Sailing for the First Time? Here’s What You Need to Know

With over 7,000 islands in the Philippines, the country is a great spot to sail and discover the beauty of the archipelago. In addition, wind and weather conditions are often favorable for sailing. And, with the maritime industry aiming to reduce carbon emissions drastically using new builds that reduce pollution by 30% by 2025, sailing has become an attractive leisure activity. If you’re a new sailor and planning to go sailing this summer, there are some safety measures that you should remember before setting off.

Good Weather Conditions

There are several ways to stay safe while sailing, but one of the most important is to check the weather condition before getting on your sailboat. Pick a day where it is dry rather than rainy, lots of sunshine for good visibility, and light over strong winds. Get your weather forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) which is the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) in the Philippines. It provides forecasts for up to five days as well as info on cyclones, volume of rain, and other hazards. PAGASA also offers climate forecasts for farmers for the cropping season and indicates when it is safe to sail for fishing.

Apart from PAGASA, Accuweather for the Philippines includes wind speeds and gusts, humidity, and UV for sailing conditions. Remember that out in the water, the winds are stronger and it is cooler, so be sure to dress appropriately. Ensure that you put sun cream on to avoid a sun stroke and drink lots of water for hydration.

Go with an Experienced Sailor

While it may be tempting to sail on your own, it is recommended to go with someone who is experienced if you’re sailing for the first time or until you get enough practice. It may be a friend or family member who has logged in plenty of hours sailing.

You can also ask an accredited sailing teacher to go with you to show you how things are done. Having someone on board who has a wealth of experience can make a huge difference as to how your day will turn out – a frustrating or fun-filled event. Check schools that offer International Yacht Training (IYT) courses to see if you can enlist their professional help.

Sailing is a fun and exhilarating past time that you can easily do in the Philippines. Being safe while out in the water ensures that you are going to enjoy your sailing experience and make it an unforgettable day.