FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS SAILING REALLY LIKE?
The cruising lifestyle is like no other if you have the right mental attitude and the ability to enjoy the cruising lifestyle. Sailing is an amazing experience-when sailing is good, it’s really good- when it’s bad, it’s really bad. Nothing is worse than trying to fix a meal in bad weather, but nothing is better than reaching along at 8 knots on the open ocean. The offshore passage making can be a thrilling accomplishment found in few other sports. Sailing has its own rhythm and can be quite rewarding. In port you can enjoy the sights, sounds, nightlife, and intrigue of other cultures in a way that only cruising can provide. At the more remote anchorages, you can take advantage of diving, snorkeling and windsurfing, of the boat and at night gazing at the million stars above.
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HOW MANY PEOPLE CREW THE BOAT?
Normally there will be 4-5 crew on the boat. Everyone will rotate and share in crew duties.
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WHAT ARE MY DUTIES AS PART OF CREW?
Everyone shares in all of the duties. You take your turn at watch keeping, helming, sail handling, cooking, washing dishes, cleaning, and all aspects of living on a yacht. It is a crew position, not a charter trip so come with that in mind. This is a chance to be part of the team and experience the cruising lifestyle.
Click for Crew Duty Details
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HOW MUCH EXPERIENCE DO I NEED?
You do not necessarily need any prior sailing experience. After all sail training is part of what we do, and we will help you build your skills. We usually do a couple of day sails before setting off. Many of the trips are very conducive to making a couple of shorter sails before making a long offshore run. On some trips we may give preference to people with prior sailing experience, but keep in mind a positive attitude is what it really takes.
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HOW DO YOU SELECT CREW?
We look for a compatible group of people when possible. Most groups include an equal number of men and women as it provides a better balance on the yacht. We mainly look for a positive attitude, a sense of adventure, and people who are genuinely thrilled to get a chance to sail.
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CAN A WOMAN TRAVELING ALONE MAKE THE TRIP?
Sure. We have had lots of women sail with us. We prefer a mix of women and men on each trip as it brings a better balance to the journey.
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HAVE YOU EVER HAD PROBLEMS WITH CREW?
After having completed a full circumnavigation I have never had to ask crew to leave the yacht. We look for people who are positive, enthusiastic, good-natured and can get along well with others. We develop a team-work attitude and maintain a positive environment on the yacht.
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WHAT LEVEL OF PHYSICAL FITNESS DO I NEED TO BE IN?
Average physical fitness is all that is required. Keep in mind you need to be flexible, and able to move about the yacht. Some of the trips take us away from civilization so you may want to get a physical before you go. Everyone participates and shares duties including sail handling, so be prepared.
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WHAT CAN I DO TO PREPARE PHYSICALLY?
Exercises like swimming, aerobics, stretching, light weight training are a very good idea. Reasonable physical fitness is all that is expected.
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WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER AND STORMS?
We try to plan the trips to avoid bad weather. We also wait for favorable conditions before setting out. Of course no matter what the plan, we may encounter some bad weather along the way. The yacht is well equipped and has an experienced captain. Weather is a part of the sailing adventure, not anything to be frightened about.
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WHAT IF I GET SEASICK?
If you are concerned about becoming seasick, we recommend you take medication while your body adjusts. If you know you are prone to seasickness, you might try wristbands, Dramamine or even patches, which give you a steady dose over several days. After we are underway, your body will normally adjust and seasickness will no longer be a problem.
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SO WHAT ABOUT COOKING AND FOOD?
What we eat depends on the port we’re visiting. We eat whatever is locally available - fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat. We do not eat a lot of red meat, but we do eat meat. We have sailed with several vegetarians and we’ve never had problems with the meals. On the other side of the coin, don’t come expecting prime rib. We don’t fix individual meals or complain about the cook, after all you will be taking your turn and making your favorite dish. Remember that being flexible is part of your sailing adventure.
We troll a line when underway and fish is a common staple on the boat. Normally, breakfast is an "on your own meal" with cereal, bread and fruit available. Lunch and dinner are the responsibility of the cook of the day. Bring your favorite recipes or use our cookbooks to give you ideas.
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WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
We will send you some suggestions on what to bring, but basically, travel light. During the day on the boat, shorts, tank tops, swimwear are best. It can get cool at night, so consider a fleece top and pants. Just think about what will be comfortable and dry quickly. Fleece and nylon work well on the boat - it’s usually lightweight and dries quickly. We will occasionally have the opportunity to go out to a nice restaurant or upscale bar so a set of nice, casual clothes is also necessary - for men, that normally means, a shirt with a collar and pants -for women, a dress, casual pants and tops will do. As for shoes, Tevas or something like that, are good for getting on and off the boat and knocking around in. And you may also want to consider bringing tennis shoes or other comfortable walking shoes for when we’re docked. We go barefoot on the yacht most of the time. We have rain gear and harnesses for everyone. All of the basics, like sheets and towels are on the boat, but you should bring personal items such as shampoo, toothpaste, medication, etc. Something very helpful to have with you are ZIPLOC bags. Just keep in mind, storage is limited so whatever you bring, you will live with in your cabin.
