if you're doing overnights.