Frequently asked questions

Do I need to have sailing experience to sail with Ocean Sailing Expeditions?

Two of the things that we hear most often are ‘I’m too old for this kind of trip’ or ‘I don’t have enough sailing experience’. Ocean Sailing Expeditions trips are designed for all experience levels and ages. Our customers range from individuals with no prior sailing experience, to those with a significant amount of sailing experience. We provide unlimited training for everyone on board, prior to departure and throughout the expedition, and provide a safe and supportive environment in which to learn. The Ocean Sailing Expeditions team are a passionate bunch of sailors, and we all love sharing our experience and knowledge with others.

What is the average age of your customers?

You are never too young or too old to come sailing with Ocean Sailing Expeditions! We invite people of all ages and experience levels to come sailing with us. The age of our customers generally ranges from 35 – 70+.

Do I need to bring my own bedding and towels?

Yes if you are sailing on Awen, but not on the other vessels.

Is it possible to hire or bring snorkelling equipment, kayaks or stand up paddle boards along?

We carry snorkelling equipment, stand up paddle boards and kayaks on board all vessels. If these activities are something that you are interested in, and the opportunity arises, we have all the required gear on board for your complimentary use.

Do I need to pay an extra fee to use the water sports equipment?

Our trips are all inclusive, so you don’t need to pay any additional fees to use the water sports equipment.   

Do you cater to special dietary requirements?

Yes, we cater to everyone. If you have a special dietary requirement, please let us know at the time of booking.

Who does the meal preparation on your trips?

All of the cooking and meal preparation is shared amongst the crew on the sailing yachts. We find this is a great activity for crew bonding and teamwork and is an important part of the sailing experience. On Sea Breeze III a chef and steward/ess is provided and all meals and dishes are taken care of.

I am travelling with my partner, Is it possible for us to have our own cabin?

On board Sea Breeze III, Silver Fern and Te Kaihōpara we have private couple / group cabin options available for 2-4 occupants.

What drinks are available on board?

Sailing Yachts

Our sailing vessels are not licensed and we do not sell alcohol commercially on board the sailing yachts. You are welcome to bring your own alcohol for consumption in moderation at anchor or in port. Alcohol contributes to sea sickness, so consumption should be managed with this in mind. We provide a variety of cold drinks, soft drinks, juices, teas, soups, hot chocolate and coffee.

Sea Breeze III

Sea Breeze III has a liquor license. A range of complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are included. We do not operate a “booze cruise” culture and excessive alcohol consumption or socially unacceptable, intoxicated behaviour is not tolerated.

Do you offer payment plans for your trips?

We understand that our trips are a significant financial commitment and we offer several options for you to pay for your event, depending on how far ahead you book for an event:

• Full payment (required if less than 60 days until departure).

• 50% deposit and balance 60 days before departure.

• 25% and 3 monthly payments of 25% each (available if booking more than 3 months in advance).

• 20% deposit and 8 monthly payments of 10% each (available if booking more than 6 months in advance).

• 20% deposit and 16 monthly payments of 5% each (available if booking more than 12 months in advance).

If you select any of the above plans inside of the minimum term, the deposit will be increased to compensate for the shorter payment timeframe remaining.

What happens if I get seasick?

Even the most seasoned sailors can experience seasickness, and this is something that we are prepared for and will support you through. If you experience seasickness, we have a range of medications on board which include natural remedies and proven pharmacy supplied medication. If this is something that you are particularly worried about, we recommend you have a chat with your medical practitioner to seek advice on medications that might be right for you, especially if you take other medication on a daily basis.

Will I receive a formal sailing qualification?

Joining us for an adventure does not provide you with a formal qualification and we are not a sailing school. You will have an opportunity to learn and participate at almost any level in the management of the boat especially on ocean passages. As a commercially licensed vessel and crew, we can sign your logbook for your duty hours and sea miles at the conclusion of the expedition.