how to travel the world on a boat

The Ultimate Guide to Travel by Boat: Explore the World by Sea in 2023

As I set sail on the vast blue expanse of the ocean, I can’t help but feel a sense of liberation and adventure. Traveling by boat is unlike any other form of transportation; it offers a freedom that cannot be found on land or in the air.

In this ultimate guide to travel by boat, I will take you through the enchanting world of sea travel.

From luxurious cruise ships to humble cargo vessels, we will explore the different options available for boat travel. Discover the joy of cruising as we unveil the wonders of life onboard these floating cities. Venture off the beaten path and explore unique ports on thrilling boat tours .

But it’s not just about the destinations; it’s about the experiences along the way. Learn what to expect during your boat travel adventure and how to plan and book your trip effectively. Safety and regulations are also crucial for a smooth and secure journey.

So join me as we navigate this ultimate guide, uncovering must-see destinations, tips, and everything you need to know for an unforgettable voyage at sea. Get ready to set sail toward freedom!

Page Contents

Key Takeaways

• Boat travel offers a sense of liberation, adventure, and freedom on the open sea.
• There are different options for boat travel, including luxurious cruise ships and humble cargo vessels.
• Boat tours allow travelers to explore unique ports off the beaten path and immerse themselves in local culture.
• Planning and booking a boat trip effectively is important for a smooth and secure journey.

Why Choose Boat Travel? Discover the Allure of Traveling by Sea

Experience the exhilarating freedom of sailing across vast oceans, feeling the gentle sway of the boat beneath you as you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Boat travel offers a unique and enchanting way to explore the world.

Whether you choose a cruise ship, ferry, or sailboat, there’s something magical about being out on the open sea.

Unlike other forms of transportation, traveling by boat allows you to escape the confines of land and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the ocean.

As a passenger on a boat, you can witness breathtaking sunsets, spot dolphins playing in the waves, and feel an unparalleled sense of freedom as you journey toward your destination.

With boats catering to travelers and cargo alike, endless sea exploration possibilities exist. So why not embrace this extraordinary mode of travel and set sail for your next adventure?

Cruise Ships vs. Cargo Ships: Exploring Different Boat Travel Options

Comparing cruise ships and cargo ships brings to light the differences in amenities and experiences available on each type of vessel.

Cruise ships are known for their luxurious accommodations, entertainment, and dining choices. Passengers can enjoy spa treatments and live shows or relax by the pool while experiencing breathtaking ocean views.

On the other hand, cargo ships offer a more authentic and intimate travel experience. These working vessels allow passengers to witness the daily operations of shipping companies firsthand.

While they may lack some extravagant features of cruise ships, cargo ships provide a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in commercial shipping.

From transatlantic crossings to freighter travel adventures, boat travel options exist for those seeking a different journey on the open sea.

Embark on a Memorable Cruise: Unveiling the Joys of Cruise Ship Travel

Immerse yourself in a world of luxury and excitement as you embark on a memorable cruise, where endless possibilities for relaxation and adventure await.

Cruise ship travel offers a unique experience like no other. With numerous cruise lines, you can find the perfect luxury cruise that suits your preferences.

Once onboard, indulge in exquisite dining options, luxurious accommodations, and top-notch entertainment. The joys of cruise ship travel extend beyond the amenities and into the captivating itineraries that take you on unforgettable voyages to breathtaking destinations.

As you sail through crystal-clear waters, imagine yourself exploring vibrant Caribbean islands or discovering hidden gems in exotic locations. With each stop along your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to disembark and explore fascinating ports of call.

Onboard activities cater to every taste – whether lounging by the pool with a refreshing cocktail or participating in thrilling excursions like snorkeling or zip-lining.

So why wait? Embark on an extraordinary adventure and let the joys of cruise ship travel create memories that will last a lifetime.

Off the Beaten Path: Exploring Unique Ports on Boat Tours

Venture off the traditional route and uncover hidden treasures as you explore one-of-a-kind ports on captivating boat tours. Off the beaten path, these unique ports offer a glimpse into lesser-known destinations filled with charm and authenticity.

Imagine docking at remote islands, picturesque coastal towns, or even historic fishing villages that retained their old-world charm.

On these boat tours, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, sample delicious regional cuisine, and discover hidden gems that can’t be found in travel guidebooks. Whether wandering through vibrant markets or exploring ancient ruins, there’s something for every adventurous traveler.

Booking a boat tour allows you to escape the crowds and experience true freedom as you travel by sea. From luxurious cruise ships to cargo ship travel options, there’re various ways to embark on these unforgettable journeys.

So pack your bags and prepare for an extraordinary adventure as you sail to explore these unique ports on boat tours.

Onboard Experiences: What to Expect During Your Boat Travel Adventure

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as you step aboard and discover a world of exciting experiences awaiting you during your boat travel adventure.

Whether you travel the world on luxury cruise ships or opt for more unique options like cargo ship voyages or freighter travel offers, onboard experiences will captivate your senses.

As you set sail on the high seas, prepare yourself for the thrill of sea travel and the freedom it brings.

Feel the wind in your hair as you lounge on deck chairs, soaking up the sun and taking in breathtaking ocean views.

Explore different ports of call, immersing yourself in local cultures and traditions. Don’t forget to familiarize yourself with safety procedures and always wear life jackets when necessary, respecting local laws.

Get ready for an adventure like no other!

Freighter Travel: Unconventional Journeys on Cargo Ships

Embarking on a freighter travel adventure allows me to experience unconventional journeys on cargo ships, offering a unique and off-the-beaten-path way to explore the world.

Unlike traditional boat trips, freighter travel offers an intimate and authentic experience as I sail through the vast oceans aboard a working cargo ship.

As I arrive at the bustling port, I’m immediately immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of international trade. The sight of massive containers being loaded and unloaded fills me with awe.

Onboard, I find comfort in my cozy cabin, equipped with all the essentials for a comfortable journey. The slow pace of life on a cargo ship gives me ample time to relax and enjoy breathtaking coastal views.

From sailing through crystal-clear waters in the Bahamas to witnessing stunning sunsets from the deck, every moment kindles my sense of freedom and adventure.

To embark on this extraordinary voyage, various freighter companies offer unforgettable experiences on these floating engineering marvels.

The USA to Europe: Epic Transatlantic Voyages

As I traverse the vast Atlantic Ocean, a sense of awe washes over me as I witness the magnificent spectacle of cargo ships connecting the USA to Europe.

The journey from the USA to Europe is an epic transatlantic voyage that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Here are four reasons why traveling by boat on this route is the ultimate way to explore:

• Freedom: Sailing across the ocean provides a sense of liberation and escape from everyday life.
• Unparalleled Views: From the deck of a ship, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of endless horizons and stunning sunsets.
• Slow Travel: Embrace a slower pace of travel, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the journey and appreciate each passing wave.
• Cultural Connections: Onboard, you’ll have opportunities to interact with fellow travelers from different backgrounds, fostering cultural exchanges that enrich your experience.

Embarking on a transatlantic voyage from the USA to Europe is an adventure that combines exploration, relaxation, and cultural discovery into one unforgettable boat trip.

Planning and Booking: Essential Steps for a Successful Boat Trip

Navigating the planning and booking process is essential to ensure a successful and fulfilling voyage across the Atlantic. Regarding traveling by boat, taking a boat from the USA to Europe is an incredible way to explore the world without flying. Several steps need to be taken for a smooth journey.

First, decide on your desired route and destination. Next, research different boat options and compare prices, amenities, and reviews.

Once you’ve decided, book your ticket in advance to secure your spot. Finally, pack wisely and prepare for any potential challenges or delays.

To make things easier, here’s a helpful table outlining some important considerations when planning and booking your trip:

Following these steps and being organized in your planning process will prepare you for an unforgettable adventure across the Atlantic.

It’s truly a unique way to travel – hopping oneway between two continents while experiencing the freedom of life at sea. So don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity; start planning today!

Safety and Regulations: Ensuring a Smooth and Secure Journey

Ensure a smooth and secure journey across the Atlantic by familiarizing yourself with safety regulations and taking necessary precautions. When embarking on a boat travel adventure, it’s crucial to prioritize safety.

Start by researching reputable boat companies like Crewseekers that prioritize the well-being of their passengers. Ensure your chosen boat has the right safety equipment, such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, and emergency flares.

Familiarize yourself with maritime regulations to ensure compliance throughout your journey. Communicating with the crew about safety procedures and emergency protocols is also essential.

Remember, a secure journey starts with proper planning and preparation. By adhering to safety regulations and equipping yourself with knowledge, you can experience the ultimate guide to travel by boat while enjoying a smooth and secure journey across the open seas.

Creating Your Boat Travel Itinerary: Must-See Destinations and Tips

Embarking on a boat adventure allows me to sail on a captivating voyage, exploring breathtaking destinations and uncovering hidden gems.

One must-see destination is the Caribbean, with its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. As I plan my itinerary, I am considering taking an airplane to Panama, where I can board a freighter for an extraordinary experience. This unique journey offers stunning coastline views and allows me to witness dolphins playing in their natural habitat.

Another exciting stop is Thailand, where I can immerse myself in the rich culture and explore pristine beaches. Before setting sail, it’s essential to check visa requirements for each destination and budget accordingly, considering that some freighters charge around $100 per person daily.

With Singapore as my final stop, my boat travel adventure promises ultimate freedom and endless discoveries.

After diving deep into the world of boat travel, it’s clear that setting sail is truly the ultimate way to explore the wonders of our vast oceans.

From luxurious cruises to off-the-beaten-path adventures, there’s something for everyone on these remarkable journeys.

And who wouldn’t want to experience the thrill of a transatlantic voyage?

So grab your life jacket and embark on an unforgettable adventure.

Remember, while safety regulations are in place, sometimes irony can bring unexpected twists to our travels.

Happy sailing!

FAQs | Travel by Boat

What is boat travel.

Boat travel refers to traveling by boat or ship, whether it’s for leisure, transportation, or exploration purposes.

What are the benefits of traveling by boat?

Traveling by boat allows you to experience the serenity of the sea, enjoy breathtaking views, explore unique destinations, and avoid the hustle and bustle of airports and crowded cities.

How can I book a boat trip?

You can book a boat trip by contacting a travel agency, searching online booking platforms, or contacting boat tour operators. Check availability, prices, and reviews before making your reservation.

Are there different types of boat tours available?

Yes, there are various types of boat tours available. Some options include cruise ship tours, ferry trips, yacht charters, cargo ship experiences, and sailing adventures.

Can I travel by boat from the USA to Europe?

Yes, traveling by boat from the USA to Europe is possible. Several cruise lines offer transatlantic cruises that provide a unique way to cross the ocean and explore different countries.

Are boat trips safe?

Boat trips can be safe if proper safety measures are followed. It’s essential to choose reputable boat tour operators, wear life jackets when required, and listen to the instructions provided by the crew.

Can I travel by freighter and cargo ships?

Yes, it is possible to travel on freighter and cargo ships. This type of travel offers a unique experience, allowing you to see the world differently. However, it’s important to note that freighter travel may have limited passenger amenities compared to cruise ships.

What are some popular destinations for boat travel?

There are numerous popular destinations for boat travel, including the Caribbean islands, the Mediterranean coast, Greek islands, Alaskan fjords, Norwegian fjords, and the French Riviera, among others.

Is it possible to travel by boat with a bicycle?

Some boat tour operators allow passengers to bring bicycles on board. Still, it’s essential to check with the specific company beforehand and inquire about any restrictions or additional fees that may apply.

What should I pack for a boat trip?

When packing for a boat trip, it’s crucial to include essentials such as appropriate clothing for different weather conditions, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, a swimsuit, toiletries, any necessary medications, and a valid passport if traveling internationally.

• https://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Boat_travel
• https://www.jasminealley.com/travel-by-boat/
• https://drifttravel.com/planning-to-travel-by-boat-here-are-some-useful-tips/

A passionate solo traveler, embarking on thrilling adventures to explore the world's historical ruins. Fascinated by the intricate tales woven into ancient stones, she delves deep into the history of each site, unearthing the emotional stories that resonate through time. With every journey, Hayden strives to connect with the human experience of the past and share its profound significance with fellow explorers. Join her on a captivating expedition to unlock the secrets of bygone eras.

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7 Best-Known Routes for Sailing Around the World (with Maps)

Route planning is among the most crucial bits of preparation, especially when it comes to circumnavigation. This article will give you seven of the most commonly used routes for sailing around the world. Some routes have been sailed many times by many people, others are obscure or even dangerous.

• The Fast Route - for the minimum time
• The Pleasure Route - for the maximal pleasure
• The Traditional Route - the road most taken
• The Arctic Route - for the rough ones
• The Dangerous Route - without regards for piracy
• The Cheap Route - with a budget in mind
• The Coast Lover's Route - never going far from the coast

Since circumnavigation is quite a complex matter, let's go through this list one by one below.

On this page:

How to choose a route for you, route for speed, the pleasure route, the traditional route, the arctic route, the dangerous route, the cheap route, the coast lover's route.

What route you will take depends on what kind of journey you are looking for. If the goal is to do it in the least amount of time possible, you will be choosing a different path than if you don't care about time and put emphasis on sightseeing.

Similarly, if safety and convenience are at the top of your priority list, you will choose a route that might differ greatly from that of a person ready to spend more on security and cut corners through tricky territories.

If you have specific locations in mind, you will take turns that are, logistically speaking, quite impractical, while if efficiency is what you want, there are certain places it would make little sense to visit.

And finally, if you are after comfort, you will avoid some bumpy places and times of the year, as opposed to somebody who won't mind venturing into the corners of the oceans that require a hell of a warm jacket.

There is no right or wrong answer here; don't feel some approaches are better than others. Just look at what you want from the journey, read through this article, and then choose what best suits you.

21 Places to Avoid Sailing Around the World (In Order)

Let's kick this off with a racing spirit. This is the route taken by those competing in Vendée Globe, a circumnavigation race. It takes a bit under three months...

...that is if you are a racer and so is your boat. If you are a cruiser kind of person, it will take more time, but the point is that this route is as straightforward as it gets.

So what waypoints does it touch? Vendée globe racers start in France, then head down towards the Cape of Good Hope, circle Antarctica as close as the rules allow, and after getting to Cape Horn, head up to France again.

Of course, based on where you start from, your route might differ. But the idea is as follows:

• head south towards the Southern Ocean
• sail around Antarctica through the Southern Ocean
• after reaching the point where you met the Southern Ocean for the first time, head back up

The Southern Ocean is not a breeze, the cold waters mixing with the warmer ones coming from the north, plus the danger of icebergs, as well as the cold temperature, isn't how your typical holiday dream looks. That being said, it's up to you how close to Antarctica you will want to be when going around it.

This route doesn't touch down at any land, so you must be prepared for months on the sea as far as provisions, spares and mental capacity goes. Of course, this is variable, you can easily make landfall in Azores, South Africa, South Australia, or South America, and some of the South Pacific islands, if you need to. Either way, it is demanding logistically, so be sure to have your checklist in check .

It is among the most straightforward routes. Not just because it is probably the shortest one or the fastest one, but all the hassle with visas, check-ins, going through canals, and other lengthy land creatures' business will be foreign to you.

If you make it through the Southern Oceans unharmed, you will certainly have one hell of a story to tell.

Now let's go on the opposite side of the specter.

Let's suppose you theoretically have unlimited time. Instead of doing things quickly and efficiently, you want to take it at a leisurely pace while admiring all that there is to see.

This route will begin and end in the Mediterranean, but that's just because that's where I am based, sailing-wise. Wherever else you are, just pick the point of the route closest to you and begin there.

We will begin in Croatia, because it has beautiful shores and islands, travel around Greece with even more islands, the south around Italy, through Gibraltar. After that:

• head south to the Azores
• west to the Caribbean and through the Panama Canal
• west to Hawaii
• south to French Polynesia
• west to New Zealand, then Australia and Papua New Guinea
• northwest to Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, India
• south to Madagascar, then along the African coast to Cape of Good Hope
• north to the Azores and then through Gibraltar back home

This route takes time since it aims to explore all it can even remotely touch. It's not just that the route is long, because the aim is to visit pretty places. You might also find yourself having to wait months at some places for the bad weather season to clear before you can make your next crossing. Have a look at our article about things to think about when planning for a long trip .

Because of that, this route is more demanding when it comes to planning, visa hassle, check-in research, more ports and anchors, more provisions planning. Also, your boat will need to be a solid liveaboard , since you will spend so much time on it. Logistically, it will be demanding.

But for all that hassle, you will literally get to see the world. You will visit many fantastic cultures, get to taste the cuisines from all over, and the long times waiting for the winds to calm down will be spent on exploring the place you are 'stuck' at.

What more does one need...

...except perhaps some middle ground. Now that we've been to two extremes, let's look at something in the middle: the route most commonly taken when circumnavigating.

It is rather similar to the Pleasure Route above except for skipping the Mediterranean, Pacific, and Southeast Asian stops.

Thus it goes as follows:

• From Europe, head south to the Azores
• west to Australia
• west to Cape of Good Hope

This route accomplishes the circumnavigation while stopping at beautiful places but doesn't necessarily explore everything that happens to be around. Its strong suit is the variability. If you like the Caribbean, you stop and cruise around there. If Australia excites you, you do the same there. If you want to see Madagascar, well, it will be almost on your way. And so on.

It has been a traditional route to take because it is relatively painless and does not go through any hazardous areas.

It has been traveled by many before you, so there is a lot of info floating around if you want to do your research on specific parts of the journey.

On its own, it has a lot of long legs where you will not see anything but the ocean on the horizon. So for those of you who mind this, you gotta make it your own, customize it a bit, so that you spend more time at places that you like.

This planning really is important. Some of those legs can't be made during certain seasons if you want to be careful, so to make sure you don't get stuck somewhere you don't particularly like, you should plan well.

With that, let's get crazier.

For those who want to do things the hard way. Perhaps you really like the scenery, perhaps you want to test yourself, or maybe you've done every other passage, and now it is time for the icy one.

There is a circumnavigation route that leads through regions so far up north you mostly don't encounter them even on a map. Because why would you look up there.

Now I don't know how long this article will survive on the internet, but note that this route is rather climatically contextual. Given enough time, it might freeze over and become unavailable.

For me, it would begin in one of the northern ports of Norway and then:

• continue west to Iceland
• west to the south of Greenland and then up its western coast to the Baffin Bay
• south of Devon Island and through the archipelagos to Beaufort and Chuchki Seas
• west along the northern coast of Russia under the Lyakhovsky Islands
• west under the Yuzhny Island to the Barents Sea and back to the north of Norway

To this, you will have to add the most straightforward route north from wherever you are to any point on the route above.

Cold. Thus this requires clothing, equipment, and a boat that can withstand the polar temperatures along with chunks of ice floating around.

How much more adventurous can you get? Circumnavigation has been accomplished by plenty of people. This, not so much.

With the above, the major sailing routes have been covered. So what follows are mostly variations. Important ones, though.

Imagine this one mostly as the Traditional Route, except with a few twists. One of them leads through the Gulf of Aden, the Red Sea, and the Suez Canal.

Why take it? Because if you look on the map, you will see that when going from the general direction of Australia or Southeast Asia west, meaning you are probably aiming for the Azores or further for the Caribbean, it will save you a lot of time.

Money, not so much. You will have to pay for security. Because although you will save yourself the long southern route around the whole continent of Africa, which is nearly a 10,000-mile detour, you will have to go through the aforementioned areas that are famous for piracy and require professional armed company if you want to be on the safe side.

Not that it hasn't been done without it, but you know… Furthermore, many insurances won't cover you there since the risks are just too high.

Similarly, the area around Malaysia and the Philippines, which you might encounter during your Southeast Asia travels, bears the same story. No coverage by many insurances for piracy reasons.

Then again, exploring Southeast Asia while avoiding these regions means a few detours and no-go zones.

So if you want to explore the world on your sailboat and don't mind the risk, add these to your route plans.

Obviously, the risk or costs related to security. You will find plenty of sailors arguing that there is no real danger unless you are a cargo ship or a kidnapping worthy target. You will also find plenty who would rather travel in a fleet through there. And plenty who would never set sail towards those places.

Then there is the insurance issue.

With Suez, the upside is the saved time as well as not having to go around the treacherous South African cape waters.

With the Philippines and Malaysia, it's the convenience of being able to go wherever you want to in one of the most beautiful regions worldwide.

See this one as a variant of the Traditional Route and the Pleasure Route.

Some places are cheaper than others. And some places straight up make very little sense to go to.

Going through the Panama Canal is at least a $1,300 expense. Or, there are countries, like Ecuador, where check-in can cost you a $1,000 fee. And last but not least, prices of resources, like food, vary too. The Caribbean is famous for its steep prices in the provisions area.

The prices change, so it would not be bulletproof to give you a precise circumnavigation route exclusively through cheap places. Still, the moral of the story here is that when planning your route, do have a look at the local prices when it comes to check-ins and visas, food and various passes.

The result should be a route you are comfortable with financially. Avoiding the Panama Canal means a detour around the whole of South America, so it rarely pays off. Avoiding Ecuador, on the other hand, won't hinder your progress and save you money. Stocking up on food before getting into the Caribbean is also a sound logistical choice - unless you plan to stay for longer than your stocks can take you.

Saving money can mean detours, inaccessibility of various places, and more thought put into logistics. So it can result in a less elegant route.

On the other hand, being smart about it can result in a much lower bill overall.

Let me start this one by admitting that I don't believe anybody will actually take this route in its entirety, as delineated here. But it serves as an inspiration to those who are perhaps a bit unsure or simply like to combine two different sailing styles.

Some like to cross vast oceans and love to see nothing but the horizon for months. And then some like to stick to coastal waters for most of their journeys. Nothing wrong with that; at least it gives you something to look at any given moment.

And then there is the benefit of relative safety, a port or an anchorage close by most of the time, the ability to resupply whenever you like, to pick up and drop off people, and last but not least the lack of need for a really ocean-worthy boat and equipment.

I'm talking about the coastal cruiser's dream of circling all the world's continents, whereby effectively circumnavigating the globe. Eventually. This is the longest route ever.

The idea is pretty simple. You can go around the world sticking to the coast with no crossings, except for the Norwegian Sea and a few short stretches in Southeast Asia.

Or, if you feel up to it (and want to avoid the freezing northern places), you can cross the Atlantic, the Pacific and keep close to the coasts otherwise.

As mentioned in the beginning, not many will actually take this entire route. But it is not uncommon for circumnavigators to have weeks or months where they do exactly this - stick to the coast and enjoy the country.

Lots and lots of time and resources are needed.

You will constantly be checking into countries and solving visas.

Understand the required paperwork for sailing the world This is an article on the topic of check-ins and paperwork, so have a read through it Read up on global licenses

Some areas are arguably less hospitable than others - the coast of Yemen as an example. So you might want to skip a few.

You don't need a proper ocean exploring boat - an island-hopping model will suffice. Many of the modern ones are capable of long crossings if needed here and there.

You don't need as much equipment as power, water, food, and all that jazz will be available most of the time.

The logistics will suddenly become a whole lot easier. Fewer provisions planning, less spare parts planning, broken stuff won't be a disaster… you get the point.

This is the true world tour.

I liked your article; it raised a lot of good points. I think the article could have benefitted from some maps.

I also think that, throughout the article, you have confused the Canary Islands or Madeira with the Azores. The Azores are not south from Gibraltor or France or Europe. They are 1/3 the way across the Atlantic Ocean, almost due west from Lisbon. The Canaries are south from Gilbrator, France and Europe and most people turn west there for the Caribbean.

Again, I liked the article.

Best wishes.

Leave a comment

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Do You Want to Sail Around The World? Here’s 7 Ways to Make it Happen!

Are you dreaming about sailing around the world?

Thankfully, quite a few of us humans have thrown out the dated mentality that we have to grow up, get married, have kids, get a good job and then when we retire we can travel (or have fun). Who wants to wait until they’re 65 years old to sail around the world?

My family and I have been sailing around the world for over five years now.

And while doing so we’ve come across a wide variety of opportunities to sail around the world . Allow me to list them…

How to Sail Around the World – 7 Ways to Make It Happen

1. get paid to sail around the world.

Review various crew-training courses and find a link between your skillset and crew jobs.

Qualifications include: Deckhands, Steward/ess, Engineering, Interior Training, Chef, all the way through to becoming a qualified Captain.

Our friend Stephanie is currently working her way up to being a Captain. To get her hours in, she’s spent time crewing on a 90’ motor yacht in the Caribbean, a 65’ sailboat in the Mediterranean and she’s now on a 120’ floating palace in the Pacific.

As her job qualifications increase so does her pay packet. AND… let’s not forget that she’s seeing the world in the process.

Gerald, another friend, works for a high-end sailboat manufacturer. He services all the sailboats currently making their way around the world in a three year organized around-the-world rally.

On each leg of the journey, he joins a different boat heading to the next destination. In-between passages he works on servicing the whole feet.

And these are just a few of many examples of how you can get paid to sail around the world.

If you want to do a professional sailing course, then courses from the American Sailing Association ( ASA ) and the  Royal Yachting Association ( RYA ) are good, internationally recognized options. The courses are offered by many sailing schools all over the world.

2. Volunteer to Crew on Smaller Sailboats

Are you in a rush to get on a sailboat? Would you prefer to skip the qualifications and head straight for the experiential side of sailing? If so, get in touch with sailors that are currently sailing around the world and offer to volunteer your time.

We took four volunteers sailing across the Atlantic Ocean with us and have had several others join us for one or many long-distance passages.

You can find sailing couples and families on YouTube (many have Youtube channels), by searching for Sailing Bloggers, and by joining sailing groups (on Facebook for example).

And there are dedicated websites such as Crewseekers.net and Crewbay.com where you can create a profile listing your experience and information about where and when you’d like to sail.

When emailing or talking to a boat owner explain your desire to volunteer, any relevant skillsets, and your availability.

We’re always looking for an extra pair of hands but it’s great when we have guests that know about electrics, plumbing, woodwork, cooking, and those that are happy to help us entertain our seven-year-old!

3. Seek out Boat Sitting Opportunities

This is a great opportunity for those that want to sail around the world but don’t actually like sailing OR like the idea of sailing but get seasick.

Most boat owners making their way around the world take time out to go home. They’ll often find the safest marina they can but leaving a boat is scary for a boat owner.

Some owners find boat sitters that will babysit the boat for a few weeks or even months.

There’s often no exchange of money but both parties win. The boat owner has someone keeping an eye on things and the boat sitter gets free accommodation in a variety of awesome spots.

To find these opportunities, simply search on Google, ‘ boat sitter jobs ’.

4. Date a Single Boat Owner

This might seem like a crazy objective but it happens all the time.

