You Need To Know This Before Sailing Around The World

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The Adventure of a Lifetime

 

Juan Sebastian Elcano and Ferdinand Magellan, these are the names that will forever be embedded not only in the history of sailing but also in the history of the entire world. Arguably, they are known as the first sailors who successfully circumnavigated the world. Around the 1500s, Elcano and Magellan sailed from Spain in 5 ships, the Trinidad, the San Antonio, the Concepcion, the Santiago and the Victoria. The Trinidad was helmed by Magellan and the Victoria by Elcano.

Among Elcano and Magellan’s crew were around 200 members. After 3 years of sailing, they finally returned to Spain. Along the way, they discovered new trade routes, met new civilizations and cultures, established territories and gained glory for themselves and their countries. The voyage was not with sacrifices though Magellan himself was killed in an island that will later be part of present-day the Philippines. Out of the 200 crew, only 18 remained along with Elcano. Out of the 5 ships, only the Victoria reached Spanish harbors.

The casualties of the first circumnavigation may have been great but compared to the succeeding attempt, it can truly be considered successful.

The second attempt, under the leadership of Andres de Urdaneta, was a failure when they lost all seven ships. Urdaneta made amends on his next attempt; on 1536 he was the second successful sailor who circumnavigated the world.

From then on, every century has been met by successful voyages. In the 1600s, around 8 recorded attempts and successes have been made. In the later parts of the 1700s, the first non-European, Robert Gray, succeeded in sailing around the world. Fast forward to the 1900s, circumnavigation has been made possible even without the backing of countries and kingdoms. With advances in sailing technology, sailors are able to sail around the world more than one time. Electa and Irving Johnson sailed the world 7 times. Crews also became younger; Robin Lee Graham was around 16 years old when he sailed around 1965. In the 2000s, history again recorded a few world “firsts”. Among these records is the first non-stop circumnavigation, a deaf crew member, the fastest female sailor, the fastest solo voyage, the largest ship, the first solarpowered and the oldest sailor. These records are not only proofs of the advances in technology that make sailing around the world more possible but also give insight on the diversity of the sailors themselves. While sailing was once exclusively held by Europeans alone, today people from all races and cultures take part in this adventure. Before, only adult men were accepted into this elite club of sailing. Today, not only are the sailors getting younger but women too are taking part in the voyage.

The adventure does not discriminate; it welcomes men and women, young and old, Europeans, Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and other races and ethnicities. Even the inexperienced can take part in this adventure. There is only one type of person that is excluded from sailing, the unprepared. The adventure gives no room for those who neither have the preparation nor the respect and appreciation for nature and its challenges. The rich history of circumnavigation shows that in these modern times, sailing is no longer a fantasy that you can only dream but a reality that you can truly achieve. The first step begins with setting your destination.

 

Setting Your Destination

 

Routes

 

Planning out your route is the first consideration you have to make in your adventure. Most of the time your point of origin will determine the best and most efficient route you can take. Before you begin tracing your path, it is best to understand the definition that technically qualifies as truly sailing around the world. There are three criteria that qualify for circumnavigation.

 

These three are then reflected by two accepted routes. The three criteria are:

 

Pass through each of the longitudinal lines or the meridian lines. This requires you to set a path that will circle the globe around the two poles.

 

Pass in between antipodal points. This requires that you should cover a distance equal to the at least the width of the Earth or 12,765 km.

 

Travel at a distance at least equal to the circumference of the Earth.

 

When you have satisfied the above two criteria, your total distance traveled should be at least the same as Earth’s circumference or 40,075 km. The two routes are:

1.Race Route. This is the route used by more experienced sailors. This is meant to be used when the objective is to beat records because it offers the fastest route possible.

