Embarking on a 5-day sailing course with Southern Cross Yachting is not just about mastering the art of sailing; it’s also about adapting to a unique lifestyle at sea. Here’s a glimpse into the differences between living aboard on our 5-day sailing course and the comforts of home… (plus you may not see coming!)
Everything Has Its Place
Unlike your stable, firmly grounded home where a bit of clutter might be harmless, on a yacht, every item has a designated spot. This ensures safety and order, preventing items from becoming hazards when the boat is in motion. I.e. Yes, it’s probably a good idea to dry those dishes and put them away before a big wave hits!
Secured Storage
Cabinet doors on board are designed to lock securely, keeping contents safe during voyages. You won’t see any Temple & Webster door knobs on our training boats. Instead, you can expect button looking door knobs that you press in to lock and unlock. It’s a practical feature that ensures nothing spills or breaks, even in choppy waters.
Conserving Water Aboard
With a finite water supply from the onboard tank, long, luxurious showers are replaced with quick and efficient rinses. As someone who often finds themselves getting lost in the deepest of thoughts mid-shower, I can appreciate this may be daunting. On the up side, your post-course shower at home will feel like a stay at a far too expensive 5-star resort.
This approach to water conservation also plays a part in dishwashing. Yes, we all help out with dishes aboard 😉 Dishwashing becomes a mindful task, where we emphasise conservation over convenience.
Powering Up Differently
The yacht operates on a 12-volt system, meaning your standard chargers might not be compatible. It’s an opportunity to unplug and embrace the simplicity of life at sea. If you’re concerned about power and want to ensure your phone is charged up to take photos of your 5-day journey, you are welcome to pack a power bank for extra peace of mind. Oh, and don’t forget to tag us on socials when you post your photos!
Gimballed Oven
Cooking on a moving vessel is made possible with a gimballed oven, which stays level regardless of the boat’s motion. It might take a hot second to get used to but it’s absolutely necessary to ensure your meals are cooked evenly, even when the sea is not.
Top-Loading Fridge
Say goodbye to your upright fridge. Our Southern Cross Yachting training boats feature top-loading fridges. These are more efficient in a marine environment and keep your provisions secure underway.
Limited Connectivity
While at sea, you might find yourself out of cell phone range. It’s a chance to disconnect from digital distractions and reconnect with nature and your fellow sailors.
Compact Living Spaces
Space is at a premium on a yacht. You’ll find that living areas are more compact, requiring efficient use of space and thoughtful organisation. This minimalist approach can be a refreshing change from the often cluttered spaces on land.
This difference shouldn’t come as a surprise, we have no Marry Poppins superpowers here, what you see is what you get in terms of space. We do find the size of our backyard more than makes up for it though…
Shared Spaces and Community
Life on a yacht fosters a strong sense of community. Always be respectful to your fellow crew mates and enjoy the shared experience and interactions! It’s not uncommon for bonds made aboard to last beyond the course.
Proximity to Nature
Living on a yacht, even for just 5-days, brings you closer to nature. You’ll experience stunning sunrises and sunsets, encounter marine life, and feel the rhythm of the sea in a way that’s impossible on land.
Adjusting to these nuances is part of the adventure, offering a fresh perspective on daily routines and fostering a deeper connection with the maritime world. Embrace the quirks, and you’ll find that life aboard a yacht is a rewarding and enriching experience!
Can you think of another live-aboard quirk we’ve missed? We’d love to hear from you at sailing@southerncrossyachting.com.au.