Gear Recommendations for New Adult Sailors
When first-time sailors start planning their trip, one of the most common questions is: what should I pack? Most travelers know how to plan for a Caribbean vacation (swimwear, sunscreen, and all the basics), but are a little less confident about what to bring for a sailing trip.
The good news is, you don’t need much to get started sailing! When you take your first ASA sailing courses, we provide most of the technical gear you’ll need on the boat. That said, you will want to bring the right footwear, clothing, and accessories to make the most of your trip.
Here is a quick look at all the gear you’ll need as a first-time sailor.
Sailing Gear Essentials: What to Remember to Bring
Sun Protection
A BVI or USVI itinerary includes long days on the water, snorkeling, diving, and relaxing on the beach. Protecting yourself from the sun is crucial, and while it’s essential, sailors should think beyond sunscreen.
Consider these items for sun protection:
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Lightweight SPF long-sleeves
- Polarized sunglasses with strap
Anytime you sail, the water reflects sunlight and UV rays, making sunburn more likely without the right gear. When considering sunscreen and SPF clothing, we recommend at least SPF 50 for most visitors.
Comfortable Clothing
The Caribbean is a beautiful place most of the year. But even during the dry season, there’s a chance of sporadic rain showers on any given day. Sailors should wear lightweight, quick-dry clothing and pack extras to stay dry throughout your ASA sailing vacation.
Useful items include:
- Lightweight pants and shorts
- Long-sleeve and short-sleeve sunshirts
- Moisture-wicking tops
Sail-Friendly Footwear
We ask that you don’t wear the shoes you wear on land on the boat during your sailing vacation. For many sailors, that means it is easier to go barefoot! This reduces the risk of bringing bacteria, germs, and bugs on the boat that may hitch a ride on your shoes when you are on dry land.
If you would like to bring sailing shoes to wear on deck, bring slip-resistant footwear to keep you upright and in control. Non-marking shoes designed for boating are best, as they don’t scuff the deck.
Personal Safety Equipment
If you’re sailing for the first time, you might wonder what safety gear you need to bring. Most sailors don’t need to bring any sailing equipment.
On Go Sail VI ASA sailing courses, required safety equipment is already on board, including life jackets (PFDs) for each passenger.
As sailors gain experience, some choose to purchase their own gear, especially when they begin bareboat sailing.
Extras
In addition to the essentials, some guests may bring extra items for comfort and safety. Here are a few other items to consider:
- Headlamp
- Reusable water bottle
- Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife
- Dry bag
- Sailing gloves
FAQ: Beginner Sailing Gear
Do I need to buy sailing gear before my ASA sailing lesson?
No, Go Sail VI provides most of the sailing gear you’ll need on your trip. We have life jackets and basic sailing equipment on board. Sailors should pack their own water-resistant clothing, footwear, and sun protection.
Are there life jackets on board?
Yes! Go Sail VI provides life jackets for every passenger, captain, and crew member on board.
Should I pack electronics?
Yes, you can bring essential electronics on board. Go Sail VI sailboats have generators and electrical panels, so guests can charge their phones and other electronics.