2.Canal Route. This is the route that takes advantage of the two canals that will make the voyage fast but at the same time maximize the trip. It offers access to the continents major ports, making it a scenic option for leisure sailors. Here is a sample route that you can take that satisfies the above criteria:

1.From Europe and the Mediterranean

2.Canary Islands

3.Caribbean

4.North America or South America

5.Panama Canal

6.The Marquesas Islands or Galapagos Islands

7.French Polynesia and Tahiti

8.Fiji

9.New Zealand or Australia

10.North to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal or

11.South to Cape Horn and southern Africa

12.Brazil

13.Europe

Here is the route travel by Zac Sunderland, a 17 year old American who sailed around the world. He is the second youngest sailor so far. The current youngest is a 16 year old Australian Jessica Watson.

1.From west coast US

2.The northern tip of Australia

3.The southern tip of Africa

4.The northern tip of South America

5.Through the Panama Canal

6.North towards west coast US

 

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Duration

 

There is no definite duration for sailing around the world. Those opt for the fast routes, such as those who are racing or trying to beat a record can take as short as 78 days, 2 hours and 16 minutes. This was made by Francois Gabart. On the other hand most casual sailors can take more than a year to sail. This is because they take advantage of exploring the countries where they will dock. Part of the adventure of sailing is allowing you the opportunity to make the same discoveries as with the first circumnavigators of the world. Most leisure sailors take their time in docking their yachts in marinas and then exploring the harbor city. While some will use their yacht as their accommodation for the duration of their stay in another country, some will go further in the country and stay at different locations.

 

Timing

 

Aside from the actual duration of the voyage, there are other considerations in terms of the timing of the trip. Some factors that will influence your journey are:

1.Prevailing Winds

2.Storm Seasons

3.Ocean Currents

Sailing relies on the prevailing winds. Ride with the winds and you can generate speed and efficiency in your trip. Ride against it and your journey will either be slowed or be doomed to failure. Match your route points so that you can take advantage of the winds when it is present. When there is no wind, it is best that you are nearing the harbor. These winds can be found on specific areas determined by longitude and latitude. Each wind also will have its own name and characteristics.

Some of the prevailing winds that you have to consider are:

1.The Inter-tropical Convergence Zone

2.The Trade Winds

3.The Variables

4.The Westerlies & Easterlies

The Intertropical Convergence Zone or the ITCZ, the Equatorial Trough or the Doldrums are found in 5 to10 degrees North and 5 to 10 degrees south of the equator. Winds of the ITCZ vary and are at best light. They carry heavy rain and thunderstorms during wet seasons and extremely hot and humid air during dry spells. Suffice to say, you want to avoid these winds during your voyage. On top op of the actual problematic characteristics of the ITCZ, you will probably encounter them during your voyage around the world, especially if you plan to cross the equator. Another danger with ITCZ is its variability. Changes in the season and the ocean can affect these winds. Expect these winds to have a wide range of coverage during July and August. While before the ITCZ is confined to 5 to 10 degrees in these months they can reach up to 20 degrees. On the other hand, if you reach these coordinates around February to March, expect the ITCZ to have a narrower coverage and more forgiving characteristics. Western parts of both the Atlantic and Pacific also become easier to navigate because the ITCZ is gentler as you move west. The next layer of the globe, belonging to the 10 to 30-degree coordinates, is the territory of the trade winds. 10 to 30 degrees north belongs to the North East Trades and 10 to 30 degrees south belongs to the South East Trades. They are the opposite of the ITCZ. While you want to avoid the ITCZ, you want to ride these winds for as long as you have them in your route. They provide strong winds that can propel you faster towards your destination. They are best for westbound routes On the 30 to 45-degree coordinates are the Variables. They are similar to the ITCZ in terms of strength and variability. There key difference is in the weather they bring. These winds are not as humid and do not carry as much rainfall as the ITCZ. It is best to avoid these winds as soon as you can as with the ITCZ. Around the 45 to the 60-degree coordinates are the Westerlies. These winds are great for west to east routes. Northern hemisphere Westerlies move southwest. Southern hemisphere Westerlies move northwest. These winds have similar to characteristics to the ITCZ. However, both Westerlies have different characteristics. Those winds north of the equator are generally better than winds in the south. These southern Westerlies are infamous as the Roaring Forties and the Furious Fifties because they carry storms and waves that are difficult to navigate. Easterlies belong to the North to 60 degrees north and the South Pole to 60 degrees south. Take note that the coordinates are approximations. They refer to the general area where you can find these winds; some will definitely widen or narrow during seasons. These winds will definitely overlap in between the coordinates. The lesson here is that you have to anticipate the winds along your route to either take advantage of them or to avoid them entirely

 

Storm Seasons

 

It is best to plot your route while taking into consideration the tropical storm seasons of the area that you will pass on your voyage. Aside from storm season, be prepared for hurricanes, typhoons, cyclone, and monsoons. It is best to stay in the docks and delay your voyage than risk going through a storm. While some yachts can weather storms, smaller ones risk capsizing.

