Sailing And Boating Preparation For A Day On The Water
To be comfortable and safe and to create a relaxed feeling of well-being
, there are a number of items that should be taken onto the water. Many other items could be included, but I consider these to be essential. These include:*a hat
*sunscreen
*sunglasses
*food
*water or drinks
*a warm light jacket suitable for the prevailing season
*a wet weather jacket
*foot-ware suitable for the type of sailing that is to be encountered
*safety equipment.
Depending on the type of sailing, a mobile phone, or a VHF radio is also highly recommended.
Hat
A broad-brimmed hat is ideal, but unfortunately with sailing it is the most likely to blow off. This must have an adjustable cord. A peaked cap shades sun at the front but not on the neck, sides of the face or ears which can be covered by sunscreen. A broad-brimmed hat is best secured against blowing off by securing it to the collar with a short length of cord or with an adjustable tie around the chin. This can be tied or attached using safety pins.
Sunscreen
There are many sunscreens available today, but by far the best on the water is 30+ which should also be water resistant and non-greasy. In addition to the sun's rays, reflection off the water and the light coloured decks common on many boats, is extremely strong and damaging to the skin.
Sunglasses
I have found over the years that Polaroid lenses are excellent whilst on the water. They cut the glare and reflection from the water dramatically. They can also be purchased for a very reasonable price. To guarantee that they do not fall over-board, a lanyard that secures them around the neck is essential.
Food
This is obviously up to personal taste, but depending on the type of sailing and if participants have a tendency to feel a little "queasy", plain, non-greasy food items are preferable. It is often convenient to pre-prepare it, so that you simply need to un-wrap the food items if you prefer to continue sailing rather than anchoring in a little bay for lunch.
Water or Drinks Again, this is very much personal taste. Cold water is refreshing. Mineral water is often even preferable. A little ginger cordial in mineral water is also a great thirst quencher and tends to settle the stomach. Some sailors find alcohol and the sun do not mix well. This can often cause a headache and seasickness and is not recommended. The alcohol limit on the water for the person in charge of a boat is usually the same as when driving a car on the road. You should check with your local authorities in advance.
Jackets
I have always found that the "Polartec" or "Gortex" style of jacket is excellent on the water. They come in a number of weights which can be used depending on different seasons and weather situations. These also have water shedding properties, and bundle up to a relatively small size to fit in a backpack or bag.
Wet Weather Protection
There are so many types and styles of these available that it can be difficult to choose. The jackets and trousers that breathe are highly recommended. When one is moving about, the non-breathable type make you sweat inside and can often cause you to become as wet as if you were not wearing a jacket or trousers. Unfortunately, the best weather jackets and trousers are also the most expensive. The choice is personal and depends on the type of sailing that one is involved in. If you are at sea in a storm, the most expensive and best can certainly be worth the cost.
Sailing Gloves
These are not an essential item, but can increase one's grip on a sheet. They are made from soft leather and give some protection to the hands. They can be purchased at any sailing store.
Preparing for a comfortable day on the water is essential and requires some fore thought and planning. Many of the items mentioned ensure a safe and pleasurable boating experience.
(C) Copyright 2010
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