Boat owner boy or girl meets non-boat-owner girl or boy. They fall in love and the boat owner says, ‘let’s sail around the world’. The rest is history.

To increase your chances of success, hang out in marinas and yacht clubs.

Of course be careful, because you do end up sharing a small living space in often very remote places. But, I’ve heard many beautiful love stories.

5. Go on a Sailboat Cruise or Join an Around the World Race Boat

Some sailboats continuously go around the world. You can choose the area you want to see and pay for that particular leg of the journey.

If you have the funds to go all the way around the world, bonus. If not, you can do a different leg every year until you achieve your goal.

6. Set up a Boat Share

Find some friends that have similar ambitions as you have. Pool your money together to get a boat. Once the boat is obtained, work on a plan to sail it around the world.

There are several syndicate boat owners making their way around the world doing one to two passages a year.

The owners work year-round but take vacations to sail the boat to the next destination. This makes it a great way to sail around the world while keeping your job.

7. Buy Your Own Boat

This isn’t as difficult as it may seem. For US$40,000 you could get a reasonable boat to sail around the world in.

Many boaters sell their house, buy a boat and turn to a nomadic sea life. The key issue is to find a source of income while sailing around the world.

Renting out property, working online and finding work-from-home jobs are ways that many people make it work.

Or, there are those that buy a boat and sail it six months out of the year and return home to work for six months.

Before you buy a boat though, do a lot of research.

Boats require more maintenance than you probably thought (it sometimes feels like the work never ends!). And, if you want to sail around the world the boat you choose needs to be up to the job.

I’d recommend reading all the blogs you can find about living on a sailboat and about sailing around the world. Watch Youtube videos from people who are currently sailing around the world to get inspired and to get an idea of what it would be like to do this yourself.

Also Read: How to Work Remotely From Anywhere in the World and My Experiences Sailing Across the Atlantic

Sail Around the World. Make it Happen!

Sailing around the world is one of the most exhilarating, fulfilling, and incredible ways to see the world.

And you don’t have to wait until you win the lottery to make it happen.

Tip: if you want to get more sailing experience, or want to figure out if sailing around the world is really for you, chartering a boat is a good option. When you volunteer as crew, the owners often don’t have the time or ability to teach you real sailing. But when you charter a boat with a captain, the captain is there to, literally, show you the ropes.

Or, charter a boat without a captain if you know how to sail already and want to build miles and perhaps try out different boats.

I know, chartering a boat may sound expensive, but split the cost with friends (or post a message in a sailing group on Facebook to share a boat with other sailing enthusiasts) and it will all of a sudden cost you barely more than a hotel room.

Click&Boat is one of the best websites to charter a sailboat in most countries around the world.

Renting a boat in Greece is a popular option to build miles and gain experience, as I describe in this article .

Whichever way you choose to start your sailing adventure, I hope I’ll see you on the sea soon!

• How to Stay Healthy While Traveling Long Term
• Chartering a Yacht in The Caribbean – Where to Go & Other Tips
• Sailing in St Lucia: Anchorages, Sailing Tips & More
• A Detailed Guide for Sailing in Grenada
• Sailing from St. Maarten to the British Virgin Islands
• 7 of the Best Places to Visit by Boat in Miami, Florida
• Why You Should Go on a Cruise at Least Once in Your Life

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17 thoughts on “Do You Want to Sail Around The World? Here’s 7 Ways to Make it Happen!”

I would love to have the chance to sail the 7 seas!!

Where can I find a person looking for a traveling worker/friend? Hopefully that’s how they would see a person to circumnavigate the globe with anyway. I Just don’t want to feel like I’m on an adventure with my boss. I’m extremely serious about sailing around the world. Really looking to try and find someone with a fire under them to start a trip sooner rather than later. One or two people to help me getting the whole thing going from the acquisition of a boat to finish. CHEAPLY will be a great adventure.

Hi Ben, did you try connecting with other people through sailing forums or sailing Facebook groups? You are very likely to find people there who are interested in sailing around the world in the same way as you are.

Hi ben! did you ever make your journey around the world on a sailboat? I want to do the same thing even if I have to give a little and pay a little.

Great post. Thank you heaps. Would love to set sail soon. If theres any single ladies with an ocean cruising boat out there looking for a friendly sailor to date, hit me up 😉. Cant wait to circumnavigate the planet with you.

I would love to spend a year at sea. Just need a way to do it!

So glad to have found your site! All my husband is doing is looking at boats for sail and talked of leaving his job to sail around the world. It sounds wonderful, but we have a 7 year old and one about to leave for adulting in 1 1/2 years. So I just don’t know how to take that leap. He is ready to get away from his crazy job. So many things to think about as a mom and I know my kids would learn SO much more in life than just common core stuff the US is currently teaching.

I want to sail around the world. Well I’m dying and I can’t be cured so my last wish is to buy a sailing boat like an ocean going yacht and just pack some food and normal provisions and just cast off and set sail. I’m looking to buy an old boat that’s ok for the open seas and just go. I know how to rig the sails and basic things but I can’t read maps or do the compass but that’s not a problem. I have sourced ocean yacht that has got the milage behind it but it’s an old wooden boat. I’m not too worried as it’s a sound boat but i need to know how to set the auto pilot and set the course from here in the uk to america first stop. ive got at least 8 months left in my life so I want to just head out to sea. The boat is 22 ft long. It’s a good solid boat as far as I’m told. It has a compass and an inboard engine and it can be crewed by 1 man. I’m kinda disabled so I thought I would set the mainsail and then the other 2 sails and just get the boat out off the harbor and then just follow the coast around till I get to the open sea and then head towards the north star and see where it takes me. I don’t know how to use the radio but it should be simple I guess. I’ve got plenty of excess fuel for the inboard engine and a tank of fresh water. I have no charts as I can’t read them but I’m guessing head along the English channel till I get to the Atlantic ocean then head towards Ireland and then from there head towards America across the Irish sea. I ain’t got no licenses for radio but that’s not a problem if it ain’t going to be used.

I want to do this trip before I pop off to the promised land and the time by my self will help me to come to terms with what I’ve got to come. Anyway, any help in telling me instructions on what to do on my boat as to keeping engine and lighting working and how to do the autopilot and the other instruments will be a help.

It’s something I’ve longed to do sail a yacht on the ocean as they say you don’t know till you try it. Please any tips would be helpful.

Love this post! Trying to achieve the dream right now, can’t wait to finally take the leap and buy the boat 🙂 Am loving reading about your other adventures.

Haha I absolutely love this post idea and dating a boat owner is definitely my favorite! 😀 Maybe I’ll add that to my bucket list, cause I can definitely see me sailing around the world! Also, your pictures look stunning!

I would love to sail around the world but alas I can get quite sea sick! Definitely need to take more meds or natural remedies to be able to complete this challenge! Wouldn’t mind dating a boat owner for it either 😀

Since buying my own boat is impossible, I actually love the idea of being a boat caretaker! I really didn’t think there was something like that but it sounds about perfect. You get to live on a boat without investing any money at all, for weeks! What an amazing idea 😀

Wow sounds just awsome!!

LOL I somehow don’t think any of those will happen for me – but I had no idea there were so many options to sail around the world. And, if you could find me a dating site where I could filter out ‘single boat owners’ who are also millionaires, that would be a good starting point…

Sounds like a dream come true if you don’t get seasick! I would love to sail around the world. Just looking at your photos entices me to do it. But as I do get terribly seasick I don’t think I would have a good time.

Those pictures look absolutely stunning! I have been sailing before, but always close to land, where the water is “friendly” 🙂 I’m not sure if I have the stomach to cross complete oceans though 🙂

Date a single boat owner! Ha, that’s funny. More likely than buying my own boat though. What an adventure!

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Can Yacht Travel Around the World? All You Need To Know

Have you ever dreamed of setting sail on a yacht and traveling around the world? It may seem like a far-fetched dream, but it can actually be done! In this article, we will be covering all you need to know to set off on a voyage around the world on a yacht.

We will discuss the preparation and permits necessary to embark, navigating foreign ports, equipping the yacht for the voyage, planning the voyage, and dealing with unexpected events.

Finally, we will look at the benefits of yacht travel around the world.

So, if youre ready to set sail, lets get started!.

Table of Contents

Short Answer

Yes, yachts can travel around the world.

Many people choose to sail around the world in their own yachts or in chartered yachts.

The journey is often long, taking several months and even up to years, depending on the route and the pace at which the journey is taken.

It is an experience that many people find to be both thrilling and rewarding.

Preparing for Yacht Travel Around the World

Preparing for a voyage around the world in your own yacht requires careful planning and preparation.

Before setting sail, you should ensure that your yacht is in good shape and properly equipped for the voyage.

This includes making sure all of your onboard systems are functioning properly, that all necessary safety equipment is on board and in good condition, and that you have enough supplies for the entire journey.

Additionally, you should make sure that your vessel is properly registered and insured, and that all necessary permits and visas are obtained prior to entering foreign ports.

It is also important to plan your route in advance, as youll need to decide which ports to stop in and where to refuel or restock supplies.

While some ports may offer more services than others, you should research each one in advance to determine its amenities and what you may need to bring with you.

Additionally, you should plan for any potential delays or emergencies and make sure you have a back-up plan in case something goes wrong.

Finally, youll need to make sure that your crew is properly trained and experienced in sailing.

Depending on the length of the voyage, you may need to bring additional crew members onboard, so make sure to check the legal requirements for each country youll be sailing in.

With the right preparation and planning, youll be ready to set sail on an unforgettable voyage around the world.

Obtaining Necessary Permits and Visas

When planning a journey around the world in a yacht, it is important to obtain the necessary permits and visas for each country you will be visiting.

Most countries require that the yacht be registered, and the captain and crew must be in possession of valid visas and other documentation.

Additionally, you may need to obtain permission from each country to enter their waters, and you may be subject to inspections and fines if you do not comply with their laws.

In some cases, you may need to arrange for a special permit or exemption in order to be allowed entry.

Furthermore, depending on the country you are entering, you may be required to pay taxes and fees related to the voyage.

It is important to research the requirements for each country you will be visiting in order to ensure that you are able to travel legally.

Navigating Foreign Ports

Navigating foreign ports is a crucial part of yacht travel around the world.

Before setting off on a voyage, it is important to obtain the necessary permits and visas for each port along the route.

In addition to this, it is also important to ensure that the yacht is properly equipped for the voyage.

This means having the correct navigational charts, an up-to-date GPS, and other items that may be required for the voyage.

Once the yacht is prepared, it is important to research each port in advance.

It is important to know the local regulations, the navigation rules and regulations, and the necessary paperwork required for entry.

It is also important to familiarize oneself with the local customs and culture in each port.

When navigating a foreign port, it is important to use caution and be aware of any local hazards.

This includes checking the tide and current levels, as well as any underwater obstacles that could cause damage to the yacht.

It is also important to be aware of the local weather conditions, as this can affect the voyage.

Once the yacht arrives in a foreign port, it is important to ensure that the dock is secure and there is no risk of theft or damage.

The crew should also take the necessary security precautions to ensure the safety of the yacht and its crew.

In addition, the crew should be aware of any local laws and regulations that may affect the voyage.

Navigating foreign ports can be a daunting task, but with careful planning and preparation, it is possible to make a successful voyage around the world.

With the right mindset and proper research, a yacht can safely and successfully navigate any foreign port.

Equipping the Yacht for a Voyage Around the World

When it comes to equipping a yacht for a voyage around the world, there is a lot to consider.

A yacht must be properly outfitted to ensure the safety and comfort of the crew, as well as the ability to navigate the open seas.

First and foremost, the yacht must be in good condition, both structurally and mechanically.

The hull and engine should be inspected regularly to ensure they are in top form and able to withstand the rigors of the voyage.

Additionally, the yacht should be equipped with the necessary safety gear, such as life jackets, flares, and a first-aid kit.

A well-stocked toolkit is also essential, as is a reliable watermaker, generator, and navigation equipment.

The yacht should also be stocked with enough food and supplies to last the entire voyage.

This means stocking up on canned goods and other non-perishables, as well as plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

It is also a good idea to have a backup supply of fuel and water, as well as additional spare parts in case of emergency.

Finally, the yacht should be equipped with the necessary navigation and communication equipment.

This includes a good quality navigation chart, a reliable GPS, a reliable VHF radio, and a satellite phone.

Additionally, a good quality weather station is essential for monitoring weather conditions and potential storms.

Equipping a yacht for a voyage around the world is a big undertaking, but is necessary for a successful and safe voyage.

Careful planning and preparation are key to ensuring the yacht is ready for whatever the voyage has in store.

With the right equipment, crew, and preparation, a voyage around the world in a yacht can be an unforgettable experience.

Planning the Voyage

Planning a voyage around the world in a yacht can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it will require careful preparation.

Before embarking on such a journey, it is important to make sure the yacht is properly equipped and the necessary permits and visas have been obtained.

Additionally, it is important to consider how the voyage will be broken up.

Depending on the size and type of yacht, the voyage could take anywhere from a few months to a year, so it is important to plan for stops in various ports along the way.

When planning the voyage, it is important to consider what route to take and the type of weather conditions the yacht will encounter on its journey.

Researching the prevailing weather patterns and wind conditions in the areas to be sailed can help ensure a safe and enjoyable voyage.

Additionally, sailing only in daylight and avoiding sailing in areas prone to piracy can help reduce the risk of danger.

Another important consideration when planning a voyage around the world in a yacht is safety.

It is important to make sure the yacht is equipped with the necessary safety gear, such as life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit.

Additionally, it is important to make sure the yacht is equipped with a reliable communication system, such as a satellite phone or a VHF radio.

It is also important to make sure the crew is properly trained in basic sailing skills and safety procedures.

Once the voyage is planned and the yacht is properly equipped, it is important to make sure the crew is prepared for the voyage.

The crew should be familiar with the route, the weather conditions, and the safety procedures.

Additionally, the crew should be familiar with the necessary permits and visas required to enter ports along the way.

Finally, it is important to make sure the crew is properly provisioned with food, water, and medical supplies for the voyage.

Planning a voyage around the world in a yacht can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it will require careful preparation and planning.

Making sure the yacht is properly equipped and the crew is prepared can help ensure a safe and successful voyage.

Additionally, researching the weather and wind conditions, obtaining the necessary permits and visas, and planning for unexpected events can help make the voyage around the world an unforgettable experience.

Dealing with Unexpected Events

When it comes to yacht travel around the world, it is essential to plan for the unexpected.

Weather, engine trouble, or other unexpected events can delay or even derail a voyage around the world, so it is important to be prepared for anything that may come your way.

When planning for a voyage around the world, it is important to research the best routes and prepare for any potential storms or other adverse weather conditions.

Make sure to have a comprehensive plan in place that includes contingencies for potential delays or detours due to weather.

Additionally, it is important to have an emergency plan in place in the event of engine trouble.

Make sure to have the necessary tools and spare parts on board in case of any mechanical issues.

It is also important to plan for other unexpected events that could occur during a voyage around the world.

These could include medical emergencies, maritime security threats, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Make sure to have an emergency contact list with contact information for local authorities, medical professionals, and other relevant personnel that could help in an emergency.

Additionally, make sure to research the local laws and regulations of the ports you will be visiting, and have the necessary visas and permits in place before you embark on your voyage.

By being prepared for the unexpected, you can ensure that your yacht travel around the world is an unforgettable experience.

With the right preparation, you can make sure that your voyage is as safe, smooth, and enjoyable as possible.

The Benefits of Yacht Travel Around the World

Yacht travel around the world is a great adventure for those who are passionate about sailing and exploring.

Whether you are looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience or a way to escape the everyday grind, travelling the world aboard a yacht can be an incredible experience.

Not only does yacht travel provide an opportunity to explore new places and cultures, but it also offers a unique way of enjoying the scenery, as you get to experience places from the perspective of the sea.

Additionally, travelling around the world in a yacht allows for a much more intimate experience than traditional travel.

As the yacht is your home, you are able to get to know the places you visit much more closely and intimately.

This means that you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the places you visit in a much more personal way.

Finally, yacht travel around the world provides the opportunity to explore new cultures and meet people from all walks of life.

As you sail from port to port, you will be able to interact with people from different countries and backgrounds, giving you a unique and invaluable perspective on the world.

All in all, yacht travel around the world can be an unforgettable experience.

With careful planning and preparation, you can ensure that your voyage is safe and enjoyable, providing you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

Yacht travel around the world is an incredible adventure that requires careful planning and preparation.

From obtaining necessary permits and visas to equipping the yacht for a voyage around the world and planning for unexpected events, the journey is sure to be unforgettable.

However, with the right amount of preparation and planning, it can be a rewarding and incredible experience.

If you’re up for the challenge, why not start planning your very own voyage around the world in a yacht today?.

James Frami

At the age of 15, he and four other friends from his neighborhood constructed their first boat. He has been sailing for almost 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge that he wants to share with others.

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Home » Blog » Travel » So you want to sail around the world. Now what?

So you want to sail around the world. Now what?

By Author Fiona McGlynn

Posted on Last updated: November 20, 2023

Sailing around the world is a major undertaking, but you don’t have to be super rich, athletic, or have salt water running in your veins to do it.

I know bluewater cruisers and round-the-world sailors from all walks of life: young couples,  single women ,  families with kids , and an  85-year-old Reverand .

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When I was in my late twenties, my husband, Robin, and I spent three years sailing 13,000 nautical miles from Vancouver, Canada to Mexico and then across the Pacific to Australia in our 35-foot sailboat.

We didn’t complete a full circumnavigation of the world—our goal was to reach Australia—but that’s pretty common for cruisers our age (I’ll talk more about routes and timelines below).

I grew up dinghy sailing and Robin had no sailing experience at all. We had office jobs, average incomes, and knew almost nothing about bluewater sailing when we started. 

It was two years from buying our boat to casting off the dock lines and setting sail. However, we did 95% of our preparation in the year before we left. This just goes to show how quickly you can go from “dreamer” to “doer”.

How to sail around the world

For every bluewater cruiser I know, I can think of dozens of “armchair sailors” who dream of sailing around the world but never get out and do it.

Why? There are some big hurdles to overcome before you set sail: getting offshore experience, finding the right boat, outfitting it with all the right gear, learning how to be self-sufficient, and fixing things that break. 

Not to mention finding a way to finance it all.

There’s also a strong psychological and social element: “What will my parents, friends, and colleagues think?” “Will I be able to find work again with a big hole in my resume?”

Going bluewater cruising is a radical departure from the norm and an entirely new way of living. You’ll be faced with challenges, but that’s what makes it such an incredible experience.

If you want easy travel, get a camper van. Sailing around the world is a life-changing adventure. 

So, I wanted to share how we made our transition from landlubbers to bluewater cruisers and share a few resources to help you on your way.

1. Get some offshore sailing experience

Sure sailing around the world sounds romantic—the freedom of the open ocean, sunsets on a beach in Bora Bora, sipping fresh water from a coconut you picked yourself (words of caution: climbing a palm is much harder than it looks!).

But are you willing to put up with  the not-so-fun stuff  that comes with it?  Seasickness , scary conditions, sleep deprivation from  sailing at night , repairing your boat when it breaks (which it will), and being thousands of miles from friends and family?

Some of the best moments in my life were on the boat, but I’ve also had experiences that put me way out of my comfort zone.

It’s not simply a matter of being  mentally tough  (though that helps), some people are just never going to enjoy the sailing life.

The question is: is it right for you? What about your partner, your kids, or whoever else is coming along for the ride? 

Bluewater sailing can blow up relationships. I’ve heard many stories about sailing couples investing tens of thousands in their boats, only to set sail and discover that one or both of them hate it. 

So, before you buy a bluewater boat, quit your job, or give up your studio apartment, you (and your crew mates) should  go and get some offshore sailing experience . 

Spending a week on an offshore passage will not only teach you valuable skills, but it will also give you a taste of the challenges and joys that come with bluewater cruising.

There are plenty of ways to get experience if you don’t already own a boat:

• Take a course at an  offshore sailing school
• Try  sailboat hitchhiking
• Look for crewing opportunities (or pay for a spot) on a rally boat in the  ARC  (Atlantic Ocean crossing),  Pacific Puddle Jump  (Pacific Ocean crossing), or  Baja Haha  (San Diego to Cabo). 
• Become a crew member on a friend’s boat 

2. Find your community and immerse yourself in cruising culture

If you want to go cruising, you’re going to need a support network of people who’ve been there and done it.

We received so much help leading up to our trip (and along the way). Our liveaboard friends and neighbors in Vancouver helped us fix up our engine, rewire our boat, and find a great deal on a new set of sails, just to name a few. 

There are lots of ways to  find your sailing community , either online or in person. I highly recommend mooring your boat in a  liveaboard marina , where you’ll likely be surrounded by other bluewater cruisers.

You can also learn a lot from other people’s stories. Immerse yourself in bluewater cruising culture: read the  classic sailing books , subscribe to a magazine like  Good Old Boat  or  Cruising World , listen to  sailing podcasts , and follow a few  sailing Youtube channels  or  sailors on Instagram .

3. Make a plan

There are many different routes for sailing around the world. Most cruisers sail the easier legs—following the trade winds across the Atlantic and Pacific, transitting the Panama Canal —and spend their time exploring beautiful places and cruising grounds like the Galapagos Islands, French Polynesia, and New Zealand. 

Only a few cruisers take on the harder routes—transiting the Northwest passage, Southern Ocean, or Indian Ocean (perhaps you’ve heard of the infamous Cape Horn or the Cape of Good Hope?).

For route planning, I highly recommend picking up a copy of Jimmy Cornell’s  World Voyage Planner  which shows you how to sail from anywhere in the world to…well, anywhere in the world.

How long does it take to sail around the world?

The current world record for sailing around the world is 40 days, 23 hours, and 30 minutes (IDEC 3, skippered by Francis Joyon). But unless you’re going for the speed record, you’re going to want to visit the different countries you sail to.

I know cruisers who’ve circumnavigated in as little as five years and others who spend decades making the big loop. 

In my experience, it doesn’t pay to be in a rush because inevitably things don’t go to plan.

Your boat will break down and need repair which often means spending time in a boatyard. 

You may find yourself waiting weeks if not months for crucial parts. 

You may need to fly home in the middle of your cruise (as we did) when a relative is ill or dies. 

Or, you may just fall in love with one of the remote places you visit and want to stay for a while.

Bad weather and hurricane season will dictate when and where you sail. For example, we had originally planned to cross the Pacific in 2016, but we didn’t feel ready. So, we waited a whole year for the right conditions and crossed in the spring of 2017.

My recommendation is to give yourself a minimum of three years to trial the cruising life . Make a plan but don’t be disappointed if you have to throw it to the winds.

4. Make a cruising budget

When people learned that we were traveling the world on our sailboat, they often assumed that we were independently wealthy, which couldn’t have been further from the truth!

We’ve cruised for as little as $1000 a month, but when it comes to cruising budgets, the sky is the limit. It all depends on:

• Your boat . Smaller boats cost less to buy and maintain.
• Destinations . We found places like Mexico and Fiji very affordable, while places like French Polynesia and Australia were quite expensive. 
• Your timeline. Most of the young cruisers we knew were on three-year timelines (because that’s what they could afford). The retirees and families we met often had the financial means to cruise for longer (sometimes indefinitely). Some had houses that they rented, and others would take breaks in places like New Zealand where they worked regular jobs.
• Whether you’re willing to work along the way. We wrote for sailing magazines while we were cruising, but it wasn’t enough money to fund our trip. We mostly relied on savings. With technology like Starlink and the post-pandemic remote work boom, it’s probably easier today to  earn money while cruising . However, cruising is a full-time job. It can be challenging to cover ground while keeping up with work commitments
• Your lifestyle. As I mentioned, it’s possible to  sail around the world on a budget . But we lived pretty rough: no air-conditioning, no freezer, no hot water—at one point, we hadn’t taken a shower for 8 months!

When making your budget, I’d suggest perusing a few  sailing blogs  where cruisers post their monthly expense. 

Also, there are plenty of  creative ways to finance a sailboat . Some people even manage to  travel the world for free by buying and selling their boats in the right markets . 

5. Buy a bluewater boat

You can’t sail around the world in any old sailboat.  Bluewater boats have specific design characteristics  that make them appropriate for offshore sailing. 

I love data, so I made a list of the  best bluewater sailboats  by looking at 2,000 boats that were entered in the Pacific Puddle Jump, a cross-Pacific rally, over the last decade. We also have a list of  smaller boats  which I recommend if you’re on a budget.

Once you have your list, you can get busy searching YachtWorld, Craigslist, and these other  great places to buy used boats . 

Keep in mind that a bluewater boat isn’t necessarily a seaworthy boat. It may have structural damage, unsound rigging, or need an expensive retrofit. Uncover any lurking issues (and know what they’ll cost to fix) before you sign on the dotted line.

We had a very in-depth  boat checklist  that we used to inspect every boat we considered buying. We also hired an accredited marine surveyor, twice, to survey every detail of our boat. The first time was for the purchase, the second time was when we were preparing to go offshore.

For more on how to search,  understand boat values , and close the deal, check out our series on  how to buy a boat .

6. Live on your boat

The next big step on your cruising journey will be moving onto your boat.

We lived on our boat for two years before we set sail and it taught us so much about the boat (read: what needed to be fixed) as well as ourselves (and whether we could handle close-quarter life).

By moving aboard you’ll learn if living on a boat is right for you  and your family. You can also save a bunch of money for your trip. After two years of living aboard, our rent savings paid for the purchase of our boat.

7. Prepare yourself

Preparing yourself for going offshore is a major undertaking. You’ll need to learn advanced navigation, weather, and excellent seamanship, among other things.

It’s not enough to know the theory. Get out and practice with your gear and become comfortable with maneuvers like reefing,  heaving to , sailing downwind with a pole out genoa , and  anchoring under sail .

In addition, you should become intimately familiar with your boat’s systems. Sailboats break down at sea (here are the  most common problems ). So, you have to be capable of fixing your boat when you’re hundreds of miles from shore. 

Become an expert in your boat’s electrical system , propulsion, rigging, sails, and plumbing, before you go.

When the pandemic hit, a lot of sailing education moved online. Now there are plenty of great  online sailing courses  covering everything from learning the parts of a sailboat to celestial navigation.

That being said you can’t beat on-the-water instruction and offshore experience (see #1 for offshore sailing courses). 

8. Outfit your boat

Preparing your boat for offshore will take dedicated effort and money, especially if it’s an older boat that’s not been previously equipped for bluewater sailing.

In addition to fixing existing issues and replacing old equipment, you’ll want to add offshore gear like a  watermaker , a boom brake , downwind sails , self-steering wind vane, life raft,  satellite phone , AIS, solar panels, and inverter. 

