Blue water sailing is very different from coastal sailing. An ocean passage does not happen in the spur of a moment, but needs proper preparation of the boat, the provisioning, the navigation, the weather situation and the crew.

On the trip and prior to the trip, you will learn what it takes to successfully plan and execute an ocean passage. Prior to departure, the captain will discuss the route, the systems used on board (inclusive of state of the art electronic navigation and communication), passage planning and storm preparation.

We have scheduled these trips in periods where we can expect favorable weather and ETAPCharterLease has a strict conservative policy as to risk taking when it comes to ocean sailing. This may include delaying the trip or seeking safe harbor if weather conditions require so. This being said, once you are offshore, you need to deal with what is coming at you.

The Etap 37s is rated CE class A or “all oceans” and is set up for ocean work, including storm staysail, MOB retrieval gear, Epirbs, radio and telephone communications. All of this on an unsinkable boat, providing for a safe and comfortable environment.

The 3 crew members will be selected so as to have a balance of skills on board. They will stand watches around the clock, together with an experienced USCG licensed captain. As a participant in the program, you will drive the boat. You are not a passenger.

Included in the trip are all on board food and drinks. If the trip needs to be interrupted for inclement weather conditions, on land expenses are not included. Transport to and from the boat is not included.

Prior requirements

Ocean sailing can be the most relaxing and at the same time most challenging experience you will ever have.

Although we do understand that you come along on the trip to learn from an experienced ocean sailor and do so in the safety of a true “ocean going” yacht, we do expect that you know how to sail. In the application process we will discuss how you meet the requirements, which can either be experience or certification based or both.

Given that these trips can take you quite far offshore, you need to evaluate your own medical condition in consultation with your physician. Medical help can be a rough helicopter ride away.

Finally you need to understand that ocean sailing is not a Disneyland experience. Although we tend to be overly conservative about our navigation, the final decision to be onboard is yours and at your risk.