This is my 25th year running sailing trips, and my 9th year on the Sea of Cortez. Over the years I’ve learned a few things and would like to pass those along, so you know a bit more about the environment on board, and ways to get the most out of this experience.
Though I’m a professional sailing and cruising instructor, this cruise is more about gaining experience and enjoying life under sail – it’s not a go-go-go sail training adventure. You can learn as much as you want to though and because I love to teach, I encourage you to let me know what you want to learn more about. You can even log some days as Master of the vessel if you’re up to it. And while you all are not “crew” in the same sense as on a Bareboat Charter Master certification trip, it’s still a sailing trip – a relaxed sailing adventure.
My primary responsibility on this cruise is your safety and well-being, and the safe operation and management of our sailing vessel. I really enjoy sharing the experience of being on The Sea of Cortez and look forward to showing you some of the best places to go and things to see.
And so, here are some thoughts on being a good crew member and guest, and I think these will help you enjoy the trip to the fullest.
- The itinerary is flexible – because it must be. The weather changes, conditions in particular anchorage may change, and we may decide to do some exploration on the spur of the moment.
- Swimming with the Sea Lions at Los Islotes, from our sailboat, is no longer possible – a paid guide is now required. La Paz tour companies can get you out there for a day trip before or after our cruise.
- The anchorages sometimes get rolly, and the wind can pick up. The boat is fairly stable, but there will be some movement. You may be uncomfortable from time to time because of the boats motion while underway or at anchor.
- Please help with the cleanliness and organization of the boat. We will ask for volunteers to help with dishes, sweeping the floor, anchoring, washing down the decks, cleaning the heads (toilets), loading up the kayaks, etc. Your help here goes a long way!
- The heads (toilets) on the boat require care. Men, please sit down to pee when we are underway – your aim isn’t as good as you think, and you’ll need to clean up the splashes and dribbles. No TP in the toilet, please use the trash receptacle. Ladies, the TP we have on board is all the TP we have, so please monitor usage. Please close the discharge thru-hulls when we are at anchor.
- If you go for a swim, a dinghy ride or a kayak tour, please check with me first. I want to know where you intend to go, and what time you expect to return. That way I know whether we should mount an expedition to come looking for you. I’m serious. I’ve mounted rescue expeditions to find missing crew who went exploring without leaving word and, it turns out, just lost track of time.
- The Parque Nacional is a no-take zone. Please leave the beautiful shells and critters where they are.
We are looking forward to our time with you on the Sea of Cortez.
Santana Sailing
Marc Hughston, Captain