Not to mention all the spare parts you’ll need to keep these systems running. 

Needless to say, outfitting can get pretty expensive but you can save money by buying used boat parts and second-hand sails .

We spent six months in the boatyard, working full-time on our 1979 Dufour 35 to get her ready to sail. We built a solar arch , installed panels, replaced our rigging, added a roller furler, replaced our anchoring setup, removed 30 years of antifouling paint, and much much more. 

9. Do a shakedown cruise

Next, it’s time to test your boat (and yourself) by taking it on a shakedown cruise. The idea of a shakedown is to test your boat’s performance after any major changes or repairs. The goal is to find any issues (and fix them) before going farther afield. 

We circumnavigated Vancouver Island for our shakedown cruise. It took us a little over a month and allowed us to test our systems in a variety of conditions including ocean swell, fast currents, and light and moderate wind speeds.

Despite checking and fixing every system on our boat over the preceding months, we still had issues. Our engine quit, we struggled to get our wind vane working, and we had to make a few adaptations to our brand-new sails. But that’s the whole point of a shakedown cruise!

10. Go now!

“Go small, go simple, go now” is a popular cruising philosophy and one that we adhere to.

Life is short and we’ve seen poor health and other life situations bring cruising adventures to a halt.

There’s no ideal time to go cruising. You can be young or old, with or without kids, retired or working. 

Certainly don’t wait until you can afford a larger boat. A  small boat  was our ticket to cruising early in life because it made it more affordable. 

If your dream is to sail around the world, start working towards your cruising dream NOW. You won’t regret it.

Let us know how we can help you on your bluewater journey and what topics you’d like to learn more about by leaving us a message in the comments.

Fiona McGlynn is an award-winning boating writer who created Waterborne as a place to learn about living aboard and traveling the world by sailboat. She has written for boating magazines including BoatUS, SAIL, Cruising World, and Good Old Boat. She’s also a contributing editor at Good Old Boat and BoatUS Magazine. In 2017, Fiona and her husband completed a 3-year, 13,000-mile voyage from Vancouver to Mexico to Australia on their 35-foot sailboat.

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Sailboat Life

Sailboat Cruising and Lifestyle Magazine.

World Cruising Routes and Voyage Planner

Planning an ocean voyage on a sailboat requires careful preparation and research. You need to consider factors such as the route, the weather, the equipment, the crew, the budget, and the safety measures. Here are two resources you can’t go without.

World Cruising Routes

World Cruising Routes is the go-to guidebook for long-distance navigators, cruisers, and sailors. It contains over 1,000 routes to destinations all over the globe rich with essential weather information, waypoints, and advice for safe passage making.

“Some routes start as a dream and end as a nightmare.” The first sentence in World Cruising Routes sets the stage for the rest of the book – how to plan your routes for successful passages. The contents include:

• Winds and currents of each major ocean and sea.
• Routes in the Atlantic Ocean are divided into North Atlantic, transequatorial routes, and South Atlantic.
• Routes in the Pacific Ocean are divided into North Pacific, far east, transequatorial, and South Pacific.
• Routes of the Indian Ocean are divided into North Atlantic, transequatorial, and South Indian Ocean.
• Routes in the Red Sea and the Mediterranean Sea.

World Voyage Planner

This book is a comprehensive strategy and informational guide for planning a voyage. It takes the sailor from any port to wherever they’d like to go.

The contents of World Voyage Planner includes:

• World Weather Patterns Month by Month, Ocean by Ocean
• Planning an Ocean Voyage to the Caribbean from different continents
• Routes to the Mediterranean Sea from All Major Ports in the World
• Planning Voyages to North America and Northern Europe
• How to Sail to South America and Antarctica
• Voyage planning to South Africa
• Circumnavigations of various Oceans and Sea
• Pacific Routes to Fiji, Mexico, Asia, Australia, and Other Destinations
• Route planning in the Indian Ocean
• And an Entire Section on Global Circumnavigation

The book is designed to guide the sailor in planning large voyages. It’s meant to be a companion to the World Cruising Routes .

Preview the contents of Word Voyage Planner and purchasing options on Amazon.

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The Voyage of the Sea Star – 35ft Sloop to Bermuda

Living Aboard a 30-36ft Sailboat: A Guide for the Curious and Adventurous

Summer Sailboat Video, Bikinis, Sails, and Fun

Saved Up For This Dream

Imagine for a moment that you are on the deck of a ship, sipping a glass of wine. You turn your head towards the water just in time to spot a pod of dolphins swimming by or flying fish, providing company in the ocean. After lingering in the sunshine for a while, it's time to head inside for a 3-course evening meal and a splash in the pool before retiring to bed.

Now, what kind of vessel are you on?

No, you are not on a standard commercial cruise ship. You are not on a packed luxury liner hopping between Caribbean islands. You are aboard a modern freighter. Hundreds of cargo ships, carrying everything from fire engines to apples, are crossing the world's oceans, and many are happy to take you along for the ride. Adventurous travelers, including the Transitions Abroad family, have been doing so for years, as have many long before us.

What Does Travel on a Cargo Ship Feel Like?

A far more intimate and relaxed experience than you might imagine! The experience on board contrasts sharply with the rough and industrial outward appearance a container ship tends to project. You will be one of a handful of passengers among a crew likely to number up to a dozen or a few more. There will be no evening cabaret shows as on a standard cruise, though you may have access to TV, video, and board games in a common area on the ship where passengers may meet the crew. You may even play cards with the crew under the night skies. You might be invited to karaoke with the sailors, and you will almost always dine alongside the captain, who is far more likely to turn up in shorts and a t-shirt than in full uniform. Some cargo ships also offer equipped exercise rooms or pools.

Here was our first taste of the wonders of sea travel. Our introduction to freighter travel was a relatively short 5-day sailing between Australia and New Zealand. We joined the French ship CMA CGM Utrillo in the busy port of Melbourne, where our luggage — including two bicycles and bags — was quickly hauled on board and into a spacious cabin by a host of cheery Filipino deckhands.

What are the Costs of Cargo Ship Travel?

Depending upon your destination (Transatlantic, Transpacific, South Seas, Worldwide, and other special combinations), your daily freighter travel costs will be about $100-$130 per day per person per day with a luggage allowance of approximately 30kg-100kg (66-220lbs) depending on the line you are taking. Generally, US dollars are the primary currency used onboard to buy soft drinks, snacks, beer, and toiletries. You can then use your credit cards at each location you disembark.

What kind of Hospitality Can You Expect on Board?

Our next surprise was how quickly we felt part of the family. Just moments after arriving, our fellow passenger (a French woman "going around the world in 80 days”) hinted that the captain was sure to throw us a welcome barbecue. “He does that for every one new,” she said with a wink. Sure enough, the next evening was spent on the back deck of the ship, feasting on grilled fish and chatting with the seamen as the sun went down.

One of our concerns before sailing was that we'd find the days long. It was just the opposite. There were three square meals a day (hearty plates of meat and vegetables for workers) and our time between eating was filled with strolls around the deck and trips up to the bridge to check our position and ask questions.

Had there ever been stowaways? Yes, once a harmless passenger was allowed to board. What about pirates? Not here, but there were off the coast of Africa. And just how much fuel did a cargo ship need? In the current era of relatively low oil prices, $60,000 U.S. a day will generally cover the trip.

Why is it a Relaxing Way to Travel?

With our curiosity temporarily curbed, we would return to our cabin for reading our books or Kindle, journal writing, and a bit of table tennis if we felt especially energetic. Far away from the hustle and bustle of life on firm land, we were truly relaxed. The experience was in complete contrast to our usual hurried airplane trips.

For Hamish Jamieson, the owner of Freighter Travel NZ and one of only a handful of travel agents in the world licensed to book tickets on cargo ships, the simplicity of being at sea is the main attraction.

“When you're sitting up the front of the bow of the ship, on your own, and all you see is the sea going past and you hear the wind and waves, you're in heaven. For me, an afternoon...sitting right on the bow, watching the world go by with my binoculars, that's my heaven,” he said.

What Kind of Flexibility is Needed for Freighter Travel?

Of course, nothing in life is all smooth sailing. While we didn't encounter any problems during our trip, we did struggle with the uncertain nature of freighter travel before we boarded. Our initial departure date jumped forward first by three days and then seemed to bounce around by 12-24 hours every time we called to check the latest news. Ours was not an uncommon experience and you must prepare yourself for flexibility.

Even ports of call are not guaranteed because on a cargo ship, freight comes first, not the passengers. If the demand is not there for a certain stop, the ship will go where the business is.

“Our trip from the USA to Europe changed three times after initial booking,” said Rebecca Hogue and Scott Drennan, then on a journey around the world without using airplanes . Their initial trip from South Carolina to Belgium was from Florida to Italy. “Had we not been flexible with our departure times and locations, things would not have worked out.”

As Mr. Jamieson is fond of telling his passengers, when you go to sea, there are two things you must pack: a sense of humor and a sense of patience.

What are the Practical Issues?

Your trip may also involve some red tape, particularly concerning U.S. stops. American citizens are not permitted, for example, to travel within their country by cargo ship, although they can make international journeys. Meanwhile, travelers to the United States must have a visa, even if they would not need one to arrive by air. Only Canadians are exempt from this rule.

Be sure to budget time and money to get vaccinations like Yellow Fever if you are going through the Suez and Panama canals. A medical certificate declaring you in generally good health is another typical requirement.

Where in the World Do You Want to Go?

The hardest part of booking your cargo ship voyage is deciding where to go. Will it be to South America and around Cape Horn? How about a 55-day round trip from California to Australia and New Zealand via Tahiti and Mexico? Mr. Jamieson offers a few more ideas and favorite voyages based on years of experience.

“For me the ultimate voyage is from Auckland, in New Zealand, to Singapore. It takes 40-45 days to sail what you can fly in just under 12 hours but it visits nearly every island in the Pacific on the way and it stops for 2-3 days. The second choice for me would be from Singapore through to Houston in Texas. It goes up through Thailand, Vietnam, half a dozen ports in China, into Japan, then straight across the Pacific and through the Panama Canal.”

With enough time and money at your disposal--round-the-world trips can take 80 to 100 days or more--there are few places a cargo ship can't reach. Voyage destinations on cargo ships can change, so the many options available will often surprise you. You need to be adventurous enough to do your research, find a specialized cargo ship travel agent (see resources below), and then get on board.

The Golden Rules of Cargo Ship Travel

• Be prepared to make your own fun. There are seldom programmed activities aside from the odd safety drill.
• Go before you're too old. An upper age limit of 77-80 years is not uncommon, as no doctor on board and there are often plenty of stairs.
• Check that your travel insurance covers freighter travel.
• Be flexible. Schedules can and do change frequently. You may need 2-3 ships to reach your destination.
• Book in advance. Cabins are limited and the most popular routes can be sold out by ships months ahead.
• Forget about working in exchange for your passage. Current union rules mean this is no longer permitted.
• Take a good supply of seasickness pills. While not very common, rough weather can occur, sending tables, chairs, and your stomach flying across the room.
• Wifi and other modern electronics are now often available on cargo ships for travelers . If connectivity is important to you, ask whether those options are accessible and free in advance.

Friedel Rother gave up her job as a journalist for Reuters to ride a bicycle around the world with her husband. They have published two books in addition to cycling.

Ultimate Guide: How to Sail Around the World – Expert Tips and Routes

Alex Morgan

Taking up the challenge of sailing around the world is an exhilarating and rewarding endeavor that requires careful planning and preparation. Whether you are a seasoned sailor or a novice, embarking on this global adventure requires a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects involved. From gaining sailing experience and choosing the right boat to planning the route and equipping your vessel, each step is crucial for a successful journey. Understanding weather patterns , maintaining health and well-being, and knowing how to handle emergencies at sea are essential skills to possess. Interacting with different cultures along the way also adds a unique dimension to the experience. In this article, we will guide you through the process, providing valuable insights and tips on how to sail around the world.

Key takeaway:

• Taking up the challenge: Sailing around the world requires determination and perseverance, but it can be a life-changing experience.
• Preparing for the journey: Gaining sailing experience, choosing the right boat, and securing necessary documents are crucial steps before setting sail.
• Planning your route: Selecting the best season, considering trade winds and currents, and identifying potential stops and ports are vital for a successful voyage.

Taking Up the Challenge: How to Sail Around the World

To embark on the challenge of sailing around the world , follow these steps:

1. Taking Up the Challenge: Gain sailing experience by learning navigation skills and sailing in various weather conditions.

2. Plan your route: Conduct thorough research on seasons, wind patterns, and potential hazards to chart the safest course.

3. Prepare your boat: Prioritize safety by equipping your boat with necessary safety gear, provisions, and performing regular maintenance checks.

4. Obtain necessary permits and visas: Ensure compliance with country entry requirements by obtaining the required permits and visas.

5. Study weather patterns: Familiarize yourself with meteorology to make informed navigation decisions and ensure a safe journey.

6. Create a watch schedule: Establish a rotation system to have someone always alert and attentive during long passages.

7. Stay connected: Invest in reliable communication devices to maintain communication with the outside world throughout your voyage.

8. Practice self-sufficiency: Acquire essential repair and maintenance skills to address any potential issues that may arise during the journey.

9. Be prepared for emergencies: Carry a well-stocked first aid kit and have emergency procedures in place to be ready for any unforeseen circumstances.

10. Enjoy the journey: Embrace the breathtaking views and savor the unique experiences encountered along the way.

Fact: Sailing around the world can be a voyage lasting anywhere from 1 to 3 years , depending on factors such as weather conditions, route choices, and boat speed.

Preparing for the Journey

Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? In this section, we’ll dive into the essential steps for preparing your journey as you set sail around the world. Discover the importance of gaining sailing experience , choosing the right boat , and securing the necessary documents . So, grab your compass and get ready to explore the thrilling world of global sailing!

Gaining Sailing Experience

When it comes to gaining sailing experience, there are steps you can take to build your skills and knowledge:

• Take sailing lessons or enroll in a sailing school to learn navigation, boat handling, and safety protocols.
• Join a yacht club or sailing community to connect with experienced sailors who can provide guidance and mentorship.
• Participate in regattas or sailing races to practice skills in competitive environments and learn from more experienced sailors.
• Crew on other people’s boats to gain practical experience and learn different sailing techniques.
• Sail in different conditions , such as different weather conditions and types of waters, to cultivate proficiency in different sailing scenarios.
• Stay up-to-date with sailing publications, books, and online resources to enhance theoretical understanding of sailing techniques, rules, and navigation.
• Consider completing certifications such as the American Sailing Association (ASA) or Royal Yachting Association (RYA) to validate sailing skills.

Fact: Gaining sailing experience is crucial for a safe and enjoyable sailing journey around the world.

Choosing the Right Boat

When sailing around the world, picking the right boat is crucial for a successful and safe voyage. Consider these factors when selecting your vessel:

1. Size: Determine the boat’s size based on the number of crew members and trip duration. A larger boat offers more space and stability but may be harder to maneuver.

2. Construction: Look for a boat made of durable materials like fiberglass or aluminum. They resist damage from waves and weather conditions.

3. Design: Consider the boat’s layout, ensuring it has enough storage space, comfortable living quarters, and a functional deck for sailing.

4. Sail Rigging: Choose a boat with a sail rigging system that matches your sailing experience and preferences. Options range from traditional sloop rigs to modern catamarans.

5. Navigation Equipment: Ensure the boat has essential navigation instruments such as a compass, GPS, and radar for safe navigation.

An illustrative story underscores the importance of choosing the right boat. A couple attempted to sail worldwide on a small boat. Despite their experience, the boat lacked stability and safety features for long-distance cruising. They faced multiple challenges, including rough seas and equipment failures. Eventually, they had to abandon their journey and get rescued. This story emphasizes the need for thorough research and selection of a suitable boat for your sailing adventure.

Securing the Necessary Documents

Securing the necessary documents is crucial when preparing to sail around the world. Follow these steps:

1. Research the required documents for each country you plan to visit, including passports, visas, and cruising permits.

2. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date to avoid complications.

3. Check the visa requirements for each country and apply well in advance. Some countries may have specific visa requirements, such as transit visas for shorter stopovers.

4. Obtain the necessary cruising permits or licenses for your vessel, providing proof of ownership and insurance.

5. Make copies of important documents, such as passports, visas, and permits. Keep these copies secure and carry them with you while sailing.

6. Consider getting international health insurance to cover medical emergencies while traveling.

7. Register your trip with your local embassy or consulate to receive assistance in emergencies or evacuations.

8. Stay updated on any changes in entry requirements or travel advisories for the countries you plan to visit.

Securing the necessary documents ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey around the world. It is advisable to start this process well in advance to allow for processing times or unexpected delays.

Planning Your Route

When it comes to sailing around the world, one of the most crucial aspects is planning your route. In this section, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details and explore how to select the best season for your voyage. We’ll also take a look at the importance of considering trade winds and currents in order to navigate efficiently. And of course, we’ll discuss the key factors to keep in mind when identifying potential stops and ports along your epic journey. Get ready to chart your course and make your sailing dreams a reality!

Selecting the Best Season

When planning a sailing journey around the world, selecting the best season is crucial. Consider factors such as weather conditions, navigation difficulties, visibility, chances of storms, and sea currents to help you determine the best season for your journey.

Typically, the summer months offer more stable weather conditions with calmer seas and lesser chances of storms. It is essential to research specific regions’ weather patterns as they can vary. For example, sailing through the Caribbean is best between December and April when the weather is pleasant with lower chances of hurricanes. Meanwhile, sailing across the Pacific may be best during the southern hemisphere’s summer months between November and April to take advantage of favorable winds.

Keep in mind that weather patterns can change, so it’s important to monitor forecasts and consult experienced sailors or local experts for accurate information to make the best decision.

Considering the Trade Winds and Currents

When considering a journey to sail around the world, it is crucial to incorporate the trade winds and currents into your planning. These natural forces can greatly impact the speed and direction of your voyage, making it essential to understand and take advantage of them.

The trade winds act as consistent winds that blow in specific directions in different parts of the world. By utilizing these winds, sailors can maintain a steady and efficient course.

Ocean currents resemble rivers within the ocean, flowing in various directions and speeds. By comprehending these currents, sailors can navigate more efficiently, ultimately saving both time and fuel.

To effectively plan your route, it is recommended to study weather charts, pilot books, and seek guidance from experienced sailors. This will help determine the best course to take full advantage of favorable winds and currents for each leg of your journey.

Remember that the timing of your departure is crucial as certain seasons may offer more favorable winds and currents. It is important to remain flexible and adjust your departure dates for a better sailing experience.

By considering the trade winds and currents , sailors can navigate their way around the world more efficiently, ultimately leading to smoother and faster passages.

Incorporating these factors into your planning is an essential aspect of ensuring a successful and enjoyable circumnavigation.

Identifying Potential Stops and Ports

When planning your journey to sail around the world, it is important to identify potential stops and ports. By doing so, you will have the opportunity to rest, resupply, and explore new destinations along the way. There are several important factors to consider when choosing these stops:

1. Research: It is essential to conduct thorough research in order to identify potential stops and ports that align with your travel goals. This includes taking into account the distance from your current location, the available facilities at each port, and the local attractions that may be of interest to you.

2. Navigation: To ensure a smooth journey, it is advisable to use nautical charts, guidebooks, and online resources to identify suitable ports. It is important to pay attention to any navigational hazards that may exist and ensure that the ports you choose have adequate mooring facilities available.

3. Infrastructure: Before selecting a port, it is crucial to check if it has the proper facilities to accommodate your vessel. This includes looking for marinas, anchorages, fuel stations, and repair services. By doing so, you can ensure safe docking and maintenance for your vessel.

4. Customs and Immigration: It is important to research the customs and immigration procedures for each potential stop in order to comply with local regulations. This includes planning enough time for clearance procedures and ensuring that you have all the necessary documents ready.

5. Safety and Security: Considering the safety and security of each stop is of utmost importance. It is advisable to look for ports that have a reputation for safety and low crime rates. Consulting experienced sailors or online communities for advice on port safety can provide valuable insights.

6. Local Attractions and Culture: It is important to take into account the attractions and cultural experiences available at each stop. Immersing yourself in different cultures, trying local cuisines, and exploring the beauty of each destination will enhance your journey.

By incorporating these considerations into your planning, you can ensure a more enjoyable and successful journey around the world.

Equipping Your Vessel

Equipping your vessel is crucial when embarking on a journey to sail around the world. In this section, we’ll explore key aspects such as ensuring safety equipment and first aid supplies , stocking up on food and water , and installing navigation and communication systems . Get ready to dive into the practical essentials that will make your sailing adventure safe and smooth, from the necessary gear to the provisions for sustenance and the tools for navigation.

Ensuring Safety Equipment and First Aid Supplies

When getting ready for a sailing adventure, it is essential to ensure the presence of safety equipment and first aid supplies. This will help protect both yourself and your crew. Here is a comprehensive list of the must-have items:

• Life jackets: It is crucial for each person to have a properly fitted life jacket.
• Flares and signaling devices: These items can effectively draw attention and assist rescuers in locating you during emergencies.
• Fire extinguishers: Make sure to have fire extinguishers on board to swiftly extinguish any fires.
• First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptics, and medications for addressing injuries or illnesses.
• Emergency radio: Use an emergency radio to communicate with the coast guard or other vessels in case of emergencies.
• Navigation tools: Carry a compass, charts, and a GPS system to ensure safe navigation.

By having these safety equipment and first aid supplies, you will have peace of mind and be well-prepared for any unexpected situations that may arise during your sailing journey.

Fun Fact: The International Safety Management (ISM) Code has provisions in place that require the proper presence of safety equipment and first aid supplies on ships to ensure the safety of both the crew and passengers.

Stocking Up on Food and Water

When embarking on a global sailing expedition, it is vital to stock up on provisions, including an ample supply of food and water, to satisfy the crew’s sustenance and overall well-being.

For sustenance , it is recommended to procure non-perishable food items, such as canned goods, dried fruits, nuts, and energy bars. It is essential to take into account any dietary restrictions and crew preferences when selecting these items. The aim should be to have enough food to last the entire journey, while also considering additional supplies for unforeseen emergencies .

To meet hydration needs, it is important to ensure an adequate water supply. This can be achieved by calculating the daily water consumption per person and multiplying it by the duration of the trip. Factors such as climate, physical exertion, and possible delays should be considered in this calculation. It is advisable to invest in water storage containers and filtration systems to ensure safety during the voyage. Carrying extra water capacity is recommended for added security .

It is crucial to create a detailed provisioning plan for each leg of the journey, taking into account potential restocking points along the route. This plan should be adjusted based on the availability of supplies at these points.

To prevent damage or spoilage of provisions during rough seas, it is essential to have adequate storage space. Using lockers and securing items will help safeguard them. For the preservation of perishable items, it is crucial to rotate them regularly to maintain freshness and avoid waste. Prioritizing the consumption of items with shorter expiration dates is advisable. Proper food storage techniques should be followed to prevent contamination .

By adhering to these guidelines and diligently planning food and water supplies, you can ensure proper nourishment and hydration throughout your exciting sailing adventure.

Installing Navigation and Communication Systems

To sail around the world, install navigation and communication systems on your vessel. This ensures safety and effective navigation throughout your journey.

• Choose a reliable GPS: Install a Global Positioning System (GPS) for accurate positioning information to determine your exact location at sea.
• Install a marine VHF radio: A marine VHF radio is crucial for communication with other boats and coastguards. It allows distress calls, weather updates, and communication with nearby vessels.
• Set up an AIS transponder: AIS transponders transmit your vessel’s information, such as position, speed, and course, to other vessels. This prevents collisions and enhances safety.
• Install radar: Radar systems detect objects, land masses, and other vessels using radio waves. It provides valuable information during poor visibility or night navigation.
• Consider satellite communication: Satellite communication systems keep you connected when out of traditional cellular networks. They provide weather updates, emergency services, and communication with loved ones onshore.

Pro-tip: Regularly test and maintain your navigation and communication systems to ensure optimal functionality before embarking on your journey. Familiarize yourself with their operation and keep spare parts or backup systems onboard as a precaution.

Understanding Weather Patterns

Weather patterns play a crucial role when it comes to sailing around the world. In this section, we’ll uncover the secrets to understanding these patterns. From learning how to interpret weather forecasts to navigating around tropical storms and heavy weather, we’ll equip you with the knowledge needed to sail safely. We’ll also explore how to tackle calms and light winds, ensuring you’re prepared for all conditions Mother Nature throws your way. Get ready to set sail with confidence!

Learning to Read Weather Forecasts

Learning to read weather forecasts is crucial for sailors. By understanding weather patterns, sailors can make informed decisions about when to set sail, avoid storms, and navigate through different wind conditions.

To read weather forecasts, sailors should analyze meteorological data such as wind direction , speed , atmospheric pressure , and cloud patterns . This information can be obtained from weather forecasting websites, radio broadcasts, and onboard weather instruments.

By interpreting weather forecasts, sailors can anticipate the behavior of weather systems and plan accordingly. For example, if a forecast predicts strong winds and storms , sailors can delay departure or seek shelter. Conversely, if the forecast indicates favorable conditions, sailors can plan longer passages and optimize their route using wind patterns.

Learning to read weather forecasts requires practice and knowledge of meteorological concepts. Sailors should familiarize themselves with weather symbols, terminology, and the use of weather instruments. It is important to stay updated with the latest forecasts throughout the journey to make necessary adjustments.

In a true story, a sailor named Lisa embarked on a solo circumnavigation. Her ability to interpret weather data and make informed decisions contributed to a safe and successful journey. Lisa learned the importance of constantly monitoring weather updates, trusting her instincts, and seeking advice from experienced sailors. Her newfound knowledge and skills in reading weather forecasts enhanced her confidence as a sailor.

Avoiding Tropical Storms and Heavy Weather

Stay updated on weather patterns and forecasts to anticipate the formation and movement of tropical storms and heavy weather.

Avoid areas prone to tropical storms and heavy weather by planning your route strategically.

Choose a time of the year when the likelihood of tropical storms and heavy weather is minimal in the regions you will be sailing through.

Utilize real-time weather information to avoid potential danger.

Stay in contact with other sailors, local authorities, and rescue services to receive timely warnings and advice regarding tropical storms and heavy weather.

Prepare your boat by securing loose items, reinforcing the rigging, and checking and maintaining essential equipment to withstand strong winds and rough seas.

If you encounter a tropical storm or heavy weather while at sea, find a protected anchorage or marina until the weather improves.

Familiarize yourself with emergency procedures and know how to deploy safety equipment and handle emergencies during tropical storms or heavy weather.

