Environmentally and Socially Responsible Ways to Sail
Sustainable sailing practices are increasingly popular among amateur and professional sailors—and for good reason! Most sailors want to reduce their carbon footprint when traveling. Doing so is especially important for
maintaining the reefs and clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Before you set sail in the Virgin Islands, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with some basic eco-friendly sailing tips. We put this article together to help you sail responsibly while having the time of your life!
Eco-Friendly Sailing Tips When Chartering a Bareboat
When you charter a bareboat, there is a lot you can do to reduce your carbon footprint and minimize your impact on the ocean. Here are a few eco-friendly sailing tips that can help you travel sustainably in the Virgin Islands:
- Hire a smaller vessel, especially if you are traveling with fewer people.
- Choose a sailboat instead of a power yacht.
- Obtain a mooring permit when sailing in national parks, and only anchor your boat in the designated spaces.
- Speak with other sailors and community members about any eco-friendly sailing tips they have.
- Be sure to keep all trash in a safe location and never dump it on land or in the water.
- Carry fewer single-use plastic items.
- Contribute to local environmental or community charities.
- Always snorkel safely, and don’t touch or move any coral or other wildlife.
- Wear reef-friendly sun tan lotion and environmentally friendly bug spray.
- Take ASA courses before sailing to ensure you know how to operate your boat efficiently.
Sustainable Sailing Practices When Sailing on Your Own Yacht
In addition to the general sustainable sailing practices when you charter a bareboat, there are some things you can do to sail sustainably using your own yacht. Keep the following eco-friendly sailing tips in mind if you own a yacht:
- Before entering the water, make sure your boat is clean and isn’t transporting any invasive species from wherever you are launching. Checking the bilge between sails is especially important.
- Also, perform standard maintenance to confirm that you don’t have a fuel leak, verify your sails are in optimal condition, and check that your engine is running clean.
- Additionally, you’ll want to change your oil and other fluids before sailing to the Virgin Islands.
- Consider alternative energy resources when replacing kitchen supplies, engines, and batteries.
- Choose accessories and clothing that are made with environmentally friendly practices.
- Store your boat in an energy-efficient location if possible.
- Purchase cleaning products that are eco-friendly whenever you can.
- Launch from an eco-friendly-certified marina.
- Always have a spill kit on board for unexpected accidents.
Sail Sustainably for Future Generations of Sailors
Imagine setting out on an aquatic adventure in the Virgin Islands with your children and grandchildren. Ask yourself what you can do to preserve the environment and make that possible. By following these eco-friendly sailing tips, you can help keep the oceans and shores we love in better shape to ensure future generations of sailors can have the same experiences sailing as you.
Book a sailing trip with Go Sail Virgin Islands and experience an eco-adventure in the Caribbean.