Breathing in the fresh sea air and experiencing the beauty of the water in the UK or across Europe are just two of the reasons why sailing holidays are so popular. Whether you’re looking for some family fun or to sail away with friends, real in that anchor and explore the world, all from the comfort of your boat.
But how can you ensure you stay safe while sailing? Carry on reading for our top water safety tips.
Route
Even before you’ve boarded the ship, you should have a good idea about where you’re travelling to including a well-planned route. Knowing exactly where you are going will minimise your chances of running into unexpected obstacles, and this way, you can keep an eye on things in the lead up to your trip.
Life jackets
The most important safety equipment you will need are lifejackets. Even confident swimmers should never underestimate the power of the sea, as it can be unpredictable. Before you set sail, ensure your life jacket fits you properly and initial each jacket so everyone is wearing the right vest. It’s especially important to keep life jackets at arm’s reach when moving from below deck to top deck. Even if you’re just popping up, always wear your lifejacket – you should always be prepared for ‘what if’.
Sun protection
Being on deck always leaves you exposed to the sun and other weather conditions, and often, the sea air can camouflage just how warm it actually is. Always keep your skin topped up with sunscreen and don’t miss vulnerable areas such as the back of your neck and lips. Being in the sun means you always need to keep hydrated, so drink water at least once every 30 minutes and take regular breaks in the shade.
Dress appropriately
The type of boat you’re sailing on, whether that be a large yacht or smaller sailing boat, will determine what is appropriate clothing. High heels on a small boat is not a sensible move, instead, you need well-gripped shoes and lightweight clothing that is easy to move in and breathable – think about practicality rather than making a fashion statement.
Before you set sail, it’s important that your boat is checked over by an expert. Here at HP Hydraulics we are experienced in hydraulic marine repairs, as well as other critical areas of the boat that need attending to before you travel. Get in touch today for more information.