Tackling the waves together
Gaëlle and Jérémy’s tips for smooth sailing
Embarking on a sailboat as a couple is far more than just a seagoing adventure. It can forge unique bonds, but it can also really put a relationship to the test. Gaëlle and Jérémy left everything behind to follow their dream of sailing together. As NV ambassadors, they share their tips for hassle-free sailing as a couple.
Gaëlle and Jérémy – Ambassador couple
Any good sailor will tell you that communication is essential at sea. And the same applies in a relationship. So it’s no surprise that open, frank communication is one of the keys to successful life aboard a sailboat.
• When preparing, be honest about your expectations, how you see things, what you want and what you don’t want.
• Before setting off, be clear about everyone’s role on board, your fears, the organisation of watches, the weather window that suits both of you.
• When sailing, make the most of quiet, comfortable moments to talk in depth about subjects you might previously have covered in 5 minutes on land.
• After sailing trips, discuss what went well and what you could have done differently, with no judgment. You’re both in the same boat, and the goal is to do better next time.
Life at sea is full of surprises. You may have targets, but weather conditions, encounters and breakdowns and repairs onboard will throw a spanner in the works. As far as we’re concerned, we’ve stopped counting on plan B. Adopt the same mentality in your relationship. It’s important to have a guideline and projects in common, but be ready to adapt to changing circumstances. After all, the most important thing is how far we’ve come together, not where we’re going.
Gaëlle & Jérémy
Cherish the little moments: Marvel Together
Life on a sailboat can sometimes be heavy, and you may have the impression that you spend your time repairing, solving and anticipating. So it’s important to counter this feeling with little everyday things that make the experience unique and magical.
At sea : become a child again when dolphins are play on your bow, observe the stars on your night watch and then describe your night to each other the next day, chat for hours when conditions are stable and comfortable, enjoy a nice hot home-cooked meal before dark, …
In port or at anchor : marvel at the view from your cockpit, discover local fruit and vegetables, meet other sailors, …
Every one of these moments is a pretext for creating memories together, so don’t neglect them.
As you can see, your relationship as a couple will take on a whole new dimension during this experience. Life in a confined space isn’t always easy, and the lack of comfort and privacy, as well as the constraints of life and travel on a sailboat, can be difficult to manage at times. But remember, you’re literally both in the same boat, with the same dream and the same goal. Be an unconditional support for each other. If the sea becomes rough, literally and figuratively, make sure your partner feels safe by your side. Offer encouragement, be optimistic about the future, and remember that even storms pass.
To find out more about Gaëlle and Jérémy’s adventure, follow them on their blog and social networks !
