People who haven’t sailed much may not have a clear idea what sailing is like. And very little about San Francisco Bay Area life prepares you for life aboard a boat! So it can be hard to know what’s expected of you when you join a sail. Below is a thoughtful (okay, long) description of what’s good to know: how a boat behaves, and how you should behave as a guest and an important part of the crew.
Here’s what I look for in crew: good company and a willingness to learn and pitch in. Practice saying these words: What can I do to help? Experience is always welcome, especially for overnights or offshore passages, but mostly what’s needed is heartiness. Sailing isn’t always glamorous—there’s wind, fog, cold, long hours, too much sun or none at all. Anyone can be great crew on a good day; how you show up on the hard days is what matters.
Sailboats are slow. You’ll be lucky to make 6 or 7 knots. That means once you’re on the boat, you’re on it for a while. Don’t say, “I need to find an ATM,” or “Drop me off anywhere,” or “I have dinner plans at 6.” Boats can’t just pull over. Getting ashore, even if the land looks close, may take hours. Be prepared to commit the day (or days).
Time moves differently on a boat. Be early and ready to cast off. The forces we’re working with—tides, wind, daylight—won’t wait. For early departures, you may be expected aboard the night before, with no other obligations that evening or next morning. And when we return, allow time to help clean up and close the boat. Want to be model crew? Start tidying below deck before we reach the dock.
Transportation & Schedules
Plan your logistics in advance. If you’re not driving, know how you’ll get home from wherever we land. Study public transit schedules and have them handy. This gives us more flexibility and keeps the trip smoother for everyone.
Sobriety & Respect
I’m sober, and while drinking in moderation is permitted aboard Francesca, it should always be done respectfully—generally one beer or glass of wine after we’re safely anchored or docked. Be especially mindful around others who may also be sober. Always be respectful of people’s boundaries and choices—this includes food, drink, and behavior.
Smoking
Please for the respect and comfort of all shipmates please refrain from smoking or vaping while on board Francesca
Phones
Use them for navigation, photos, and communication—but please, no scrolling or zoning out underway. Sailing requires attention, awareness, and connection. Save social media for later and be present.
WHAT TO BRING
Boats have limited space. Bring only what you need and use a soft-sided duffel (no wheels). For sun and weather, bring:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Layers (long sleeves, warm fleece, windbreaker or rain shell)
- Gloves (basic work gloves are fine)
- Bathing suit, towel
- Soft-soled, non-marking shoes (boat shoes or sneakers—not black soles or hiking boots)
Overnights: Bring a flat sheet and pillowcase. This keeps laundry down, and makes you look like pro crew. If you can help wash sheets or towels after a trip, even better.
Power & Charging: Bring a charged phone. Francesca does have USB or 12V charging—check in advance if you’ll need adapters.
Music: Ask what sound system is available. A playlist or two is always nice, but headphones during the sail aren’t a great look.
FOOD
Food is a big part of the sailing experience. It’s communal, it’s comforting, and it brings people together. Always bring something to share, even if not asked. And if you have dietary restrictions, let me know in advance—or plan to bring what you need to feel good and nourished. For overnight trips I will provide breakfast and dinner.
Ideas for contributions:
- Fruit (grapes, sliced melon, fruit salad)
- Cheese & crackers, hummus & chips
- Pasta salad, green salad, or a side dish
- Cookies, chocolate, or something sweet
- Beer, wine (moderate amounts), soda, juice, sparkling water
- Leave your plastic at home but bring a Water bottle. The water on board Francesca is potable.
If it needs refrigeration, bring it cold or in an insulated bag. Don’t forget cups, napkins, and utensils if needed.
What not to bring:
Single use Plastics. The vision I am trying to bring forward with Francesca is a clean environment and sustainable living. Some plastics are unavoidable like sunscreens, medications, tooth paste. But leave water bottles and and other plastics at home. The water on Francesca is filtered and potable.
Also, for longer trips or overnights, offering to chip in for fuel, mooring, or marina fees is always appreciated. It’s not about the amount—it’s about the gesture.
In Summary:
Be good company. Be curious. Ask what you can do. Contribute something. Respect the space, the people, and the sea. Help with setup, cleanup, and meals. Stay aware. Stay kind. And enjoy the magic that happens when we leave land behind.
See you on the water—
Larry
SV Francesca