Packing your bags

Your baggage content will depend on the type of Training, Charter or Holiday you book.  Your chosen MLA Member company can provide exact details of essentials needed as some may be included in your booking or may not be relevant.

It is highly recommended to travel light using soft foldable bags, as storage on board can be limited.  Do take into consideration the climate of your destination and pack accordingly.  Don’t forget your hat, sun cream and sunglasses.

Essential items to pack:

  • Waterproofs
  • Foul weather clothing
  • Wellington/Sailing boots
  • Soft comfortable shoes e.g. deck shoes or  trainers (no black soles)
  • Sun hat, sunglasses and suncream
  • Hat, scarf & gloves for the chillier days
  • Toiletries & towel
  • A small torch 
  • A warm sleeping bag and pillow
  • Any personal medication
  • Spending money, local currency

Documentation

Depending on your chosen destination, a few fundamental pieces of official paper could be passport, visa, medical insurance and cancellation insurance.  Did you know that you can claim back most of your treatment and medication costs if you fall ill or have an accident in Europe? That's as long as you carry a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).  The EHIC entitles the holder to free or reduced cost, state-provided medical treatment if you fall ill or have an accident while visiting any country in the European Economic Area (EEA). Please note that an EHIC is not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance.  
In addition to this paperwork you may be asked to provide your RYA qualifications, but ask the company you are going with.  Remember to also take your log book so you can record your sailing experience.

Your well-being

You are obliged to disclose any complaints or ailments, which are likely to affect your physical welfare during your course/charter and if applicable, you will need to inform your skipper of any medication you are taking.  You might be asked to complete a declaration regarding your health. All water activities will ideally require you to be able to swim although non-swimmers can be accommodated and all that is asked is that you inform your provider. If provisioning is included in your booking, please remember to state if you have any special dietary requirements.

When you get there

You will be greeted and given a briefing to familiarise yourself with your selected vessel/location regarding safety and emergency procedures.  Information about your destination can be supplied with regards to local hazards as well as places of interest.   Ship papers will be readily available for all vessels together with contingency plans to cover all events. The skipper’s decision is final as he/she is responsible for your safety when you are on board.  A representative of your chosen MLA member company will be fully contactable for the duration of your booking.  Provisioning your boat (food & drinks supplies) may be included or pre-arranged with your booking, remember to check with the company you booked with as packages differ considerably.