BE ON YOUR BOAT BEHAVIOUR

SAILING IN MALTESE WATERS CAN BE A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE. HERE ARE SOME THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW, PACK, AND APPRECIATE FOR YOUR TRIP.

Pack lightweight and breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Include swimwear, a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings. Don't forget to bring non-slip boat shoes or sandals with good grip. These should be brought in a soft bag; space on board can be limited. You won’t need hairdryers, tongs and other such devices.

If you're prone to motion sickness, it's wise to bring appropriate remedies such as over-the-counter medications or acupressure wristbands. Do also take sun cream and apply often.

If yo u're on a charter boat, respect the authority and instructions of the captain and crew. They have the knowledge and experience to ensure your safety and enjoyment during the trip. Be punctual and arrive at the designated meeting point or marina on time. Delaying departure can disrupt th e schedule and inconvenience others and may shorten the trip or result in missing a weather window you’d be unaware of.

Pay attention to safety briefings given by the captain or crew. Familiarise yourself with the location of safety equipment, emergency procedures, and any specific rules or regulations for the boat.

Keep noise levels to a minimum, especially during the quieter hours or when approaching anchorages. Respect the peaceful environment on board and the privacy of others. Take the time to appreciate the beauty of the landscape and enjoy the vibrant marine life.

Help keep the boat tidy and clean by picking up after yourself. Dispose of trash properly and do not throw any garbage or oth er items overboard. Freshwater is limited on a boat, so be mindful of your water consumption. Conserve water by taking shorter showers and turning off taps when not in use such as when brushing your teeth. The WC, called a ‘head’ on board, may have a manual flushing system. There are usually pictorial instructions on how to use it but do ask for a demonstration if you are unsure; remember, nothing that’s not natural should go into the bowl.

On a boat, space can be limited, so be considerate when using common areas. Avoid monopolising seating areas and storage spaces. Keep personal items organised and out of the way.

Do confirm what food and drinks are provided to you before boarding – and be mindful to consume water and not too much alcohol; the sun and sea make the effects pleasurable for a much shorter period.

WORDS JEANELLE GRECH