This week I am talking all about how to be a prepared crew. You have been invited out on a boat. Maybe you are racing, day sailing, or spending the weekend. What should you bring? How should you prepare? Which items are essential? I'll help you sort through the ins and outs of heading out sailing with someone else to make sure you make a great first impression and are invited back!

To get yourself ready for this episode, you may want to head back and listen to a couple previous episodes:

Alright time to get organized to hop on someone else's boat! Yay! But what is essential for you to bring to be a prepared sailing crew?

So you have the gear organized and ready, but are YOU ready? What have you done to prepare yourself? Here are some ideas:

Once you have had your great day out on the water, don't forget to follow up with your skipper and say  thank you! Let them know how much fun you had crewing for them and if you're available again. Who knows where this could lead? If you dare, ask them which skills they think you could improve on and which things you did well. It's always nice to get some feedback. But remember, opinions can vary greatly so take it with a grain of salt!

As for your own reflection, how did the sail go? How did it feel to be out on that particular boat with that crew? Did you feel like a prepared sailing crew? Do you think you'd join them again? How was your gear and were you missing anything? Is there anything else you'd add to your kit for next time?

Overall, if you show up with some food/water, proper attire and a big smile, you should have a great time and be most welcome on any sailboat! I would say you are a prepared sailing crew! Go out there and have fun! 

Penny