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HOW MUCH MONEY DO I NEED TO BRING?
Your expenses ashore are really within your control and frankly some of the more remote locations will not provide that many spending opportunities. So you be the judge and keep in mind ATMs are common overseas.
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WHY ARE THE TRIPS’ DATES LONGER THAN THE ACTUAL SAILING TIME?
A combination of factors will determine if we require extra time. We are a sailing vessel and we may need to wait for a weather window. Also, we may take novice crew and it may require some time to orient crew by doing some day sails before getting underway. It takes time to build a team and that is exactly what sailing is about, being part of a team.
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WHAT IS THE LONGEST PASSAGE AT SEA?
Of course it depends on the trip and the weather. Each adventure leg has a passage summary. Click on the link and it will give you more detail about the sailing conditions we expect.
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CAN I STAY LONGER OR COMBINE TRIPS?
Yes, some of the trips can be easily combined, and you may be able to join the yacht before, or stay after the departure date, depending on the charter schedule. We will normally offer a discount for crew who want to do multiple trips as it involves less training. Let us know what your preferences are and we’ll try to accommodate you.
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WHAT ABOUT COMMUNICATIONS?
As a rule, most ports have reasonable access to phones and internet cafes. In an emergency, the ship has a long range SSB radio, inmarsat and a satellite phone. We will make regular checks for messages. Inmarsat and satellite phones are expensive. It will be your responsibility to pay for private usage.
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WHAT ABOUT MEDICAL ACCESS?
We do not have a doctor on board, but we do have a good medical kit and access via Single Side Band and Satellite phone to a doctor’s advice. Also, most ports of call have reasonable access to medical facilities. We do recommend you bring a full course of a broad-spectrum antibiotic and any other medication you might require.
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HOW DID YOU ARRIVE AT THE COST?
The cost will vary depending on the area and trip length. We keep several factors in mind, including difficulty in travel to some locations and also the trip length of time. The cost covers your room and board, meals, sail training, and all expenses associated with the yacht, including, marina fees, fuel, water and port fees. Also, remember, you’ll visit some of the most exotic ports in the world and the experience of a lifetime.
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HOW WILL I BE NOTIFIED?
Normally I will contact you by phone prior to making a decision. If you are accepted for an adventure travel leg, you will receive notification by mail including information about the trip, specific boarding information, travels tips, and a letter for use clearing immigration. Your credit card will not be billed or your check deposited unless you have been confirmed as crew.
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WHY DO YOU WANT A DEPOSIT?
Once you have been accepted as crew and committed to the trip, we no longer take applications for your position. At that point we are relying on you as crew. A non-refundable deposit of 25% helps assure us you are indeed serious and intend to sail with us.
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WHEN IS THE ENTIRE AMOUNT DUE?
The entire amount is due prior to departure unless other arrangements have been made.
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WHAT IF I CANCEL?
If you must cancel due to an emergency or unplanned event you will receive a refund less your deposit provided we are able to replace your position. Keep in mind we are counting on you as crew and you should only apply if you are indeed serious.
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WHY DO I NEED AN ONWARD TICKET OR EQUIVALENT BOND?
Once you are on the boat Captain Rod is responsible for you. He cannot take you off the crew list in another country unless you have proof of an onward ticket. Showing proof of an onward ticket or equivalent bond documents your travel plans.
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CAN YOU GIVE ME REFERENCES?
Yes. Generally we will give you email addresses. Keep in mind many of the people are travelers by nature and in and out of touch with email. Also, some of the people will have sailed on a previous yacht, but they can still tell you about the captain and sailing long distance. Captain Rod’s last around the world trip was on Satisfaction Plus, a 44' Beneteau. Dream Time is a much larger, more capable long distance cruiser.
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WHAT ABOUT ILLEGAL DRUGS?
We have a zero tolerance for drugs on board or near the ship. We expect you to abide by the laws of every country we stop at. Most have serious penalties for those involved with drug use.
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WILL I NEED IMMUNIZATIONS?
We suggest you contact the CDC, a travel medical clinic, or your doctor for specific recommendations. The CDC has a very good on-line site for this purpose.
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WILL I NEED A VISA?
Visas may vary depending on your nationality and of course the countries visited. We recommend you contact the country’s embassy or go on-line. Most countries have an on-line site for their State Department or even sources such as the Lonely Planet will provide guidance.
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WILL I NEED A PASSPORT?
Yes. A valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond your expected entry date is normally required. So if you do not have much time left on your passport it’s a good idea to renew it now.
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CHARTER FAQs
WHAT CAN WE EXPECT ON THIS CHARTER?
Dream Time is a world-class yacht with a competent Captain and crew. With a crewed charter, you are free to relax, enjoy, take a break, or even a nap whenever you want. You can sail the yacht, enjoy as much helm time as you like, hoist the main, trim the sails, tack offshore, from day sails to over night sailing we can customize the trip to the experience you would like.
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CAN WE CUSTOMIZE OUR TRIP?
