What do I bring on a Pelagic?
The following list is a suggestion of time proven advice from experienced birders. The advice is not hard proven science but rather time-tested methods that make pelagic birding more rewarding and comfortable. Because boat operators and trip leaders are hesitant to turn a boat around except in emergency situations, it is the responsibility of the trip participants to prepare for unforeseeable conditions. Therefore, please heed the advice listed below.
What to Bring…
- Sweatshirt/Layers
o It can become considerably colder the further you are from shore
- Clothing and Footwear that can get wet
o There is always potential for water to spray onto the boat
o Footwear with a good ‘grip’ are also recommended
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses
o Sunglasses with ‘croakies’ is recommended
- Binoculars/Camera
o Do not bring a scope
- Snacks and Water
o If you have a tendency to get seasick, ginger snaps are great!
- Dramamine/Other Medications
o Take Dramamine at least 30 minutes before the boat leaves the dock in order for it to work
o Remember any other medications or prescriptions as we will have no way to obtain them if you don’t bring them with you
Tips on How to Prevent Seasickness…
- Eat a light breakfast
- Avoid overly acidic foods and snacks
o This includes coffee… : (
o … and orange juice
- Avoid alcohol
o Celebrate life birds AFTER the trip!
- Take Dramamine/Bonine
o Any sea sickness medications MUST be taken AT LEAST 30 minutes prior to the boat leaving the dock
o If you get motion sickness, are prone to sea sickness, or are not sure – take a medication!!
o Non-drowsy formulas of Dramamine are readily available at most stores and is generally near stomach related medications (i.e. antacids)
- Scopolamine Patches
o These are best for those who are very prone to motion sickness
- Eat foods that contain ginger
o Ginger snaps or chews
- Sip a soda
o Ginger ale is great
o Coca-Cola contains phosphoric acids and sugars which are found in some anti-nausea medications
If you feel like you’re becoming sick…
- Stay outside
o Going inside the cabin, galley or head (restroom), can confuse your body even more
- Keep your eyes on the horizon
- Stand in the middle of the boat
o This is generally where the least amount of movement is
- ‘Chum’ off the back of the boat
o You’ll feel better
o Be sure to be on the lowest level and in the back of the boat NOT in the restroom
The following list is a suggestion of time proven advice from experienced birders. The advice is not hard proven science but rather time-tested methods that make pelagic birding more rewarding and comfortable. Because boat operators and trip leaders are hesitant to turn a boat around except in emergency situations, it is the responsibility of the trip participants to prepare for unforeseeable conditions. Therefore, please heed the advice listed below.
What to Bring…
- Sweatshirt/Layers
o It can become considerably colder the further you are from shore
- Clothing and Footwear that can get wet
o There is always potential for water to spray onto the boat
o Footwear with a good ‘grip’ are also recommended
- Sunscreen and Sunglasses
o Sunglasses with ‘croakies’ is recommended
- Binoculars/Camera
o Do not bring a scope
- Snacks and Water
o If you have a tendency to get seasick, ginger snaps are great!
- Dramamine/Other Medications
o Take Dramamine at least 30 minutes before the boat leaves the dock in order for it to work
o Remember any other medications or prescriptions as we will have no way to obtain them if you don’t bring them with you
Tips on How to Prevent Seasickness…
- Eat a light breakfast
- Avoid overly acidic foods and snacks
o This includes coffee… : (
o … and orange juice
- Avoid alcohol
o Celebrate life birds AFTER the trip!
- Take Dramamine/Bonine
o Any sea sickness medications MUST be taken AT LEAST 30 minutes prior to the boat leaving the dock
o If you get motion sickness, are prone to sea sickness, or are not sure – take a medication!!
o Non-drowsy formulas of Dramamine are readily available at most stores and is generally near stomach related medications (i.e. antacids)
- Scopolamine Patches
o These are best for those who are very prone to motion sickness
- Eat foods that contain ginger
o Ginger snaps or chews
- Sip a soda
o Ginger ale is great
o Coca-Cola contains phosphoric acids and sugars which are found in some anti-nausea medications
If you feel like you’re becoming sick…
- Stay outside
o Going inside the cabin, galley or head (restroom), can confuse your body even more
- Keep your eyes on the horizon
- Stand in the middle of the boat
o This is generally where the least amount of movement is
- ‘Chum’ off the back of the boat
o You’ll feel better
o Be sure to be on the lowest level and in the back of the boat NOT in the restroom
