Transatlantic gear list: everything you need for a successful Atlantic crossing under sail

Discover the essential transatlantic gear list: the right clothing, a dry bag, a life jacket… Everything you need for a successful Atlantic crossing.

Thomas2 min readUpdated on

Cruising sailboat at anchor with its bimini
Contents

Key takeaways

  • Online platforms are ideal for finding crew or a skipper for an Atlantic crossing
  • Putting together a strong application greatly increases your chances of being selected
  • Logistical and mental preparation is essential for a successful adventure

1. Why cross the Atlantic as crew?

Sailing the Atlantic without owning a boat is an incredible opportunity. Thanks to transatlantic boat-hitchhiking, you can join a crew that's ready to welcome motivated volunteers. In exchange for your hands on deck and your good spirits, an experienced skipper will take you along on their crossing.

Signing on as crew means living the ocean adventure without buying a sailboat.

2. Where to find a crew berth for an Atlantic crossing

Several specialised platforms make it easy to connect skippers and crew:

It's best to start your search several months in advance, especially for a crossing from November onwards, during the best time to cross the Atlantic.

3. How to convince a skipper to take you on board

Skippers are looking for crewmates they can rely on at sea. A good profile is built around a few essentials:

  • Sailing experience (even minimal), night watches, coastal sailing
  • Flexibility, resilience and team spirit
  • Clearly explaining your motivations in a message or cover letter
  • Having useful skills on board: mechanics, cooking, first aid, languages…

A skipper will be putting their safety in your hands: inspire confidence, reply promptly, and be available to meet up or do a coastal trial sail if possible.

4. Logistical and mental preparation

Once you've been accepted, you need to prepare methodically. Check the transatlantic gear list of what to bring: warm clothing, life jacket, personal first-aid kit, salt-protection creams.

Mentally, get ready to experience:

  • Living in a shared, cramped and sometimes damp space
  • Restless nights and long watches in all weathers
  • Intense emotions: loneliness, euphoria, doubt, wonder

5. What you need to know before setting sail

Beautiful as the adventure is, it comes with risks. Make sure you understand:

  • The actual level of experience required (detailed article)
  • The crew's responsibilities: conduct during manoeuvres, boat maintenance…
  • The associated costs (travel to the port, food, insurance, possibly a contribution to expenses)
  • The importance of confirming the trip's conditions in writing (dates, route, stopovers, division of tasks)

6. FAQ

When is the best time to cross the Atlantic? The ideal window is between November and January for an east-to-west crossing (Europe to the Caribbean), thanks to steady trade winds and milder weather. See this article for more details.
Do you need to know how to sail to join an Atlantic crossing? Not necessarily! Motivation, the ability to learn quickly and a good attitude are often enough, especially under the guidance of an experienced skipper.
How much does an Atlantic crossing cost as crew? It depends: some skippers ask for a contribution (€500–1,500), others don't. You'll also need to budget for your plane ticket, travel insurance and personal gear.
What documents do you need for an Atlantic crossing? A valid passport, any visas required for stopovers, and health/repatriation insurance. Check with the skipper for specific requirements depending on the planned route.

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