FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- Do I need to be an experienced sailor?
No, but a desire to set your spirit free will definitely help. On Curlew, you can spend your day any way you like, lounging in the cockpit, watching the sea wash the weather rail, or on the foredeck where you can sense the power as she parts the seas before her.
- Will I be able to help sail the vessel?
Absolutely! In a race Curlew would be crewed by as many as twelve or fifteen experienced sailors, so while on a charter day we only carry three crewman, plus the captain, we have lots of tasks that will leave you with a good sore at the end of the day, and a kind of tired that is sure to make for a peaceful night's sleep. Be sure to let us know you want to help though, as most tend to enjoy being taken care of.
- Do I need to worry about sea sickness?
The seas off the inner waters of our Southern California Ocean are for the most part tame, but a heavy swell or wind waves are also possible. If you are susceptible to motion sickness, we recommend you check with your doctor, and then seek a remedy that suits the degree of your sensitivity. Many over the counter remedies for seasickness work fine if you take them several hours before departure. If you are especially sensitive we recommend you seek a prescription from your doctor. ( also see the “ What if the weather is bad”)
- What if the weather is bad?
While the song says it never rains in Southern California, we do have our rainy season. But a light off and on rain can provide for a real sailing experience on a hot summer afternoon. If the forecast calls for no more than a 30% chance of rain and it is not raining at the time of departure, we will sail. Conditions greater than 30% but less than 80% we will leave it up to the charter, over 80% we will cancel automatically. Rough seas and high winds can be dangerous, so are most often automatic cancellations.
- Can I be reached in an emergency?
Yes. Curlew is equipped with ship to shore radio equipment, but in addition, our shoreline for the most part offers good cellular coverage as well.
- What is the policy on cell phones, radios, tape recorders, etc.?
While we have no strict policy, we do ask that you be considerate of your sailing associates. Most who go to sea do so in part to experience the thrill of motion propelled under sail alone, the sense of tranquility and peacefulness that goes with it.
- Is there food and drink provided?
This is charter specific, but as a general rule, food and drink is brought by the group and not provided by us. Check with your event manager about the specifics for your trip.
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Is smoking allowed on board?
While we prefer a non smoking environment, however we do cater to an international clientele and realize that in many countries smoking is still predominate. If you must we prefer you confine it to the stern section where we have nice seating area. Please watch your ashes; Curlew after all is 80+ year old wooden boat.