I am often asked what is involved in cruising, and what it is like.  This is intended to give some insight into what a person would experience, and what would be expected of them if they went cruising.

There are many aspects that contribute to the sailing experience.  These include being in the open with nature and the weather, the exhilaration associated with sailing a large, high-performance boat, adventure, excitement, relaxation, travel, and new experiences.  However, there is also an element of risk, for sailing and the weather can sometimes be challenging and if not properly handled there can be some danger.

We have had on board experienced hands as well as newcomers to sailing.  What we ask is that those who come with us want to learn, enjoy, and participate in the operation of the boat.  Our primary priorities are the safety and comfort of the crew and protection of the boat.  This requires that all crew, regardless of their experience, participate in, and take responsibility for their personal safety as well as the safety of others, including handling lines in a manner to avoid hurting hands and muscles. 

A sailboat by design heels when under way.  This can make moving about and performing tasks difficult.  It is part of the fun and challenge of sailing, and should not be a concern.  The boat will NOT “tip over”.  Agility is required to move about on deck and to go below, at all times.

All who come aboard should be able to swim confidently in salt water.  Those who don’t will be expected to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) when outside of the cockpit.  Under certain conditions when on deck, all crew will be expected to wear a PFD, and sometimes all crew will be expected to wear a harness and tether attached to the boat.  Man overboard situations will be discussed and practiced.  It is everyone's responsibility to not fall into the water, because once a person falls overboard, there is no assurance that they will be recovered. 

No one can enjoy sailing when they are seasick.  In fact, they diminish the enjoyment for others aboard.  Those who are susceptible to seasickness or think they might be, should bring and use ahead of time seasickness remedies. 

In terms of comfort, every person should have suitable clothing for a variety of conditions.  This will include various temperatures, the sun, and the possibility of rain. 

ESCAPADE is a large and luxurious sailboat compared with most other sailboats.  She has air conditioning, a microwave, washer/dryer, TV, VCR, CD player, and DVD player (all of which can only be run under certain conditions), a large salon, two bathrooms (heads) with separate shower areas, and generous cabins.  She is beautiful inside and out, the interior is in light oak and there is a teak deck. However, she is still a sailboat with a limited amount of room.  Spaces are small and tight by home standards, and living is in very close proximity to everyone else onboard.  It is a group experience with little privacy.  A good deal of “give and take” is required and it is hoped that everyone onboard will maintain a friendly, cheerful and helpful atmosphere. 

As part of the learning and total experience, all persons aboard are expected to participate in all aspects of running the boat.  This includes sailing aspects on deck like trimming the sails, steering, keeping lookout, going about, tending lines, assisting in docking and mooring, etc.  No one will be asked to do anything beyond their capabilities or experience.  It also includes domestic aspects like cooking, washing up, cleaning, keeping the boat shipshape, etc.  Further, as the boat is self-contained, there is limited water and power.  Therefore water and power conservation regimens are required.  The toilet requires pumping, and some knowledge and care.  Hatches and ports can only be opened under certain conditions.  Everyone will be expected to adhere to these regimens and requirements.  Good crew look for ways to help, and taking part will make everyone feel involved.    

Because sailing depends upon the weather, tides, seas, and other conditions outside of human control, timing is not precise.  Leaving a harbor will depend upon the projected weather and tides.  Arrival at a certain point at a given time cannot be guaranteed.  All those onboard must understand this and be flexible.  This could affect travel arrangements, and land sightseeing. Time will be allocated for shore visits and everyone will participate in decision making to determine the schedule.

ESCAPADE is equipped with a large number of safety and navigation items and is completely seaworthy.  I believe that she is properly equipped and prepared for the planned voyage and for nearly any weather or navigation situation.  Most of these items require expertise for operation, and usage of these will be explained to everyone onboard.  Our plan will be to avoid bad weather, by not leaving harbor if poor conditions are expected.  However, if we get caught out in extreme weather, the motion of the boat can become violent and conditions can become difficult and dangerous above and below deck.  If this kind of situation arises, or in any other emergency or crisis, all crew will obey orders from the Captain immediately and without question for the sake of the safety of all aboard.  Susan and Erick are competent and fit to sail and manage the boat without a crew in any weather, and Susan will assume the role of Captain if Erick is not available or is incapacitated.

Meals onboard will be based on the provisions available in foreign ports, and what is left in the pantry.  Timing of meals will depend upon the sailing plan.  If underway, the type of food will reflect the preparation requirements. Special dietary requirements and desires can only be accommodated if these are known beforehand. 

Every person onboard should make known any special medical conditions that might arise with him or her, of which we should be aware, in the event of a medical emergency.  A small first aid kit is available, but it does not contain many medicines.  You should be aware that emergency medical help could be many hours away under some conditions.  You should bring ample medication for a period at least twice as long as the expected voyage.

Every person onboard should have a passport and all other legal requirements for the countries through which the boat will pass.  This often requires a means out of the country, such as an airline ticket to home, or cash to buy one. Note:  not all countries accept credit cards.  All persons boarding the boat must not bring onboard any illegal substance or weapons, or packages from other parties.

Sleeping onboard will be different from home.  Most nights we will be in port, anchored or tied up to a dock or pontoon.  This means the beds will be level, but the boat may have a rocking motion.  The ports and hatches are not light tight, and temperatures can vary.  Further, there are many unfamiliar sounds, both inside and outside the boat.  These include water lapping, rigging banging, pumps running, possible noises from shore and other boats, etc.  It is suggested that you bring eye masks and earplugs if any of these conditions might bother you.

If all crew understand, and accept, what is ahead of them and what conditions might exist, and consider them part of the sailing and cruising experience, then they should have a wonderful and delightful time.  Each person takes full responsibility for their decision to join ESCAPADE and agree that they are willing to accept all that may come their way.  Each person should agree that they will not hold the Captain or the owner of ESCAPADE responsible for any accident, injury or damage that may happen to them or a family member or their belongings while aboard.

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