FAQs
Charter Sailing FAQ
Indeed there are! Here is what people are saying about their experiences with Northwest Sailing Adventures. For your convenience, we’ve included the links here:
We have a small inverter that produces a 120-volt AC current, which is sufficient for most CPAP machines. However, if you have a serious condition such as sleep apnea, you may want to bring your own power supply (battery pack) and/or 12-volt power chord. Please advise us in advance if you require a CPAP or other medical device(s).
The great advantage to chartering your sailboat rather than hiring a bareboat charter is that no experience is required, just a sense of adventure!
Traveling through inland waters, we usually don’t encounter the sea swells that cause most seasickness. If you feel you may be susceptible, a patch or Dramamine-type motion sickness pills can help. These are often found to be unnecessary.
Each day brings a new area to explore, including opportunities for hiking, kayaking, swimming, biking, and, yes, even shopping! Explore quaint villages and luxurious resorts.
The Pacific Northwest can be unpredictable, even in the summer. In addition to personal items, you will want layered clothing and a waterproof jacket. Hats, gloves, and two pairs of non-skid/hiking shoes are recommended. All linens, towels, and bedding are provided for you. We recommend soft-sided suitcases or duffel bags. Bring a day pack for exploring. There is plenty of storage in each stateroom for your belongings.
Yes, there are 12-volt chargers for that use. Be sure to bring your car phone charging cord with you.
Yes, we have heat available if needed. We find that during the summer months it is not needed.
Yes… and no. Any appliances using 120 volt A/C can only be used while the boat is connected to shore power while docked in a marina, such as Friday Harbor.
Yes, please note all alcoholic beverages must be purchased and brought on board by guests.
Yes, we have a good supply of bottled water. We also have highly filtered cold water at the galley sink available to drink.
Diminuendo is a non-smoking, no drugs allowed boat.
Diminuendo is equipped with two heads with sinks and showers. The aft head provides a separate area for showering. The forward head is known as a “wet head” in that the shower is part of the head so when you shower the room gets wet. The walls can be wiped down after showering. Some guests prefer to shower at coin-operated dockside facilities. You will be given specific instructions about toilet use after boarding.
Children over five are welcome. We can work out special rates for families wishing to book the entire forward section of our boat. Before we add a family group to a charter we check with other guests to see if they are compatible with having children aboard.
We recommend that you book as soon as you know your preferred dates. July and August are very busy months, and we book up fast.
Although tipping is not required, some charterers have had such a great time they want to tip the crew. 10% – 20% is customary in the business.
If the whales are in the area, we will likely see them! In addition to the killer whales, we may see humpback or minke whales, gray whales, California sea lions, steller sea lions, harbor seals, Dall’s porpoises, Pacific white-sided dolphins, river otters, bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons.
Bring your camera!
If you don’t see your question here, please e-mail scott@nwsailing.com.
Looking for a San Juan Islands chartered sailboat vacation?
Look no further than Northwest Sailing Adventures!