“This can be a big thing and you and your crew really need to think about it and plan ahead. Flexibility is the operative word,” says Carpenter.
Some, like Wendell, wait for retirement. “I could have never considered a rally until now. I retired last June.”
Boat Prep. First only go on a solid, safe and seaworthy vessel designed for blue water sailing, says Worrall. “No maiden voyages on a rally. New boats until broken in can be a disaster out in the middle of the ocean. As for preparation: standing rigging replacement if over 10 years old, all new sails, complete engine overhaul, complete spares for everything on the boat, good dinghy and motor and proper safety gear.”