 

Ocean Currents

 

Ocean currents generally move in the same direction as with the prevailing winds. North of the equator, expect current to move in a clockwise direction, south of the equator moves in a counterclockwise direction.

 

Getting on a Yacht

 

As a Volunteer Crew Mem

 

There are several ways that you can get yourself on a yacht. One of the best options is to be a volunteer crew member. This gives you several advantages, such as training, economy, and networking. If you are a first-time sailor, learning from more experienced peers will help you when you start your own adventure. Experience is the best teacher and you will definitely learn a lot in the actual situations. Best practices, insights and the culture of sailing around the world will definitely provide you with a wealth of information that no other reference can offer. Although technically you will not get paid with wages for your service, your work in the yacht will pay for your way. This is especially useful for those sailors who do not have enough funds to cover for their own expenses. Finally, you can create relationships and an entire network of captains, navigators, crew members and other professionals that can give you guidance or can even be part of your future crew.

 

As a Paying Client

 

If you want to have the best of both worlds, taking in the adventure as a captain or crew member but still have the entire voyage for yourself, then the best option to get on a yacht is become an owner yourself. If this is your choice, your task is to find the best yacht for you. The average cost of yachts that is ready to sail around the world will be around $30,000 to $50,000. Brand new and luxury yachts can cost millions Of course, the more luxurious you want your yacht to be, the more expensive it will become. Aside from the actual cost and depending on your sailing skills and desire to have someone with you on the trip, you may also need to pay for crew wages. Repairs, maintenance and upkeep will also cost you. If your route involves passing through the canals, you will also be charged. Then, there is also the added cost of food, fuel and other daily expense that you may incur on your trip. Sailing costs will start from the most frugal from $2000 to the more luxurious expenses of $5,000 per month of the voyage. On the average, expect these expenses for your trip:

 

Payment for marinas: $300 per month of the voyage may change depending on duration you dock your yacht.

 

Land transportation for resupplying: $200 per month of the voyage

 

Miscellaneous expenses such as propane water, garbage, phone and internet: $100 per month of the voyage

 

Food: $1000 per month of the voyage or depending on your requirements

 

Maintenance, Repairs & Replacements: $200 per month of the voyage

 

Immigration fees, cruise fees and dockages: $100 per month of the voyage

 

Passing by the canals around $1,500 to $3,000 per way. This may seem expensive but if you plan to save on time, the savings will definitely make up for the cost.

 

Learning Your Skills

 

Sailing

 

Knowledge and application on boat handling, takeoffs, landing, and docking must be learned. Skills on upward sailing and sail handling, jibing and tacking are definitely needed. Heel control sail trim, sail-shape controls, and basic aerodynamics should be part of your skill set. Advanced skills are also. Formal education and training are also offered. Certifications are also issued for successfully completing a program. Although not required, this education will prove useful especially for those without any prior knowledge on sailing. If you have the resources to cover the training, take as many as you can. If not, consider prioritizing the courses. Sailing and navigation is your first choice, next is use of the radio, then first aid and lastly is repairs and maintenance. If you have a companion with you, it is best to divide the training programs and then teach each other after the course.

 

Navigation

 

This is the single most important skill for sailing around the world aside from the actual sailing skills. You need to learn the basics on positions, reading nautical charts, using a compass, plotting your course, predicting tides, currents and winds. Signals, such as lights, shapes and sounds also needed to be learned. Although yachts are now equipped with radar and GPS, it is also best to learn about basic celestial navigation.

