Things
Things to Consider
- No privacy - bunks are next to the galley and the head in an open area shared by crew and other passengers
- No showers and water is limited
- Stow your gear on or next to your bunk
- Bunks are quite narrow but comfortable enough
- Lower bunks are easier to deal with than upper
- Hot water and coffee will probably be available at all times in the galley
- The stove in the galley is always going making the sleeping area warm and snugly (and nice if you need to heat up something)
- Best to leave any alcohol or other relaxants at home. Please don't compromise yourself, the crew or the licensing of the Lady Washington.
Things to Bring
- Plastic mug with handle or loop (a sealing top is a bonus)
- Earplugs
- Small flashlight (preferably with red lens so crew on watch at night won't be blinded by your naked light)
- Sunscreen
- Bottled water - a couple of small bottles are really handy
- Ginger Snaps - a tasty nibble to stave off mild queasiness
- Windproof jacket and warm clothes
- Shoes with non-skid soles like Tevas or deck shoes
- Warm headgear that won't fly off
- Sleeping bag or bedroll and pillow (I think a heavy blanket and pillow are ideal...sleeping bags tend to be too much)
- Duffle bag or other soft luggage
- Sunglasses
- Field guides (birds, marine mammals) and binoculars
- If it gets stormy, you'll wish you had full foul weather gear, including
really waterproof jacket, pants and boots. If the weather is fair, you'll wonder why you brought all that heavy, awkward stuff.
- Toiletries - the bare minimum, packed in one convenient package with a hook for hanging on the "head" door
- A handtowel, made even handier with a loop
- A washcloth - handy for a quick sponge bath whilst hiding in the head
- Intimate cleaning wipes (3 days with no shower....)
- Book/games/camera/film - something to while away the hours.
- Musical instrument if you're so inclined.
And most importantly - bring your sense of adventure! This ain't no Princess cruise with french pastries, deck chairs and fancy balls. Sometimes it's even uncomfortable and tedious. You don't have to do anything but stay out of the way and watch the sea roll by, but you'll have the best time if you ask questions, learn and get involved. Always check with the crew first, but you may find yourself at the tiller, polishing brass or heaving lines like an old salt!