Preparing for a multi-day sailing trip: the complete guide

Setting sail for several days isn't simply a matter of casting off with a little water and a couple of sandwiches. Extended offshore or coastal sailing requires rigorous preparation, which is crucial for both the crew's safety and the enjoyment of the voyage. Here's how to approach this essential step with peace of mind.

Define the route and study the area

It all starts at the chart table. Before even thinking about equipment, a realistic route must be drawn up, taking into account distances, currents, tides, and prevailing winds. A main route and at least one alternative route are defined, with ports of refuge identified every 30 to 50 miles, depending on the plan and the type of boat.

Studying the area involves consulting up-to-date nautical charts, sailing directions, and local navigation guides. Regulated areas, traffic separation schemes, fishing zones, and marine protected areas should be identified in advance. It is also helpful to note port opening hours, locks, and any areas where anchoring is prohibited.

Monitor the weather forecast in advance

Weather is the number one factor for long voyages. We start observing trends five to seven days before departure, then refine our assessments as we go. Several sources must be consulted: Météo-France marine weather services, GFS and ECMWF models via applications like Windy or PredictWind, and local VHF weather reports.

During navigation, it's essential to plan how to receive weather files at sea: NAVTEX, SSB, satellite phone, or mobile network for coastal navigation. Anticipating weather windows often allows you to delay your departure by a few hours to avoid an unpleasant, or even dangerous, gale.

Check the boat thoroughly.

A thorough technical checklist covers the hull and rigging, the engine (fluid levels, filters, belts, stuffing box), the sails and their halyards, the electrical system, the bilge pumps, the autopilot, and all the navigation electronics. The batteries must be in good condition and fully charged before departure.

From a safety perspective, mandatory equipment must be checked and up-to-date: life jackets, harnesses, lifelines, a serviced life raft, valid flares, fire extinguishers, and a first-aid kit. It is strongly recommended to carry an EPIRB or AIS-MOB beacon, especially offshore.

Prepare the supplies

For provisions, we calculate based on days at sea plus a 30 to 50% safety margin in case of delays or diversions. Fresh water is critical: allow at least 3 liters per person per day, including cooking and hygiene. If the boat has a watermaker, you should still plan for sufficient water autonomy without it.

Opt for easy-to-prepare meals in rough seas, canned goods, starchy foods, and fruits that keep well (apples, oranges, cabbage). Meals should be substantial, especially during night watches when the cold and fatigue increase appetite. Also pack energy snacks and hot drinks in thermoses.

Prepare the crew

The crew must be familiar with the boat before departure: the location of the seacocks, the battery switch, the safety equipment, the operation of the winches, and the main maneuvers. A thorough briefing the day before departure allows for the allocation of roles, the organization of watches, and a review of emergency procedures: man overboard, water ingress, fire, abandoning ship.

The watch schedule depends on the number of people on board. With two people, watches of 3 to 4 hours are common; with four or more, they can be longer. The essential thing is that everyone gets enough rest to remain alert.

Resolve administrative issues

Depending on the area, several documents are required: a suitable navigation permit, a certificate of registration, insurance with coverage for the area traversed, passports if leaving national waters, and possibly a departure declaration to customs. For an international crossing, you must anticipate the entry formalities of the destination country.

It is also wise to leave a detailed navigation plan on land with a trusted person, including the planned ETAs, means of communication, and the procedure to follow in case of no news.

Anticipating communications

VHF radio with DSC, waterproof mobile phone, satellite phone, or Iridium GO for areas without mobile coverage: communication methods must be redundant. Check that the VHF radio is transmitting correctly, that the MMSI is properly programmed, and that the GPS is connected to the radio to transmit the position in case of an alert.

The final word

Proper preparation transforms a long voyage into a memorable experience rather than an ordeal. The golden rule: never underestimate the sea, and always prefer a delayed departure to a difficult return. A well-prepared boat, an informed crew, and adherence to the weather forecast are the winning combination for any successful crossing.