When I first started sailing, I wished I had an overview of everything I needed at the time and what I might want in the future. To help fellow sailors, here’s a comprehensive guide to all the essentials you need for sailing—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skipper.
The Basics of Sailing Gear
What gear do you need for sailing? At the most fundamental level, you need clothes that dry quickly, deck shoes with good grip that don’t leave marks, and layers of clothing suitable for changing weather. Additionally, always bring water and sunscreen. Depending on the type of sailing and your role onboard, you may need specialized gear.
Your requirements largely depend on the type of trip you’re planning. If you’re the skipper, you’ll need additional gear for the boat and crew. Below is a detailed breakdown of what’s necessary for different conditions and roles.
Categories of Sailing Gear
Sailing gear can be categorized into four main types:
- Clothing
- Crew Gear
- Boat Gear
- Supplies
1. Clothing
Clothing is critical for comfort and safety on the water. Weather on the water differs significantly from conditions on land, so layering and quick-drying materials are key. Here are some general guidelines:
- Wear clothes suitable for the climate.
- Use multiple layers to adjust to rapidly changing temperatures.
- Choose materials like neoprene or polyester for cold weather and linen for warm weather.
- Avoid loose garments that might get caught in rigging.
Beginner Day-Sailing Outfit:
- Multiple base layers of quick-drying clothing
- Non-marking deck shoes or boat shoes with a good grip
- Sweater and sailing jacket
- Sunglasses and a hat or cap for sun protection
- Sunscreen and a water bottle
Professional Sailing Clothes:
- Sailing gloves
- Specialized sailing boots or water shoes
- Polaroid sunglasses with retainer straps
- High-quality sailing jacket (different linings for inshore, coastal, and offshore use)
- Water-repellent sailing trousers or leggings
- Drysuit for cold weather
Foul Weather Gear:
- Heavy-duty rain suit (foulies)
- Offshore trousers or salopettes
- Additional thermal layers for warmth
2. Crew Gear
Crew gear includes personal essentials and safety equipment for longer trips or international journeys. Here’s what you need:
Safety Gear:
- Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
- Whistle for signaling
- Waterproof headlamp
- Harness and tether for coastal and offshore sailing
Toiletries (for multi-day trips):
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and deodorant
- Medications, including seasickness remedies
- Dry shampoo and towels
Paperwork:
- Passport (if traveling internationally)
- Driver’s license
- Any required certifications (e.g., diving certificate)
Additional Gear:
- Dry bag to protect electronics and valuables
- Swimming or snorkeling gear
- Fishing equipment
- Electronics like a smartphone, camera, or tablet with chargers
3. Boat Gear
Boat gear includes cockpit equipment, navigation tools, communication devices, and safety items. The requirements depend on the type and length of your trip.
Essentials for All Trips:
- Boat compass and marine chart
- Flashlight
- Basic first aid kit
- Working anchor and rode
- Small toolkit or multitool
Cockpit Equipment:
- Wind vane or handheld wind meter
- Barometer
- Compass deviation card
- Cockpit Mayday procedure card
Navigation Tools:
- Boat compass or handheld compass
- GPS and/or chartplotter
- Backup navigation tools (e.g., a sextant and almanac)
- Updated marine charts
Communication Devices:
- Marine VHF radio
- Satellite phone
- Emergency signaling devices
Safety Equipment:
- Air horn or whistle
- Bosun’s chair for rigging work
- Radar reflector
- Flares or LED signaling lights
- Emergency weather radio
- Life raft for offshore sailing
- Fire extinguisher(s)
4. Supplies
Supplies are particularly crucial for longer trips and ocean passages. Prioritize essentials like food, water, and fuel.
Water:
- Always carry enough fresh drinking water. For ocean passages, plan for a significant surplus.
Food:
- Stock up on canned goods and non-perishables. Fishing gear can provide fresh food if necessary.
Fuel:
- For ocean passages, carry enough fuel to motor 400–500 nautical miles, which typically requires 125–160 gallons.
Factors Influencing Gear Needs
Trip Type
- Freshwater Trips: Basic navigation tools and minimal safety gear are sufficient.
- Coastal/Offshore Trips: Additional safety and navigation equipment, including multiple anchors, is required.
- Ocean Passages: Extensive planning is necessary. Bring spare parts, tools for repairs, and extra supplies since assistance may take days to arrive.
Trip Length
- Short Trips (1–2 days): Essentials like clothing, water, and basic navigation tools.
- Extended Trips (2–14 days): More supplies, backup navigation equipment, and safety gear.
- Ocean Passages: Comprehensive planning, including emergency provisions and repair tools.
Skipper’s Responsibilities
As the skipper, you’re responsible for the safety and preparedness of the vessel. Here are the additional items you need:
Skipper-Specific Gear:
- Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
- Utility knife or mariner’s knife
- Digital sailing watch with alarm, compass, and barometer
- Marine binoculars with a rangefinder
- Captain’s log
Paperwork:
- International Certificate of Competence (ICC) for international trips
- USCG skipper’s license
- VHF certificate
- Sailing guides and boat registration documents
Tools:
- Multimeter for electrical issues
- Wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers for engine and rigging repairs
- Spare fuses, plugs, and other small parts
Preparing for the Unexpected
Mechanical breakdowns and adverse weather can occur at any time. Here’s how to prepare:
- Always carry extra water and non-perishable food.
- Bring a heaving line for emergencies.
- Keep spare batteries and chargers for electronics.
- Have a backup anchor for offshore conditions.
Maintaining Your Boat
If you own the boat, proper maintenance is essential. Here’s a checklist of essential tools and equipment:
- Trailer (if applicable)
- Electrical toolbox (multimeter, wire cutters, etc.)
- Engine maintenance tools (wrench set, nut drivers)
- Hull cleaning supplies
- Spare parts for engine and rigging
Conclusion
Sailing requires careful planning and preparation. While the gear list may seem daunting, starting with the essentials and gradually adding to your collection as you gain experience is a practical approach. Skippers bear the responsibility of ensuring the safety of the vessel and crew, so thorough preparation is crucial.
Use this guide to streamline your sailing adventures, and don’t forget to download a free printable checklist for easy reference. Whether you’re sailing on a lake or crossing an ocean, being prepared ensures a safe and enjoyable journey.
Happy Boating!
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Read Sailing from Hawaii to New Zealand (route, tips, prep) until we meet in the next article.