Summer is here and getting into water seems something that cannot be delayed anymore. However, before doing so, it is crucial to be prepared. This warning is primarily addressed to those who have not sailed since last Summer. No matter if you are only going out to swim, a weekend away, or a sailing cruise… planning is crucial. The essential list for a safe Summer sailing will follow.

The essentials: the equipment that cannot be missed

Regardless of the type of sailing journey you are about to do, the boat dimensions, and how far you will be from the coast, some equipment shall always be on board to guarantee everyone’s safety.

  • Life jackets
  • First-aid kit
  • Warning flares
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Anchor and chain
  • Navigational carts
  • Lights for night sailing
  • Sailing instruments (GPS, VHF, compass)
  • Ropes and fenders

Destination and/or stops

The most beautiful feature of a sailing trip consists in the freedom of improvising that, however, in these days and ages has become more and more difficult to take into practice. It is therefore advisable to plan with a certain advance where we want to spend the night. In July and August, it is strongly recommended to make a reservation at the port or the buoy. On the contrary, if you have not reserved anything, you should always have a plan B as it is not recommended to keep sailing around when the night comes.

Gas

Before leaving, no matter where you are going, you should always fill the tank with gas at its fullest. Apart from that, you should always count the miles that divide you from one stop to another; this way, you could plan where to pause to refill your tank. There is nothing more unpredictable than the water: many factors can influence the impossibility to stick to our original plans. It is advisable, when possible, to bring one or two tanks of gas.

Weather

There is nothing more important than checking the weather forecasts. We know that everyone is excited to leave and would not like to postpone the departure, however, if the weather conditions do not seem good enough to let you enjoy your vacation, the wiser decision would be to wait until it gets better. For example, if it seems like a storm is approaching, or if the wind is too strong, or, even, if the weather is about to change not far from you, please wait a little bit more and leave once the conditions are back at their greatest.

Contingencies

You should always be aware that while on a sailing boat, there could be many contingencies. Firstly, be prepared to pack more clothes than those that could be enough for our planned vacation. You might have to wait a little bit longer to go back home, especially if the weather does not allow you to. Also, bring summer clothes and Winter clothes (jackets, hoodies, sneakers…) as you cannot predict how fast the weather can change.

Keep the crew informed

Every crew member should always be aware of onboard equipment, the sailing duration, the stops, and safety standards. You should keep a watchful eye on those that have never been on a sailing boat before and on children that should always wear a life jacket. The more the instructions are clear to everyone, the more fun will be.

Once you will be over with the checklist and verify that everything’s safe, it is now time to leave and go out sailing. You will be back with great memories that only this kind of lifestyle could give.