Advice to Crew

Be clear about what you are looking for. Sun, sailing experience, navigation, sea time etc, and negotiate this with the skipper. Meet the skipper and other crew members preferably on board the yacht. Many skippers like to go for a weekend sail with prospective crew. Seize the opportunity to check out things important to you. If you can't, find out as much as you can about them, the boat and the skipper's preferences (style, food etc). How are non-urgent decisions made on board?

Smoking. If you smoke or are allergic to smoke let the skipper know beforehand.

Insurance. Find out the extent of the skipper's cover (does it cover your personal effects and third party claims?). We strongly recommend travel and health insurance if going abroad. Also obtain the Department of Health 'Health Advice for Travellers' T7.1 or later version from www.dh.gov.uk  for details of free medical services in EC countries.

Expenses. Check what the skipper is expecting and make it clear what you can afford. Establish exactly what is covered by any sum you have agreed to pay. Skippers' expectations may vary from no contribution to a full share of keeping the yacht at sea and cruising.

Food and cooking. Check who does what and discuss any dietary needs and particular likes and dislikes.

Equipment. Check that the boat and its equipment is suitable for the trip proposed. Ask someone to help if you are not sure. Check whether the skipper is providing safety gear / harnesses, life jackets etc. You will usually be expected to provide your own foul weather protection.

Point of contact. Leave details with someone of the boat's name, call sign (if RT fitted) and name and contact number of the skipper's liaison contact. Write it all down. If joining mid-cruise make sure you have your skipper's point of contact and check arrangements before you leave home. Will there be a mobile 'phone on board?   Your own mobile phone will be invaluable in finding a yacht in a distant harbour.

Gear. Find out what personal gear you are expected to bring (eg sleeping bag, pillow and/or case, foul weather gear, footwear). Bags should be able to be folded away - no suitcases! Waterproof bags are an advantage as lockers in many yachts are subject to condensation and it can be useful to keep gear dry by leaving it in the bags. As yachts are not particularly secure, don't take any valuables.

Just beginning? If you are new to sailing, read what you can about it. The RYA Competent Crew Handbook covers most of the basics (RYA Code ZC17) or the Competent Crew Practical Course Notes (RYA Code CCPCN).  Please make it clear to skippers that you are just starting and on checking lists look out, in particular, for skippers willing to take a novice crew. It is useful to undertake the Competent Crew course to learn the basics. Most skippers will give a briefing when crew join the yacht about safety items and what duties they want the crew to perform.