Who goes on these trips?

People who sail with us are motivated sailors, not those looking to put a check on their ‘bucket list’. Many have their own boats and are thinking about cruising. Our expeditions give them a chance to see what it’s really like ‘out there’. Others have chartered but are either thinking of buying a boat or are ready to see some parts of the world that are off the beaten track.

What qualities are you looking for?

While we do have some extremely experienced sailors come with us, most of the crew will be comprised of people who are looking to increase their skills. A willingness to learn, to get hands dirty and the ability to roll with the punches is more important than a high level of skill.

How fit do I have to be?

Fitness is important. Alaska Eagle doesn’t have roller furling or an autopilot and the loads are heavy on a 65’ boat. Getting stronger and working on your cardiovascular endurance ALWAYS helps. The most common comment we get is that students wished they had taken that suggestion more seriously

How do I know which leg is best for me? 

Each leg does have a certain ‘personality’. If you’re not sure which one to chose, just all or write us. We’ll make a realistic assessment of your skills and goals. Sailing@occsailing.com (949) 645-9412.

What is the watch schedule?

All watches are under the guidance of either the skipper or a mate. When we run 24 hours there are usually three watches. Daytime watches are four hours, night time watches are three hours. Of course, there are times when all hands are needed, (typically around 2am when it’s raining.) Fatigue is never to be underestimated. If you are off-watch and don’t have any duties, get some rest!

What type of credentials does the professional crew have?

Each skipper and mate has at least a USCG 100 ton Master/Mate license, hold current STCW, First Aid and CPR and have thousands of offshore and coastal miles. Most additionally have USCG Oceans, Towing, and Radar Observer and are US Sailing instructors. Several are RYA Yacht Masters in addition to their other credentials. Don’t ever underestimate the cook. Often he/she will hold several licenses and has had many days at sea. 

Do people get seasick?

Even those who usually don't get motion sickness, often find themselves suffering from it. If you do get sick, don't let it be a cause for embarrassment. It's common. Most people feel better after 24 – 72 hours. Things that help keep seasickness under control are: getting plenty of sleep before the trip, avoiding fatty, greasy, or spicy foods and excessive sugar, being hydrated, and starting medication between 12 and 24 hours prior to the trip. Staying active, steering and being on deck also helps speed recovery.

What should I bring?

It depends on the leg you will be sailing. We have gear lists for every leg. They are suggested guides, deliberately general and do not specify brands or labels. Water is limited. Sometimes we can spare a little for laundry, but don’t plan on washing anything, except of course your body! Space is limited.  There is no space for wheeled luggage or dive tanks.

What are the accommodations? 

There are five pipe berths forward, and two staterooms with upper and lower berths in each. The aft cabins are usually reserved for the professional crew. By staying close to the aft cockpit, they are immediately available to the on-watch. Each bunk has a reading light, fan, and gear stowage. Linens, towels and pillow are not provided. (Sorry, only “Do it yourself” turn-down service.)

What safety gear is onboard?

We provide harnesses, and inflatable belt packs (USCG Type V lifejackets). You are welcome to bring your own harness and inflatable lifejacket. (Click here to find the rules on flying with CO2 cartridges used in inflatable lifejackets.) We also carry immersion suits, Type I lifejackets with lights and whistles. We have three liferafts for a total of 18 people, flares, EPIRB, Life rings, VHF, SSB and HAM capable radios, Inmarsat C system and Satellite phone (for emergency use only). Jacklines are rigged for harness use. Harnesses are required at night, in inclement weather and on the captain’s order. All cremembers will participate in safety drills for Firefighting, Man Overboard, Abandon Ship and donning immersion suits above or below 33 degrees latitude.

What will my responsibilities be?

You will be a fully active participant in the running of the ship. Steering, sail changes, adjustments, log keeping, watch standing, navigating, and chores are all part of the experience. You may be involved in repairs if the opportunity presents itself.

Chores!? What chores?

There are many aspects to running a boat and keeping it clean is one of them. We share all the chores from helping the cook and doing dishes to scrubbing the heads. After long trips we thoroughly detail the boat, including cleaning the bilges. 

How does an all Women’s Leg differ from a Mixed Leg?

There is only one real difference, besides the obvious one. The women’s leg has three watch captains (Captain and two mates) instead of a Captain, Mate and Cook. The cooking duties are rotated throughout the crew. While it does mean additional galley duties, we find that the ability to provide extra teaching is helpful to most women. In fact, because there are no men to do some of the heavy lifting, the women can be more challenged on these legs than on a coed adventure. 

Communications – How do I stay in touch? 

If the folks back home worry, assure them that we have the following communications devices on board: VHF, SSB, and Ham Radios, Inmarsat, EPIRB, and Satellite telephone. We encourage you to leave Sat phones at home. The more involved you are with the boat and all aboard, the better the experience. Distractions from home or business can affect the group, not just the individual involved.