Question 1

Do I need sailing experience?

Accepted Answer

No, we accept all experience levels!

Whether you're new to sailing, a weekend sailor or seasoned  shellback, we think that there's always something to learn, a new experience to be had or new friends to make.

Question 2

Why do I need to apply?

Accepted Answer

We are accepting applications because it helps us get to know you before you come aboard! Also, incase there are any concerns we'd like to address with you that could effect your health or safety aboard.

If there are potential medical or physical concerns we will request an approval for sailing from your doctor.

Question 3

What are the living quarters like?

Accepted Answer

Arbella has a beautiful open salon with a central table and plenty of seating for everyone. The horseshoe shaped galley is equipped with a fridge, freezer, gimbaled stove and oven and a double sink. Across from the galley is the navigation table. There are four sea berths as well a head forward of the berths. Captains quarters and head are farthest aft in the vessel.
Where we suspect you'll be spending the majority of your time is in her deep and spacious cockpit, sailing!
That being said, it is a sailboat and with that comes close quarters.

Question 4

What does a day on Arbella look like?

Accepted Answer

In the spirit of adventure, learning, exploration and team building, this is a hands on expedition!

Depending on the passage and weather, each day will look different but you can expect both structured and free time. You will be assigned a watch schedule and a meal preparation schedule for the passage and when you're not scheduled, you're free to do what you'd like such as enjoy the weather and wild life in the cockpit, help navigate, ask questions, read, nap, ect.

Question 5

What will I learn?

Accepted Answer

If you're new to sailing or have been sailing your whole life, there is always something to learn or a new perspective to adopt. We're excited to share our knowledge with you as well as provide plenty of hands on sailing experiences. 
A plethora of educational sailing and sailboat books will also be on board.

Question 6

What should I pack?

Accepted Answer

Yourself and an adventurous, positive attitude!
Once your application has been accepted we will send an email with a more detailed packing list but the basics are:

Pack light!
-foul weather gear
-hat
-sunglasses
-bathing suit
-reef safe sunscreen (we love Avasol)
-clothing depending on latitude

What NOT to bring:
Hard case suitcase (must be soft for storage reasons)

Question 7

What is included in the cost?

Accepted Answer

Once you step aboard Arbella, your costs are covered which includes food, drink, PFD and a bed. The great thing is there really isn't anything to buy at sea!

Not included are transportation to and from the boat, personal items/food ashore.

Question 8

Can I apply with my partner?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Just include in the application that you are both applying.

Question 9

Do you take groups?

Accepted Answer

We are happy to consider groups of four! Please contact us to discuss.

Question 10

What are the next steps once my application has been accepted?

Accepted Answer

We can't wait to have you on this expedition!

We will email you with specific next steps. These emails will include an invoice, a what to pack list and specifics on port location, dates and times of departure and arrivals.

Question 11

How is safety approached aboard?

Accepted Answer

Safety is paramount aboard Arbella. Our first full day aboard will be dedicated to a safety briefing where we will go into depth about plans-of-action in differing emergency situations. PDFs and tethers are provided and Arbella will be equipped with an EPIRP and liferaft.  Our attention to risk management is constant and all encompassing of each trip as we pay attentive care to Arbella's upgrades and maintenance before and after each trip. That being said, we ask that each crew member come ready to take responsibility of their personal safety as we will be exploring the remote and wilderness of the ocean... and that is what makes these trips so special!

Question 12

Is there a fitness level requirement?

Accepted Answer

Yes and no.

We love this opportunity to be available to anyone however there are physical demands when living aboard and sailing. This includes a level of agility and strength that should not be taken lightly.

If you have questions about this we are happy to answer!

Question 13

How many people will be on board?

Accepted Answer

In addition to Tucker and Catherine, there will be up to 4 other people.

Question 14

Do I need insurance?

Accepted Answer

TRAVEL INSURANCE
We do not require travel insurance however, we do highly recommend it. 
The nature of offshore sailing is somewhat unpredictable due to the weather. We do plan ahead for delays but we still cannot guarantee exact departure dates or arrival dates and locations. We recommend getting travel insurance or better yet, to wait to buy a return ticket. We think it's a great idea to stay a few extra days to explore where you have just arrived to by sailboat!

TRAVEL HEALTH INSURANCE
We do not require health insurance however, we do highly recommend it. This is an adventure and we want you to have your bases covered.

Question 15

Passports, Travel Visa, Vaccines

Accepted Answer

It is your responsibility to have an up-to-date passport that is valid 6 months past your travel dates.

It is your responsibility to know if a travel visa is required and to obtain one if needed.

It is your responsibility to have up-to-date vaccines that are required to enter the countries you will be entering.

Frequently Asked Questions