Frequently Asked Questions
How much sailing experience is necessary to join an Expedition?
More important than sailing experience is a willingness to learn and having a good attitude. The eagerness to get involved and the understanding you're on an adventure where the safety of the boat and crew come first.
Who might benefit the most from an Expedition?
A couple or individual with some sailing experience that has an interest in cruising on their own sailboat sometime in the future.
Is it important that I currently own a sailboat?
No, it is not necessary, if fact an Expedition will help clarify what type or style of cruising sailboat you may purchase in the future. If you currently have a sailboat that has not been completely outfitted (along with passage making skills and increased confidence) you will gain valuable insight on how to outfit your boat saving considerable money.
What's the most important quality for joining?
Having a good attitude, willingness to get involved and learn.
Why is Cruising Expeditions a better course than others offered?
One factor is the boat itself, it's not too large a boat nor intimidating. The boat can easily be sailed double handed or singlehanded (by a more experienced sailor). This is an important consideration; participants gain knowledge from operating a boat closely matching their boat now or in the future. Also the boats value represents an investment closer to the average cruising couple's budget.
In addition, the participation is limited to 3 people per leg. Each participant will be able to will run the boat as if it was their own, with the oversight and instruction of the Skipper, focusing the training closer to the actual cruising experience on your own boat. This allows more one on one instruction, and the information is tailored to the individual needs of the crew.
Will I be able to Charter a boat on my own after taking this Expedition?
After taking an Expedition you will have the confidence and skill to operate a chartered boat anywhere in the world. You will be confident to accept full responsibility for the chartered boat and its crew, which is the requirement for chartering a boat.
What Preparation should I do prior to an Expedition?
Study and read about topics that interest you regarding sailing or cruising a sailboat, to be discussed while on the Expedition. Stay fit, or take more time to get in better shape.
What duties will I have during the Expedition?
Here is a partial list of the duties available to you with the oversight of the Skipper; standing watch, piloting or steering, navigation both paper and electronic chart, visual boat safety checks, making log entries, participation in drills for sail handling, hoisting, reefing, trimming sails, learning to operate the autopilot and windvane self steering, learning to operate a watermaker, starting, running and stopping the diesel auxiliary motor, monitoring engine gauges, monitoring all other system(s) gauges, attaining and analysis of weather information, participating in anchoring (windless operation and helm operation while anchoring), dinghy deployment and retrieval, and learning to safely beach the dinghy.
You will spend time each day reviewing material regarding aspects of cruising, with discussion afterward.
I'm a woman and want to make sure I learn equally?
You will have equal opportunity to learn every aspect of cruising a boat. Cruising Expeditions has enjoyed positive experiences teaching women the aspects of sailing. This is an important consideration to the safety of the cruising couple, which in the event of an emergency both people should be able to run the boat competently.
What are the accommodations?
For a couple the forward vee berth has a door and can be made private. The vee berth is large and very comfortable. Other berths include a pilot berth and settee berth low and near the center of the boat lessening the boats motion.
What gear and clothes should I bring?
Please review the Crew Advisory Page.
Can I communicate to my family or business while on the Expedition?
Yes, while in port or at anchor you can use your cell phone or use an internet café when available. The expedition boat is equipped with a satellite phone for an emergency situation only.
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