What are Carolyn Scott’s top survival skills recommendations for safe sea travel?

Hi, I’m Carolyn Scott-Hamilton from The Healthy Voyager. Here are the big survival and safety skills I recommend for sea travel:

• Learn basic survival and seamanship: swimming, how to tie key knots, paddle, drop and use an anchor properly, and what to do in common boat emergencies.
• Always have a well-stocked emergency kit: motion-sickness meds, first aid basics, flashlight, whistle, snacks, and water.
• Practice situational awareness: watch weather, waves, and surroundings; know your route and float plan.
• Understand communication limits: coverage can be weak, so share your ship details and emergency contacts before departure, and consider a satellite phone for remote trips.

Would you like a printable checklist you can use before your next boat trip?