Chartering a sailing yacht? Get ready and read through these practical trips about sailing safety.
- Life Jackets: Wear Them (For Real)
Yes, they mess up your tan lines. Yes, you’ll look like an overcautious tourist. But you know
what’s worse? A man-overboard drill that’s suddenly not a drill.
Rule: If you’re underway, everyone—especially kids—wears a life jacket. Don’t just stash them
in a locker and forget about them. Make sure they fit, are accessible, and aren’t older than your
playlist. - Safety Briefing: Don’t Tune Out
You know those airplane safety demos everyone ignores? Don’t be that person on a yacht.
Rule: The skipper’s briefing isn’t just for show. Know where the fire extinguishers, first aid kit,
flares, and life raft are. Learn how to operate the VHF radio. And yes, actually test the “man
overboard” procedure—just don’t use your phone as the demo object. - Check the Weather—Twice
Mother Nature doesn’t care about your Instagram feed. Weather can turn in a heartbeat,
especially in the Med or Caribbean.
Rule: Check forecasts before you set sail and during the trip. If a storm’s coming, make a Plan
B. Ignore the weather, and you’ll get a free lesson in humility (and possibly swimming). - Respect the Boom (and the Rigging)
Want to ruin your trip? Get whacked by the boom.
Rule: Keep your head down when tacking or jibing, and never stand in the line of fire. If you
don’t know what a boom is, Google it before boarding. - Sunscreen, Hydration, and Shade
Dehydration and sunstroke take down more sailors than sharks ever will.
Rule: Drink water, slather on reef-safe sunscreen, and wear a hat. Sunglasses with a strap are
your new best friend. (The sea has a high appetite for sunglasses) - Footwear: Leave the Heels at Home
Decks get wet and slippery—don’t try to look cute in flip-flops while the boat’s underway. Rule: Wear non-slip, closed-toe shoes when moving around the boat. Broken toes are not a good souvenir. - Know the “One Hand for the Boat” Rule
If you take one thing from this list, let it be this:
Rule: Always have one hand on the boat when moving around. The sea is unpredictable, and
gravity is undefeated. - First Aid and Seasickness Meds
Hope for the best, pack for the worst.
Rule: Check the boat’s first aid kit before you leave. Bring seasickness tablets—even “salty
dogs” get queasy sometimes. Bonus points for motion sickness bands or ginger chews. - Alcohol: Save It for the Anchorage
There’s a time for cocktails—it’s not while you’re docking, anchoring, or handling lines.
Rule: No heavy drinking underway. Wait until you’re safely moored—then break out the rosé. - Emergency Contacts and Local Laws
– Make sure everyone knows the boat’s name, radio channel, and basic navigation rules.
– Store emergency numbers for the area you’re sailing in.
– Respect local boating laws—ignorance is not a valid excuse (and “I didn’t know” won’t
impress the coast guard). - Bonus: Book with the Pros
Safety starts with the company you charter from. Book through reputable platforms like SeaBookings or 12 Knots. They vet their boats, provide clear safety briefings, and actually answer your calls if
something goes wrong.
Final Word
The sea is beautiful, but she’s got a short fuse for arrogance. Respect the basics, use your
common sense, and don’t try to impress anyone with shortcuts. Your best sailing story should
end with laughter, not a visit from the coast guard.
Ready to set sail? Good—just keep it safe, and the adventure will take care of itself. Anchors
aweigh, smart skipper!
