Sailing in the Whitsundays: Simple Tips for an Enjoyable and Safe Time

January 20, 2015 sarah Uncategorized

 

Sailing in the Whitsundays is considered one of the most awesome activities one can participate in. It’s something every tourist must not miss. But to have a blast sailing in the Whitsundays and be safe at the same time, keep in mind the following pointers:

Whitsunday Weather

The Whitsunday Islands are located over a hundred miles north of Tropic Capricorn. This is why tropical weather conditions rule for most of the year. You can still go sun bathing by day during the cold season. But you may need something to keep you warm when the sun sets. January is the start of the rainy season and usually ends on March. Cyclones which rarely happen tend to appear in February or March.

Sailing in the Whitsundays

You don’t really have to obtain a boat license if you are going to hire a yacht in the Whitsundays. But you surely need handling skills and common sense. Also, you need to know how to use a chart and a compass. It is important to know chart symbols in relation to reefs and depths.

What to Bring

Aside from all basic necessities you need the following items when you go sailing in the Whitsundays

Polarized sunglasses: these help lessen reflection off the water allowing you to see into the water without hurting your eyes. You will be able to see the wonderful wildlife underwater without getting wet.

Sunscreen: you should never forget this. The tropical sun in the islands of the Whitsundays is truly scorching. It can burn your skin even if you only stay under the sun for a short time and you don’t use any protection. With this, consider upgrading your normal sunscreen lotion to improve protection. A waterproof type is most ideal.

Footwear: sandshoes, reef shoes, or sandals can spare you from coral cuts or oyster cuts. Most likely, you would be barefoot most of the time while on board and you would only put on shoes when you go strolling at the beach. When you go around resorts or the mainland, it is suitable to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Hat: When you are strolling around the town, sun bathing on the beach, sitting on the deck or sailing in the Whitsundays, wear a broad brimmed hat for maximum protection. This kind of hat protects the top of your ears, a part of the body which most vacationists forget to put sunscreen on.