How do You Stay Safe While Sailing?
Whether you’re a local or here on vacation, sailing in Nicaragua is the perfect way to spend the day. The waters around Nicaragua are known for being some of the best in the world. Our beaches are pretty amazing too! It’s no wonder you’re looking forward to spending either a half- or full-day enjoying everything the area has to offer.
The weather and the water are warming up. With gorgeous blue seas, world-class fishing, and epic sunsets, it’s no wonder the waterways are such a popular place to go. Keep in mind- beyond having a good time, you want to make sure you and everyone else in your party is safe. This is actually quite easy to do if you follow a few pieces of advice.
Top 3 Safety Tips for Sailing in Nicaragua
Before you head out on the Pacific Ocean with friends and family, take note of a few important sailing safety tips. These include:
#1 Everyone Need to Wear a Life Jacket
This is number one, because it’s the most important item on our list. Victims drowned in approximately 80% of fatal boating accidents. Of those, 83% were not wearing a life jacket. Insist that you and all other guests all wear a life jacket that fits well. Fasten the vest, hold your arms straight up over your head, and have someone gently pull the top of the arm opening to make sure it fits snugly. Doing so can help you stay afloat in rough waters, protect you against hypothermia, and in extreme cases can keep your head above water.
#2 Check the Weather Forecast and be Prepared for it to Change
Warm, sunny days are ideal for boating, but you can’t always predict when a storm will roll in! A calm day can quickly turn ugly out on the open water. Remember, you’re in the giant Pacific Ocean! This means wind and waves. While you won’t feel yourself being knocked around while on a catamaran, this doesn’t mean the weather doesn’t matter. We encourage you to bring sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a light jacket. This way, you’ll be prepared no matter what the weather brings your way. Varying gusts of wind and choppy water are signs of an approaching storm. If you feel these, it’s time to put that jacket on!
#3 Ensure Your Boat has a Safety Kit
Out on the water, you must be prepared for any situation. A safety kit should be kept on board of all boats. Below are some essential items your safety kit should include, according to insurance carrier Nationwide.
- Duct tape
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Whistle
- Ropes
- Garbage bags
- Fire extinguisher
A flashlight and extra batteries can help you see around your boat in the dark, which is helpful if you plan a full-day excursion. A properly equipped first aid kit, plus the knowledge on how to use it, is vital in case of an accident or medical emergency. Because it is a recognized signal of someone calling for help on the water, a waterproof whistle is another must-have. Ropes are critical for pulling someone in who has fallen overboard, securing the boat, and tying down loose items in windy weather. Remember, just because you’re on the water doesn’t mean you can’t have an onboard fire! This is why a fire extinguisher is needed.
Go Sailing in Nicaragua on the Esmeralda
We can’t wait to meet you and get you out on the water. The ocean is calling your name, and Esmeralda Sailing is here to help you answer it. Sailing in Nicaragua on a catamaran is so much fun! That doesn’t mean having a fun time is all we take into account, though. When you book your trip on the Esmeralda, your safety is always our number one priority. We take this seriously, which is why items like life jackets are always available and on board! With any concerns, comments, or inquiries, please contact Esmerelda Sailing by emailing us at hola@esmeraldasailing.com.