Offshore Sailing Passage - Frequently Asked Questions

How much sailing experience do I need?

None! Just a sense of adventure, willingness to learn and follow directions, ability to work with others, and a positive attitude! 

Do I need my own ditch bag?

Nope. The boat's ditch bag has enough emergency equipment, first aid, food and water for everyone on board.  You will just want to have medical history sheet and medications ready for easy grabbing.

What are the duties while on board?

They will vary for offshore passages vs inshore trips, but if you read 'What to Expect' you will get a good idea.    

What kind of shape do I need to be in to go on these sailing trips?

For inshore trips, where we anchor each night and get to sleep all night, the conditions are not usually as challenging as being offshore.  You will need to have moderate fitness for inshore sailing duties. Good balance and the ability to move freely around the boat both on deck and also up and down the steep companionway stairs and to be able to do everyday tasks while the floor and walls are constantly moving.

Offshore trips are more exhausting and strenuous.  Just the fact that you are CONSTANTLY in motion takes a toll on your body.  Simple tasks like putting socks on can become a bit of a challenging workout.  Your core is constantly working to keep you balanced with the ever-changing movement. You will also be sleep deprived and on a strange sleep schedule with usually 3-4 hour watches and then 4-6 hours off.  Having a solid base fitness before the trip will definitely help; so eat right and exercise.

What type of person will find these trips most enjoyable?

Adventurous people who enjoy living simply and appreciate the natural world are who these trips are designed for. The ability to get along with others, be open-minded, non-judgemental, emit positive vibes, and work well as a team with limited resources are excellent qualities to have to make these trips fun and unforgettable for you AND all others aboard! Also, having the awareness of knowing and accepting your limits to allow you to stop and ask questions and learn from others is necessary for the safety of the boat and all crew.

Will I be constantly busy while the boat is sailing?

There will be some duties, as mentioned above and possibly sitting watch on a rotating schedule for offshore trips, but there will be plenty of down time too.  You can be as involved in the sailing as you like with your down time. You can socialize, read, or you can just relax and let the rhythmic rock of the waves on the boat free your mind and give you a mental reset.

What kind of food will there be?

We tend to buy and prepare healthy food. We will make sure there are foods that you are not allergic to. We can't please everyone, but we will do our best to provide healthy food that fits your food preferences (vegetarian, vegan, etc). You may want to bring some of your favorite snacks for yourself or to share.

Do I have to stand watch? How long will the watches be?

If we will be at anchor or on a mooring each night, then no, you shouldn't have to sit watch (unless there is a storm or severe weather or something unusual).

If we are doing an overnight passage, then yes, you will probably have to sit watch.  The watch will be from 2-4 hours, depending on how many people are onboard and what schedule is decided on. You will always sit watch with someone else, which will almost always be either the captain or mate.

Will I be able to communicate with friends or family during the trip?

If we will be anchoring or on a mooring each night, we will likely have cell service for a lot of the time and you are free to use your phone as you wish.

If we are offshore, you may not have cell service for days at a time.  The boat has an Iridium GO exec which allows for limited texting, if necessary. The boat also has a Garmin InReach which allows for limited texting. You can connect to it via bluetooth and text someone from your phone, if necessary.

Is it crowded?

While the boat may seems large at first glance, it starts to feel very small when we are all aboard with our gear.  There is not a lot of privacy and most space is shared. Each crew will get their own bunk (or a shared double, if a couple) and a place to put their stuff. The boat can take a maximum of 6 crew and 2 staff crew - this would be very tight and rely on there being two pairs of couples to share the two double bed options. We will usually only take 4-5 crew with our 2 staff crew. It is extremely important to keep your stuff in your allotted spot, so everyone can share the space equally and enjoyably.  It will be important to clean up after yourself immediately (like dirty dishes, hanging towels or wet gear in the proper places, etc). This adds to the experience and makes this such a unique adventure that allows for strong community and friendships to build.

What amenities are on board?

Not a lot... there is limited electricity (batteries can be charged by: some solar, a hydrogenerator when sailing, and the alternator while running the engine)  We don't have fancy electric kitchen appliances.  We do have a reach-in refrigerator with a small icebox. There is a propane stove/oven. Coffee is made with an insulated french press. The boat can carry 190 gallons of water. There is a small hot water tank (that gets heated when the engine is running) and one shower stall with a seat. Resolution is equipped with two heads with manual-flush toilets. There are electric lights throughout and outlets to charge phones.  There are a few low energy electric fans. There is no heat or air conditioning. We have screens to put in over our hatches and the portlights open and have screens. We have a screen for our companionway, as well.

How often will I get to shower?

This is discussed under 'What to Expect' in the bulleted sections at the bottom. Basically, every other day for inland trips, since we can refill water between trips and less than that for offshore trips, since water is more limited.

What if the dates of the trip are during bad weather?

If it is still safe to sail, then we will still sail.  Tropical storms, hurricanes, nor'easters, etc may force us to tuck in or divert our course to wait out the storm somewhere, but the start and end date of the trip will almost always stay the same.

Will we always arrive on-time?

Trip length is determined by using very generous time estimates with some wiggle room figured in. We will usually arrive on time.  With that said, it always safe to not schedule your return flight home until a day or two after our arrival, just to be sure.  This will give you some time to explore the final destination. You will likely have to book a place to stay on land before your flight home. Travel insurance might be a good idea, because while we figure in extra time on purpose, anything can happen at sea.

What clothes and gear should I bring?

Check the tab that says 'What to Bring' to see what is recommended. A more detailed list may be sent to you before your trip for certain trips and times of year.