Develop a contingency plan for worst-case scenarios, such as losing control of the boat or facing exceptionally severe weather, to ensure the safety of yourself and your crew.

Prioritize safety above all else when deciding whether to continue sailing or seek a safe haven during tropical storms or heavy weather.

Dealing with Calms and Light Winds

Dealing with calms and light winds while sailing can be challenging, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to navigate through these conditions. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Maintain momentum: Maximize your boat’s speed by carefully trimming the sails to capture the available wind. Use any breeze, no matter how light, to keep your boat moving forward.

2. Be patient and persevere: Sailing in calms and light winds requires patience. Stay focused and alert for any subtle changes in wind direction or intensity.

3. Consider alternative propulsion: If there are prolonged calms, use methods like an engine or auxiliary power to maintain progress towards your destination.

4. Conserve resources: During periods of calms and light winds, conserve essential supplies such as food, water, and fuel. Plan accordingly and make sure you have enough to sustain your journey.

5. Stay updated with weather forecasts: Anticipate areas of potential calm or light wind conditions by staying updated with weather forecasts. This will help you plan your route and make necessary adjustments.

6. Utilize current and tidal flows: Take advantage of favorable currents or tidal flows that can provide additional propulsion in the absence of wind.

Remember, dealing with calms and light winds is a normal part of a sailing adventure. By using these strategies and remaining adaptable, you can continue to make progress towards your destination even in challenging conditions.

Maintaining Health and Well-being

When it comes to sailing around the world, maintaining health and well-being is crucial. In this section, we dive into the key aspects that contribute to a successful voyage. From staying physically fit to managing seasickness and maintaining mental resilience, we’ll uncover the essentials for a smooth and enjoyable journey across the vast oceans. So, grab your compass and let’s explore the secrets of maintaining your health while sailing the seven seas!

Staying Physically Fit

Staying physically fit is of utmost importance for sailors embarking on a journey around the world. Sailing necessitates strength, endurance, and agility to effectively navigate the physical trials experienced at sea. It is essential to consider the following key factors in order to maintain fitness:

1. Regular exercise: Engage in cardiovascular activities such as running or swimming to enhance stamina and cardiovascular health. Incorporating strength training exercises , like weightlifting, aids in building muscle strength and endurance.

2. Flexibility and mobility: Integrate stretching exercises like yoga or Pilates into your routine to improve flexibility. This is vital for maneuvering on the boat and reducing the risk of injuries.

3. Healthy diet: Maintain a balanced diet that is rich in nutrients to promote overall health and physical well-being. Ensure your diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to provide energy and aid in recovery.

4. Hydration: It is crucial to consume an adequate amount of water to stay hydrated. This helps to maintain optimal performance and prevent dehydration.

5. Rest and recovery: Allow your body sufficient time to rest and recuperate. Ensure you get enough sleep and schedule rest days to prevent fatigue and facilitate muscle repair.

By staying fit, you will significantly enhance your sailing experience by improving your well-being and proficiency. Giving priority to physical fitness ensures that you possess the necessary physical capabilities to overcome challenges encountered at sea.

One inspiring account of maintaining physical fitness while circumnavigating the globe through sailing is that of Lisa Blair . In 2017, she accomplished the remarkable feat of becoming the first woman to solo and unassistedly circle Antarctica . Blair exhibited extraordinary fitness and resilience by diligently adhering to a strict regimen of exercise, yoga, and a nutritious diet. Her unwavering dedication enabled her to conquer the physical demands of her journey and achieve this awe-inspiring accomplishment.

Maintaining Mental Resilience

Maintaining mental resilience is crucial when sailing around the world.

It requires staying focused, positive, and adaptable to handle challenges.

1. Build a positive mindset: Cultivate a positive outlook. Embrace the adventure, stay optimistic, and maintain a proactive attitude towards overcoming obstacles.

2. Develop coping strategies: Find healthy ways to cope with stress and difficult situations. Engage in activities like meditation or journaling. Take breaks and seek support from fellow sailors or loved ones.

3. Enhance problem-solving skills: Think critically and adapt to changing circumstances. Practice problem-solving techniques and develop a flexible mindset to navigate unexpected situations.

4. Prioritize self-care: Take care of yourself physically and emotionally. Get rest, eat nutritious meals, and exercise regularly to keep both body and mind strong.

5. Manage emotions: Recognize and manage emotions that arise during the journey. Embrace the highs and navigate the lows. Develop emotional intelligence to make better decisions and maintain mental well-being.

Remember, maintaining mental resilience is an ongoing process. By applying these strategies, sailors can better navigate challenges, adapt to the demands of the journey, and enjoy a fulfilling experience sailing around the world.

Managing Seasickness and Motion Sickness

When sailing, managing seasickness and motion sickness is crucial. Here are some strategies to naturally alleviate discomfort:

– Stay hydrated: It is important to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, as it can worsen seasickness.

– Eat light meals: To avoid nausea, it is best to steer clear of heavy or greasy foods. Instead, opt for small, frequent meals and snacks throughout the day.

– Focus on the horizon: To reduce the feeling of motion and alleviate seasickness, fixate on a stable, distant point.

– Take breaks: If you start feeling queasy, find a calm and well-ventilated area to relax.

– Use medication: Consulting a healthcare professional for options such as antihistamines or ginger-based products can help alleviate symptoms.

– Avoid strong smells: It is advisable to stay in well-ventilated areas to prevent worsening nausea caused by certain smells.

– Stay above deck: Spending time in the open air and feeling the breeze can help reduce motion sickness. Try to avoid staying below deck for extended periods.

– Practice relaxation techniques: Engaging in deep breathing exercises, meditation, or listening to calming music can distract from nausea and promote relaxation.

By incorporating these strategies, you can effectively manage seasickness and motion sickness while enjoying your sailing journey.

Handling Emergencies at Sea

Emergencies can strike anytime, anywhere, and even when sailing around the world, you need to be prepared. In this section, we will explore how to handle emergencies at sea. From dealing with equipment failures to managing medical emergencies, and developing a plan for man overboard situations, we will equip you with the knowledge and skills to navigate through unforeseen challenges. So, tighten your lifejacket and let’s dive into the essential tips for handling emergencies on your sailing journey.

Dealing with Equipment Failures

Dealing with equipment failures is essential when sailing around the world. It is crucial to properly maintain and prepare your vessel to minimize the impact of these failures. Consider the following key points:

– Regular inspection: It is important to inspect your boat frequently, including the engine, rigging, sails, and navigation systems. The goal is to identify potential issues before they become serious problems.

– Emergency repairs: Make sure to equip your boat with a comprehensive toolkit that includes spare parts, tools, and materials for onboard repairs. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating.

– Training: Take the time to familiarize yourself with basic repair techniques and procedures. Knowing how to fix common equipment failures can be incredibly valuable in emergency situations.

– Backup systems: Install backup systems for critical equipment, such as an auxiliary engine or redundant navigation instruments. Having this redundancy in place can help mitigate the impact of failures during your journey.

– Communication: Always carry a reliable means of communication onboard, such as a satellite phone or radio. This way, you can seek assistance in the event of major equipment failures or emergencies.

– Insurance: It is crucial to ensure that your boat is adequately insured to cover equipment failures or damages. Review the policy’s terms and conditions to fully understand the coverage it provides.

By following these steps, you can enhance safety and confidence while sailing around the world.

Managing Medical Emergencies

Managing medical emergencies is of utmost importance when sailing. It is crucial to be prepared for potential crises in order to save lives and guarantee a safe journey. Here are some important steps to follow in order to effectively manage medical emergencies:

1. It is vital to stock a comprehensive first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic solutions, and medications for common ailments.

2. Develop a clear communication plan to easily contact emergency medical services. It is essential to have a working satellite phone or radio onboard.

3. Ensure that the crew is trained in basic first aid and CPR. It is important that everyone knows how to respond to emergencies and provide immediate assistance.

4. Create a medical emergency response plan that outlines the necessary steps to take in case of injuries, illnesses, or accidents.

5. It is essential to regularly check and maintain all medical equipment and supplies to ensure that they are in proper working condition.

6. Keep detailed records of the crew members’ medical conditions, allergies, and medications. This information will be helpful to inform medical professionals if the need arises.

7. Stay well-informed and consider enrolling in medical training courses such as wilderness first aid or advanced marine medical training.

8. Consider subscribing to a telemedical service that can provide real-time medical advice while at sea.

Remember, prevention is key. Encourage good hygiene practices and ensure that the crew is aware of potential health risks associated with sailing. Being well-prepared for medical emergencies is essential to ensure a safe and successful journey.

Developing a Plan for Man Overboard Situations

Developing a plan for man overboard situations is crucial for safety. It is essential to follow these steps in such emergencies:

• Immediately shout “ Man overboard! ” to alert the crew and ensure they start monitoring the person in the water.
• Throw a buoyant object, like a life ring or flotation device, towards the person to provide something to hold onto.
• Activate the man overboard alarm system, if available, to notify nearby vessels or authorities.
• Designate a crew member to visually monitor the person in the water and continuously point towards their location.
• Initiate a quick and efficient recovery procedure, such as turning the boat around or using a rescue sling or ladder.
• Retrieve the person from the water using the established recovery procedure, ensuring the safety of the rescuer.
• Provide immediate medical attention if required and monitor the person’s condition until professional help can be reached.
• Conduct a debriefing with the crew to assess the situation and identify any lessons learned.

A true story highlighting the importance of a plan for man overboard situations involves a sailing team in a race. During a storm, a crew member fell overboard. Thanks to their quick response and well-rehearsed plan, they safely retrieved the crew member and provided necessary medical assistance. Their efficient handling of the situation highlighted the importance of developing a plan for man overboard situations and the significance of preparation and training for everyone’s safety on board.

Interacting with Different Cultures

Stepping into new cultures while sailing around the world offers a beautiful tapestry of experiences. In this section, we’ll dive into the joys of interacting with different cultures, exploring topics like respecting local customs and traditions , learning basic language skills, and establishing positive interactions with locals. So, get ready to expand your horizons and embrace the richness of diverse societies as you embark on your global sailing adventure.

Respecting Local Customs and Traditions

Respecting local customs and traditions is essential when sailing around the world to establish positive interactions with locals and ensure a harmonious experience.

Before visiting a new destination, it is crucial to research and understand the local customs and traditions to avoid offending or disrespecting the locals.

Following the appropriate dress code for each destination, taking into consideration religious or cultural requirements, is important.

Modest clothing is often expected in conservative countries or when visiting religious sites.

Learning the proper way to greet locals in each country is also vital as handshakes, bows , or other forms of greetings may vary based on cultural norms.

Being aware of social etiquette, such as dining customs, gestures, and table manners, is equally important.

Even if it differs from your own cultural practices, it is crucial to respect the local way of doing things.

Familiarizing yourself with local customs, such as gift-giving, ceremonies, or festivals, can greatly enhance your cultural experience and show appreciation for the local traditions.

An important pro-tip is to observe and follow the lead of locals in their own country.

By showing respect and embracing local customs and traditions, you can foster meaningful connections and create lasting memories during your sailing journey.

Learning Basic Language Skills

Learning basic language skills is essential when you are sailing around the world. It is necessary for effective communication and meaningful interactions with the locals. If you want to improve your language skills, here are some tips that can help you:

1. Begin by learning common phrases: It is important to learn simple greetings, directions, and essential words for daily interactions. This will enable you to navigate different countries and effectively communicate your basic needs.

2. Pay attention to maritime terms: Make sure to familiarize yourself with nautical vocabulary that is specific to sailing. Understanding these terms will allow for clear and effective communication with fellow sailors and port authorities.

3. Make use of language learning apps: Take advantage of language learning apps and online resources to practice and improve your language skills. These tools offer interactive lessons, pronunciation guides, and vocabulary exercises.

4. Consider attending local language classes: During your travels, you may want to consider enrolling in language classes conducted by native speakers. Learning from them will enhance your language proficiency and deepen your cultural understanding.

5. Immerse yourself in the local culture: Engage in local customs and traditions to enrich your language learning experience. By participating in cultural activities, you will have the opportunity for real-life conversations and gain a deeper understanding of the language.

Pro-tip: Try to speak with locals as much as possible, even if you make mistakes. Most people appreciate the effort and are willing to help you improve your language skills. Embrace the learning process and enjoy the multicultural experience!

Establishing Positive Interactions with Locals

Establish positive interactions with locals by respecting local customs and traditions. Take the time to learn about the culture and customs of the places you visit, showing that you have a genuine interest in learning and that you respect the locals.

To establish positive interactions with locals, it is helpful to learn basic language skills. While you may not become fluent in every language you come across, learning a few key phrases such as simple greetings, thank you, and please , can show that you are making an effort to communicate.

Being polite and friendly is essential in establishing positive interactions with locals. A smile and friendly attitude can go a long way. Treat everyone with respect and kindness.

Show an interest in the culture of the locals to establish positive interactions. Ask questions and demonstrate genuine curiosity about their local culture, traditions, and history . This will not only help you learn more but also show the locals that you value and appreciate their heritage.

In order to establish positive interactions with locals, it is recommended to support local businesses and artisans . Instead of patronizing big chain stores and restaurants, seek out local businesses and artisans. This not only supports the local economy but also provides opportunities for meaningful interactions with locals.

Being mindful of your actions is important to establish positive interactions with locals. Show respect for the local environment and be conscious of your impact on the community. Avoid littering, follow local rules and regulations, and be aware of cultural sensitivities .

Being open-minded and flexible is crucial when trying to establish positive interactions with locals. Embrace new experiences and be willing to adapt to different ways of doing things. Remember that you are a guest, and there is much to learn from the locals.

Some Facts About How To Sail Around The World:

• ✅ Living aboard a sailboat and sailing around the world is becoming increasingly popular.
• ✅ The duration of a trip around the world depends on factors like exploration, weather, and direction.
• ✅ Legal documentation and the appropriate type of boat are required to sail around the world.
• ✅ The recommended sailboat size is between 35 and 45 feet, considering factors like the route, number of people, and supplies.
• ✅ Safety in sailing around the world depends on navigation skills, the right boat, and avoiding certain areas prone to extreme weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what are the key factors to consider when planning to sail around the world.

When planning to sail around the world, it is important to consider factors such as a well-prepared route, reliable bluewater sailboat, necessary paperwork, safety training, mental and physical preparation, and research. These elements will ensure a smooth and pleasant voyage, allowing you to make the most of your grand adventure.

2. Can I sail around the world with a rented sailboat?

While it is technically possible to sail around the world with a rented sailboat, it may come with restrictions and limitations. Renting a sailboat is typically more suitable for shorter trips or coastal cruising. For a circumnavigation of the globe, it is recommended to have your own reliable bluewater sailboat, which is better equipped to handle the challenges and demands of long-distance voyages.

3. How much does it cost to sail around the world?

The cost of sailing around the world can vary depending on factors such as the type of boat, family size, route, and lifestyle choices. On average, the cost can range from $500 to $1,000 per person per month. This includes expenses such as food, maintenance, insurance, cruising and mooring fees, satellite phone, fuel, and other miscellaneous costs. It’s important to budget accordingly and plan for unexpected expenses.

4. What safety training is necessary for sailing around the world?

Proper safety training is crucial when embarking on a sailing trip around the world. It is recommended to undergo appropriate safety training courses, both online and practical, to learn navigation skills, emergency procedures, and essential safety protocols. This preparation will equip you to handle unforeseen situations and ensure the well-being of yourself and your crew.

5. How long does it take to sail around the world?

The duration of a sailing trip around the world can vary depending on factors such as exploration, weather conditions, and direction. While the world record is 40 days, most trips take around 100 days or even 3 to 10 years if you want to make stops along the way to explore different countries and islands. It’s important to plan a flexible and realistic itinerary that matches your desired pace of travel.

6. Can I sail around the world without any sailing experience?

Sailing around the world without any sailing experience is not recommended. Operating a sailboat and having basic sailing knowledge is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. It is advisable to gain experience by crewing on other sailboats, taking shorter voyages to refine your skills, and possibly obtaining an internationally recognized sailing license. Learning from experienced sailors and continuously improving your sailing abilities will greatly contribute to the success of your circumnavigation.

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Home » Budget Travel » Boat Life 101: How to Live on a Boat and Travel the World! (2024)

Boat Life 101: How to Live on a Boat and Travel the World! (2024)

Waves lap at the hull of the boat. Your feet are in the glassy water, a glass of rum in your hand, and a glorious sunset in front of you. Of course, the weather is perrrfect .

Just another day in the life of living on a boat.

Surely that’s not all what living on a boat is like though, right? What about the sea monsters ? What about getting shipwrecked and floating for days on end at sea awaiting rescue?

And as if a broke bum can really live on a sailboat. Come on!

Rest assured, greenhorn – I’ve got you.

I went from a baby sailor who almost blew up the boat, to hand steering my way across the Pacific Ocean using the Southern Cross as my bearing. And I did it all with very little cash to my name.

Now I’m here to pass on to you what it’s really like to live on a boat AND how to do it . It’s the how-to-poop, how-to-cook, how-to-sail – and the best places in the world to do it all in. PLUS how exactly you can put a budget on a dream.

Avast! I give you, how to live on a boat and travel the world.

Living on a Boat: What’s it Really Like?

How to live on a boat full time, best places in the world to live on a boat (and when to go) , the cost of living on a sailboat (and how to minimise it) , can you live on a sailboat for free, last tips for living the boat life.

“Indigo, where’s the F**CKING coffee?” 

Yeah, you want to buy a boat. And then you’re going to sail off into the sunset – travelling the world without spending a dime – with twelve babes on one arm and the world’s greatest rum in the other. Oh, it’s going to be so lovely, isn’t it?

Welllllll , I’m not here to burst your bubble, but I am here to give you a wee reality check. 

Living on a boat is not for suckers; it’s not for the impatient; it’s not for the stupid. I realise that many people who suck and are stupid, can and do sail. They give the rest of us a headache – don’t be them. 

If you forget the coffee, the rest of the boat may very well feed you to the sharks. The only shop for the next 200 nautical miles is now a distant speck on the goddamn horizon, after all. 

However, provided there is ample coffee, rum, and good conversation, there is nothing better than living on a boat. No, that is not a cliche.

Life on a sailboat is life at its most .

• The duality of boredom and near-death experiences.
• Harnessing the wind and moving soundlessly across the great blue spectacular.
• Fresh sashimi.
• Deep introspection.
• The oscillating moods of the crew that spread like the flu.
• Long stretches of time with no goddamn Instagram.

A boat becomes a very miniature village, and in this, you can touch on a very primal way of living; one that has been passed down to us from many millions of years of evolution. 

The simplicity is not always poetic. But it will make you appreciate every damn cup of coffee – and isn’t that what life is all about? 

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So here it is folks! The basic and hyperbole-filled how-to of living on a boat.

It’s just three simple things. (Sort of.) And then, the ocean is your oyster.

Hoist those sails and may the wind be ever in your favour.

Boat Life 101: Pooping 

Don’t laugh! Pooping on a boat is your first lesson in how different living on a sailboat is to land life.

You have to think about the consequences of your every action: sustainable travel MATTERS . If it’s a small sailboat, it will likely have a manual pump instead of a flush. You do your business, and then pump, pump, pump. 

And that’s not where it ends. You need to think about where exactly your poop is going. 

It becomes very clear that all drains lead to the ocean. 

Usually, your poops will be going into the boat’s holding tank, but they only hold so much. You need to know the regulations in the national waters of wherever the boat is because you can’t empty the holding tank until you’re far enough away from shore, certain mooring fields, and protected areas… for obvious reasons.  

Now, I would argue you haven’t lived until you’ve dealt with a malfunctioning head (marine toilet). Nothing makes you appreciate modern sewerage systems like the sweet smell of shit. 

Boat Life 101: Cooking + Provisioning 

The consequences of your actions continue here. Even if you are sailing in proximity to shops or markets, the basic fact remains that the shops are on land and your boat is on the water.

That means there is no nipping to the servo for some extra milk that you forgot. You have what you have on the boat, and you make do. 

So yeah, not bringing enough coffee for the passage? A dumb mistake you only make once. 

Living on a sailboat has made me an organised (one might say obsessive, but one would be wrong) motherfucker. I am a HARDCORE list-writer, but you need lists when you live on a sailboat.

WRITE LISTS. And keep them going all the time.

• The food and supplies list.
• The fix-it list for maintenance.
• The visa requirements and beaurcracy list.
• The all-important books to read list .

If you go on an overnight sail and you know there’s food at the next anchorage, then you can get away with forgetting the coffee just this once. If you’re crossing the biggest ocean on Earth, that’s not gonna fly. You need to write a bloody list.  

Also, food sometimes needs to be refrigerated. Refrigerators come with limited space and the frustrating tendency to gain sentience halfway through a passage. With sentience comes a severe attitude and willingness to ruin your food.

All I’m saying is, you gotta plan your meals, know how you’re going to store them, and write lists.

Oh, and it sounds obvious, but while sailing, the boat moves.

Yes, the stove on a boat is on a gimbal which means it swings with the motion of the boat and compensates for the movement. But when King Neptune feels the sailors on board have grown too comfortable, the soup says hello to the floor.

Boat Life 101: How do I sail this thing? 

If you can take a shit and cook a meal while on a sailboat, you’re 90% done. 

Collectively, we humans have been chucking some cloth on a bit of wood to capture the wind since the original discovery of Australia and the Solomon Islands (50 000 – 25 000 years ago).

Over the millennia, the process has become more refined. Now we can sail upwind and tack and all this fancy stuff. But ultimately, with a little patience and a lot of practice, anyone can learn to sail. 

There is a multitude of electronic tools – chart plotters, AIS, GPS, Iridium GO – that help you keep a track of where the hell you are and give you detailed charts about where you want to go.

You can even get the weather sent in a tiny little electronic file via a device like the Iridium GO, even when you’re sailing across the Pacific Ocean . Very handy for avoiding boat-sinking storms!

Putting some sail on a mast and heading off has never sounded so sweet! But if you learn a thing or two about the trade winds , you can make your journey even sweeter.

The trades are these delicious winds that blow reliably from east to west, meaning you can access a reliable source of energy to propel you forward (provided you want to head west).

Trade wind sailing is famous for being fucking chill, with few gnarly storms and not too many becalmed days of boredom. The merchants of the tall ship days and the modern boat bum circumnavigating the globe both love the trade winds. Yes, for the easy sailing, and also for the good rum found at many of the ports along the way. 

But when all else fails – say if your mast is struck by lightning and all your electronics are fried – there are still ways to orientate yourself on the big blue. These are methods that have evolved over our collective sailing history:

• Celestial (star) navigation : Using the constellations and a sextant, plus some maths, to figure out the boats latitude and longitude.
• Cloud navigation : Recognising the flat bottomed clouds associated with land to keep you on track back to terra firma.
• Reading the swell : This is just fascinating. This means understanding the persistent swell that move across world oceans and their relation to the star quadrants to estimate where your boat is and where it is going.

Test the Waters BEFORE You Sail – The Liveaboard Experience!

Another way you can get a taste of the boat life before you commit to a lifelong project is to charter a boat! Sailo does just that: Sailo lets you rent the boat life.

You get a boat, a sampler of the experience of living on a sailboat, and people on deck that actually know what the bloody hell they’re doing! With over 30,000(!) boats to charter from and a fabulous selection of the BEST places to live on a boat around, you’re guaranteed to find something that… floats your boat.

Sure, it’s not the no-frills boatbum style, but ultimately, you can choose to do it bareboat – with no captain and you bring all your own provisions. Or you can choose to have the boat crewed so you can sit back, relax and, learn a thing or two about boat life. (And drink champagne.)

Living on a boat comes with a host of challenges (and juicy rewards) that are made that much easier by picking a good place to do it in.

Access to quality boatyards, provisioning, internet connection – these are all big plusses for those living on a sailboat!

But also, all the stuff that made you want to partake in this mad boat lifestyle in the first place rate highly too. A plethora of remote beaches, magic sunsets, and a friendly cruising community of cool travel buddies (soon to become treasured friends) can make or break a dream destination.

I’ve also considered how easy it is to top up the cruising kitty with funds by rating how easy it is to find work in each place.

Australia + New Zealand 

• When to go: November – May (NZ & southern Australia) April – September (northern Australia)
• Best suited liquor: EMU BITTER MAAAATE Whatever the Australians aren’t drinking.

I don’t care that the citizens of both these fine nations will be after me with pitchforks for lumping them in the same pile. Honestly, mate, bro, whatever, come at me. They’re both equally dope places to liveaboard your sailboat.

Yup, gonna say it right now, both these places can be expensive for the boat bum. But they also provide good-paying work opportunities if you can play the visa game right. So they are great places to slow down, pick up a travel job , and stack some cash for future ocean adventures.

You can also take a break from the boat life, and go on an epic backpacking adventure around New Zealand . You won’t know how much you miss the ocean until you take a break from her, trust me.

Also, the sheer diversity that I’ve so callously dumped in one heading is incredible.

Honestly, you can sail down to Stewart Island in the subantarctic waters and then back up to the Eden on Earth in the equatorial Torres Strait .

You could spend a whole, wonderful lifetime sailing between these two continents and still die regretting not having seen everything.

The long and the short of it:

• You can make bank here $$$!
• You can get your boat fixed properly here. Island nations like Australia and New Zealand have a wealth of boat building and fixing experience.
• There are well stocked supermarkets here, so you can stock up on bulk items that prove tricky to find in more remote locations.
• People are cool, remote beaches are cooler. And there is a metric shitton of incredible beaches here.
• There’s also an opportunity for non-boat adventures (like backpacking around Australia ) that will make you appreciate the ocean nomad life even more.
• Diversity! Of landscape and cultures.
• Dude, the first nations of Australia managed to cross over from Papua New Guinea (probably) 60 000 years ago. SIXTY THOUSAND (louder for those in the back). The knowledge on this ancient continent will humble you if you pause to listen.
• And the seafarers that made it to Aotearoa? The Maori are some of the most badass, friendly, wise, creative, HILARIOUS people you will ever have the privilege of meeting.
• $7 bottles of wine. Sorry. But like, yes please.
• There’s epic diving in New Zealand and all over Australia with endless (and scrumptious!) spearfishing opportunities.
• Living on your boat here is easy . Not without its struggles of course, but it’s always easier to struggle close to wifi connection.

The Caribbean

• When to go: The conventional advice says December – May, but you can sail here year-round if you know how to dodge hurricanes.
• Best suited liquor: Rum. Obviously rum. Maybe with a squeeze of lemon and a splash of cola.

If you can dodge the hangouts of the rich and the famous (or work out how to make money off them) sailing the Caribbean and living on a sailboat is very rewarding.

