What You Should NOT Do When Sailing to Get the Best Experience

1. June 29, 2017 Sailing is a great family-friendly adventure that offers a lot of benefits. It is uniquely stimulating for your physical, mental, and emotional health. Taking a break from all the stress at work and the busy city life is invigorating. But, being on a sailboat and assisting in the task of sailing will mentally and physically transport you to a whole new view of life itself. Bringing you closer to nature and the sea can truly help you feel better and think more clearly. It seems to strengthen your muscles as well as your immune system. 1

2. With all these benefits, sailing is one activity you should consider taking part of as often as possible. It’s understandable if some people, especially beginners, are hesitant to try it. However, they need not worry so much. As long as you know what to avoid and how to prepare for your trip, it should be smooth sailing from the time you leave the dock till your return. How to Not Worry About Seasickness Some people think they may experience nausea when on a boat. Some have even suggested this is really a mental game. Here are some tricks to easily get your "sea legs." Some like wearing pressure bands on your wrists. Some prefer taking over-the-counter medicines before going on board. Here's one technique almost anyone can enjoy. Bring along some ginger snap cookies. There's something about ginger that has made this an age-old solution. Some will even chew on fresh ginger and lemon slices. Another simple technique is to stand up for a moment and stare at the horizon. Remember Your Warm Clothes Sunny is the ideal weather for sailing. That’s why people always bring summer clothes on their trip. Remembering that the weather can change suddenly should also be taken into consideration. It may be quite warm on shore, but a cool, embracing sea breeze is what many people are hoping to experience. So plan to be comfortable in all weather. Bring some warm clothes, a water resistant coat, and hat and gloves as well. Having layers of clothes at the ready will keep you comfortable through any variations in the weather. Honor Safety Measures One should never be complacent about safety. You and your group should understand all the safety measures and boating protocols to be followed whether sailing in the calmest of seas and especially during any emergency. An experienced ship's captain will acquaint all onboard with safety rules. The first day is best spent letting everyone acclimatized to the weather and the vessel's movements before pushing forward on an extended journey. 2

3. Don’t Hide Your Cooking Skills Cooking on board is a whole new adventure. While you can simply buy pre-made food and eat on board, preparing your own meals can be more fun and cost-effective. There are markets all around the San Juan Islands that sell fresh ingredients. Freshly caught bounty from the sea may also be available. While the crew of a sail schooner on an extended charter will undoubtedly prepare meals for you, don't be surprised when the camaraderie of being onboard may have you wanting to join in and share your culinary specialty with everyone. Just make sure to learn to move your body with the boat when cooking. This will not only let you practice your cooking skills, but it may reveal ways to improve them. Stay Loose and Flexible One amazing thing about sailing is the freedom it gives you. Over-planning your itinerary and sticking to a strict schedule can potentially stress you out since weather changes a lot. Stay flexible. Learning how to go with the flow enriches the adventure you are on. Keeping these in mind will definitely give you the best sailing trip of your life. Of course, you are also richly rewarded by seeking out excellent charter services from a reliable provider. About Schooners North: We at Schooners North allow anyone who wants to experience a sailing life to board our famed wooden Schooner Spike Africa. Our sailing trips will give you a chance to explore the wildlife in the San Juan islands, live the sea life, and share your adventure of handling a tall, historic ship with like- minded people. Source: 10 Don’ts for Sailing Vacation, Tripbase.com Top 10 Health Benefits of Sailing, Healthfitnessrevolution.com 3