10. Costs

These will be higher than you think regardless of your yacht. Everyone always asks about budget, but few people tot up theirs honestly. Eating out is one of the most expensive aspects of cruising, especially in the Caribbean, and gear service costs are high. Don’t forget, too, that your yacht will need a refit after you return to Europe.

11. Shore support

Logistics support from home makes life much easier. Tasks include co-ordinating crew changes and spares, and managing communications. Keeping a crew at sea in touch with the real world is as important as keeping those at home informed about life on board.

12.  Keen an eye out for chafe

The real enemy at sea. Identify chafe points on sheet runs, the top of the halyard and through the spinnaker pole and protect as needed. If flying a spinnaker, move the halyard every few days.