 

Rescue

 

There are two kinds of rescue skills you need before you sail around the world. First, you need to be able to learn about rescuing people, like yourself or your crew. Learn basic rescue techniques such as those for persons overboard, drowning and other first aid techniques such as for cuts, fractures and other potential accidents. You also need to be familiar with VHF radio, especially if you need to make a mayday.

 

Leadership

 

This skill is especially necessary if you are leading a crew. Learn to create teamwork by creating cordial relationships between your team. Be ready to mediate in case of arguments and be open to suggestions from your crew. At the end of the day, remember that you bear command responsibility for all actions of your crew. Both their failure and success are yours.

 

Lone Sailor

 

Several people have succeeded in sailing around the world alone. Most of them report three things that helped them become successful in the voyage: belief in oneself, motivation and communication. These sailors reached their goal by building their self-confidence. It is easy to doubt yourself when you are alone, you may even second guess yourself on every decision you make. However, with confidence

 

Preparing Your Logistics

 

Food, Shelter & Clothing

 

Provisioning is your first concern for extended trips such as sailing around the world. Your minimum inventory must last from the moment you leave port to your arrival on the next dock plus you need to have an excess amount just in case something unexpected happens. Here are some considerations that you need to make when deciding on your provisions:

 

The timeframe of your voyage. The length of time will determine how much you need to stock up on food and water. Take into consideration any chances for stops that you can make to resupply. The more provisions you have the safer it will be.

 

Crew. Ask for the dietary appetites and restrictions of your team along with the actual head count. Allergies, religious and health concerns should be planned in advanced.

 

Ease of preparation. If you have cooking skills and equipment, then you may opt to be cooking on board. If not, then it is best to stick to ready to eat meals. In case of emergency, the last thing you want to think about is if you still have cooking oil to fry your meal. Assess your galley and its equipment too if your menu can be handled.

 

Storage. As much as you want to stock up, you will be limited by the storage space of your yacht. You can only take as much as your space permits so plan wisely. Do not use storage space meant for other items, such as first aid, communication equipment and others as food storage. Here are some items that you need to have:

 

Water. You cannot have enough water. This is the single most important provision that you need to be in hand on your yacht.

 

Refrigerator. This is your most important item in your galley. This will prolong the shelf life of most of your food products. Choose wisely on what to put since most yachts will have small sized fridges.

 

Canned and dehydrated goods. Aside from their ease of preparation since most of them are ready to eat or require only cooking in water, these items are also easy to store. These provisions are also useful in case of emergencies such as being stranded for longer periods of time.

 

Cooking skills and equipment. Most probably you will be cooking on prolonged trips. This means that you have to brush up on your cooking skills especially if you will be designated as the cook of the crew.

 

Hard vegetables. If you will stock up on vegetables, be sure to choose those that do not easily rot or ripen, such as potatoes, root crops, beans and legumes. Avoid tomatoes, peaches and similar fruits and veggies.

 

Candies, wines and similar items. Of course, sailing around the world need to be more than just a serious voyage but a fun trip as well. As long as you take them in moderation, junk food, candies, alcohol and wine will always have a place in your galley.

 

Health & Safety

 

Have several first aid kits scattered around your yacht. This way in case one is damaged or lost, you still have a spare. If you have any medications that you need to take on a long term basis, make sure you stock up on them, since they may not be easily purchased on your next destination.

 

Rest & Leisure

 

During long stretches, you will need some way to relax and de-stress. Bring items that can provide you with leisure. Playing cards, board games, puzzles and other games that do not require electricity will take your mind off the sailing when you are in calm waters. Bring fishing rods, inflatable boats, beach balls and any other toys that your yacht can still store. Of course, never forget to bring cameras, rechargeable batteries and other gear that can record your adventure.

 

Insurance, Medical & Legal Considerations

 

Although not required, having an insurance to cover you on your voyage will put your mind at ease. Any untoward accidents that may require medical attention will be reimbursed by these insurance products. Consult your broker for information regarding this kind of insurance, take note the riskier your voyage is the higher the premium will be.

 

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