Going cruising and living on the water for a few days, weeks or even months is a lifetime opportunity for every adventurer. The chances to visit new places and enjoy the peace under the open sky are some of the biggest reasons why many people decide to go Bluewater sailing more often.

However, in order to have the best experience on the water, you should be well equipped especially if you are planning to go cruising for a longer period of time. In fact, preparing yourself thoroughly and outfitting your boat right are crucial to making your long-distance voyage both safe and fun.

From assembling your safety equipment to styling up your boat with marine speakers, there are several things you should consider to set sail the right way. In order to help you in the process, here is a brief checklist of the essential elements you need before you go cruising this summer.  

Safety equipment

Generally speaking, water life can be unpredictable. That’s why gathering and double-checking your safety gear should be the first things on your list before you set sail. Everything from preparing your offshore life rafts to updating your ship’s medical kit, there are a few essential elements you must consider in order to have a safe passage.

For example, your life rafts should be large enough to carry two more people than what you have on board. To be effective, you should store them on deck in a cradle with a hydrostatic release or in a purpose-built locker so they can be easily accessed by your crew.

Also, don’t forget to have your personal safety gear at hand, such as inflatable life jackets, safety harnesses and tethers. These items are essential to have especially if you will be engaging in some water activities that require you to be safe at all times.

Navigation and communication gear

Your navigation and communication gear is just as important as any other boat essential element. They also keep you safe in case you find yourself in some kind of an emergency while on the water.

For example, the VHF radio is the most basic piece of your cruising equipment. While for many cruisers this item is still optional, having it on board can really come in handy especially since it is indispensable and isn’t replaced by cell phones. The VHF radio provides you with a signal as opposed to cell phones which are often out of service range while you are off the coast.

Besides the traditional navigation equipment every boat has, you should also consider incorporating a fixed mount network GPS to keep track of your location. Some cruisers even get a WiFi internet service to purchase real-time weather reports and marine conditions, so they will know what to expect while sailing.

Electronics and entertainment

To keep the fun going at all times, you should also consider incorporating electronics and other similar entertainment equipment on board. Such items will make the cruising more enjoyable and allow you to make wonderful memories.

For example, having a good stereo will provide you with the opportunity to play some music while you are voyaging. Since technology has advanced throughout the years, you should search for waterproof and wireless marine speakers which you can connect with your phone and listen to some of your favorite songs.

Also, don’t forget to take your camera with you to take photos and make memories with your crew. Since you will be most likely engaging in all kinds of water activities, make sure you opt for a waterproof camera that you can use to take shots underwater. For example, the GoPro camera is a very popular choice as it is user-friendly, tiny and nearly indestructible.

Interior comfort

Since you will be living on the water for a longer period of time, you should make your cruise boat as comfortable and functional as possible. This includes having the overall basic comfort features that make water life more bearable while being off the coast.

For example, you should consider incorporating comfortable seats, beds and showers for your crew. Boat life can get very salty and tiring so it is crucial that everyone has the opportunity to wash off the ocean water and get a good night’s sleep whenever you aren’t sailing.

Also, think about installing a functional galley on your ship so you will be able to cook while on board. In order to save more power, stick to using an electric frying pan, a crockpot and a coffee maker with an inverter, though not all at the same time.

Don’t forget to install low-level LED lights to make it safer to wander at night.

Final thoughts

Going cruising is one of the most exciting and wonderful experiences a person can have. The opportunity to live on the water and under the blue sky is what tempts people to spend their summer vacations a bit differently and pleasantly.

However, in order to ensure that you have a safe and fun passage, you should prepare yourself well and gather all essential elements on board. If you need a reminder, make sure you refer back to our checklist and use it as a guide to set sail the right way. 

 

Feature Photo by Michael Held on Unsplash