Anchors Aweigh: Top Sailing Essentials and Gear

Before you say anchors aweigh on your next sailing adventure, there are some top sailing essentials and gear you need for an unforgettable trip in the British Virgin Islands or elsewhere. For many of us on our recent sailing trip in the British Virgin Islands, it was our first time setting sail for an extended period of time. Our fearless trip leaders, Sassan and Gazelle, had experienced this excursion twice in the past and were very helpful in sharing a list of some top sailing gear. You should strongly consider buying these essentials listed below before you hit the water! These key items ensured a smooth, fun and unforgettable trip for all of us!

Top Sailing Essentials and Gear When Sailing the British Virgin Islands

What Luggage Fits on a Sailboat?

You may not realize that your choice of luggage is very important on a sailboat! With space at a premium in cabins and storage closets, the best option is a rolling duffel bag. I made the mistake of bringing a full size suitcase, which is hard to fit in cabins!

Why a rolling duffel? The rolling duffel can glide through airports, collapse after unpacking, become flat and easily stored away in a closet or under a bed. Moreover, rolling a full size suitcase on and off rickety docks and water taxis/ferries is not as easy as a rolling duffel. Some duffels also have straps that can be used on your back to easily hop on and off docks and maneuver around crowds. Packing your clothes in ziplock bags or waterproof packing cubes can help protect your things from any water mishaps as well. Consider some of these rolling duffel recommendations:

Safety and Sun Protective Items Needed When Sailing

First thing is first — safety is your number one priority when sailing the British Virgin Islands or anywhere for that matter. The British Virgin Islands are known for their beautiful, calm waters. However, ocean waters can always be treacherous, especially when met with variable weather conditions. It is very important to review your boat carefully and be sure it has proper navigation equipment, flares, and other necessary equipment in the event of an emergency. Additionally, ensure you have the following:

• Life Jackets: Be sure the boat has a life jackets for everyone onboard, are the correct sizes and type that match your needs. If you have kids onboard, confirm in advance that they have child life vests available. If needed, you can purchase both adult and child sizes here:

• First Aid Kit and Personal Medications: Be sure to have a full first aid kit with you and a full supply of any personal medications, anti-nausea, bandaids and other helpful items. You will not have easy access to fully stocked drugstores. Give yourself peace of mind. By preparing in advance, you will have supplies for any minor injuries, scrapes, headaches, sunburn, etc. Bring hydrocortisone and antibiotic ointments, as well as anti-nausea medications in the event of unexpected sea sickness. Crackers, candied ginger and ginger ale on board can also help soothe an upset stomach.

• Sun Protection: You will have a significant amount of time in the sun while sailing. It is essential to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays as best as possible, since the sun can be harsh on your skin. Your skin can sunburn very quickly, including your lips! It’s important to have ample sunscreen, hats, clothing and sunglasses! Polarized sunglasses will also provide additional protection for your eyes. Consider these helpful items:

• Sun Protective Hat: This is another BIG essential. Ideally, you should pick a hat that is quick to dry, provides UPF sun protection, and has a drawstring that stays on in high winds and during swims. A good hat will provide additional protection for your face from the sun. We also found that headbands, such as those from Lululemon or elsewhere, helped keep our hair out of our faces and under control during high winds.

Modern Empty Nester Tip: Hairdryers are typically not recommended for use on sailboats as they may blow a fuse. Be sure to bring good hair products, hair ties and headbands to keep your hair under control, tame and allow it dry naturally! Let the wind hit your hair and enjoy the beauty and simplicity of your day!

Waterproof and Water Friendly Sailing Essentials

When sailing the BVIs, your day will be all about spending time in the beautiful turquoise waters. You will also want to swim to shore for additional exploration. Therefore, it is essential to have good waterproof and water friendly gear with you. We found the following waterproof bags, shoes, swim gear and sunglasses straps to be extremely helpful and indispensable!

Swimming to shore from your anchored sailboat feels amazing. With these waterproof dry bags, pouches and fanny packs, we could bring anything we needed to shore. Think phones to snap pics, clothes to wear when exploring, and money to purchase souvenirs! All of the following products kept our things dry after a long swim. Highly recommended!

• Waterproof Bags: Waterproof dry bags are game changers when sailing! With the proper waterproof bags, you can swim to shore with a variety of things. Investing in waterproof fanny packs or neck pouches protect your belongings like phones, money, a coverup and other valuable items. With a larger dry bag, you can easily bring towels, snacks, drinks and even purchase souvenirs that you can bring back safely. They will keep them dry, safe and enhance your experience!

• Proper Footwear: Proper footwear is essential when sailing. First, it is best to have white soled shoes to protect the sailboat deck and avoid marks and scratches. Next, be sure to bring non-slip shoes or sandals that can get wet — because they will. You will be all over the deck, so consider boat shoes, slides or sturdy flip flops. You should also purchase a pair of quick dry water shoes for swimming and exploring the beaches! They will protect your feet from rocks, seaweed and other sharp coral that could hit your feet.

• Snorkel Gear and Goggles: The Caribbean is home to some of the world’s most beautiful coral reefs and marine life. Therefore, you should definitely bring snorkel gear to explore the underwater world. While you can possibly rent from the base, it’s easier and cleaner to have your own snorkel mask set. You can consider renting fins from your home base prior to departure if desired. Additionally, swim goggles are recommended on swim days. They will protect your eyes from the salt water. Wider sized goggles allow you to see so much more underwater! The snorkel set and goggles listed below are reasonably priced and good picks!

• Sunglasses Straps: Don’t lose your expensive sunglasses in the water! Using floating eyewear straps keeps your sunglasses close and around your neck. Soft, neoprene straps are comfortable and dry fast!

• Sailing Gloves: Sailing gloves can help tremendously if you are planning on assisting the captain with anchoring the sailboat. The gloves protect your hands from rope burns and blisters. They also provide a better grip when handling ropes and other equipment. An optional, yet very nice thing to have with you!

Additional Entertainment Essentials While Sailing in the British Virgin Islands

In addition to the BIG essentials and gear mentioned earlier, here are some other fun items that you may want to consider bringing when sailing the BVIs to enhance your experience:

• Underwater Camera: Capture the beautiful scenery, sunsets, and underwater wonders of the Caribbean. Bring a waterproof camera to snap pics of sea life, fish, coral gardens and more during your sailing adventure! The Kodak PIXPRO and the GOPRO Hero9 are some good picks:

• Books and Games: During the day, you will have downtime to read books, so bring along a few on your reading list. Evenings are quieter on the boat after sunset. You can sit under the stars and play fun games. Definitely consider bringing some portable games that you think your group will enjoy. We had fun playing The Voting Game on our trip. We laughed a lot — however it’s best to play this one with very close friends! Choose a game that brings your group together in a fun way. If you have kids onboard, select wholesome games that the entire family can enjoy around the table after dinners!

Invest In These Top Sailing Essentials and Gear

By investing in top sailing essentials and gear, you will be well prepared for your next sailing adventure! Trust me! They will enhance your trip and ensure a safe, fun and unforgettable trip in the British Virgin Islands! Anchors aweigh and happy sailing!