FAQs

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Do I need to have schooner or wooden boat experience to join this adventure?

No. This is what we call a “Regatta Experience.” It is one of the curated experiences created by Commodore Fortenbaugh and the Arabella team which form the basis of our “Arabella Lifestyle.” We love sailing and we also love racing. We want to share these incredible experiences with more people. So we have created these racing experiences. You can get a taste of the racing lifestyle without having to go through years of training first. If you like to be on a sailboat and also like a fun competition, you can do this. And in case we have not already said it, one of the best parts of any regatta are the social parties before and afterwards!

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Do I need to even be a sailor to participate?

No you do not need to be a sailor to participate. But if you are not yet a sailor, we hope this experience will inspire you to get more involved int he world of sailing. The Manhattan Sailing School teaches adults how to sail every weekend in New York Harbor. As soon as you are ready, visit their website.

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How much will be expected of me during the race?

During the cruise, our professional crew will manage the boat. But they would like your help whenever we need to raise the mizzen sail. This is our largest sail on the after-most mast (the mizzen mast). The mizzen sail is about 90 feet tall and we form a long line to pull the halyard. Not only does this promote teamwork and good feelings, but its a lot of fun and gets you pumped up as well. When we are cruising, the captain often allows guests to come up to the helm and help him steer Arabella. When in your life have you ever steered a 157-foot megayacht!!! This is your chance so have your camera ready. During the race, the captain, first mate or one of their designees will be steering at all times because of our need to keep Arabella moving as fast a possible. It’s a race, not a training session. But they will share their strategies, predictions and thought processes before and during the race so that you can follow along and be part of the action.

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Will I have a chance to steer the boat or trim the sheets?

There may be a chance for you to help trim the sheets if you have a strong sailing background. The steering of Arabella will be reserved for 4 racing helmsman. This is Afterall a race and we want Arabella to finish the best possible. At 127-miles, the race is can take anywhere from 14 to 36 hours depending on wind speed and direction. As an Arabella guest, you can decide whether you just wish to ride along or prefer being an active crew. The active crew will be divided into 4 watches who will be 2 hours on and 6 hours off. While on watch, your group will be in charge of steering Arabella as fast as possible and also trimming the sails. All of the trimming will be done under the guidance of the professional crew and there will be specific safety protocols including harnesses and jacklines for being on deck at night.

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How should I pack?

Even though Arabella is a 157-ft megayacht, space onboard is at a premium. We encourage you to pack light. Please bring clothes in a soft duffle bag which can be folded up and stored in a cabinet. We discourage any hard suitcases because there will not be a place to store them in your room. For clothing, you will need enough to last the week and there are no laundry facilities on board. You can send laundry out in Martha’s Vineyard but it may pricey. Sailors specialize in making the most of a small wardrobe. All sailors look great in a blue blazer with a tie or scarf. You can get fancier from there as well. There is also be some special regatta gear which you can purchase before the event. Wearing the team gear to social events is usually well received. Most cabins have a few drawers for clothes storage plus a place for some hangers. The Premier and deluxe lines cabins have more storage space than the double and singe staterooms.

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Are there electrical outlets in the cabins?

Yes. Each of the cabins has individual 110 volt electrical outlets. You will be able to charge your phone and computer each night. You can also run a hair dryer.

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Are linens included?

Yes. The staterooms are fully stocked with linens and towels. Each cabin has a set of sheets, four pillows plus a fleece blanket and bed cover. Arabella does a “turnover” (where our stewardesses change the sheets) once per cruise, usually on the middle day, but sometimes staggered over two days (because there could be up to 20 guest cabins filled). It is recommended that you bring a small beach towel for your onshore excursions.

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What is the situation with bathrooms and showers?

Each cabin also has its own private head (the nautical word for toilet), shower, and air conditioning. You will have privacy and be able to keep your room at your preferred temperature. However, water on a yacht is precious and we have to make all the water using our new Parker Aquamatic watermaker. Because our water supply is limited, please help us conserve it by taking “navy” showers or sharing with a friend. We appreciate your support and cooperation.

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How is food and drink handled during the cruise?

All of your meals on Arabella are prepared by our gourmet chef. Arabella focuses on healthy eating and whenever possible, our provisioning is farm-to-table. Your cruise fare covers all breakfasts and lunches onboard during the trip plus four dinners. When you are on Martha’s Vineyard, those are the nights you eat ashore at any restaurant you choose. The cabin fare also includes non-alcoholic beverages. There is also a cash bar for beer, wine and mixed drinks which you may purchase while onboard.