Frequently asked Questions
Below is a list of questions asked by our customers. If you would like to know anything else, please contact us or complete our enquiry form and we will contact you straight away.
Q: How many guests does Annabel J take?
A: For overnight passages we limit the maximum number to 8 for comfort. For day sailing we can take 10
Q: Is all food and drink provided?
A:Yes, all meals and non-alcoholic drinks are included in the price. We carry beer and wine on board which can be purchased or you can bring your own. Meals ashore if taken are not included.
Q: I have never sailed before, is this sort of holiday suitable for me?
A: You will find that the majority of our guests are complete novices. Annabel J is very stable and her wide uncluttered decks help to be very reassuring for the beginner. Our crew are very experienced RYA instructors and will give full instruction and encouragement.
Q: I am a non swimmer. Is this a problem?
A: No. Self inflating lifejackets are issued to all on board and must be worn at all times whilst sailing.
Q: Do you have an age limit. I am 83 but still quite active?
A: We do not specify an upper or lower age limit. All that we require is that the guests be able to climb a ladder and get into and out of a dinghy and do not have any serious illnesses. We have often taken guests well into their 80s and young children, when supervised by their parents.
Q: I like to get really hands-on. Is this possible?
A: Not only possible, but we are delighted when the guests are enthusiastic about helping to sail her. Even though these boats were designed to be handled by a man and a boy, they are very labour intensive, with the many ropes and different sails. We encourage the guests to be fully involved in the sailing, tea making, helping to prepare meals and steering. You will find that the Skipper only 'drives' the boat when there is a difficult maneuver. Of course, if a guest just wants to sit back and watch the world go by that is OK too.
Q:What is the layout of the accommodation?
A: She has 3 cabins; the forward cabin has a double and 2 single bunks and an en-suite toilet. The main cabin has 5 single bunks and the aft cabin has 2 bunks for the Skipper and Mate. All of the bunks are 6ft 6" long and the majority are very wide in comparison with most other yachts. Annabel J was built as an owners luxury yacht so is very comfortable and is fitted out in deep Mahogany panneling and plush upholstery. She has 6ft 6" full standing headroom throughout her entire length. Unlike the majority of other Pilot Cutters, she also has 2 bathrooms (heads).
Q: Will we sail at night?
A: On our longer passages, we normally fit in 1 night passage towards the end of the trip. The guests always enjoy sailing at night, particularly if they have never experienced it before.
Q: Are there any hidden costs?
A: Unlike other companies, we do not charge booking fees or have any other hidden charges. The price you see on the schedule is what you pay. Book directly with us and save money. You will need to pay for your own travel to and from the boat and alcoholic drinks and meals ashore if we choose to take a meal off the boat. See our terms and conditions
Q: Can I take an RYA certificate on Annabel J?
A: We run RYA Competent Crew and Watch Leader courses during the season the dates of which can be seen on our sailing schedule.
Q: Is foul weather clothing provided; what else do I need to bring?
A: Good quality foul weather gear and self inflating lifejackets are provided. A full list of what to bring is supplied when you book a holiday with us. See our joining instructions
Q: Is bedding provided?
A: We provide pillows, but you will need to bring a sleeping bag and pillow case
Q: Will I need travel Insurance?
A: Yes, you will need to take out insurance that covers you for this type of activity, including medical cover and personal accident. We recommend Topsail Insurance