Finding the right boat

Boating equipment is irrelevant if you don’t even have a boat so before getting started let’s talk about finding the right catamaran for you.

Here are Kim’s tips for deciding what boat is best for you and how they came to the decision to buy 45ft Lagoon Catamaran.

• a balance between living space and speed – “the majority of the time will be spent at anchor”
• brand – which brand will be good for resale
• size – family of four, toys, storage and how we manage

But first, SAFETY
Boat safety equipment is by far the most essential boating equipment so it is always important that you check local guidelines and maritime frameworks to not only keep yourself and your crew safe but keep within regulations. Here are the necessities onboard Jadean…

• PLB and MOB per crew
• Epirb
• 2 x 6 man life rafts
• High guard rails
• Kid nets
• SOS Danbuoy
• 2 x life rings

Maintenance

Things are bound to need repairs, make sure you are prepared…

• spare everything
• tools
• suppliers manuals, schedules and contact details

Sails

People are always asking us what sails they need, really this is up to the skipper but here is what’s onboard Jadean.

• Reacher (99m2)
• Asymmetrical
• Symmetrical
• Genoa
• Square top main

What equipment you need to bring (in your mind)

It is clear that to cross oceans you should be able to sail, however, Kim says the ability to plan is the most important. You must understand how to plan a route, investigate the places you are visiting and understand the seasons and what that means. Kim also suggests that some courses may give you more confidence to take on the open waters.

“Having sailed my whole life, the kids and I were not going to do the Atlantic Crossing and then Barry asked me “what will it take”.  I said I needed a piece of paper to show that I could do it.  So I did my Yacht Master Offshore.  I felt a tremendous amount of confidence after that.”