Getaway Guide For Boat Guests
Lucky you. You have a coveted invitation to be a weekend guest on a friend's boat -- sail or power -- doesn't matter, there are similarities. But now, the questions are launched. What to bring, what to wear, how to stay out of the way, be safe, use the facilities, seasickness, how to be useful. Let's sort it all out. -- Jay Lloyd
WHERE ARE WE GOING?
It's appropriate to ask. In this region it could be the Chesapeake Bay or the Jersey shore. The Bay is inland and in generally calm waters with waves at 1 or 2 feet. At the shore, the cruise could take you to sea with wave heights, often over 4 feet. Which brings us to......
SEASICKNESS
On inland waterways like bays and rivers, mal de mer isn't very common. On the ocean, it is. When I first went to sea in the Pacific, most of our crew had to work through bouts of motion sickness that lasted two to six days. Our patrols lasted over a month. If your cruise involves being at anchor or in port on the Chesapeake each night, an over-the-counter remedy like Dramamine should ward off the nausea. Extended cruising at sea is better handled by prescription Scopalomine. Talk to your doctor before you use either. Be aware that both will cause drowsiness.
WHAT TO BRING
Travel light and carry easily storable soft sided bags, duffels are preferable. Boats have little room for rigid luggage. Shorts, tee and golf shirts are all you'll need for summer cruising plus a hooded rain jacket just in case. Slacks should be packed for men and women if an upscale restaurant stop is planned, but shorts are generally fine. Ask your host. Linens will be aboard, unless you're told otherwise. Do carry one towel a person for swim time. A good hat is a must along with sunscreen, insect repellant and toiletries. Pay attention to shoes. Forget about heels or street shoes. Boat shoes with white soles are preferable, otherwise, bring tennis shoes or white sole sneakers. I knew a guy who was fired from his job for leaving scuff marks, while guesting on his boss's boat.
THE GIFT
Food and drink are always welcome. A case of beer, a bottle of a favorite liquor or several bottles of wine are the usual offerings. Unless the hosts insists on splitting dinner checks, the guests usually pick up the tab for one restaurant dinner.
GETTING AROUND THE BOAT
The host will generally check out everyone in the use of safety equipment including location of life jackets. On sailboats, you'll be advised to keep your head below the boom. It can suddenly and forcefully swing. Always remember to hold on to something. Boat toilets called, "heads" - don't ask, can be mystifying. You'll find they require levers and pump handles to pump the water in and the waste out. It doesn't actually go out to sea. It goes to a holding tank to be pumped out later at a fuel dock. The skipper will explain. If he or she doesn't -- ask before using.
HAND ON THE HELM
Most hosts will offer guests a chance to, "Take the helm." Once you do, you might become hooked. But, it does not steer like a car. The boat will keep turning after you reverse the wheel. Then it gradually comes to the opposite direction. Small incremental movements will keep you from weaving like a "drunken sailor."
THE LANGUAGE
Over the centuries a standard salty language has developed so that everyone can act instantly for routine and emergency maneuvers. Each word has a derivation rooted in history. "Port" is left. "Starboard" is right. "Bow" is the pointy end at the front. "Stern" is the rear. Ropes on sailboats are "Halyards" to raise and lower sails, or "Sheets" to set their angle to the wind. That should be enough to get you started.
Now, get out there, have fun, keep your mind and eyes open and dream that dream about next year, becoming the host.