Salsa lessons in the streets of Puerto Rico , rum-soaked nights in the Virgin Islands , goat hunting, spearfishing , azure waters, and white sand beaches all the way down to Bonaire .

Getting into the charter boat game provides a great way to make dat money. During the high season, this is one of the most popular places in the world to charter a boat.

If you are happy to do your own boat repairs, a lot of fishing, and get clever with your travel budget , the cost of living in the Caribbean is not super expensive either. You just gotta know where to go for what.

Cheap coffee and rum can be brought in bulk in the Dominican Republic . There’s a Costco not far away in Puerto Rico , so you can get some bulk toilet paper. Then it’s onwards to a deserted island, a reef, and some endless fun in the sun.

• Cheap boat repairs are available in places like Rio Dulce, Guatemala. So, for those big projects you can save quite a bit of money by getting them done here.
• The rum. I mean, it has truly been perfected here.
• There are oodles of work opportunities in the charter business or in the superyacht world.
• Cheap flights back to the USA means you can feasibly travel between the USA and El Caribe guaranteeing you an endless summer.
• The glorious azure waters and their 27-degree celsius temperatures. Helllloo, nude night diving.
• Warm, deliciously WARM, diving.
• More people at the anchorages = a very social and welcoming community of cruisers. There is a great liveaboard culture that’s hard to replicate elsewhere.
• Easy trade wind sailing.
• Did I mention the rum?

The South Pacific

• When to go: May – October (You can arrive in the Marquesas in April with no problems.)
• Best suited liquor: A little vodka, a lotta soda, a squeeze of lime.

I won’t even try to hide my bias. I LOVE the Pacific.

Is it the best place to live on a sailboat for most people? Probably not. Because the distances between your boat and a grocery store are usually mind-boggling. It can be expensive. It can be lonely.

There’s just no way quite like travelling to places like French Polynesia the way you can on a boat. Out in the middle of the ocean life is not always easy, even if it is full of palm trees. 

But fuck it, I love the Pacific, so we’re including it. 

No, honestly, if you can mitigate the challenge of distance, you are rewarded with the best planet Earth has to offer. Incredible diving, a slow pace of life, some world-class hiking trails (and world-class peaks), lazy sunshiney afternoons. Perfect postcard sunsets. Mmmmm.

A full one-third of the globe is consumed by the Pacific Ocean, and scattered throughout this utter vastness are innumerable tiny little islands. Luckily for the bum of the seas, the trade winds can carry you from the Americas to these little flecks with few problems.

In fact, all the technical sailing here is relatively easy. As long as you don’t get becalmed at the equator thanks to the weirdness of the ITCZ band, it is easy sailing.

But you’re going to need a water maker and have a solid solar panel set up for power. Because between Panama and the Marquesas , there are approximately 3800 nautical miles – more if you go stop in at the Galapagos.

That’s a long way between places to buy coffee. And there’s not much in the way of supermarkets until you get to Tahiti , another 800 nautical miles away.

If you leave IndigoRadio on for long enough, inevitably Kiribati will come up. You can hide from hurricanes here. The South Pacific is defined by island life at an island tempo:

• You can get delicious fish on the end of your gidji real fast here.
• People-less anchorages.
• Dreamy atolls.
• And not a damn supermarket in sight.

Ok, not everyone’s idea of easy sailing, but certainly my idea of the best that living on a boat has to offer.

There is a multitude of lifetimes that could be spent escaping the rat race and kicking back in the Pacific. There is an awesome amount of diversity of landscapes and cultures here too, not to mention a proud seafaring tradition that we aspiring boat bums should shut up and learn from. 

A Tip From One Pirate to Another

Okiedokie, you wild little circumnavigator-to-be! There are multiple ways to criss cross the globe. Resources like noonsite.com and Jimmy Cornell’s cruising guides will be invaluable to you in the planning  and execution stages of your journey.

But at a glance : I would suggest starting in Europe and the mediterranean and picking up the trade winds west across the Atlantic in this order:

• Through the Caribbean and through the Panama Canal.
• Onwards across the South Pacific, kissing New Zealand and Australia before either…
• Circling through South East Asia and back across the Northern Pacific…
• OR continuing up past Sri Lanka then…
• Around the Cape of Good Hope before…
• Going back across the Atlantic and the northern coast of the USA and back home!

Use the trade winds to your advantage! Go west until you can go west no longer.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

No sugar coating here. Buying and maintaining a sailboat, no matter how much it resembles a tin can, adds up real fast. 

But when the eternal sunshine and the lessons of the great blue spectacular call you – when King Neptune drafts you into his eternal service – it’s time to find a will and a way. 

Here are a few tips to help you plan a trip that I’ve picked up from my short time making various vessels my temporary abodes: 

• Don’t buy a project boat unless you want a project.  It will cost you more to fix everything on a broken boat than it will to buy a boat that’s good to go.
• But, when you do need to repair, DIY. Endless learning, yay! Or, plan your sailing route to include time in places like the Rio Dulce where repairs are cheaper.
• Anchor more often than you stay in marinas.  Marinas are devilishly expensive; anchoring is deliciously free.
• Volunteer on someone else’s boat before you get your own. 😉 If done right, this is win-win. You can take share in the labour of running a boat (for example by standing night watch) while learning the finer points of sailing from a master.
• Get seasonal work. There are so many options when it comes to this, from ‘backpacker’ staples like agriculture and hospitality to working on superyachts or as dive instructors.
• Or have residual or passive income if you’re real cool. If you’re on that elusive property ladder or earning money online , why don’t you have a boat? Just head off now and live off your automatic wealth. Be a cool kid.

Of course, when a backpacker asks about the cost of living on a sailboat, they really want to know if you can live on a sailboat for free. When a family looking to take a sabbatical asks about the cost of living, they just want to know hard numbers and a budget breakdown.

At the end of the day, you can hoist a heavily patched sail on a jerry-rigged mast and work on the boat yourself, and eat only what you catch or grow. At the other end, you can set sail on a superyacht replete with full-time staff and jetskis.

We anchor in the same sand and watch the same sunset though, so you choose what you need to spend.

I would suggest being honest about your lifestyle. Consider being a little obsessive organised about your annual costs. Because costs are going to vary greatly from boat to boat.

How Much Does it Cost to Live on a Boat? (Pricing Breakdown!)

Obviously, the variables that go into the cost of running a liveaboard boat are vastly dependent on your style of living and where in the world you are sailing.

Generally speaking, it is cheaper to spend more time at anchor and in countries with a lower cost of living. However, insurance will still be 1% – 2% of the cost of your boat and port fees are port fees. Still gotta pay ’em, whether you’re a broke bum or a gazillionaire.

Sailing and Diving Go Together Like… Sailing and Diving!

A way to combine two of the best things on Earth is to indulge in a liveaboard experience .

This is exactly what it sounds like – you live aboard a boat, usually in some fantastic and tropical destination. You can indulge in some wonderous diving, and pick the brains of the crew about their tips on living aboard a vessel!

The focus of the liveaboards is the epic diving experiences in destinations that just aren’t as accessible when travelling in other ways. Also, it’s a great inspiration for you to hustle your way onto your own boat so that diving amongst reef sharks becomes as normal as your morning coffee.

Now the controversial stuff.

I’ve had someone say, a little tongue in cheek: damn yachties get the wind for free and now they want everything else for free!

While I think being resourceful and a bargain hunter is the best way to live your life, boat or no boat, it’s just as important to have a bitta respect. So when you hit the seas or the road, I don’t see the point in haggling hard over what amounts to 50 cents.

When it comes to boat stuff, in particular, break it down into your shelter, food, and fuel, and don’t aim to get everything for free .

Aim to sustain your lifestyle for as long as possible in a way that doesn’t compromise it for everyone else. In other words, be ethical about your damn budget travel. The most rewarding consequence of trying to keep costs down is creating a more or less self-sustaining yacht. Better for you and your personal growth; better for this pale blue dot we call home.

Sailboat Cost Cutter #1: Shelter 

Maintaining your shelter (i.e. your boat) is not going to be a ‘free’ exercise. You will pay with money, or your own labour and time, to maintain it. 

It will be an exercise in learning all kinds of systems – both mechanical and electrical – and time management. Do you want to pay for that task with money or your labour? Whatever you land on for each maintenance task that inevitably comes up, you will learn that to sustain this boat bum lifestyle you just gotta take care of your wee home and she will take care of you. 

It is always free to sleep on your boat while underway. Well, it doesn’t cost any money anyway. You are investing a lot of time and energy into the passage, but you’re not paying to sleep on your boat!

Once you arrive, you can choose to stay in a marina, on a mooring, or at anchor. Anchoring will always be the cheapest (usually free) and so you don’t have to spend a lot to live in paradise. But don’t be a dick.  

• Have the right visa.
• Be respectful of others in the anchorage.
• Don’t dump shit (literal or otherwise) overboard unless you are sure you’re allowed to.
• Be friendly and offer your neighbours a hand if they need one.

This lifestyle can bring out the best in us provided we’re responsible travellers , so lean into that. 

Sailboat Cost Cutter #2: Fuel

As my friend said, damn yachties get the wind for free! Much of the energy needed to go from A to B is yours for the taking, provided you can harness it efficiently with your sails. But as with DIY vs paying for repairs, sometimes you pay just as dearly with your time as you would have with your money. 

If you are becalmed, the engine may be just the thing to help you out. When coming into a marina, you’re not going to want to be under sail. Likewise, in a storm, it is time to put the sail away and turn on the engine for stability. So having a little diesel onboard is necessary.  

Compared to land life, people living on a boat can minimise their carbon footprint and live very simply. But it’s difficult to ask the Earth for none of its resources. Just be mindful about the way you live, be eco-friendly , and try your best to not waste resources. 

You can recharge your boat batteries for electronics with the sun though – provided you can harness it with solar panels. And a lot of liveaboards will have a wind turbine for extra power on the less sunny days. This stops you from needing to use the engine so much. Yay for money, yay for the environment. 

It’s never going to be completely free. You either pay with time or money. But you can certainly save a lot of money on fuel while living on a boat. This is a rewarding way to sustain your lifestyle and be kinder to the planet. 

Sailboat Cost Cutter #3: Food

I apply the same principles to food as I do to food and shelter: you pay with money or you pay with time and labour. Also, don’t be a dick, and be good to the environment. What comes around goes around. 

This means, when it’s available, I will spearfish and I will hunt. This is me paying for my food with my time and labour rather than money. But I would also argue that it’s fulfilling my other principles of:

• Not being a dick and…
• Being good to the planet. 

Hear me out: I think vegans and hunters alike would agree that factory farming and the industrial scale of meat production are fucked up. It’s a waste of our water, arable land, and produces poorer quality meat. Furthermore, the animals suffer tremendously. 

But if I’m kicking it in Kiribati, there is no way I’m going to be a vegetarian and still believe I’m doing a solid for the planet. The carbon footprint required to get my strictly vegetarian tofu to the remote islands is greater than the carbon footprint of me harvesting a fish every few days. 

That fish has swum about its whole life having a good time doing cool fish stuff. And then, like all of us will, it died. I have immense gratitude toward this being for providing me with sustenance. I feel like I am part of a cycle of life that predates my puny existence. 

In the same vein, to bring tofu to the Caribbean has required a process that is on the whole less ethical than going for a shoot and getting a feral goat for dinner.

The land cleared to grow the soybeans + the production of soybeans into tofu + the carbon cost of flying the tofu product into the island = YIKES.

The feral goats that destabilize delicate island ecosystems? They had a good goat-y life and then they became a good goat-y curry that fed 12 people. 

Ok, I’m done. Eat meat or don’t; ethical animal tourism and all that jazz, however, morality is complicated. There are ways to reduce the money you spend on food and your carbon footprint without being a dick.

I’d also say that in the process of harvesting your own food, you gain a greater appreciation for life on this planet. And get a sense of urgency around stepping up to protect it.  Give it a try; you might be surprised.

Epic Tips for Broke Boatpackers

• Know your knots. Apart from knots being fascinating in their own right (knots were probably invented alongside stone tools?! ), they are the foundation of boat life. Knowing a couple of basics , like a bowline, will give you a good leg up when joining a boat. 
• Be able to cook at least two decent meals, also be clean. You aren’t only working, but living on this boat with someone. Take care of your space and bring some good food to the table and you will go a long way as a crew member. 
• Go to docks and ask around. This is a good way to meet people – even if you just end up crew for a day sail. Be friendly, make yourself known, and find you’ll find yourself on a boat in no time. 
• Facebook can be your friend. When walking the docks fails, there is a multitude of Facebook and other social media groups dedicated to connecting wannabe crew with boats!
• Know how to write about yourself on your Facebook adverts. But you’ve got to know how to sell yourself! If you can cook a bomb-ass puttanesca and can tie a reef knot – mention it! Don’t sell yourself short! That being said, don’t exaggerate and tell fibs about the sailing experience you (don’t) have. The truth will come out painfully during the first bit of real sailing you do, so be honest. There’s usually captains willing to teach the basics for a bit of company and a good meal. 
• Knowing how to fillet a fish is handy. Sailors know how to sail. They don’t necessarily know how to fish. So if you can bring this skill to the table, you’re going to be a beloved crew member in no time!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

Sweet, glorious tips from a pro-pirate to a soon-to-be, the seas are calling, so go sail them!

Stay Safe, Boat Bums!

One thing that many intrepid little sailors are not good at? Estimating danger and the likelihood of death.

Maybe this is a good thing because you do have to be the right sort of mad to get into a sailboat and cross an ocean.

Maybe, just maybe, you should consider purchasing travel insurance before shit hits the fan though. But enough from me, hear it from a fellow adventurer.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

FAQs About Life on a Boat

Here’s what I know you want to know about living on a boat!

What is the cheapest place in the world to live on a boat?

This will depend on your spending habits, of course. If you give yourself a budget of $3000 per month, you will spend $3000 per month. That being said, travelling around Southeast Asia and South America is an exquisite choice. They have superb cruising and a low cost of living. The Philippines stands out as a paradise to explore while on a budget.

Can you live on a boat in a marina?

You absolutely can! Now, call me biased, but the point of living on a boat is to go adventuring so I’d keep marina stays  strategic . Only stay as long as it takes to get repaired, or get provisions, and then take off into the sunset!

Can I sail around the world?

It doesn’t take much to put the sails out and follow a bearing. It also doesn’t take much to lose your mast in a surprise squall. Of course, you can sail a boat around the world, but you need to be organised. Provisions, finances, weather. The trip of a lifetime is not for the faint-hearted. Not that that should stop the intrepid adventurer!

SOMETHING REALLY IMPORTANT NOT TO FORGET

Follow instructions and ACTUALLY LISTEN. Put that ego aside, mate. The Captain ALWAYS has the final say, and if they say duck, you DUCK. The boat life can be real unforgiving. Oh, and learn how to handle your rum! It’s a pirate’s life and, well, nobody wants to be at sea with  that guy…

Do sea monsters really exist?

Oh yes. Without a doubt. You just won’t meet the monster until you’ve been at sea for more than 25 days straight. The crew are tired of each other. The boat keeps breaking. There’s a storm on the horizon. It’s night watch again and the clouds are hiding the stars. You wonder if your mother is worried for you and when you might be able to call her again. Briefly, you lean over the side of the boat and wonder what it would be like to just walk off. Would you sink or swim? The sea monsters don’t live in the sea.

Fair Winds, Sailor!

Living on a boat will challenge you.

There is no other lifestyle that forces you to be attuned to weather patterns, engine maintenance, personal dynamics, ethical dilemmas at every mealtime; to consider watermakers and wind turbines; to completely surrender while also stepping up and getting shit done. 

The nitty-gritty of how to live on a sailboat will not be fully revealed to you until you step onto one and do it. But, if you can poop and provision you’re halfway there! 

You gotta lick your finger and hold it up to the wind. Ah yes, the trades blow west. Rum and a seriously sexy sunset await.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Indigo Blue

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I truly enjoyed this read. I am under a government contract for the next while, but have a plan to retire and become a full timer somewhere warmer than Canada. I have been making my own notes and your writing gave me plenty more tips. Please feel free to email and keep me in the loop. Thanks so much and happy sailing!

Amazing read, thank you so much! I’m planning to get on with my own boat living dream and was curious if you (and fellow readers ) could share your thoughts on some of the big issues of boat living you have experienced? Much obliged 🙂 Keep up the good work!

First of all, welcome to the boat life! Biggest issues: Realistically the biggest issue is usually finances. The ocean is constantly wearing away at your boat and trying to sink it. Buying and maintaining a boat is expensive. That’s why so many boat lifers end up in the charter or delivery business – either as crew or as owner/operators – because it pays well.

Once you have your cruising kitty sorted, the next biggest issue is crew dynamics. Sailing alone is demanding, lonely, enthralling, and incredible all at once. Having crew on board and stepping up as captain is a trip in itself. Managing a team is always challenging – let alone when your team lives on a tiny sailboat and is constantly fighting the elements and can never take a break from each other.

The actual sailing and reading of the weather – that stuff becomes easy! This is why you should make yourself stop every so often and remind yourself how wild and wonderful it is that you’re getting around using the freaking wind! Also, the stars, man. If there’s one reason I’d cross the Pacific again for, it’s the stars.

Good luck and fair winds!

That is a f*cking great 101 boat guide! ahah Thank you Indigo for it and welcome to the writer’s team 🙂

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Matador Original Series

How to Live, Work, and Travel the World on a Yacht

Y ou don’t need to be a billionaire to travel the high seas on a luxury yacht, hopping from port to port to experience coastal destinations. All you need to do is become a yachtie: a worker on a luxury yacht, whether that be in hospitality or as a deckhand. By becoming a yachtie, you can earn money, live for free, and travel to some of the most beautiful destinations in the world on a floating palace. But fair warning: the job isn’t completely glamorous; it’s hard work. But if you get down with the “work hard play hard” mentality, you’ll be able to set sail soon.

How to become a yachtie:

1. What is it really like to work on a yacht? 2. Yacht crew eligibility and requirements 3. 4 entry-level yacht jobs that do not require prior experience 4. Begin creating your plan of action 5. Begin networking 6. Begin day working 7. Ace your interviews 8. How to stay afloat on your first boat

1. What is it like to work on a yacht?

Pursuing a job in the yachting industry takes a lot of effort and energy, and it requires you to completely uproot your land-based life and move onto a boat full time. For the right kind of person, it’s totally worth it, but let’s face it, yachting is not for everyone.

The upside of working on a yacht:

Get paid to travel the world in style..

• You no longer have to separate work from traveling, now traveling is part of your job. As soon as you’re off the clock, simply step onto the dock and your mini vacation begins.
• Yachts don’t go to boring, ugly places. You can expect to travel to some of the most remote and exotic destinations in the world. A few yacht hotspots include the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and the Mediterranean.

Live for free, earn cash, save money, and pay off debt.

• Even the most basic entry-level job on a yacht starts off with a salary of $2,000-$3,000 USD per month and you don’t have to have a college education to get hired.
• There is also the possibility of earning additional cash tips (tax-free) which can range from a couple of hundred to a couple of thousand USD per charter (depending on the length of the trip and the number of guests onboard).
• When you live on a yacht, your living expenses are covered. You no longer have to pay for food, rent, transportation, or utilities. This can save you thousands of dollars a month.

The downside of working on a yacht:

It can be very long, physical work that requires strength and stamina..

• Contrary to popular belief, a majority of the tasks you must execute on a day-to-day basis are not luxurious.
• You may have to work 16+ hour days for weeks on end if you work on a busy boat. You may get very little rest during these trips.
• Some of the tasks you have to do are not appealing. You’ll be cleaning toilets, crawling around in tiny spaces, lifting heavy things, dealing with lots of chemicals, and getting dirty, sweaty, and wet.

You must leave your life on land, and move onto a boat full-time.

• You must be willing to drop everything and move onto a boat.
• It is a long process that requires a lot of preparation, determination, effort, energy, and time.
• Succeeding in getting a job will not happen overnight, it can take several months, and to become good at it can take several more.

2. Yacht crew eligibility and requirements

Before you can even consider pursuing a career in the yachting industry, there are 4 minimum requirements that you have to be able to meet:

• You must be at least 18 to work on a yacht.
• You must pass a seafarers medical exam such as an ENG 1. This is just a quick doctor check-up/physical. It’s around $100 USD. It is valid for a maximum of 2 years.
• To live on a boat full time, in tight quarters with other crew members.
• To work long, physically-demanding shifts — sometimes 16 hours or more per day.
• To work outside in the elements, or inside in small spaces, if your position requires it.
• You should be willing to commit to working for at least 6 months, but ideally a year when you are starting out in the industry.
• STCW-95 which stands for Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping. It’s a 5-day course (typically) that costs about $1,000.00 USD (give or take). You must complete this course physically/in person, you can not get certified online.
• Security Awareness: 4 hour $149
• VPDSD: 8 hour (stand watch) $299

Check out the International Yacht Crew Resources Directory for an extensive list of maritime schools that offer this training.

You can also learn more about eligibility and requirements in this Yacht Job YouTube Video Series .

3. 4 entry-level yacht jobs that do not require prior experience

There are all types of different tasks that need to be performed around the clock to maintain a yacht and keep it running smoothly. While some of the job positions on board are very technical and require a lot of skill and knowledge, there are 4 entry-level jobs that require little to no prior experience. The most common entry level jobs on a yacht are some variation of:

• Stewardess/Steward
• Stew/Deck/Cook

For more information about each job including tasks, responsibilities, contracts, and salaries check out this post about the 4 entry level yacht jobs for beginners.

4. Begin creating your plan of action

For an easy step by step guide with all of this information check out The Yacht Job Handbook for New Crew , with over 300 pages of great information and resources for aspiring yacht crew including how to get certified, how to create a professional resume, how to network and gain an edge, and how to prepare for interviews. Use the promo code “matador” for 50% off!

The 2 most important decisions to make before you get started:

Before you begin planning and coordinating your new adventure, you have 2 decisions to make that will determine every other action you need to take from this moment on, those are:

• When are able to make the transition?
• Which hiring port will you go to to get training and look for work?

Once you have answered these 2 questions, everything else will fall into place. However, these questions should not be taken lightly. You should plan strategically so you are at the right place at the right time when you are ready to begin job hunting.

The best times of year to look for work:

• High season Winter/Spring
• Turnover April to mid-June
• High season Summer/Fall
• Turnover September to mid-December

During the 2 high-season periods, yachts are generally on the move with a full crew and itinerary in place before they set off. While this is not the ideal time to be looking for work, it is certainly still possible to get hired. While there is a lower volume of job opportunities, there is also less competition.

On the other hand, the periods between the two high seasons are an ideal time to look for work because there tends to be a lot of turnover. Most boats will return to a major yachting hub for a couple of weeks or months to regroup after a busy season. Many crew members are either taking time off, “jumping ship” (quitting), or else they have completed their contracts and are off to spend their hard-earned money.

The 6 best ports in the world to find yacht jobs:

While yachts travel to various ports and destinations all over the world, there are a few “yacht hubs” where you can expect to find a big presence of yachts, yacht crew, and entry-level job opportunities. Your best chance of finding a job will be in one of the following locations:

• Ft. Lauderdale/Southern Florida
• Newport, Rhode Island
• Antibes, France
• Palma, De Mallorca
• St. Maarten, Caribbean
• Antigua, Caribbean

While these are some of the most well-known international yachting destinations, there are countless ports all over the world where yachts are known to frequent and pass through. If you aren’t able to relocate to one of the destinations above, do some research and try to find other locations that are more convenient and viable for you.

You will often hear people in the yachting industry say “it’s all about timing,” which is true. There are many reasons that crew suddenly quit, or get fired, and their position needs to be filled immediately. If you are available, willing, and able, you may find yourself getting interviewed and being offered a position that very same day!

Although the time of year is less important, you do still need to be physically located in or near a hiring port when you’re ready to work, especially if you are looking for an entry-level position.

5. Begin networking

Once you have relocated to a yachting hub, networking is essential for increasing your chances of getting a job. The more you expand your network, the greater your chances are of landing more interviews and getting more job offers! There are multiple channels you can use to network and find work in the yachting industry. Once you arrive at a yachting hub to begin training and job hunting you can explore the top three:

• This is an agency with individuals who help place crew looking for work on boats who are looking for crew, and vice versa. Most of them begin with you creating an account on their website and filling out lots of personal information about yourself and what type of job you’re looking for.
• Job sites/apps: there are several job sites such as Daywork123.com and apps such as Crew Compass where yacht crew jobs are posted daily.
• Social media: there are dozens of Facebook groups worldwide that are great resources for finding and posting job opportunities as well as yacht industry information in general.
• Crew networking events: these are social events that are held in some of the larger yachting hubs that enable aspiring crew to mingle with captains and other yacht industry professionals.
• Crew houses: these are affordable housing options for yacht crew that are similar to hostels.
• Day working or walking the docks at marinas, docks, and boatyards.

Check out the International Yacht Crew Resources Directory for an extensive list of crew agencies, job sites, and facebook groups that are free resources for yacht crew. Or read 7 Ways to Gain an Edge in The Yacht Industry Job Market .

6. Begin “day working”

While the ultimate goal is to get a full-time job, most new crew typically spend a few weeks or even months gaining experience by “day working” and working temporary gigs before committing to a permanent position on a yacht.

While you’re in the process of day working, you should be testing out different types of boats and positions to see which is the best fit for you. You should also start applying for full-time jobs and hopefully lining up interviews.

To avoid making costly and embarrassing mistakes, you should check out these yachtie greenhorn training tutorials on YouTube. In these quick flicks, I demonstrate some of the most common tasks you will be doing, as well as methods and techniques for doing them properly.

7. Ace your interviews

Every boat is different, and every interview is different. The one thing they have in common is that they have a position that’s open; so, they want the best candidate possible. Chances are they’re looking for someone who:

• Is qualified to do the job mentally and physically
• Is eager and willing to learn
• Is mentally stable
• Can handle working long hours, out at sea, while living in small quarters with several other crew members and personalities
• Can start ASAP
• Is willing to commit long-term

At this point, it’s all in your hands, good luck! Don’t get discouraged if you don’t make the cut for a job you were excited about; more opportunities will come along. Just continue expanding your network, gaining experience, and applying for jobs!

8. How to stay afloat on your first boat

Getting a job is a huge accomplishment, but can you stick it out? Your first few weeks onboard will either make or break you. Day working is a great way to get your feet wet in the industry, but once you go all in and move onto a boat to work full time, you’ll either sink or swim.