Tell us about your group, your interests, and what you would like to see and do. We will do our best to accommodate your wishes. Sailing, snorkeling, diving, or just relaxing at anchor, we will do our best to accommodate your wishes.
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HOW MUCH TIME WILL BE SPENT ASHORE AND HOW MUCH TIME SPENT SAILING?
We will try to balance our time to allow you time to explore ashore as well as sailing. We typically will alternate nights between anchoring in beautiful secluded bays and docking in charming island towns. Again, we will give you the option, and try to accommodate your requests.
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DO YOU OFFER FAMILY TRIPS?
Yes. Many families have found that our trips provide a terrific family vacation experience. Family trips can include learning to sail. Again, let us know your requests and we’ll do our best to meet them.
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WHAT DO YOU MEAN, VALUE CHARTER?
Dream Time was designed for the luxury charter market. As we are circumnavigating we have geared our charters to a more relaxed market. You can still expect a first class, well-equipped, and well-provisioned yacht.
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HOW SAFE IS THE BOAT AND WHAT ABOUT THE EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT?
We are very safety conscious, and prioritize safety on our trips. Dream Time is equipped for offshore Category 1 sailing, which means she meets or exceeds all safety equipment required by law. Because of the nature of the challenges faced by yachts circumnavigating, you will find Dream Time carries advanced equipment for navigation, weather prediction, and communications.
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WHAT SHOULD WE PACK AND HOW MUCH?
Be sure to bring only soft, collapsible luggage. You can pack fairly lightly for all of our trips. We will provide a detailed list of what to bring once we have confirmed your charter. The requirements are modest and most people already have everything they need. During the day on the boat, shorts, tank tops, swimwear are best. Just think about what will be comfortable and dry quickly. Fleece and nylon work well on the boat - it’s usually lightweight and dries quickly. As for shoes, Tevas or something like that, are good for getting on and off the boat and knocking around in. We go barefoot on the yacht most of the time. All of the basics, like sheets and towels are on the boat, but you should bring personal items such as shampoo, toothpaste, medication, etc. Something very helpful to have with you are ZIPLOC bags. Just keep in mind, storage is limited so whatever you bring, you will live with in your cabin.
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WHAT KIND OF FOOD WILL WE EAT?
The yacht is fully provisioned and we have an excellent cook. Tell us your preferences and we will attempt to accommodate, but we may have some access limitations to certain fresh goods depending on the area of charter.
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WHAT IF WE HAVE SPECIAL FOOD REQUESTS?
We will try our best to accommodate any special requests you may have. We’ll work with you ahead of time to design meals, snacks, and beverages according to your preferences. Vegetarian requests can be honored.
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WHAT ABOUT SEA SICKNESS?
We choose charter locations that generally offer tranquil sailing in a variety of weather conditions and select anchorages to avoid exposure to ocean swells when possible. Keep in mind Dream Time is a heavily constructed and a very stable cruising yacht. If you are extremely sensitive to motion sickness, we recommend Dramamine, wrist bands, or patches.
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CAN WE LEARN SAILING SKILLS?
Yes. You can learn as much or as little about sailing as you’d
like on our charters.
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HOW MUCH SAILING SHOULD WE EXPECT TO DO?
We are always ready for as much sailing as the wind and group preferences allow. In times of little or no wind we will motor. Sailing yacht engines are relatively quiet, and you are welcome to lounge on deck and enjoy the scenery.
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DO WE NEED SAILING EXPERIENCE?
No. We imagine you are open to having a fun, relaxing vacation experience. Your crew can handle the yacht, so you are free to consider your participation optional. That said, most guests enjoy sailing and getting involved in the action.
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HOW MANY PASSENGERS WILL BE ON THE YACHT?
There’s enough room to accommodate 4 passengers comfortably in the 2 large front double cabins, each with its own toilet/shower. The salon is open and spacious allowing for comfortable accommodations on Dream Time.
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ARE THERE ANY PHYSICAL FITNESS REQUIREMENTS?
Not really. Fitness requirements are minimal for the charter trips.
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HOW DO I SCHEDULE A TRIP?
Fill out the charter application form so we can verify yacht availability.
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HOW WILL I BE NOTIFIED?
As soon as availability is verified we will notify you via email or phone and a deposit will be due.
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HOW DO I PAY?
You can pay by credit card or check as you prefer. Your charter is not reserved until payment is received.
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WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?
A non-refundable deposit of 25% is due at the time of booking. The remainder is due 120 days prior to your charter date. Refunds less the deposit will be made for charters cancelled prior to 90 days of the charter date.
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Home
Yacht Dream Time
Itinerary
Captain Rodney
Book a Trip
Contact Us
FAQ
Corporate Events
Private Charter
Romantic weekends
Sunset cruises
Offshore Adventure
Home
Yacht Dream Time
Itinerary
Captain Rodney
Book a Trip
Contact Us
FAQ
Corporate Events
Private Charter
Romantic weekends
Offshore Adventure
voyagebysail@hotmail.com
(813) 334-4107
