Could you survive a sailing trip?
Thinking about trying a sailing trip but not sure what to expect? Here’s how to get started, from gauging the costs, to knowing the risks, to deciding where to go, to – eventually – becoming a master of the seas.
Why sail?
For the wind in your hair and the sun on your back. Dee Caffari – the first yachtswoman to sail single-handed around the world in both directions – suggests it’s the power of nature that makes a sailing adventure so attractive: “You feel insignificant against a vast ocean. Mountainous seas and gale-force winds are far stronger than you can ever imagine.&rdquo
It’s also a way to see parts of the world and wildlife your land-lubbing counterparts won’t, adds Nik Brbora. He completed the Clipper Round The World Yacht Race in 2012 and during his circumnavigation he was lucky enough to see pods of whales, glowing bioluminescence in the waves and outstanding crimson sunsets.
As romantic as it sounds, it obviously can get rough so, first, make sure you actually enjoy life on a boat. The reality of a floating existence can mean being confined in a small space, possibly getting seasick, being away from certain creature comforts.
Old sailing ship in tropical landscape (Shutterstock.com)
Is it for you?
Test out life on the water by committing to a day or weekend sailing trip locally first. If you enjoyed that, then take the plunge and sign up for an easy-going week’s cruise abroad – such as a Turkish gulet (wooden sailing yacht). Like that and you could graduate to a skippered yacht or a flotilla trip. On the former, a qualified sailor mans the helm and you can help out as much as you like. On flotilla trips, a small group of yachts sail a planned route together, following a lead boat manned by an experienced skipper and crew.
For introductory sailing trips Bruce Jacobs, of adventure sailing company Rubicon 3, recommends destinations such as Croatia, Greece or Italy. The need for qualifications before embarking on a flotilla trip varies between countries and areas – so do check.