In the yachting industry, job security does not exist. You’re going to have to work extra hard to prove that you’re worth keeping around. It can take several months to train a new crew member. There are many mistakes you can make early on in the game such as behaving unprofessionally or doing tasks improperly that can result in severe damage, injuries, embarrassment, and lost job opportunities. If you don’t take things seriously in the beginning, they won’t waste any more time training you, and you may find yourself back on the job hunt.

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How to Sail Around the World

Last Updated by

Daniel Wade

June 15, 2022

Sailing around the world can be the experience of a lifetime - an adventure that lets you know you are living life to its fullest and not settling for a life that is too dull and ordinary. However, getting on a boat and sailing around the world is not something you can do a week after you decide you want to do it. Is sailing around the world something that an ordinary person without a lot of money can do at all?

You might worry that sailing around the world is only for the rich. Getting your own boat costs a fortune, and you might fear that without your own boat, it is hard to find an opportunity to go on a long sailing voyage. However, it is easier to find a crew and sail around the world on someone else's boat than you would think.

One of the best ways to sail around the world without having a lot of money is to volunteer on a sailboat. The work that you do on the boat may be enough that the crew will take you for free. Volunteering to work on a sailboat might be the single best way to sail around the world without a lot of money.

Other options are paying money to be part of a crew by sharing costs, finding friends that have sailboats, volunteering on a research boat, or paying a boat off over time if you have the income. People with the right skills, even if they are only cooking or knowing how to be a good deckhand, will find it easier to become part of a crew.

Table of contents

How to sail around the world without a boat

If you really want to sail around the world, you can find a way to do it. A sailing trip around the world is a realistic, achievable adventure. You merely have to be serious about doing it.

It is not the same as a trip to space - that you might not be able to achieve even if you are determined to do it. Sailing around the world is something an average person can do if they plan it out and look for an opportunity.

Volunteering to be on a boat

If you have a lot of sailing experience, it might not be difficult for you to find a crew to sail around the world with. Your nearest marina could very well be looking for deckhands. Not every boat will be heading off on an around the world trip, but some of them might be.

Many boats sailing around the world need an extra crew member and will be happy to take you if you have a bit of sailing experience. People underestimate just how much demand there is for volunteer crew members.

When a couple of wealthy people want to sail around the world, they don't necessarily want to do it themselves. Keeping a sailboat going with very few people on board is hard work. If there are only two sailors, they will have to take turns sleeping to keep the boat going safely.

A third or fourth crew member can mean the difference between a pleasant voyage and an exhausting one. Not everyone who sails around the world has a mega yacht and a large crew. They might have a smaller boat and only need a third person.

The best part of volunteering on a boat is that most of the time, it isn't even hard work. Sometimes you will steer the ship; other times, you will do some chores. It is not difficult to do this.

The fun you will have massively outweighs the work you will do. You will get to explore islands, see many different countries, meet new people, and end your voyage with stories to tell. Don't worry about doing unpaid work - it is more than worth it.

Paid work on a sailboat is also possible to get, but you must have quite a bit of sailing experience. Volunteering is a more realistic way of traveling around the world than looking for paid work on a boat.

Sailing around the world on a friend's boat

One disadvantage of sailing around the world as a volunteer is the possibility of not getting along with the people you travel with. While you might like the people you volunteer for very much, there is a chance that you will not. If you have the opportunity, traveling around the world on a friend's boat should be your first choice.

If you go off on shorter sailing voyages, you will meet people that have the resources to sail. Hopefully, you should know the right people when someone decides they want to sail around the world. They might be happy to take you along for free.

Being out at sea with someone you do not end up liking is sometimes a problem even if you know the person a little bit in advance. Even if you like each other now, you might not like each other when you are out to sea together for weeks, months, and years. Don't let this scare you away from going on a long sea voyage, but be confident that you can get along with the person before you head out to sea for years.

Save enough money and get a boat with your friends

While a sailboat that you can take around the world costs around $75000, this is not such a fortune if you split the cost between several people. If you and five of your friends want to sail around the world, it will only cost you $15000 each to get a seaworthy boat. $15000 isn't exactly pocket change, but you might be able to save that in a reasonable amount of time if you cut your costs.

If you had started saving a few years ago, you and your friends would have enough money to pay for the entire trip now. The best time to start saving was years ago; the next best time to start saving is today. If you have friends that have the same dream of sailing around the world, you might be able to talk them into making a serious plan to do it.

Sail around the world on a research ship

You don't have to be a scientist to serve on a research ship that studies marine wildlife. Such vessels also need deckhands, cooks, and so on. You will probably have to volunteer rather than find a paying job, but you will still be able to sail to many locations, perhaps even around the world, for free.

Offer your skills as a cook

Cooking is one of the best skills you can have if you are looking for a crew to sail around the world with. If you are an excellent cook with a bit of sailing experience, you have a good chance of becoming part of a crew. You need to be able to improvise and cook something tasty from the food you have available.

You do not always have to be a certified chef to cook on a sailing ship, merely being a good cook is enough. Only a larger ship might require their cook to be a certified chef, and even then, that is not always the case.

Teach the children of families sailing around the world

If a family is sailing around the world with children with them, they might not have time to homeschool the children. Such families will bring a teacher with them. This is less likely than some of the other options, but if you would be good at being a nanny and teacher on a sailboat, you might be able to find the opportunity.

Pay to be part of a crew

A crew might be happy to take you if you can pay for your share of the cost of the voyage. This may be expensive, but it is much more affordable than getting your own boat.

The daily cost of a trip for a single person might be $20, $50, or $70. Don't get ripped off by people trying to charge a lot more than that. They should not be charging you a very high daily cost, and are trying to make a profit from you if they do.

Paying to be part of a crew is a good idea if you are offered a fair price. It can add up to a lot of money if you are out to sea for a long time, but it is cheaper than buying a boat yourself.

Can you sail around the world on a rented sailboat?

Possibly not. A rented sailboat may have restrictions on where you can sail it, and you might not be able to rent it for long enough to circumnavigate the globe.

Then again, some people might have more luck than others. Give it a chance - try to find a sailboat you can rent for a long time and sail anywhere at a reasonable price - but this is not always the best option.

What if I have no experience on a sailboat?

You are not likely to be offered the opportunity to go on an around the world trip if you have no sailing experience. Also, not everyone loves being out to sea, and you should take a shorter voyage to know whether or not you would like it first. A shorter voyage will also get you the experience you need to find a crew for a longer voyage.

When you travel across the world at the slow speed of a sailboat, it makes you aware of just how large the world truly is. The world is a huge and mostly empty place where you can sometimes sail for days and not see another boat. Even though you can see for miles in each direction and travel many miles each day, a long time can go by without you seeing a single ship.

If you think you would love sailing, there is a better than even chance that you will. However, other people can find sailing too tiring. The crew has to keep the boat going 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whether it is pouring rain out or not.

As well as there being a lot of work involved in sailing, there is also the possibility that you might find sailing boring, as it is not fast-paced. Probably, those who think they will love sailing will end up loving it - but there are no guarantees. Don't go off on a long voyage unless you know that you are happy on a short journey.

How can I get sailing experience if I have no sailing experience?

It may be a challenge, but you do have a chance of getting on a boat even if you have never been on a ship before. Don't lie about having any previous experience; instead, look for a crew that will accept a sailor without experience.

Sometimes, even an inexperienced sailor can find a boat just by walking around at the docks. If you live in or near a sailing town, you might be able to find a boat very quickly. Present yourself as a likable and trustworthy person, and you have a chance of getting on a boat with no sailing experience.

A shorter voyage can be a step towards a long one

After you get on a sailboat for the first time, you will probably decide you love it. You will love the escape from ordinary life, and how the night sky looks away from street lights. You will not usually think sailing is difficult or slow-paced.

Hopefully, you can meet the right people and learn enough about sailing that you are included on a trip around the world when someone you know decides to go. You do not need to go on a lot of shorter sailing trips before you sail around the world; you just need some rather than no experience.

How to sail around the world if you have a boat already

If you already have a boat, then you can get to the fun part a lot more quickly. There are still things to take care of in advance and to be mindful of while at sea, but you can get to your adventure sooner rather than later.

What route should you take sailing around the world?

Usually, people sail around the world on an eastward route. An eastward route is with the wind, so a westward route is more difficult. You can choose to take whatever route you want, but most people take an eastward route and follow the wind.

An eastward route means that you will sail from west to east, so you will be sailing west on an eastward route. If you are setting sail from the United States, you will first sail to the Panama canal and then sail west from there across the pacific.

After crossing the pacific, you should be north of Australia. Sail from there across the Indian Ocean and around the cape of good hope. From the cape, you can sail northwest again, eventually reaching the United States.

You can choose to sail to many other places as well, depending on how long you want to be at sea. For example, you could choose to sail from southern Africa up to Europe and the Mediterranean before returning to the United States.

One common alternative to the typical eastward route is to sail through the red sea and the Mediterranean rather than around South Africa. This is a somewhat faster route than sailing around the cape of good hope. Don't attempt this unless it is currently safe, as there are pirates off the coast of East Africa.

If you are looking for a more challenging route, you could sail under south America instead of using the Panama canal. A more daring option is to take the northwest passage and sail around North America. These routes take longer, and if you take the northwest passage, it is risky to sail through the arctic water.

How long does it take to sail around the world?

You can sail around the world in about 15 months, but it's better to spend a few years at sea and not rush the trip. If you try to make the trip in less than two years, you will not be able to stop anywhere for any length of time, as any delay means that hurricane season will cut you off for the rest of the year.

How much does it cost to sail around the world with your own boat?

While you are out to sea, you will spend $3000, $2000, or at the very least $1000 per month. If you try to spend only $1500 per month or less, you might have a lot of trouble. Higher numbers are more realistic, and if you stop a lot, the monthly cost can easily go over $3000.

You will also have to buy equipment, which adds to the cost of your boat and the daily cost of living. Equipment can cost you more than $15000, and it is dangerous to be out to sea with shoddy equipment. You will also be charged a fee - more than $1000 - when you cross the Panama canal .

You will also run into other fees while you are out to sea. Having your boat tied down during a hurricane will cost you around $500. You will also have to pay for storage, and you will run into other fees at ports.

Repairs are another part of your expenses, as you may have to pay $1000 or $2000 to fix your autopilot or engine. If you want satellite internet while you are out to sea, this will cost you about $120 per month, and you will only be able to use a very small amount of data. Nonetheless, $3000 a month is more than enough to pay for all of these expenses, and $1500 per month might be enough if you can keep your costs low.

Take everything into account, or else your expenses may be higher than you planned. You might rent a car when visiting a country, have to pay for medical expenses, or go to bars and restaurants. Expenses can appear suddenly and unexpectedly.

Some people also like to fly home during the middle of a long sailing trip. They want to get away from the sea for a while and then return to their boat and continue. Flying home only once or twice might not make your trip vastly more expensive.

Know exactly where you are going before you set sail

A sailing trip around the world has to be taken seriously and planned out properly in advance. You want to see as much of the world as possible on your adventure, so plan accordingly. When heading across the pacific, most sailors want to see Bora Bora, Tahiti, Samoa, and other famous pacific islands.

Estimate where you will be on each month of your trip

You should make a timeline even if you do not stick to it. You should know roughly where in the world you will be during each week or month of your journey. Without knowing where in the world you are going to be each month, it is not even easy to know how long you will be out to sea for.

Timing is also crucial for avoiding hurricanes. Sailing is an adventure in part because it is fairly dangerous. Don't make it any more dangerous than it typically is.

You absolutely have to avoid sailing through hurricane-prone parts of the world during hurricane season. Hurricanes can and do kill foolish sailors. You must time out your trip so that you sail through hurricane-prone parts of the world when there is no risk of a hurricane that time of year.

Take the wind direction into consideration. You can sail against the wind, but it is easier to sail with it. Know which way the wind will blow during each part of your journey.

Know as much about each place you are sailing through as possible

Is it safe to dock in each of the countries you plan to stop in? Some of the countries you are planning to stop in may be dangerous.

Are all of these countries considered safe for small groups of sailors? The last thing you want is to be taken advantage of somewhere where the law might not be able to help you.

Take care of everything in advance

Make sure you get everything done before you leave. Some things can only be done before you set sail and not in the middle of the trip. Get all of the paperwork you need, and get any vaccinations you need before the trip.

If you need visas to visit the countries you plan to visit, get this work done in advance. It will be much harder to take care of these things after you have already set sail. Go to your doctor for a medical examination before you leave, and take enough of any medication you need with you on your trip.

Make sure the boat is in excellent condition

Have a professional look at your boat first. There could be dangerous technical problems with your boat that you might not immediately notice. Be on the safe side and get your boat looked at properly first.

Buying a used boat is not always the best idea. The cost of fixing your boat may be more than you bought the used boat for in the worst cases. Going to sea with a serious problem with your ship could be a disaster, so let a boat mechanic take a look at your vessel first.

Prepare for emergencies

You and everyone you are sailing with should know what to do in an emergency. If a heavy storm hits you, what do you do? Everyone in your crew has to know what to do in these situations.

Pirates are still very real, and you have to know what to do if you encounter dangerous people at sea. The sea can be unpredictable, and your emergency plans should cover many different situations.

Taking the right emergency supplies with you is a must. Bring a life jacket, flares, and a fire extinguisher. Make sure you have clothing that will keep you warm and dry in whatever weather and climate you encounter. Have a list of numbers for all of the emergency personnel you might call if you are in danger.

Make sure your boat is still in good condition whenever you port

One of the most important things you can do for your own safety while out to sea is check your boat every time you stop at any port. Always make sure that your boat is still in good condition. More than a few people die sailing, and this is often because of not immediately noticing and fixing problems with their ships.

As well as maintaining your ship, you have to maintain other equipment. A broken satellite phone or broken radar could get you killed. Regularly test your equipment.

Obey the laws wherever you go

As soon as you sail close enough to the coast of any country, you are no longer in international waters and have to obey the laws of whichever country you are in. You cannot know a lot about the laws of each country you are visiting, but you should know a little. Be aware of any unusual laws that are relevant to sailors.

Be prepared to be away from home for years

Whether you are sailing away on your own boat or not, you are going to be away from home for a long time. While it is possible to sail around the world fast (the world record is doing it in only 40 days), an around the world sailing trip takes three or four years on average. Sailing around the world is not a vacation but an epic adventure that takes up a significant chunk of your life. Eventually, you will return to life on land, and you will see life differently after your sailing experience.

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I've personally had thousands of questions about sailing and sailboats over the years. As I learn and experience sailing, and the community, I share the answers that work and make sense to me, here on Life of Sailing.

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Live Limitless

Adventure, Business, Travel

How to Travel the World by Boat

by Matt 4 Comments

HOW TO TRAVEL THE WORLD BY WATER

Sometimes you might not even need a plane to get you where you want to go. Niall Doherty from  ndoherty.com has been travelling around the world without flying for the last three years. He may jump on a one-way cruise or do the unconventional thing and book himself on a cargo ship heading across the Pacific ocean for 26 days. While you may not want to be as extreme as Niall, taking a boat rather than a plane might just be the adventure you’re looking for.

In general, one of my favourite things to do when I travel is to take a trip on the water. Whether it’s a boat trip in Wexford , Ireland, or a live-aboard scuba diving cruise, there’s something special about being on the water.

Here are some websites for booking boat travel to get you started…

Cruise Sheet

( www.cruisesheet.com )

This website has been recommended by everyone I spoke to when it came to booking a cheap cruise. They work magic with things like repositioning cruises, which means you may even be able to snag a one-way cruise and skip one leg of your flight altogether.

( www.rome2rio.com )

This website is a multimodal transport engine, which means you can search various modes of transportation to get where you want to go including planes, trains, automobiles, buses and ferries. Simply type in where you want to go and Rome2rio will give you a list of options.

( www.boatbound.co )

BoatBound is a boat rental marketplace in the U.S. Think of it like Airbnb but for boats. It’s free to join and has no membership fees. Find a boat with or without a captain. 

The Yacht Week

( www.theyachtweek.com )

This site makes it easy to gather your friends and join an incredible voyage around places like the Caribbean, Croatia, Italy, Greece and Thailand. You can rent the whole boat or join another one. 

( www.zizoo.com )

Looking to sail around Croatia, Turkey, Spain, Greece, or Italy. This site makes it easy to find any type of boat that suits your needs, along with a captain to get you where you want to go.

Some of my best travel memories involve boat travel. Whether it’s jumping on a last-minute boat trip from Bali to Komodo or joining a live-aboard luxury dive trip in the Galapagos , I love being out at sea. There’s just something about that sea breeze…or the unforgettable sunsets…or jumping into the sea…or…actually it’s all awesome.

But even aside from boats, travelling via water sports is also a great way to travel and enjoy nature such as with kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. In fact, paddleboarding has become one of my favourite sports in the last couple of years, whether I’m paddling across a lake or using it to go down a gentle river through a major city like Calgary .

How about you? Any more tips for travelling the world by boat?

Reader Interactions

June 25, 2020 at 9:38 pm

Hey Matt! Thank you for the article I’m going to check all these options for more in depth information. Me and my husband have a fresh travel vlog called Dawn Hunters where we post our sailing adventures and also tips for travelers. I’ve just started special series for aspiring digital nomads and posted a video about crewseekers (I don’t see them in your list) so you might want to see the video and consider adding them – they have super cool and unexpected opportunities for cheap or even free travels on boats.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTpW5uIJE7E

Also would love to collaborate with you on the blog/vlog if you are interested – shoot us an email. Love the content!

Thank you for sharing! Dawn Hunters

December 30, 2021 at 12:36 am

Hello there, Thank you for this great article. I really loved reading it and it was quite informative. By the way, I can also recommend a website through which I have organized a yacht holiday last year together with my friends. http://www.viravira.co is the site where you can browse many boat rental options in 41 countries. Traveling the world is amazing and if you do it by boat it is a great adventure 🙂

December 27, 2022 at 5:42 pm

it was great article and if you ever visit miami and looking for jet ski and boat rental https://www.upisle.com/ is definitely a best choice.

March 4, 2024 at 4:51 pm

Hi, Matt please visit Turkey and let me know you must see Göcek as My guest, Check the website; https://www.yachttogo.com you can choose one sailing boat or daily boat trip 🙂

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Have you always dreamt about it and now you’re finally ready to take the leap? You can’t just spontaneously take an around-the-world boat trip, Band of Boats has written an article to help you prepare for your project. Don’t hesitate to write in the comments at the bottom of the article if you have any questions.

1.1. Put your plan into action

Have you always dreamt about it and now you’re finally ready to take the leap? You can’t just spontaneously take an around-the-world boat trip, but your motivation is still the essential driving force. Next, you need to make the dream possible in practical terms, with sufficient knowledge about how to sail , taking a year off, arranging your finances, and buying a boat . To go around the world, sailing boats and yachts are the most common choices. To live comfortably on board, allow for a boat at least 39 feet (12 metres) long. Catamarans have the advantage of not listing and they let you sail in heavy seas. Aluminium hulls have the reputation of being lighter and more durable.

You’re probably wondering which sailboat to choose to live on for several months? Before buying your sailing boat, find out about their autonomy with regard to manoeuvring and life on board. The important thing is to find a boat that combines comfort, performance, and safety . Check out our listings of sailboats for sale at the best price. And to familiarise yourself with life at sea so hat you will not be disillusioned, a short trial cruise would be a good first step before setting out.

2. What about the itinerary?

The chosen route and the stopovers must take certain factors into account in order for everything to go smoothly. This requires doing a bit of research ahead of time. In addition to the information you can find on the Internet, it might be helpful to look at books such as “ World Cruising Routes ” by J. Cornell and “ Ocean Passages for the World ”.

3. Fittings and safety

Whatever your itinerary, make sure you carry all the necessary safety equipment on board : satellite telephone, GPS, distress flares, lifeboat and lifejackets, fire extinguisher, and VHF radio. Also equip yourself with replacement parts and tools , as well as some DIY equipment.

Some mechanical knowledge could come in very handy during the voyage. Before departure, stock up on drinking water. Take water purification tablets , non-perishable food, and fuel with you. You can then obtain provisions at each port of call during your trip. Also remember to check the condition of the sails and engine, as well as the anchor and GPS, which must be in perfect working order.

Finally, always inform family or friends about your itinerary so that they will know where to look for you in the event of a problem.

4. Around the world in a group: on-board organisation

As a couple, as a family, or with friends during a leg of the journey…anything is possible for your around-the-world trip. The important thing is not to cut corners when it comes to safety, and to allow a space for each person so that everyone can feel comfortable.

A baby on board? A few arrangements will be necessary, such as cot with anti-roll cloth, and washable nappies to save as much space as possible, for example.

For children, or if some of your passengers suffer from seasickness, provide sleeping quarters towards the stern of the boat for nights spent at sea. If you also want to take your pet with you, note that you can gradually accustom your pet to boat travel so that it can go to sea with you.

5. Practical information

You may be interested in these articles.

• Yachting World
• Digital Edition

6 ways of preparation to sail around the world, from the planner to the opportunist

• June 15, 2015

There are many different ways to sail around the world. Toby Hodges talks to World ARC crews in Colombia to find out how they prepared for the adventure

Photo: Tor Johnson

The World ARC is a 25,000nm whistlestop tour of the globe, equivalent to cramming a lifetime of cruising into a year, and the organisers smooth the way with paperwork and guidelines and a planned itinerary. But it’s still a circumnavigation and each boat is on its own out at sea.

It was an ideal opportunity to find out how skippers prepare for such intense liveaboard cruising on a sail around the world. What extra equipment did they need? What spares did they carry? And what made them decide to go in the first place?

Here are six very different case studies, from the thoroughly prepared to the last-minute entry. Skippers offer their advice to those who might aspire to do the same.

1. 25 years in the planning

Oyster 575, juno.

In the chart table of the Oyster 575 Juno there is a faded brochure of a 1986 Holman & Pye Oyster 55. Since Paul Frew picked it at the Southampton Boat Show he has dreamt of sailing an Oyster round the world. “So you could say I was planning this for 25 years,” he declares.

“It helps to have a boat in mind as it becomes something you imagine and focus on,” Paul’s wife, Caroline, adds. “It makes it more tangible.”

The Frews have owned a series of cruising yachts, from a 22ft monohull to a 52ft Catana catamaran, but Paul Frew insists these were just a “dress rehearsal” for his Oyster. They purchased Juno a year after her launch in 2011.

Frew is one of the most meticulous and well-prepared owners you could hope to meet. He has a spare for almost everything on board, “to the Dyson and Nespresso machine,” he says. He mentions an entire auxiliary autopilot, for example, including course computer and pilot drive, ready to “bring on at the flick of a switch”.

Paul Frew with his 1986 brochure for the Oyster 55

His advice for those preparing to go long-distance cruising is to spend as much prep time as possible. “I wrote everything down: lists and lists, so that I knew I had done as much as I could,” he explains.

Frew’s meticulous preparation of Juno can be linked to his career; he was a venture capitalist and ran a software business. “I have applied myself to this as I have to my job in the past,” he says. “I do all the jobs I can on board myself so I know if something goes wrong I can fix it.” I heard similar advice from several owners. “I worked my way through all the main systems and carry spares for everything – really because I’m not an engineer so I want to be prepared.”

These words will resonate with many. As yachts and their systems get larger and more complex they may actually put people off going long-distance sailing. But Frew gets a kick out of fixing things, proudly explaining how he changed the top swivel and bearings on his inmast furling.

He cites crew as the most complicated logistic to arrange. Juno will be crewed by five most of the time, all good friends. “We know them and know we won’t fall out,” says Frew. “It’s not all about sailing experience, you must be able to get on with your crew.”

Frew says he wouldn’t have done anything differently. “ Juno is the right size and I know her inside-out. There is masses of space, but we can handle her with two. I worked my way through all the systems so I’m as prepared as I can be without being complacent.”

2. Loaded with technology

Metz has an impressive array of equipment in his navstation

Amel 54, A Plus 2

A Plus 2 had to be one of the most lavishly equipped of the World ARC yachts I saw. Owner Jean Metz had loaded his Amel 54 with equipment. His navstation is like a meteorology centre; there are eight different independent chart systems, with eight GPS receivers, plus paper charts and a sextant. “I think I have every one on the market,” laughs Metz. He carries three computers, two spare laptops, three iPads, three routers, a wi-fi booster, and three different satphones including Fleet Broadband and an Iridium handheld.

His reasoning is intriguing. “I don’t want to be bored by electronics,” he says. “When something goes wrong I get out another one and come back to fix the broken one another time.” Fair enough!

Jean and Christiane Metz are French nationals who live in the Swiss mountains. Semi-retired from the pharmaceutical industry, they are keen skiers. Jean also races prototype cars in endurance events around Europe. They are sailing the World ARC by themselves. “Endurance car racing and off-piste skiing helped me prepare for it,” says Metz. “I like so-called risky things, but if you are really prepared for that then you know more or less where the main risks are.”

Christiane and Jean Metz aboard A Plus 2

“We worked on safety a lot,” he adds, showing me how he made up a series of short inboard jackstays for safety on deck. “I’m critical of normal-length jackstays, because they extend enough to allow you to hang overboard. So like in the mountains we use two lines on short inboard wires, so that you are always clipped on by one.”

Before the ARC in Las Palmas, Metz was surprised how unprepared some yacht crews were. “You don’t take your car and go and do Le Mans straight away.” For his preparation, Metz spent six hours a day for a year.

The principal things he added were twin poles and a hydrogenerator. “Now we can pole out the genoa and gennaker and do up to 15 knots downwind – and comfortably go 15° each side of 180°.” As well as the Watt & Sea generator Metz also added six 100W solar panels which, when combined, supplies half the energy they need.

“But with three computers and three satphones, the genset still runs six hours a day!”

3. The traditional ocean cruiser

Julia Horner and Eric Faber aboard Luna Quest

Rival 38, Luna Quest

It was the eve of Eric Faber’s 72nd birthday when I spoke to him and he told me he had always dreamt of doing a circumnavigation. When his wife died two years ago he decided it was time to set sail.

He planned to sail across the Atlantic and back solo, but on meeting Yorkshire-born Julia Horner in the Caribbean, Faber found a partner who wanted to continue west with him.

“I wanted an ocean-going boat that was not too large to prevent me from doing it alone,” he says. An encapsulated keel and tiller steering topped his list and he found Luna Quest in Turkey ten years ago. The running rigging was replaced, new sails added, the engine fully serviced and the boat rewired, so she now looks in mint condition.

Faber carries a Hydrovane, a wind generator, solar panels and two towed generators so he need never run the engine for power.

• 1. 1. 25 years in the planning
• 2. 4. DIY on a budget

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Inside 196m The World: How does the planet’s largest private residential yacht design its global itinerary?

