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What do I need to bring for the Cruising Class?
(And other considerations)
Gear to bring:
With the exception of the passport, which is absolutely required unless the cruising ground is entirely within the United States (contact us if you don't have one,) and Visas if you're a non-US citizen, most of the gear below can be provided or done without. However, it is a nice comfort to have your own things and know that they fit you well.
All gear should fit in one big duffle or suitcase (or a couple of small ones) which is stowed in one's bunk while awake and on the cabin sole when sleeping. Most crewmembers travel with one duffle and one or two carry ons. Hard suitcases are awkward on a boat.
Valid passport
Appropriate Visa for non-US citizens
North U's
cruising publications available at northu.com
Any other sailing texts that appeal to you
Foul weather gear. Coat and bibs (light weight for the Caribbean)
Deck shoes or sneakers
Cool and wet weather clothing
Warm and hot weather clothing
Sun gear
Bathing suit, mask, snorkel and fins
Toiletries
Prescription medicine
Seasick medicine
Rigging knife (folding knife with a marlinespike for untying knots)
Harness and tether (for classes with overnight sailing)
Flashlight
Books, music, DVD's
iPod with iTrip attachment or equivalent
Camera
USB adapter to download photos
Journal, pen and pencil
If the class includes an overnight passage, deck work will be done while harnessed and tethered to the boat. It would be wise to invest in this gear. Let us know if you choose not to.
Travel:
Crewmembers should plan to arrive at the boat on the day of the date listed on the schedule page. Specific directions on how to get to the boat are sent out a couple of weeks before the class starts. Sailors are encouraged to consider travel insurance, which would come in handy in the unlikely event that the trip had to be cancelled.
Be prepared to jump in and get to work if there are any boat issues that need attention. Sometimes a dinghy needs stowing, jack lines run or a sail must be changed.
Provisioning:
Provisioning is usually done shortly after crewmembers arrive. If your flight will arrive late, you should make a list of preferred foods. It is important that each person makes sure that personal food preferences be addressed. One of the crew positions that you'll rotate through each day is Cook so you'll be cook possibly twice during the week. Please take the time to make a list of food items that you'd like to have on hand for your turn as cook. If you can't cook very well, just keep it simple.
If the instructor permits, alcohol is allowed on board as long as there is no drunkenness and no drinking on watch for overnights.
Smoking:
Cuban cigars are not legal in US waters, so please do not bring them aboard. Smoking is not allowed on many boats. Please ask if you are a smoker.
Of course, illegal drugs are absolutely out of the question. The Coast Guard occasionally boards and searches boats for drugs--they are allowed to do so without cause. The penalties are severe--confiscation of the boat, imprisonment, and the captain's license is put in jeopardy. Please, no drugs.
Captain's dinner:
Depending on the weather and other considerations, the crew may enjoy a captain's dinner before or after the passage.
Communication:
Most cell phones work well in the islands, but check with your carrier to make sure. Sometimes that service needs to be added by the company. Be prepared to be out of touch, though. Communication is often problematic sailing around the islands.
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