FAQs

Here are some of our frequently asked questions that we're commonly asked before people set out on a voyage with us!

Is it safe?

Yes, whilst sailing offshore is a challenging environment, it is fundamentally a very safe activity. 
​Our vessels are equipped and inspected regularly to ensure they meet or exceed the standards laid down by the government in terms of construction, maintenance and the safety equipment they carry.
 Our staff are highly experienced in working with young people and novice sailors. If anything were to go wrong, we have all the resources we need to deal with it, and our teams regularly practice for all sorts of emergencies. 

How will I know what to bring?

Don't worry - we send you a list of things to bring with you. We provide waterproof jackets and trousers and we also supply the lifejackets.

I have a special diet - does Offshore need to be told?

If you have any dietary requirements like vegetarian, nut allergy, religious or any other reasons please just let us know when you book and we will ensure we have what you need to eat well onboard. Food is key when sailing and we don't want anyone to go hungry!

Is food included in the price?

Yes and you can join in with the cooking too! The menu is varied and all participants onboard will have a chance to cook in our galley (the kitchen) and then enjoy the meal with the rest of your team!

What happens when you book?

Give us a ring to confirm that we still have space on the voyage of your choice. We will hold your place for three weeks, pending the receipt or a 25% deposit. This guarantees your place on board. We need your full payment 6 weeks before sailing.

Then all you have to do is the paperwork – and your packing!
We will send you a booking form, and a kit list.

If you are sailing on a voyage that starts or finishes overseas you will need to book your flights. We always have a suggested flight and will put crew members in touch so they can meet up at the airport. Very often one of our sea staff will be on the same flight.
For all voyages going foreign, we will ask you to buy travel insurance that covers you for offshore sailing.

Will the other people all know each other?

If you booked an individual space on our summer adventure voyages, you probably won't know anyone. But don't worry, normally it will be exactly the same for everyone else. Most of our summer voyages are booked by people on their own. We think that's great though because it's a great chance to meet new people and make new friends!

Will I get my own cabin?

No - space on board the boat is limited so all participants sleep in bunkrooms with up to three other people. You will get your own bed though!

My voyage starts abroad - are flights included in the cost?

No - flights are not included in the voyage cost. You will need to arrange these yourself but the office can advise which routes other members of the crew have booked on to. We try to ensure young people meet other members of the crew at the airport so they can travel together. Where possible we have a member of our seas staff on our recommended flights too. We advise you not to book travel until your place on the voyage is confirmed.

Do I need to be able to swim?

No you don't.  Whilst the boat is at sea, everyone (whether they can swim or not) has to wear a lifejacket to keep them afloat if they fall in. We find people tend to stay on the boat though!

Do I need sailing experience to join in?

Absolutely not - all our weekend and summer adventures are open to people with no previous experience. You will be given all the training you need when you join the boat for your adventure.

Useful Information

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Stay in touch

Telephone: 07842 262 154
Email: sailing@offshore.org.uk

Tolken, The Lane, West Mersea, Colchester, Essex, CO5 8NT
Registered charity Number 1035015

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