Ownership of a luxury home on The World offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the globe from the comfort of your own home at sea. Since being delivered in 2002, the 196-metre private residential yacht has visited more than 1,000 ports of call on all seven continents. But with owners representing 165 residences on board, how is the sailing itinerary decided? And what are the highlights for 2022 and beyond?

Shared ambition

The World works on a collective ownership basis and is home to a community of residents from more than 20 countries. Despite the diversity of the residents, they are united by a common thirst for knowledge and the desire to explore the planet. As a result, The World’s sailing itinerary blends a unique travel lifestyle of total luxury with expeditions, adventure, education, fitness and gastronomy.

Plan and prepare

An important factor in owning one of the 165 exquisite private residences on board The World is the ability to influence the sailing itinerary. By working together with the yacht’s captains, an itinerary planning department in its Fort Lauderdale, Florida-based management office and a resident itinerary committee, the community can have a say in where in the world they will go as the ship circumnavigates the globe every two to three years. The current ambitious 2022 journey was agreed upon by a resident vote held three years ago to allow sufficient planning time. The route will bring the mega yacht to five continents with three expeditions organised along the way.

Learn from the experts

These expeditions are specially planned, deep explorations of a region, often to more remote areas that would be challenging for one to visit on their own. To enhance the experience, residents are accompanied by a selected team of experts such as anthropologists, naturalists, historians, marine biologists and archaeologists who provide a deep understanding of the chosen destination’s history, culture, landscape, flora and fauna and more. Their breadth of knowledge is unparalleled and is shared through activities such as lectures, onshore outings and informative treks. This year’s expeditions include journeys to discover the Tuamotus and Marquesas Islands of French Polynesia, Polynesia’s Austral Islands, and Iceland.

Among some of the ship’s incredible expedition experiences are exploring the exotic inner Seychelles, jungle trekking in Borneo and wildlife watching in the Svalbard Archipelago. Residents have been known to swim across the equator off the western coast of Africa joined unexpectedly by a pod of pilot whales nearby, kayak alongside penguins, whales and seals in Antarctica, and take a helicopter over Greenland’s majestic glaciers and fjords.

Indulge in the itinerary

Thanks to the vessel’s expert planning team, informative booklets are created for residents to learn about each destination visited. The detailed guide and map outline the destination and timings for each day’s activities such as diving and golfing adventures, fitness activities, dining recommendations and galleries. Once fully clued up, all that is left is for residents to indulge in some of Earth’s most incredible natural wonders.

Unlike most passenger vessels, The World spends nearly twice as many days in port than at sea, so the residents have time to explore every area in depth. Experiences have included exploring the World Heritage Sites of Cusco and Sacred Valley of the Incas via the storied Belmond Hiram Bingham train, venturing to the highlands of Jamaica to drive through the Blue Mountain National Park, a private visit to the Trebotti Organic Winery in Tuscany and a unique “meet and greet” with a herd of elephants at Samui Elephant Sanctuary, Thailand.

A warm and inviting community

There is a close-knit community bond on The World that has nurtured good friendships between residents. Some of the 150 families who call The World “home” choose to take part in expeditions together and these shared experiences enhance life on board. Together, residents have had once-in-a-lifetime encounters such as watching an indigenous Papua New Guinea tribe conduct a fire dance ceremony and playing golf in the Antarctic snow after retracing Sir Ernest Shackleton’s historic steps – all of which has created a warm and welcoming sense of community.

While there is plenty of team spirit on board The World , residents also enjoy time alone, particularly once inside their own luxury apartment. After walking through their front door after a day of experiencing the likes of a hike in the Corsican Mountains or a sunset camel safari in Australia, residents often relax on their balconies while a meal is being prepared in their kitchen by a private chef. The residences are sanctuaries at sea, where personal belongings such as books, family photographs and art collections help to make it a home.

Join the voyage

So far, residents have already experienced many global adventures and ‘firsts.’ The mega yacht broke the record for the furthest south sailed, reaching 78°43•997´S and 163°41•421´W at the Bay of Whales on a 22-day expedition of the Ross Sea, including 12 days in Antarctica. The World was also the largest passenger vessel to undertake a 24-day transit of Canada’s Northwest Passage from west to east during its record-breaking 2012 voyage and return in 2019 to accomplish 24-day, double transit sailing from east to west. The World’s incredible expeditions are set to continue with 2023 highlights including two unforgettable back-to-back journeys to Antarctica.

To learn more about ownership opportunities and the unique residential lifestyle of this one-of-a-kind yacht, contact The World’s Residential Advisor by calling +1 954 538 8449 / +44 20 7 572 1231 or clicking here .

More stories

I gave up my tech job in Seattle to live on a sailboat. I've fought off pirates at 3 a.m. and it was terrifying — but I'll never go back to my old life.

• Brian Trautman has spent the past 14 years living on a 53-foot sailboat, sailing to 46 countries.
• He quit his tech job and sold his house to embark on his journey, where he met his wife.
• The couple fund their adventures by creating content about living on the boat.

This as-told-to essay is based on a transcribed interview with Brian Trautman, a 47-year-old sailor and content creator who lives aboard a sailboat with his wife and daughter. It has been edited for length and clarity.

I started working for Microsoft after graduating with a degree in electrical engineering in 2002. I quit to start a software-development company with friends in Seattle .

During this time I stumbled upon a book about how to cross an ocean in your own boat. That idea, though seemingly unattainable, stuck with me as an amazing thing to do.

One morning in the late 2000s I was stuck in traffic on my commute when it hit me that my favorite part of the day was staring out of this bus window. It was the only time I wasn't consumed by the thoughts of customers and developers.

I immediately knew I didn't want that life. I gave my business partners my year's notice in 2008 and started selling everything to buy a sailboat.

I had some experience sailing. I'd owned a small boat that I took out on a lake many afternoons — but that wasn't much to prepare me for crossing an ocean.

Starting my lifelong sailing adventure

I bought SV Delos, a 53-foot Amel Super Maramu sailboat, for $390,000 in 2008. I sold my house in Redmond to make a down payment and got a marine mortgage to cover the rest. The boat was eight years old at the time, so it was cheaper than buying new.

I set off on my sailing adventure in August 2009 with enough money to last 18 months. My initial plan was simply to make it to New Zealand.

I figured that by then I'd be mentally prepared to return to work in Seattle, sell my boat, and reenter my previous life.

But by the time we landed in New Zealand, I'd fallen in love with sailing. When the initial money ran out, I took on engineering work on superyachts to refill the coffers.

Auckland is a big refit center for yachts based in the South Pacific, so it was a great place to make several hundred dollars a day working on engines and troubleshooting electrical problems.

We also took on crew members who paid a share of our expenses to be part of our next sail to Fiji.

Four months into my time in New Zealand, I met Karin, my future wife, who eventually joined me sailing full-time. I've now traveled to 46 countries on the boat.

We work up to 4 hours a day creating content to finance our travels

We finance our travels by relying on crowdfunding and Patreon support and on our YouTube. We have 832,000 subscribers. We also sell SV Delos merch.

But some of the best times we've had on the boat were at the beginning when we had no money.

When we couldn't afford fuel, we had to sail everywhere, and that led to adventure. We've had times when we traded magazines for lettuce and tomatoes, and we learned to make our own beer.

Now our days are spent creating content for our YouTube channel , which we launched with regular content in 2012. The channel wasn't profitable until 2015. During that time we used savings to fund the journeys and keep us afloat financially while we filmed and edited content.

Related stories

On any given day it's a mix of filming and giving notes to video editors. I also do behind-the-scenes work like invoicing vendors and paying bills.

If you exclude boat maintenance, I work three to four hours a day, as does Karin. We have plenty of time to spend afternoons enjoying the beach.

We also now have a remote team of seven employees who help produce videos. They also ship Delos merch.

What does it cost to keep the boat running?

We're paying $10,000 a year to insure the boat. Fuel costs vary widely from year to year depending on how far we travel. On average, fuel costs us $3,000 a year.

Our monthly costs for food and living run about $3,500 to $4,000. Generally, anchoring a boat is free. If there's a big storm coming that requires us to lift the boat out of the water, it'll cost $1,200 to get it out and back in.

We do have some luxuries on board, like 2,000 watts of solar power and lithium batteries, a freezer that can store enough meat to last us four months, and stills to make our own moonshine. We make our own fresh water and take hot showers.

Starting a family onboard

Karin and I had been sailing for nine years together when we found out at the start of 2019 that Karin was pregnant.

Karin's from Sweden, where there's great free public healthcare. We left the boat with my brother and his girlfriend, who continued to sail Delos across the Atlantic to Antigua.

Karin and I flew from Florida to Sweden for Sierra's birth in August 2019. When she was 4 months old, all three of us flew back to Antigua to reboard Delos and sail the Caribbean.

We got married in Antigua that year.

Sailing the world has highs and lows

One of my favorite memories on the boat was after we'd just sailed 3,000 miles in 19.5 days from Mexico to the island of Fatu Hiva, part of French Polynesia. We were so excited just to be walking on dry land.

We met a local who gifted us bananas and grapefruits. His generosity was so touching. We then went swimming under a waterfall — it was a perfect day.

Sailing can also be dangerous. Our boat has been boarded illegally three times — in the Solomon Islands, western Papua New Guinea, and Madagascar — always at about 3 a.m. It's terrifying when this happens, but we scream bloody murder and the thieves flee.

This happened in 2011, long before Sierra was born. Karin happened to be away at school. Before that, we never locked anything when we were off the boat, and we'd sleep with the doors open. We've since been more careful, including instituting night watches with a spotlight when sailing in areas where we felt uncomfortable.

We keep machetes and fire extinguishers as weapons in the event of another emergency. But so far, having that spotlight to signal that people are awake and vigilant has been enough to deter criminals.

The hardest part is acknowledging this is not a wise financial decision

A boat is a depreciating asset. But with our YouTube channel, we've found a sustainable way to make money along the way.

For us, this choice has been well worth it. This is our life now, and we plan to keep living on the water indefinitely.

To anyone who's considering taking on an adventure like ours, or any adventure whatsoever, I say: Go before you're ready. You'll never be 100% prepared for any journey.

Watch: What it takes to build a 164-foot superyacht

• Main content

How To Sail Around the World With No Experience!

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When I first started sailing, I thought I could just start my circumnavigation and take it as it happens. Head out into the open sea and start making my way west; this was not a smart idea. But how can you sail around the world in a smarter way?

You can sail around the world with no experience. There are several opportunities to sail around the world for new sailors. Some crews are happy to take volunteers on their world sailing voyage. There are also historical examples of solo travelers sailing the world with no experience.

Now that we know it’s possible to sail around the world with no experience , there are a few more questions to explore. In this article, I’ll take you through the different possibilities for sailing worldwide and the prep work involved with embarking on your sailing voyage.

Table of Contents

How Much Experience Do You Need To Sail Around the World?

You don’t need any experience to sail around the world. You can start by shorter legs and with time build your knowledge and skillset . Another option is to join a crew, most boats are accepting inexperienced applicants .

Despite not needing any experience, I recommend seeking out some kind of experience beforehand. You don’t want to get two weeks into your two-year-long voyage, only to find out sailing isn’t as appealing as you thought.

Additionally, having some experience, even just a weekend voyage, will make your search for a crew far less complicated. I know what you’re thinking– How can I get experience as a new sailor?

Three Easy Ways To Get Beginner Sailing Experience

Like most other activities, getting your foot in the door of sailing is the hardest part. Embarking on your first voyage can feel like applying for your first job out of college.

Thankfully, there are a few easy ways to get beginner sailing experience:

• Join a local sailing club. Most cities with a decent body of water will have a sailing club. Sailing clubs are a fantastic way for beginners to explore the world of sailing. You can check the internet to see if there are any sailing clubs near you!
• Take a beginner sailing course. There are organizations like the American Sailing Association that offer beginner courses. Having a completed class from an organization will make you more enticing to potential crews. Additionally, it could give you the experience needed to sail around the world on your own.
• Join a chartered boat. Joining a chartered boat with no experience is more complicated than the other options listed above. Joining a chartered vessel is more like finding a job than joining a club or taking a course. Remember to be persistent and professional, and I’m sure you’ll find a chartered boat to take you on board.

Now that you plan to obtain some experience before your global sailing journey, let’s look into some of the logistics around starting your voyage.

How Do I Get on a Boat To Sail the World With No Experience?

You can get on a boat to sail the world with no experience by joining a novice accepting race, volunteering to join a crew, leveraging connections with friends or family, and splitting the cost of a boat with a group.

Join the Clipper Race

The Clipper Round The World Race is a novice-friendly sailing race worldwide. Every team in the Clipper Race sails an identical 70-foot (21.33 meter) yacht.

The Clipper Race will take you through an eight-leg 40,000 nautical mile race worldwide. Additionally, participants can complete as little as one leg or all eight. The flexibility of length in the Clipper Race makes this a fantastic opportunity for new sailors.

Another bonus for new sailors is the supplied qualified skipper and first mate. Having two experienced sailors to guide your journey makes the Clipper Race a safe opportunity for beginner sailors.

Volunteer To Join a Crew

Joining a boat as a volunteer is among the most common methods for new sailors to travel the world by sailboat. Keeping a sailboat moving worldwide is challenging work, so small crews will often be happy to take you on.

Offering a specific service will increase your chance of being brought aboard a ship. Here are a few popular services people provide for a spot on a sailboat:

• Deckhand: A deckhand offers manual labor services on a sailboat. They are responsible for cleaning, moving cargo, and equipment maintenance.
• Cooking: Beginner sailors will often offer their services as a cook to land a volunteer position on a boat. Volunteering as a cook is a popular choice because you don’t need any sailing experience to prove your value.
• Tutoring: If you have any teaching experience, a family may take you along on their voyage. Sailing around the world is a time-consuming activity. Therefore, families will hire a tutor to homeschool their children while at sea so the parents can focus on sailing.

The above-listed services just scratch the surface of the services you could offer to a sailing crew. Think about what skills you have that may apply to the services needed to sail around the world.

Use a Personal Connection To Find a Boat

Using personal connection is a tried and true method to beginning your around-the-world sailing journey. Finding a friend, family member, or even someone who knows someone you know alleviates the uncertainty of searching for a position on a chartered boat.

If you don’t currently know anyone with a sailboat, don’t worry! Joining a sailing club, partaking in a sailing race, or even just taking a walk around your local marina could connect you with a sailboat owner sooner than you’d think.

Buy a Boat With Your Friends or Family

The third method I’ll touch on for getting a boat for your journey is splitting the cost with friends or family. If you know anyone else that shares your world sailing journey dream, splitting the cost associated with boat ownership is a viable avenue.

If you can’t think of anyone interested in starting a boat share program, there are other methods to find fellow world sailors. For example, you could post on sailing club’s Facebook groups.

Where there’s a will, there’s a way! If you search, you’ll come across like-minded sailors to join your boat trip around the world.

What License/Qualification/Documents Do I Need To Sail Around the World?

If you’re sailing a small sailboat, you will most likely never be asked to obtain licensing. However, specific licenses and qualifications will be necessary for joining a chartered boat. Additionally, regular travel documents like a passport are essential for sai ling the world.

Despite different regions having different sailing license requirements, obtaining the necessary license is easier than it seems. The ease of securing sailing licensing is thanks to internationally-recognized boating licenses.

Two Most Common International Sailing Licenses

Two sailing credentials will help you stay in good legal standing internationally, as well as make yourself more appealing to charter companies.

• International certificate of competency (ICC): The United Nations recognizes the ICC. The United Nations’ recognition makes the ICC a valid qualification for most chartered boats in Europe and the Mediterranean.
• International sailing license and credentials (SLC): The SLC is a recreational license for sailing accepted by chartering companies globally. Specifically, the SLC is valid in Europe and Seychelles.

Obtaining either of these two qualifications will differ depending on your location. Do further research online for necessary prerequisites in your region.

What Travel Documents Do I Need To Sail Around the World?

Traveling across country borders requires typical travel documents. You should have a valid passport for the entire duration of your trip and secondary photo identification. Medical travel insurance isn’t necessary but is worth getting for a worldwide sailing expedition.

How Long Does It Take To Learn How To Sail Around the World?

The time it takes to learn to sail around the world with no experience is between two months and three years. Plenty of sailors have embarked on global sailing journeys with no experience. On the other hand, some sailors train for years before th ey feel ready to circumnavigate the globe.

The best advice I can give you is to start small. If you’re planning a solo sailing adventure, practice honing your sailing skills on a small boat, like a 30ft.

Hone your skills, and pick up helpful information from other sailors. When you feel comfortable sailing on your own, you can consider a worldwide voyage.

Three People Who Sailed the World With Little to No Experience

Were you looking for some inspiration to get on your sailing journey? Look no further than these three sailors who crossed the globe by sailboat with little to no experience sailing.

Chay Blyth was a Scottish sailor who embarked on a global sailing journey with no experience in 1968. Blyth’s sailing journey was aboard a 30-foot yacht named English Rose III.

Blyth’s global journey on the English Rose III was part of the Sunday Times Golden Globe Race, the first around the world yacht race ever.

Author Peter Nichols wrote a book called A Voyage For Madmen (available on Amazon.com) about Blyth’s participation in Sunday Times Golden Globe Race. In A Voyage For Madmen , Nichols wrote,

“Few people leaving a dock for an afternoon sail in a dinghy have cast off with less experience than Chay Blyth had when he set sail alone around the world.”

Tania Aebi was the youngest American woman to sail the world solo at the time. Aebi began her voyage at the age of 18 in May of 1985.

While Aebi wasn’t a complete beginner at sailing, her prior sailing experience was nothing extraordinary. A couple of years before her three-year worldwide voyage, Aebi and her family embarked on a six-month journey across the Atlantic Ocean.

Aebi departed from New York City in 1985 and managed a triumphant return to New York City in late 1987.

If an 18-year-old can circumnavigate the globe successfully with little experience, I’m sure you can too!

Naomi James

James had a connection to a sailor we talked about earlier. Naomi James’ husband, Rob James, worked for Chay Blyth skippering yachts.

In 1978 Naomi James achieved the accolade of the first woman to sail around the world solo.

Naomi James’ connection to legendary sailor Blyth paid off handsomely. The yacht Naomi James sailed the world on was loaned to her by Chay Blyth in 1975. The boat was initially named Spirit of Cutty Shark, and Naomi James renamed it the Daily Express before her expedition.

With only six weeks of sailing experience, Naomi James began her non-stop sailing journey worldwide.

Despite challenges like losing radio and being capsized, Naomi James completed her journey just 272 days after embarking.

Chay Blyth, Tania Aebi, and Naomi James are inspiring stories of people who have circumnavigated the globe with no experience. 

You may want to work on obtaining more experience than the above-listed sailors. However, it’s nice to know people have completed these trips with almost no experience.

Can I Build My Own Boat and Sail It Around the World?

You can build your own boat and sail it around the world. Although most sailors purchase their ships, if you are willing to create your own, you can save money and learn new skills.

Building your vessel will take time and patience, and you’ll have to use the correct procedures and materials, but it is possible if you are dedicated enough.

Final Thoughts

It is within reason to sail the world with no experience. There are plenty of examples of sailors who have embarked upon successful global sailing journeys.

Although, sailing the world with absolutely no experience isn’t for everyone. I recommend gaining some experience locally before embarking on a multi-year global sailing expedition.

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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How to Sail Around the World

Last Updated: February 12, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by Nitzan Levy . Captain Nitzan Levy is a Sailor, Social Entrepreneur, and the Founder of Sailors NYC, a recreational sailors’ club based in Jersey City, New Jersey that specializes in cruising boats and a variety of community programs. Capt. Levy has over 20 years of sailing experience and has sailed in many places around the world including: the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, The Caribbean, and the Indian Ocean. Capt. Levy is a U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Master of vessels up to 50 Tons with Auxiliary Sail and Assistance Towing Endorsements. Capt. Levy is also a NauticEd Level V Captain Rank Chief Instructor, an American National Standards Assessor, an SLC instructor, an ASA (American Sailing Association) Certified Instructor Bareboat Chartering, and an Israeli licensed skipper on Boats for International Voyages. This article has been viewed 197,369 times.

Sailing around the world has been done by government-funded explorers in the past. However, in modern times, people of all kinds are doing so, even people in their teens. Knowing the expenses involved, the risks, and how to go about planning your trip will mean the difference between a successful trip and one that you must abort. It can also mean the difference between a dream almost attained and a dream come true.

Getting on a Boat

• However, you could also obtain a position on a cost-sharing boat. Such a boat has a crew that shares the costs, which are typically $20 to $70 per day per person. But beware of boat owners that advertise cost-sharing arrangements that will cost you more than $1,000 per week. Typically, this is a very high amount and the boat owner is trying to make a profit off of you instead of having you simply share some of the costs.

• Just make sure you're not jumping on just anybody's boat for the free ride. When you're in the middle of ocean with someone, you are literally in the middle of the ocean with them. You're completely stuck with nowhere else to go and no one else to turn to. So before you sign up, make sure you can at least tolerate them willingly.

• These mostly pertain to environmental groups. If there's a specific cause you care about, do some research online. Many positions will be volunteer, for the record – they pay you get is the experience.

• Gigs on a cruise ship are easy enough to find with today's technology. Getting a position on a smaller boat can be a little harder. Stick to your local port and keep an ear to the ground. A lot of it is networking, knowing the right people, and timing.

• In general, you'll want to purchase a boat that is 35 to 45 feet (10.7 to 13.7 m) (10.67 to 13.72 m) long. The boat should be a sailboat. Using the wind instead of fuel will save a lot of money on a journey of this length. That being said, you need a boat that fits your needs. Cruisingworld.com has a nice website full of information on this topic that can help you get to researching.

Determining the Logistics of Your Trip

• The route from Panama to the Torres Strait is believed to contain some of the most attractive cruising destinations in the world, and there are a whole bunch of variations you can take even within this route.
• Many sailors yearn to visit Tahiti. Over the years, Tahiti’s capital, Papeete, has turned from a quiet seaside refuge to a bustling city taken over by traffic. That being said, old Tahiti still survives if you know where to look for it.
• If you've planned a stop in Bora Bora, you can either taken a northern route to the northern Cooks, Tonga, and Samoa, or a southern route to the Cooks, Tonga, and Niue.
• Take your time and do your research online and by reading books. Jimmy Cornell has some great references on the matter; reading a couple of his books will help you make your decisions and leave no doubt for room in your mind that you've made solid, safe , choices. [3] X Research source

• Most boats will choose to transit the Panama Canal before the onset of the hurricane season in the Caribbean (June to November), with most arriving in February and March. This is the same time boats sailing from Mexico and Central America should leave for the South Pacific.
• If you're coming from the West Coast of North America, most boats travel it downward to South America, working their way to Tahiti via Easter Island and Pitcairn. The winds make it easier to sail this direction; trying to go back toward the east coast will likely prove troublesome. [5] X Research source
• If you're leaving from Australia, you have two choices in crossing the Indian Ocean: the northern route to the Red Sea and Suez Canal or the southern route to South Africa and Cape Horn. The southern route is more challenging and has bigger seas, but the northern route has pirates.

• Research the health laws of any country you plan to stop in. Obtain any necessary medical certifications prior to embarking on your journey to make sure you don't get sick while thousands of miles away from home.
• Research what you can't get, too. If you need a specific medication or other item and can't get it at your next destination, stock up from the one prior. What part of life will be difficult in this area of the world, if any?

Preparing for Your Adventure

• Get a physical exam from a licensed physician before you leave. If you have any issues at all, they can be taken care of and you can start on preventative medication.

• You want to travel light, but not too light. Keep a running list of everything you're bringing, adding to it as ideas come to you. What's more, keep a list of what'll be easily available and what won't be to determine your budgeting priorities.

• Make sure your bills are paid up to date. Arrange a way for them to stay in the black while you're gone through a friend or an automated billing system.
• If you plan to stay at certain locations for extended periods, have your mail forwarded to each location for the duration of your stay. Have someone check your home regularly and alert you if anything important arrives in the mail.

• In some cases, your boat will have to be "refit." This could cost as much as the initial cost of your boat, if not more. [9] X Research source Be prepared to shell out a chunk of change if need be.

• Carry a firearm and bullets with you if you have them. Keep them in a safe but accessible location. Better safe than sorry.
• Make sure your boat is equipped with all the necessary supplies to successfully either A) get you to shore quickly or B) get you off the boat quickly.
• Keep a fire extinguisher, a life-raft, flares, and a first-aid kit handy.
• Keep a list of whom to contact in case of an emergency handy, like 112 to reach emergency personnel in Europe.

• You'll need foul-weather gear, fleece, long johns, gloves, hats, and socks if you're going far north or south. Two of your highest priorities should be staying warm and staying dry. [10] X Research source

Setting Sail for the Seas

• Run practice drills routinely, especially if you know you're coming upon an area that's prone to big gusts of winds/storms/pirates, etc. The more ready you and your crew are, the better your experience will be.

• Throw a party, say your goodbyes, stock up on champagne – however you want to give yourself one last hurrah on land. Check your boat for mishaps, check the weather, gather all your documents, and get excited. It's time to set sail.

• Pirates roam the seas, especially in areas off of the African and Indian coasts. They can even be found in the questionably boundary-less waters around the Philippines and Malaysia (few know who monitors what). For the latest piracy hotspots, visit the ICC's website.
• Limit your time in other areas due to dangerous sea conditions or threats from other people. These areas include Cape Horn, the Malacca Straits, the Bering Sea, Southern Ocean, Cape Hatteras, the North Atlantic, the Bermuda Triangle, and the Andaman Sea.

• If you're traveling solo or almost solo, this can be a bright spot in an otherwise lonely existence. There are usually day laborers that hang around marinas just waiting to help out. For that day, you could meet some interesting people, spicing up your stories and upping your morale.
• Check the equipment, too. The last thing you want is a malfunctioning radar or emergency telephone gone haywire. It's a pain now, but it could save your life later.

• Try to come up with a budget of how much money you'll need post-trip. You'll need time to live and find a job, housing, and to get situated in your new life. Having at least six months of financial padding will make the transition much less stressful.

