Never sailed before and thinking about giving it a try? If it’s your first time on a sailboat, it’s perfectly normal to have questions: Will it be comfortable? Will I get seasick? What should I bring? What if I don’t know anything about sailing?
The good news is, you don’t need to be an expert to enjoy the sea. In fact, your first sailing trip can easily become one of those unforgettable life experiences. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect and share some tips to make the most of your first time at sea.
What is sailing actually like?
Sailing is nothing like a tourist cruise or a fast motorboat ride. Here, the pace is different. The wind sets the course, the sea is your companion, and silence becomes part of the journey.
Your first sensation when setting off is usually one of surprise: the sailboat glides silently, with a smoothness that instantly relaxes you. The experience is peaceful, intimate, and deeply connected to the surroundings. There’s no engine noise, no loud music. Just the sea, the wind, and you.
On our departures from Sitges, whether it’s a romantic escape or a longer trip aboard our MonAmour sailboat, everything is designed to make you feel at ease — even if you’ve never set foot on a boat before.
Do I need any sailing knowledge?
Not at all. All of our experiences are guided by a professional skipper. They take care of everything: steering the boat, setting the route, ensuring safety, and answering any questions you might have.
Your only job is to relax and enjoy. If you’re curious and would like to get involved, you’re more than welcome to learn. Many skippers are happy to explain how the sails work, how to steer, or how to read nautical charts. But it’s completely optional.
Will I get seasick?
This is one of the most common questions, and the answer varies from person to person. That said, most of our guests don’t feel seasick, especially on short trips and calm days. Sailboats move in a smooth and steady way that many people find more comfortable than other types of boats.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, here are some useful tips:
- Avoid coming with an empty stomach (but don’t overeat either)
- Keep your eyes on the horizon if you feel unsteady
- Stay hydrated
- Bring a seasickness tablet (ask your pharmacist just in case)
Most people quickly adapt and forget any discomfort within the first 15 minutes.
What should I bring?
Here’s a practical checklist for your first sailing trip:
- Comfortable clothes and a light jacket — even in summer (it can be cooler at sea)
- Sunglasses, cap or sunhat
- Sunscreen
- Non-slip shoes or ones that won’t mark the deck (closed sandals are better than flip-flops)
- Swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim
- A small bag or rucksack for personal items
- Camera or phone with a charged battery (you’ll want photos!)
- For longer trips: a change of clothes and basic toiletries
You don’t need to bring food or drinks if they’re included in your booking, but you can always ask in advance what’s available on board.
What’s a typical day like on a sailboat?
It depends on the type of experience you choose. On a short trip (like our 3-hour romantic getaways), you’ll usually enjoy a bit of sailing, stop in a quiet cove to swim, listen to music, have a drink, or simply relax in the sun.
For longer adventures, like our 7-day or more MonAmour sailing plan, the pace slows down even more: each day you wake up somewhere new, decide whether to sail or stay in a peaceful cove, and everything revolves around the sea, switching off, and the joy of no fixed schedule.
In any case, the feeling is always the same: freedom, calm, and connection with the sea.
Do I need to know how to swim?
It’s not required, though it’s helpful if you want to swim. That said, we always carry life jackets and floatation aids on board, and the skipper will be watching over your safety at all times. If you don’t swim, you can still fully enjoy the experience from the deck.
Is this experience for everyone?
Absolutely. You don’t need to be young, sporty, or technically skilled. All you need is a desire to try something different. Some people come out of curiosity, others for their love of the sea, some to celebrate something special… and everyone leaves with the same thought: I want to do it again.
Your first sailing trip can be the beginning of something bigger — a new hobby, a different way of travelling, or simply a beautiful memory to treasure forever.
If you’ve never sailed before, this is your moment. At Sailing Trip Sitges, we make it easy: simple routes, professional skippers, comfortable boats, and experiences designed to make your first day at sea perfect. Ready to come aboard?
