Life on AFTIA works at a different pace than life ashore, being less structured and operating a slower pace. We have compiled the things on this page as a guide to anyone coming to visit and will add to it on an ongoing basis.
When visiting us on board, we suggest that you pack light. Keeping in mind that we may be in remote locations you may want to ensure that your luggage is all carry-on for your flights to ensure you have it when you are with us.
If we are in a warm location our suggested packing list is as follows.
Pack light (which I may have already mentioned)
A soft sided bag which can be stored while on board. You should not bring hard sided or non collapsible luggage as there will not be storage space on board for your suitcase
One pair of non-scuff footwear that dries quickly
Bathing suits (likely your primary form of dress 90% of the time)
Sunscreen
Sun hat
Clothes for when in town. They should be light and airy. Quick drying works best.
"Dress-up" clothes for an evening out. Keep in mind that cruiser dress-up means shorts, golf shirts, summer dresses, etc.
A light jacket and pants for evening when it may cool off
Mask and snorkel
Activities
Sailing: Of course, sailing is the primary activity when living on a cruising sailboat. Enjoy the thrill of harnessing the wind, trimming sails, and navigating the seas. Explore new coastlines, visit remote islands, and experience the freedom of traveling under sail.
Exploring Ashore: When you reach new destinations, go ashore and explore. Wander through quaint coastal towns, immerse yourself in local cultures, visit historical sites, and try new cuisines. Hiking, biking, and sightseeing are all part of the adventure.
Snorkeling and Diving: Many cruisers take advantage of the opportunity to discover the underwater world. Grab your snorkeling gear or diving equipment and explore vibrant coral reefs, encounter marine life, and witness breathtaking underwater landscapes.
Fishing: Fishing can be both a recreational activity and a way to supplement your food supply while cruising. Drop a line and try your luck at catching fish, enjoying the thrill of the chase and the satisfaction of a fresh catch for dinner.
Water Sports: Living on a sailboat means being surrounded by water, so take advantage of various water sports. Enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, or even surfing, depending on the conditions and your location.
Beachcombing: Coastal cruising often means discovering pristine beaches and secluded coves. Spend time walking along the shoreline, collecting seashells, building sandcastles, or simply basking in the sun.
Wildlife Observation: While visiting, you may encounter a variety of marine and bird life. Keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, seals, and seabirds. Use binoculars to observe wildlife from a distance and appreciate the wonders of nature.
Relaxation and Enjoying the Sunset: Embrace the tranquility of life on the water. Spend time reading a book in the cockpit, enjoying a sunset with a glass of wine, or simply taking in the beauty of your surroundings.
Space
Click on "The Boat" at the top of the page for more info on our home and to get a sense of what she is like. While AFTIA is roomy, there is probably less space than you are accustomed to on land. For comparison it would be similar to a large RV.
Water
On the boat we have fairly large fresh water tanks with storage for 180 gallons, but refilling the tanks can be complicated if we are not tied up to a dock with water piped right to us. This means that we take water conservation pretty seriously. If you are coming to visit, this probably just means that you should turn off the tap while brushing your teeth and take quick showers to conserve water.
The "Head"
As of this writing, AFTIA is equipped with a traditional Raritan marine head (toilet). This means it uses sea water to flush and empties either into a holding tank on board or over the side depending on where we are and the local regulations. It also operates via a manual pump, which is definitely different than your toilet at home. We are assessing replacing the traditional marine head with an electric version...which would be more like home as there is no manual pumping involved.