Sailor's bucket list, part 2: 10 more unforgettable sailing experiences

Join us as we continue our voyage through must-have adventures for every sailor. If you haven't already, check out the first 12 tips in part 1 of our sailor's bucket list, and if you're ready for more, keep on reading. Embrace the challenges and rewards that come with a seafarer's life, and get ready to set sail to create memories that will last a lifetime.

This point is very much about luck, but those who sail regularly tell us that encountering dolphins at sea is always a wonderful experience. These intelligent and playful animals are universally loved, and their appearance sparks joy among the crew. When dolphins arrive, you'll find everyone, from kids to grown-ups, clustering at the rails, taking pictures, filming, and simply soaking in the moment. Haven't crossed paths with dolphins on a voyage yet? The best tip we can offer is: sail more. We suggest renting a boat during the quieter spring or autumn seasons, or opting for a 2-week charter, to enhance your chances of a dolphin encounter. Be sure to check out our top 10 reasons to sail for 14 days.

Regardless of your lifestyle — be it family-oriented or single — taking the opportunity to gather loved ones, including kids and their grandparents, and embarking on a sail is a must-do at least once. This provides a learning platform where you can explain sailing nuances, maintain a focus on safety rules, or even organize pirate-themed expeditions on shore. However, it's important to remember that each child is considered a full-fledged crew member. A common mistake among sailors is the assumption that young children aren't part of the total headcount on board. The boat's capacity, as stipulated officially, cannot be exceeded — not even by children.

Sleeping under the stars in the cockpit is a truly beautiful experience, particularly on warm nights when the crew members vie for a spot on the bench. Regardless of the weather, we recommend that every sailor should try sleeping on deck at least once. Choose a tranquil cove for this unique experience, where it's just you, the gentle sound of the sea, and a sky filled with countless twinkling stars. It's really an enchanting and romantic experience!

Every sailor should witness a world-class regatta or sailing race at least once in their lifetime. We're not talking about regional events (like in Croatia), but major global sailing competitions that offer single-handed or other challenging formats. One such event is the Barcolana regatta in Italy, where as many as 2,500 boats participate. Other commendable events include the Vendée Globe that originates from France, and The Ocean Race. These races feature incredibly fast boats, and you can follow your favourite, tracking the results online, observing the race's progress, and debating the route. Not only does this broaden your sailing horizons, but it also adds a touch of excitement, especially when your favourite makes a surprising overtaking maneuver or fails to finish.

You might be wondering: why should I fix something on a charter boat that's not mine? While it's true that charter boats belong to the charter company, and unauthorized modifications should be avoided, trying to fix minor defects can be an educational experience. Seek out a tutorial on YouTube and learn something new. Even if you're the type of person that never has any issues with your boat, consider climbing the mast to examine the wind vane up close or dive underneath to get a feel for the keel. The objective is to understand your boat from a technical perspective, not just from a recreational standpoint — it's all part of the authentic sailor experience.

Yes, vomiting doesn't sound the most appealing. Maybe even the idea can put you off sailing. However, most experienced seafarers agree that if you've never experienced seasickness, you probably haven't sailed enough. A true sailor is expected to grapple with the challenges of being seasick at least once — to truly understand the experience. If you're prone to feeling ill at the first sign of a rocking boat, read our tips on how to cope with seasickness.

Many captains struggle to carry out a swift, efficient, and confident MOB (Man Overboard) procedure. To truly master this critical skill, it's beneficial to stage simulations as realistically as possible. Of course, we're not advocating for having someone actually go overboard and wait in the water to be rescued. Instead, use a floatable item such as a fender, lifebuoy, or other equipment. If it accidentally gets left behind or stays afloat for too long, it won't sink or 'drown,' providing a safe and practical way to practice this safety protocol. Check out our article — Man Over Board (MOB): a step-by-step guide.

This item on the list is a bit more challenging and isn't for everyone. If the thought of spending 2-3 consecutive weeks at sea is too daunting, feel free to skip this one. However, if the prospect of an endless horizon sparks your interest, we recommend finding a crew of seasoned sailors and a captain with previous similar experience, and join them for the ride.

While it's true that a number of seasoned sailors may view this location with disdain, considering it too simplistic, easily accessible, and crowded during peak season, we firmly believe that every sailor should navigate the Adriatic at least once. Not sailing in Croatia is almost akin to not having sailed at all. This destination comes particularly recommended for novice skippers or as an easy-going sailing zone for those looking to regain their sea legs after a lengthy break. It's also an excellent choice for a laid-back family vacation.

Swimming in the open sea has its own charm. However, maneuvering through a narrow strait, canal, lock, or channel presents a different kind of challenge — the skipper must maintain their focus on navigation  But it's a great experience. We highly recommend the Corinth Canal in Greece or the Crinan Canal in Scotland, where you can test your skills. And if you want to full enjoy the locks and canals, consider renting a houseboat. You'll come across locks on rivers and canals every day. Here we recommend the Netherlands, France and Germany.