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?
We supply bedding (pillows, sheets and blankets) and towels for all crew on our vessels, so you don’t need to bring your own. For the full list of equipment that you will require while sailing with us, check out our Crew Gear list.
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 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. We find this is a great time for the crew to bond and is an important part of the sailing experience.
I am travelling with my partner. Is it possible for us to have our own cabin?
On board Silver Fern and Salt Lines the cabins are 4-6 customers to a cabin so if you are travelling with your partner, you will be sharing with 2-4 other passengers. Unfortunately, these vessels do not have private cabins.
Our newest vessel Te Kaihōpara has two private cabins with 3 berths in each cabin - a double and a single. There is no additional cost for a private cabin, but it includes the cost of all three berths, whether you occupy all of them or not.
What drinks are available on board?
We provide a variety of cold drinks, soft drinks, juices, teas, soups, hot chocolate and coffee. Our vessels are not licensed, so we do not serve alcohol commercially on board. 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 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 offer several options for you to pay for your expedition:
· Option 1: 50% deposit payable following the approval of your booking. Balance of 50% is payable 60 days before departure.
· Option 2: 20% deposit payable following the approval of your booking. Balance payable in equal weekly automatic payments (This payment option is available if more than 120 days until departure).
· Option 3: 100% payable (required when registering if less than 60 days until departure).
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.