Sailing and cruising
Sun protection guidelines for all those who enjoy outdoor recreation. The following specific tips and advice have been developed with the help of the Ocean Cruising Club.
Sailing and cruising
- Apply a broad-spectrum product with an SPF 30 or higher, paying special attention to your ears, nose, and shoulders, as well as other areas which are especially sensitive and prone to burning.
- Check the expiry date of the sunscreen before use, especially if has been onboard for a while.
- Once applied to the skin, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or more often if you are prone to excessive sweating, or in and out of water.
- The sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm so, look to increase protection during these hours, particularly on clear, sunny days.
- A busy day sailing day will provide plenty of distractions, so get into the habit of applying sunscreen before you start activity.
- Using a sunscreen applicator, or cleaning palms with a small towel and alcohol gel, is a good way to avoid a greasy grip whilst sailing.
- Wear wraparound sunglasses to protect your eyes from all angles.
- Your forehead, scalp and ears are vulnerable areas, so a hat or hat is a necessity. We suggest a wide brim style with adjustable drawstrings to make sure it stays on in the wind.
- Wear clothing that protects arms and legs – tightly weaved clothing and long sleeve tops, where appropriate, are best!
- Watch for signs of dehydration: dry mouth, thirst, headache, dizziness. Stay hydrated by always keeping a bottle of water handy.
- Don’t forget to use a lip balm with SPF 30+ protection to ensure your lips are adequately protected and hydrated.
- Consider sunscreen without chemicals that can harm marine life.
Supported by The Ocean Cruising Club
