3The preparations below may vary based on the length of the voyage, and the heating, refrigeration, storage and other such facilities which are available on the boat. In addition, factors such as environment, weather patterns, temperature, as well as the number and individual needs of people on board will impact necessary preparation steps.
- Perform a complete system maintenance check: This is the most important step because it will ensure that all of the boat's electric devices are working properly. This includes your running lights, cabin lights, radio, GPS and other navigation equipment, depth meter, as well as any battery operated devices. Do not leave the dock without confirming the proper functioning of each system. Make sure you have plenty of batteries on-board for small operating devices. Remember to make sure that the boat's central battery is adequately charged, as this is the power supply for the sailboat after you set sail. Make sure you have enough gas--while real sailors never plan on using the motor, it's good to know it will work if you need it.Check your first aid kit. Even though we all hope the contents of the on-board first aid kit won't be necessary on a voyage, it is important to double-check your kit. If your medical supplies have dwindled, be sure to restock. Make sure the container which holds these supplies is completely intact--water-logged bandages won't adhere properly to the skin.Bring plenty of water. Unless your sailboat begins to sink under the weight of fresh drinking water, you can never have too much of it.Provide provisions. This is "sailor language" for food. Make sure there is an ample supply of food–not only for meals, but snacks as well. Plan to have plenty of snacks on board-- preferably air-tight packages such as granola bars and the like which can be easily stored without refrigeration and easily grabbed on the go.Stock supplies. If you have an icebox, fill it with ice. If you have a porta-potty, empty it. If you’re low on toilet paper, soap, towels sunscreen, hats or sunglasses, replace these essential items. Remember to stop at the water dock and fill the boat’s water tank on the way out of the harbor. This is the time to double-check for luxuries items you’d like to have on board as well as essential items you may need more of. Now you’re ready. The only thing left to do is set the sail, cut the motor, and wait for a breeze.
