There are so many incredible experiences to be had on water but often, the thought of travelling by boat can be a little daunting for plus size travellers.
Whether you’re worried about getting on and off the boat or you’re concerned about whether or not there’s a weight limit, a little bit of preparation and research can go a long way.
The Plus Size Travel Too team LOVE boat trips, so here are some of our top tips and tricks to ensure your experience is as stress-free as it can be.
Booking Your Trip
Look At A Variety Of Options
When it comes to boat trips and excursions, chances are there are going to be a number of different options available to you. From private tours and hiring your own boat to groups and larger boats, it’s important you’re looking at each option and weighing up which one is going to be best for you.
When doing this, you may want to look at the following:
• How big is the boat? Would you feel more comfortable on a bigger boat where there is more room?
• Is there a weight limit? This isn’t common but it’s definitely worth checking beforehand.
• What are the seating options like? Do they have sturdy benches or are the chairs much smaller?
• How do you get on and off the boat? Will you be using a plank or do you have to get in and out of the boat alone?
• If you’ll be jumping in the water during your trip, is there an easy way off the boat or do you have to jump off the edge and straight in?
• Similarly, is there a ladder available to use when it comes to getting back in?
• If needed, do they have life jackets that will fit you?
• Will you be travelling alone or with others?
• Is there a seat for everyone or will some people have to stand during the journey?
If you’re not able to find out all of the above, it’s definitely worth getting in touch with a couple of tour providers so you can address the things you consider to be a priority. Whether that’s life jackets or a ladder to get back into the boat once you’re done swimming, the more you know the easier it will be to prepare.
If you’re not able to find out all of the above, it’s definitely worth getting in touch with a couple of tour providers so you can address the things you consider to be a priority.
What To Take With You
Once you’ve booked your trip, you need to think about what you’re going to need to take with you.
As standard, you will usually need:
• Swimwear
• XL beach towel
• A change of clothes
• Sunscreen
• Water
• Sunglasses
• Waterproof camera case or phone case
• Water shoes
• A dry bag
• A bag for any wet clothes at the end of the trip
You may also want to consider taking:
• Anti-chafing balm (especially if you know you’re going to spend a lot of time walking around in your swimsuit with wet legs)
• A portable fan (these trips can be WARM)
• A beach cover-up (if you’re not comfortable sitting in your swimwear)
• Comfortable footwear for walking around in (we LOVE Tevas)
• A life jacket (if you have your own and you’re unsure if they will have one to fit you)
• Your own snorkelling equipment (this one has a Go Pro attachment at the top, for hands-free snorkelling and diving)
In terms of comfort, packing everything into a backpack is probably your best option.
During The Boat Trip
Speak to your captain – if there’s anything you’re unsure about, speaking to your captain is the best way to get an idea of what to expect. You may also want to tell them your concerns, as they are there to do all that they can to make sure that you feel comfortable during the trip.
Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need – if you need help getting on and off the boat, ask. If you need a bigger life jacket, ask. If you need to sit in a certain seat, ask. Advocating for yourself is important, especially when it comes to your safety and comfort.
Don’t do anything you don’t want to do – on group trips, there can definitely be a lot of pressure to do the same as everyone else but if you’re happy sunbathing on the top of the boat rather than jumping in, that’s okay. Not everyone wants to go swimming, especially when there’s a nice space to relax onboard.
Give yourself the time you need – if you think it’s going to take you a little longer to get on and off the boat, jump into the water last and get back onto the boat last. Although you don’t need to feel bad for taking your time, it definitely takes off some of the pressure when there are people waiting behind you.
Make awesome memories – sure, there may be a few parts of the trip that are a little difficult, but that doesn’t take away from the amazing experiences you’re going to have. The feeling of being free goes hand in hand with being on the water and so you should take every moment to soak that feeling in.
So, when is your next boat trip and can we come with you?