FAQs
Your questions answered
Below are some of the most common questions we are asked. If you don't find the answers here please get in touch via the Contact Page and we'll help you as much as we can.
 
What shall we take?

Essentials: Sun hat, polarising sunglasses, sun lotion, waterproof jacket and trousers, non marking deck shoes, bedding and towels.
 
What type of baggage should I bring?

Please bring soft bags that can be folded flat.
 
How do we get to & from the boat?

It is the responsibility of the crew to make their own travel arrangements. We will advise you which airport to fly to and how to locate the yacht.
 
Do we need to study anything before we go?

For guests without any previous sailing experience we advise you to read the excellent RYA publication: Competent Crew (purchase from www.rya.org.uk/shop).
 
Safety on board

Your safety is paramount. Pura Vida is equipped with compact, fully automatic lifejackets with integral harnesses, which are very comfortable to use. We also have a satellite EPIRB and a life raft. A full safety briefing will be given to each crew on arrival.
 
Are we expected to help whilst sailing?

Most guests like to participate to discover how much fun sailing can be. Your learning experience depends on your requirements which can be discussed before booking.
 
Once onboard, who decides what route we take?

The yacht is yours for the holiday to explore the cruising area at your own pace. Set sail early for an exciting passage to the next island or get up late and potter round to the next bay. It may depend on the weather, your crew or just “the mood” that day.
 
What about costs during the trip?

The prices vary according to the cruising area and the time of year. The cost of chartering Pura Vida with her Skipper start from €1,600.00 per week. In addition the crew will be expected to pay any harbour or marina charges and the cost of the diesel used during their holiday.
 
What do we do about food shopping?

We will advise where to provision the yacht at the beginning of your holiday. The crew are responsible for the cost of the food and drink during their trip.
 
What shower and toilet facilities are there on board?

Pura Vida has 2 spacious heads (toilets) with showers. We also have a diesel generator providing 240v. Our inventory includes hair dryers, iron and ironing board and a 5kg washing machine/dryer.
 
Do we need travel/medical insurance?

We advise all our clients to take out comprehensive travel insurance to include cover for a yachting holiday abroad.
 
What if I suffer from motion sickness?

Many first time sailors will be anxious about the possible effect of sea sickness. The good news for sufferers is that the condition normally disappears quickly as your body learns to compensate for the movement of the boat. We advise common drugs such as STUGERON, KWELLS or (by prescription only) SCOPODERM TTS skin patches. All these are antihistamines and may cause drowsiness.

We also have a Reliefband Seasick watch onboard which has helped some crew.