Learning Curve

[NomadNorm]

Hello, first let me thank you all for the valuable contributions. Your guidance has been a great asset.
It is my turn to ask a question. We are departing Charleston SC soon and heading south toward the islands for a four month shakedown cruise. I believe we have a lot of bases covered. As you know there is a lot to have ready, and a lot can be done on the way. We’ve read for years, prepared the sailing vessel, documents, immunizations, spare parts, electronics, etc. but, I know there is something over looked until hind sight kicks in.
My question is if there was one thing a ready-to-be cruiser forgets early in the learning curve, what would that most likely be?
Thanks for any advice,
Norm

[gjordan]

GROUND TACKLE! really big and well prepared ground tackle with redundancy. A 50 foot boat should have 3 (maybe more) anchors and rodes that are ready to use or easily put together. Whatever size the dealer tells you, go bigger. Know how to safety wire all shackles and secure the bitter ends. I will repeat something I have said many times on CF__More boats are lost to poor anchoring skills than are ever lost to poor sailing skills. Good ground tackle is the best insurance policy that a cruiser can have. Have a great cruise. _____Grant.

[Jimbo485]

A hammer?

[NomadNorm]

Thanks for the replies above. Will comply.

The vessel is filling up with supplies. Plan to keep an inventory list and check off an item when used. If not used and not an emergency asset then off it goes in time. We will take it slow until we get fully familiar with this new life style.

Later

Norm

[rockDAWG]

1. Don't bring a calendar on your boat. Time table sucks big time.
2. Bring a tracking device like SPOT III so others know where you are, and don't have to worry about you if you are late to port.
3. When in doubt, don't go
4. Your boat will survive better than you, just leave her lot of sea room

I am sure there are plenty other things to remember.

Good luck.

[onestepcsy37]

What gjordan says. Best insurance policy is a big anchor with an all chain rode...

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