Have you decided to sail around the world and follow your big dream? Well, before doing so take a moment to read this article. Taking your sailboat or yacht out on the open oceans for months or years is something wonderful but it needs a lot of planning. Don’t worry though! Here you’ll find the nuts and bolts that will prepare you for the open sea.

Some Details to Keep in Mind

The majority of the world voyages are undertaken by cruising sailors who sailed from the east to the west. This is because this kind of route benefits from the most favorable conditions. If you do the right planning, then the prevailing wind systems will ensure that most sailing will be done in proper wind conditions. So, in case that your departure point is Northern Europe then the best time to leave is in the summer season. At this time, the weather conditions are favorable in the North Sea, English Channel, and across the Bay of Biscay. Moreover, if you’re departing from the Mediterranean and Gibraltar you can begin your voyage as late as October.

When referring to the length of your voyage keep in mind some important factors that correlate with each other. The travel time will be certainly determined by your pace, your objectives, the route, and your planning (weather conditions should always be carefully examined beforehand). Furthermore, your sailboat’s characteristics such as its size, the hull speed, navigation skill, and the preparation that you’ve made.

Make A Plan

Always try to organize your planning and of course don’t be in a rush to do so. Take your time to write a to-do-things list, and get you and your sailboat prepared for this remarkable journey. I know that there is too much to consider, from buying the right sailboat to provisions, route, equipment, and more. Don’t panic, we’ll find the solution together and by the end, you’ll see that it wasn’t that hard!

Your Sailboat

One of the most important decisions you’ll make when getting ready to sail around the world is which type of sailboat to buy. Are you looking for one, two hulls or for a multihull? Multihulls tend to be spacious, easy to handle, and have high-speed performance. Also, what is the size that you opt for? You have to find the right size that fits your budget, the travel itinerary, and the number of people on board. If you choose a large sailboat then take into account mooring, repairs, and insurance costs that will increase your monthly budget. On the contrary, if you choose to buy a small sailboat then you’ll have a limit for storage and personal space. The 36 – 48 feet (12 – 15 meters) sailboats tend to be favored for their steering ability, good sea-keeping ability, and great sailing speed performance.

>>Also Read: How Long Does it Take to Sail Around the World?

Create a Budget

Do your best to calculate and examine all costs correctly! This is one of the first steps that require some research beforehand in order to make up a financial plan. Set up your fixed costs like insurances, mooring fees, and additional equipment. Also, try to estimate your monthly costs, even though you can not be 100% accurate about them. These costs include food, fuel, maintenance, visas, marina fees, excursions, sightseeing, etc.

>>Also Read: How Much Does It Cost To Sail Around The World

Provisions

Firstly, before leaving make sure to equip your sailboat with staple foods like beans, pasta, and rice. Furthermore, take some of your favorite food with you like cereals, canned soups, or vegetables as well as coffee and tea. Try to cook as much as you can while anchored in order to avoid going to restaurants all the time. I know that you’ll certainly want to taste local dishes, but try to limit yourself. Stock food like carrots, potatoes, apples, oranges, and onions, that don’t perish quickly.

Communication

Always inform your friends and family about your travel itinerary, just in case. Consider expanding your data plan as cellphone fees can be really high out at sea. Also, when you’re on long-range cruising, it’s much better to carry with you more devices than a cellphone. For instance, a VHF is essential for communication with other sailors, weather updates, as well as making or responding to mayday calls. Last but not least, make sure that your EPIRB (emergency position-indicating radio beacon) is well-functioning.

Maintenance

The electrical system of your sailboat powers everything from the lights to navigational instruments. So make sure to read thoroughly the sailboat’s manuals. For example, what kind of batteries does your vessel take. Moreover, the sailboat’s mechanics can be sometimes hard to repair when you’re at sea. Try to prepare yourself and know as much as possible in order to repair and troubleshoot your sailboat’s engine and mechanical system. Take some classes, if needed, or watch YouTube videos. Also, study your boat’s plumbing system in order to understand how it operates, and what you’d need to do if there are any clogs or leaks.

Safety Check

When leaving for a long-term voyage on sea safety is what matters the most! First of all, make sure that there are no tripping hazards on your sailboat and the handrails are screwed tightly in place. Take with you all safety items such as life jackets, rafts, First Aid kit, fire extinguishers, and the proper anchor for the seabeds you’ll be navigating. Also, keep onboard medication and toiletries to foresee any unexpected incidents.

>>Also Read: Must Have Safety Equipment

Paperwork

Make sure that you have onboard all necessary paperwork. This includes your sailboat’s insurance, VHF certificate, passports, and Registration papers. Moreover, most of the countries you’ll be visiting might require a visa application beforehand. In fact, some countries’ regulations might require previous arrangements before entering territorial waters. So, when planning your route don’t forget to arrange this tedious, yet necessary task.

And…The Adventure Begins!

Yes, now you’re ready to go! The above-mentioned tips include every detail that you need to keep in mind before setting sail. If you’re planning this voyage for a lot of years, then the time has come to live your dream and leave everything behind. This is a big step that manifests how passionate you are about sailing and traveling. Remember, try not to get discouraged by situations or people that might cause you second thoughts. If you’re well-prepared and feel ready to sail around the world, then go for it!