Expert Q&A

• If you take a firearm with you, research the legality of it in any country you plan to stop in. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Various locations have different qualities of and access to health care. Quality health care will be relatively easy to find in the US, Europe, Canada, Australia, and other developed nations. However, this will not be the case in all areas of the world. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• The top reason that attempts to sail around the world are aborted is ill-health. Make sure you are in good health before your trip and monitor your health carefully while on your trip. Thanks Helpful 42 Not Helpful 4

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.cnn.com/2013/08/26/travel/how-to-sail-around-world/
• ↑ Nitzan Levy. Sailing Instructor. Expert Interview. 24 April 2020.
• ↑ http://cornellsailing.com/publications/world-voyage-planner/
• ↑ http://www.cruisingworld.com/how/ocean-passage-planner
• ↑ http://indefinitelywild.gizmodo.com/meet-the-29-year-old-girl-sailing-around-the-world-sol-1613592153
• ↑ http://www.cruisingworld.com/advice-offshore-first-timer

About this article

To sail around the world, start by planning your route and getting any necessary travel documents, like a passport and visas. Additionally, see a doctor to be sure you’re healthy, and get any vaccinations suggested for the areas you’ll be sailing in. Then, get your boat checked out by a mechanic and load up on non-perishable foods, water filters, and water purification tablets. You should also make sure to pack for a variety of weather conditions, and remember to include emergency supplies, such as a life raft and a first-aid kit. For information on how to sail around the world as part of a boat crew or on a research vessel, scroll down! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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Want To Sail the World? Here’s How Much It Costs

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Embarking on a sailing adventure around the world is the ultimate dream for many . Imagine the thrill of navigating the vast oceans, discovering exotic islands, and experiencing diverse cultures, all while living aboard your own floating home. It’s a journey that promises freedom, challenge, and a deep connection with the world around you.

But what does it take to turn this dream into a reality? From the majestic blue waters of the Caribbean to the remote atolls of the Pacific, and the historic ports of the Mediterranean, each leg of the journey offers its own unique set of experiences and expenses. Whether you’re navigating through the Panama Canal or anchoring in a secluded bay in the South Pacific, the adventure of a lifetime awaits.

The journey or “sailing around the world” typically involves crossing the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, and visiting various continents and countries along the way.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty of sailing around the world, covering everything from the cost of your vessel to the price of a fresh catch in a local market. So hoist the sails, set your course, and let’s explore what it really costs to sail around the globe!

• Purchase : The cost of a seaworthy, ocean-crossing sailboat can range from $50,000 to $300,000 or more, depending on size, age, and condition. A used, well-maintained boat in the 35-45 foot range is often a good balance between comfort and affordability.
• Maintenance : Annual maintenance costs can vary from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the boat’s condition and the extent of repairs and upgrades needed. Regular maintenance includes hull cleaning, engine servicing, sail repairs, and safety equipment checks.
• Food : Provisioning costs can range from $300 to $600 per month, depending on your diet and local prices. Buying in bulk and fishing can help reduce costs.
• Fuel : Fuel costs for the engine and generator can vary widely, depending on usage and fuel prices in different regions. Budgeting $100 to $300 per month is a reasonable estimate.
• Marina Fees : Staying in marinas can be expensive, with fees ranging from $30 to $100 per night. Anchoring out is usually free, but you may need to pay for dinghy docks or trash disposal.
• Boat Insurance : Expect to pay 1.5% to 3% of the boat’s value annually for comprehensive insurance.
• Health Insurance : International health insurance costs vary, but budgeting $200 to $400 per month per person is a good starting point.
• Visas : Visa costs vary by country but budgeting $50 to $100 per visa is a good estimate.
• Cruising Permits : Some countries require cruising permits, which can cost from $100 to $500 or more.
• Satellite Phone and Data : For offshore communication, a satellite phone and data plan can cost around $100 to $200 per month.
• Safety Equipment : EPIRB, liferaft, flares, and other safety gear can cost $2,000 to $5,000 initially.
• Charts and Navigation Software : Electronic charts, navigation software, and updates can cost $500 to $1,000.
• Always have a contingency fund for unexpected repairs, medical emergencies, or other unforeseen expenses. A good rule of thumb is to have at least 10-20% of your total budget set aside for emergencies.

In summary, the total cost of sailing around the world can range from $100,000 to $200,000 or more, depending on your lifestyle, boat choice, and travel preferences. Careful planning, budgeting, and a willingness to live simply can help make this dream more affordable. For more information and personal accounts, you might find the book “Sailing a Serious Ocean” by John Kretschmer and the website Cruising World helpful.

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.

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See the world aboard a small ship: wilderness travel’s cruise collection.

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Humpback Whale breaches on overcast summer day in Alaska.

For big adventures this year, consider expedition cruising to discover engaging and enlivening destinations across the globe. Wilderness Travel has a curated line-up for 2024—2025, which includes tours to the world’s last frontier—Antarctica; journeys to the far north in the Arctic; exclusive once-a-year odyssey cruises to multiple locales around the planet like the coast of West Africa, northern Europe, and Asia; and dynamic river cruises on the planet’s most well-loved rivers—the Danube, Mekong, Amazon, Magdalena, and Rhine. Keep reading to plan out your next voyage.

Bucket List Trips: Antarctica Cruises

Adelie Penguins jump off a blue iceberg into the water in Antarctica.

Savvy travelers who have been to many countries likely have Antarctica on their bucket list. It’s a rare opportunity to see an expansive white land only explored by a small percentage of the world’s population. Home to whales, orcas, seals, penguins, and numerous seabirds, a voyage to the earth's last frontier is an indelible one.

With over 30 years of experience traveling in Antarctica, guests can be rest assured that they’ll be well taken care of. On board, you can expect a team of experts to lead the way through educational lectures. Ocean-view staterooms have en-suite bathrooms and are well-appointed. Whether you choose to explore the Falkland Islands, travel through the Ross Sea, or visit Devil Island to see a colony of Adelie penguins, there’s an expedition tailor-made for you.

Bucket List Trips: Arctic Cruises

Two polar bears on a small ice floe surrounded by water and ice.

If you’ve been itching to see polar bears, walruses, or whales in the wild, now is your chance. Not only will you see incredible wildlife on an Arctic cruise, but also, you’ll have the chance to learn about indigenous peoples and their diverse cultures as they’ve been stewards of the land for over thousands of years. Explore the Svalbard Archipelago, follow the path of the Vikings, travel from Ireland to Iceland, see the aurora borealis, or watch whales aboard a 36-passenger vessel in Alaska’s Aleutian Islands. The options are seemingly endless.

Bucket List Trips: Unique Expedition Cruises

Fisherman boat with Fuji mountain in Japan.

Hop on board a luxurious expedition vessel, complete with guest speakers and expert lecturers, and visit a destination that has always been on top of your wish-list. For the Through the Heart of Japan tour, for example, you’ll spend 11 days around Japan and 4 days around South Korea for a deep dive into the beautiful landscapes, cities, and cultures of the area. Other engaging tours include Circumnavigation of Japan: National Parks, Art, & Culture; Circumnavigation of Sumatra ; Undiscovered Philippines and Indonesia; Explore the Wonders of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu ; and West Africa Odyssey. If you can dream it, it’s likely on this roster of itineraries.

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O j simpson dies of cancer at 76, aew dynamite results winners and grades as cm punk destroys jack perry, bucket list trips: yacht cruises.

Endless layers in Marlborough Sounds at sunset.

For a more intimate experience, choose a yacht cruise and have the adventure of a lifetime with your family and friends in tow. See grizzly bears, humpback whales, and eagles in Alaska ; explore the Sea of Cortez in Baja; spot giant marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions in the Galapagos Islands; travel to Komodo National park in Indonesia; and wander through New Zealand’s Marlborough Sounds . You’ll have access to locales that are far-flung and off-the-beaten-path, places that you could only dream about visiting in your lifetime.

Bucket List Trips: River Cruising

Budapest, Hungary parliament at night

Perfect for multi-generational travelers, Wilderness Travel’s river cruising collection is super exciting this year, especially in Europe. Experiencing the continent via inland waterways provides a special way to experience your most-loved countries in a newfangled way. See Amsterdam, Ghent, Antwerp and Brussels on the Dutch and Belgian Waterways. Make your way through 10 countries on the Danube. Witness the Rhine, which flows through Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Sip wine and nosh on cheeses in Paris as you make your way down the Seine. See vineyards thrive along the Douro River Valley and experience the aromas and flavors of Portugal and Spain .

Other exciting river cruises include Wonders of Colombia , Amazon River Expedition , and Mekong Expedition Cruise . The hardest part of planning will be choosing where to go!

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You should avoid boat rides for these 5 reasons

In movies and music videos, boat rides seem to be very merry and exciting, but are they?

You've probably heard that boat rides are the best way to travel.

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However, in reality, these boat rides can be a nightmare for you and your friends.

Here are five reasons why you should avoid boat rides

1. many of the boats do not pass the safety test.

Many of these boats are old and poorly maintained, as well as overcrowded. Some boats are also not designed for the water conditions, which can often be rough with strong winds and high waves that can capsize a boat if it is overloaded or poorly constructed.

To add to that, when the boat overturns due to strong winds or poor visibility at night, many people drown because they don't know how to swim or don't have access to life jackets because the boat owners tried to cut costs.

2. Inexperienced boat operators

When disaster strikes, it's important for everyone involved to stay calm and follow instructions from the boat operator. Sadly, many operators do not have enough experience on the water to know what to do during an emergency situation. These operators have never had any kind of training in water safety, so if something goes wrong, they may panic and make things worse, or even abandon ship without thinking about their customers' safety first. This can lead to serious consequences for all passengers aboard.

3. You could be stranded for hours

A boat ride is not like a bus or train where you can check the timetable and know exactly when to board. This is because boats are not scheduled and you cannot be sure when you will get to your destination. Sometimes, the boat will leave only after it has been filled with passengers; other times, it may be delayed or cancelled due to weather conditions.

In some cases, the trip may have already begun, only for the boat to run out of fuel in the middle of nowhere, leaving you stranded until another boat arrives, which might take up to one hour or more.

4. No toilet facilities

Some of the boats don't have adequate toilet facilities; some don't even have toilets at all and you don't want to get stuck on boats like that.

If you must go on boat rides, then make sure to carry a hand sanitiser with you at all times. Also pack some wet wipes so when there is no access to clean water or soap, at least your hands will be clean after using the bathroom.

5. Seasickness

If you suffer from sea sickness, or if you're prone to it, there is no way a boat ride will be a pleasant experience for you. Even if you take medication, you may still get sick on the water.

As a matter of fact, if you have motion sickness or motion intolerance, then you should perhaps consider skipping boat rides entirely, especially if there's an alternative means of transportation available.

This article was originally published in May 2022.

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Race Across the World 2024: Fans react to first episode of the BBC travel series featuring Yorkshire siblings Betty and James as they trek from Japan to Indonesia by foot, road, rail, bus or boat

The first episode of BBC’s fourth series of Race Across the World aired this week and featured Yorkshire siblings Betty and James - here are reactions from viewers.

The series follows a team of five travelling 15,000km from Japan to Indonesia as part of a race across eastern Asia through some of the world’s most populous regions and some of its most undiscovered.

The challenge is to avoid using a plane to travel and instead embark on a journey via road, foot, rail, bus or boat with a budget of just the cost of the equivalent air fare.

The contestants are cut off from technological communication such as smartphones, the internet, or even bank cards, as they must travel the world in a unique way and one team will be in with a chance of winning a cash prize of £20,000.

A Yorkshire sibling duo, Betty and James , took part in the race.

The first episode of series four aired on Wednesday, April 10, 2024 and many viewers had a lot to say about the show.

Below we have included reactions from fans about the show and what they thought of the first episode.

Fans react to first episode of the BBC travel series Race Across the World

“Why this programme has only got a weekly 1 hour slot is beyond me. They must have enough content to put it on every night. I'd be watching.” - Deborah Annison

“Excellent. Love this show and John Hannah’s great voiceover.” - Amanda J Bennett

“I usually think I would love to visit the Countries they visit but Japan does nothing for me tbh. Now in South America, I want to visit EVERY Country… I still love the series though.” - Anna Marie Hamblett

“Lovely to see Japan having been there in October. Stunning country.” - Jamie William

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“Really enjoying it, but I think the two young guys will aggravate me, and also think they will fall out with each other.” - Gary Mickle

“Brilliant first episode, love all the contestants, can’t wait to see how they all progress.” - Lisa Willis

“I wouldn't be bothered about the 20k, I'd just enjoy the experience. Think the 2 young lads will start to grate on me.” - April Tucknott

“Enjoyed the first episode but not as much as some of the others seemed a bit rushed tonight. Think Isobelle and Euginie are going to struggle with their budgeting. That's a lot to have spent in the first leg for only a 2 min lead.” - Katie Ruth Cornwell

“Great 1st episode.” - Sally Fuller

“Brilliant first episode can't wait for next week's episode.” - Jess Best

“Eugenie and Isobel are going to struggle, spending way too much and only a 2 minute lead. Isobel is already grating on me. Love the other Mum and daughter team.” - Emily Jane Coxon

“Love love love this program… inspires us to visit more places.” - Barbara James-Lloyd

“Japan exceeds all my expectations. Gorgeous.” - Joy Clarke

“I can’t watch this show, I get too nervous for them being caught.” - Deborah Coffey

“An interesting mix of contestants.” - Alison Hart

“I’m rooting for them all - they’re all having such an amazing time, I don’t want it to end for any of them.” - Karl O'Leary

“What a start- so good!” - Melanie Bowden

“Great show tonight.” - Annette Orsmond

“So many unanswered questions!! But I enjoyed it tonight!!” - Rachel Owen

“So happy for this new series, looking forward to seeing how their relationships develop. Good luck to them all.” - Mono Jani

“Going to be a tough race this one!” - Craig Drewley

“Love this programme! Good mix of contestants!” - Susan Gale

“The retired husband and wife look like they are just having a free hol.” - Steve Jarman

“The boys need to stop using the word S**t, totally unnecessary. They appear to be arrogant and self-centered, yes they are in a competition, however, it is an entertainment show for which viewers are paying for their experiences. Good tactic to learn some Japanese. Taking in the culture and still arriving within 4 hours is also a good tactic. I love this show, albeit with a pair with the "we will win” attitude clear from their first video clip…” - Tina Gulami

“Sightseeing on first leg FFS no no no just get to check point fast u be way ahead that way then 2nd leg enjoy abit of adventure so stupid on the first leg.” - Paul McNeill

“Apparently, when in Japan, the best way to not spend too much is to avoid Tokyo…” - Robert Cooley

“Looks like a great one - these 2 lads hopefully have the time of their lives - what a great experience at that age.” - Philip Hardy

“Love the mum and daughter combos both pairs are fab!” - Deborah Toye

“Loving the married couple and the siblings - I think they enjoyed the first leg the most. Can’t believe how much budget mother and daughter spent.” - Tracey Ducksbury

“Always read what is allowed or not in a foreign country ... out of courtesy.” - Thelma Galyer

“If you blow 32% of budget in one episode, not sure you have a chance of surviving.” - Simon Hopkins

Many fans took to social media to send messages of support to Yorkshire siblings Betty and James on the show.

“Easy winners,as northerners,they'll just take their big coats n smash it.” - Dean Holt

“I love these 2 already.” - Guy Croucher

“Good luck team Yorkshire.” - Sophie Pullan

“She looks like a positive, upbeat type, and could be very useful to the team.” - Stew Costello

“Can’t wait!! Go guys!!” - Debra Makin

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Do you want to travel with your pet to another State or country? Before you go, you may need to complete certain paperwork or tasks, such as getting a health certificate for your pet. Meeting these requirements takes time, so contact your veterinarian for help as soon as you decide to travel (whether by plane, car, boat, train, or other means).

Not all animals qualify for pet travel.

What is considered a pet? A pet is a privately owned companion animal not intended for research or resale and includes only certain animal groups.

Find out if your pet qualifies to travel

Your animal doesn't qualify for pet travel and is subject to different import regulations and export regulations if you:

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• Have a pet that's considered livestock or poultry, like pigs or chickens.

The following animals qualify as pets, meaning they're subject to pet travel requirements:

The following birds DON'T qualify as pets, meaning they're subject to different regulations:

Because they may carry and transmit certain diseases to the U.S. poultry industry, these birds are regulated as poultry.

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USA TODAY 10Best

10 best marathons in the United States for 2024

Best Marathon (2024) April 3, 2024

The United States hosts around 1,000 marathons every year, the largest of which see tens of thousands of endurance runners crossing the finish line and conquering the grueling 26.2-mile distance.

To find the top races, USA TODAY 10Best editors and a panel of experts made their nominations, then readers voted for their favorites. Here are the 10 best marathons across the nation for 2024.

No. 10: Hatfield McCoy Marathon - Williamson, West Virginia

The longest-running marathon in the states of Kentucky and West Virginia is the popular Hatfield McCoy Marathon, which traverses both states on its journey. Named after the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud, the challenging course takes runners through the rugged and beautiful Appalachian Mountains and includes both road and trail sections. 

No. 9: Honolulu Marathon - Honolulu, Hawaii

After New York, Chicago, and Boston, this is the fourth largest marathon in the United States. It's tropically scenic and warm, and there's no time limit, so everyone is allowed to finish, making it a great first-time marathon race. The course runs through downtown Honolulu and its famed Christmas lights, through Waikiki and up around Diamond Head, to a stunning oceanside finish in Kapiolani Park. The post-race treats are also legendary, with everyone getting fresh Hawaiian malasadas (scrumptious local versions of donuts dusted with sugar).

No. 8: Bank of America Chicago Marathon - Chicago, Illinois

One of the six World Marathon Majors, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is typically held on the second Sunday in October. The flat, fast course takes runners past iconic Chicago landmarks on its journey through 29 neighborhoods, starting and finishing in Grant Park. This popular race attracts more than a million spectators each year.

No. 7: Shiprock Marathon - Shiprock, New Mexico

Held the first weekend of May, the Shiprock Marathon takes runners through the rugged desert landscapes of the Navajo Nation. Along the way, participants enjoy a variety of live music to motivate runners, adding to this unique and memorable running experience. 

No. 6: CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Marathon - Indianapolis, Indiana

CNO Financial Indianapolis Monumental Marathon is a good qualifying event, as the USATF-certified course is flat and fast. You'll run through the heart of Indianapolis' historic neighborhoods and enjoy Hoosier hospitality before finishing near the Indiana State House. With a November date, you'll get crisp fall weather, and the final stretch is all downhill, so this is a great marathon for first-time long-distance aspirants. 

No. 5: Coast Guard Marathon - Elizabeth City, North Carolina

If you've ever wanted a running tour of a military base, this one's for you. The Coast Guard Marathon runs through the U.S. Coast Guard Base Elizabeth City, along the Pasquotank riverfront, and even takes participants on the runway and around one of the last standing WWII airship hangars. Registration is open to both military personnel and civilians. 

No. 4: Big Sur International Marathon - Big Sur, California

Famed for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged coastline, and picturesque scenery, the Big Sur International Marathon is a favorite among runners and nature lovers alike. In addition to breathtaking vistas, this challenging course features significant elevation changes on its route from Big Sur, north along Highway 1, to the finish line in Carmel. The USATF-certified course has been called “one of the jewels of American running.”

No. 3: Marine Corps Marathon - Arlington, Virginia

Known as "The People's Marathon," the Marine Corps Marathon honors the dedication and sacrifice of the United States Armed Forces. The race is known for its rich history and is one of the largest marathons in the world. With a course that winds through the streets of Arlington, Virginia, and Washington, D.C., the route passes many of the area's famous landmarks and monuments, including the National Mall and the U.S. Capitol.

No. 2: New York City Marathon - New York City, New York

Known for its enthusiastic crowd support, the famous New York City Marathon embodies the spirit and energy of the city where it takes place. A celebration of diversity and inclusivity, runners from all over the world come together to participate in this iconic event. The course takes runners through all five boroughs of the city, starting in Staten Island and finishing in Central Park. Along the way, runners pass by many of the city's famous landmarks, including the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, the Empire State Building, and Times Square.

No. 1: Cincinnati Flying Pig Marathon - Cincinnati, Ohio

The Flying Pig Marathon is loved by runners, and for good reason. It's fun, with pig motifs used everywhere, from the "pig pen" corrals where different speed groups are segregated, to crossing the "finish swine" and attending the post-race party with pizza and beer. The course is also super attractive, albeit hilly, running through the most diverse and scenic neighborhoods of Cincinnati and surrounding townships, and alongside the Ohio River. Finishers get medals and mylar blankets to go with all the post-pig party refreshments. 

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Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Amy bushatz.

Amy Bushatz is the host and producer of the  Humans...   Read More

Amy Bushatz is the host and producer of the  Humans Outside podcast. A news reporter and editor based in Palmer, Alaska, Amy spends her time ultra running and recreating in the Alaskan wilderness, volunteering in her small town and experiencing everything Alaska has to offer. Her work on outdoors, travel and fitness has appeared in the Washington Post, Runner's World and Market Watch.  Find her at Humans Outside on Instagram. 

Brittany Vermeer

Brittany (Bevis) Vermeer  is a writer,...   Read More

Brittany (Bevis) Vermeer  is a writer, photographer, and media specialist with 15+ years of experience in the world of sports journalism. She and her husband are triathletes who live in Florida, and she chronicles their multisport adventures on her blog, Triple Threat Life.  

Dave Thompson

Dave is an international travel writer and founder...   Read More

Dave is an international travel writer and founder of Dave’s Travel Corner, a premier travel resource since 1996. He is well-traveled (180 countries & territories); while on the road he enjoys the outdoors, backpacking, mountain climbing, meeting people, and experiencing other cultures.   In 2006, he conceived the  Napa Wine Project , a challenging endeavor to visit, taste with and extensively write about every winery in Napa Valley, California. He has now completed 1,100+ visits and written reviews of Napa wineries & producers.

Hilary Topper

Hilary JM Topper, MPA, is a renowned author and...   Read More

Hilary JM Topper, MPA, is a renowned author and entrepreneur. She has penned two successful books on social media marketing, “Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Social Media,” published in 2008, and "Branding in a Digital World,” first published in 2019 and updated in 2023. She also wrote a compelling memoir/self-help book, "From Couch Potato to Endurance Athlete," published by Meyer & Meyer Sports in 2022. In addition to her literary achievements, Hilary serves as the CEO of HJMT Public Relations Inc., and the president of HJMT Media Company LLC. Under her leadership, these companies produce two engaging blogs – NY Lifestyle Blog (HilaryTopper.com) and  ATriathletesDiary.com . Beyond her blogging endeavors, Hilary hosts two podcasts, "Hilary Topper on Air" and "Hilary Topper on Air: The Endurance Sports Edition." Her expertise in digital communications extends to education, where she imparts her knowledge as an adjunct professor at Hofstra University. As an influencer on social media, Hilary works with brands to promote their products on platforms like Instagram. Currently, she is working on her fourth book. 

Kayla Jeter

Kayla Jeter  is a Chicago-based athlete and...   Read More

Kayla Jeter  is a Chicago-based athlete and lululemon ambassador, community consultant, and wellness coach helping professional clients and community members design sustainable healthier lifestyles as a trained behavior change coach and certified functional strength coach. Her expertise has been featured on SHAPE, well + good, ESSENCE, and SELF. For almost a decade, Kayla has leveraged digital content as a coaching tool, community connector, and empowerment of shared human experiences on Instagram , TikTok (@fitandfullbykayla), and Pinterest reaching over 110,000 followers worldwide. Kayla is on a mission to disrupt + diversify homogenous spaces in sports and the wellness industry and in doing so, expand possibilities for BIPOC runners to see themselves not only surviving but thriving in these spaces. Through her annual virtual 100MilesofSummer challenge, she empowers over 260,000 humans of all ages and fitness levels around the world to commit to better health through movement by logging 100 miles walking, jogging, running or rolling starting May 1st to August 31st for the last six years. Kayla is a Cleveland, Ohio native who was exposed to different communities and cultures while playing volleyball at the University of Tennessee, professionally in Finland, and coaching at the University of Cincinnati. After the loss of her father to a sudden heart attack in 2016 and the slow decline of her mother to cancer in 2019, Kayla made it her mission to help others understand the necessity of everyday self-care and stress management. Kayla is a 3x World Marathon Major finisher (all in 2023) and will be running her first ultramarathon in March 2024 with lululemon; FURTHER. the lululemon FURTHER feat is a 6-day race focused on supporting + elevating women in ultramarathon running.

Kelly Roberts

Head coach and creator of the Badass Lady...   Read More

Head coach and creator of the Badass Lady Gang, Kelly Roberts’ pre-BALG fitness routine consisted mostly of struggling through the elliptical and trying to shrink her body. It wasn’t until hitting post-college life, poised with a theatre degree, student loans, and the onset of panic, that she found running. Running forced Kelly to ditch perfectionism and stomp out fear of failure. Viral selfies from the NYC half marathon struck a chord with women who could relate to the struggle, and soon the global women’s running community Badass Lady Gang was born. BALG is about enjoying life with a side of running. Kelly’s philosophy measures success by confidence gained, not pounds lost. If you aren’t having fun, it’s time to pivot. Kelly is an RRCA certified coach and has completed Dr. Stacy Sims ‘Women Are Not Small Men’ certification course helping coaches better serve their female athletes. Over the years Kelly has coached thousands of women from brand new runners to those chasing Boston marathon qualifying times, appeared on the cover of Women’s Running Magazine, and created a worldwide body image empowerment movement called the Sports Bra Squad. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.

Laura Norris

Laura Norris is the owner and coach...   Read More

Laura Norris is the owner and coach behind Laura Norris Running. She has a Master of Science in Applied Exercise Science, is a certified personal trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association, a certified sports nutritionist through the International Society of Sport Nutrition, and a certified running coach through RRCA and VDOT. She practices evidence-based coaching blended with a holistic treatment of the athlete as an individual. In her 7+ years of coaching, she's coached over 400 runners, from first-time racers to podium finishers. Her personal bests include a 1:34 half marathon and 3:29 marathon. She lives in Colorado with her husband, daughter, and two dogs. 

Lily Fang is a marathoner and blogger at  Imperfect...   Read More

Lily Fang is a marathoner and blogger at  Imperfect Idealist, where she writes race reviews, GPS watch comparisons, and conscious lifestyle content. She's done 7 marathons and 9 half marathons across the US and Europe, as well as a 50k and a few triathlons. You can follow her running and travel adventures on  Strava  and  Instagram .

Marnie Kunz

Marnie Kunz is a Brooklyn-based fitness trainer,...   Read More

Marnie Kunz is a Brooklyn-based fitness trainer, running coach, and blogger and the founder of  Runstreet.com . She loves to participate in fun and unique running events around NYC. You can follow her running adventures on the  Runstreet blog  and  @Runstreet on Instagram . 

Zach Nehr is a freelance writer, professional...   Read More

Zach Nehr is a freelance writer, professional cyclist, and the owner of ZNehr Coaching . He writes about everything related to bikes and endurance sports, from product reviews and advertorials to feature articles and pro data analytics. You can find Zach’s articles in Cyclingnews, Outside, Velo, TrainingPeaks, and more. You can follow Zach on Instagram  and  LinkedIn .

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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