crossing atlantic

[Georgio]

I'm going to be crew for an Atlantic crossing next month, any ideas for vital personal kit that I shouldn't go without. Sunnies, safety gear, plenty of books, etc have all been thought of but I am sure there are items an "experienced-hand" could suggest.

all suggestions will be considered, except blow-up sheep!

G



<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[LadyInBed]

Fishing kit - Well, why not?

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[AndyL]

You will need among other things

Tiny personal torch - maybe with a red lens + batteries.
If you have a hand-held GPS, take it + batteries. (Same goes for VHF)
A multitool such a Gerber or Leatherman is handy.
Walkman + CD's, with headphones + batteries.
More batteries.
Lip Balm, Sunscreen etc.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[snowleopard]

where are you going to/from?

anywhere north of 30N it can get pretty chilly at night. i remember shivering in sweater, full oilies & sea boots despite being down to t-shirt & shorts during the day.

good idea to take fishing gear, but check with the skipper, he may object or have his own tried & trusted gear.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Georgio]

it's the ARC-Europe so will be going Antigua >>> Portugal, so shouldn't be too cold?
G

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[richardandtracy]

Try an artist's palette, some water colours, a few brushes, pencils and plenty of paper. It could be very theraputic trying to capture those sunsets. It would also give you an excuse/ chance to be alone if you need some personal space on a crowded boat.

Regards

Richard.


<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[wpsalm]

pocket guide to astronomy and your own binoculars...

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[snowleopard]

it was the bermuda-azores leg i was talking about. first time i did it was with an open cockpit and a skipper who insisted on us staying up there. last time was on my own boat with a doghouse and an inside steering position so it was ok with just jeans & sweater.

enjoy the dark & stormy.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Jeremy_W]

Good idea, also a "how to" Astro Nav guide. Mary Pera/ Blewitt used to be the standard but Gerry Smith has published one which should be a model of clarity.

There should be a sextant aboard (be worried if there isn't).

A guide to team psychology.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[snowleopard]

the skipper\'s sextant

any crew who comes aboard expecting to 'have a go' with the skipper's sextant may get off on the wrong foot!!!

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Jeremy_W]

Re: the skipper\'s sextant

Obviously, ask first - i.e. before the trip - and bring your own if necessary. But if the skipper fears you'll mistreat or damage his sextant (probably £50 of plastic, not used in anger from one year to the next) he should not have allowed you on board in the first place!

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[warrior40]

I would recommend Playboy and plenty of Kleenex.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[PeterGibbs]

Many, many hours of doing nothing - be prepared. Books, walkman whatever provides relief.

Sore bums - caused by salt water and inadequate washing (inevitable) Take Savlon cream and lannoline. Nothing depresses more than constant itching etc.

Ships food - soon gets boring. Take favourite nibbles.

Watch out for sun - protective cream essential, even to tyros!

? sextant? is this a lure for fish?

PWG

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[johnsomerhausen]

A bottle of Gatorade to serve as a urinal when emptied. More men have fallen off boats from peeing overboard than from any other cause
john

<hr width=100% size=1>