Cruise with us

We are thrilled you are wanting to join us for a while as we make our journey. Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions we get from guests. First, remember cruising aboard “Foreign Affair” is not a vacation -- it is an adventure!

You need to be flexible in your planning and be prepared to make adjustments as necessary. Several factors will impact your schedule. Foreign Affair does not sail according to a set schedule. She sails when the weather is good and those on board are ready to move on to whatever might lie ahead. If we are having fun in a particular location, we might stay for a while. If we don’t find a place too interesting, we might just leave earlier than anticipated. Also, poor weather might cause us to lay over waiting for better conditions so we are safe and comfortable.

In any case, somehow you will get to the boat and eventually get home. So, don’t fret about the details. Just go with the flow.

Where will you be when my calendar allows me to join you?
Check our calendar to obtain a general idea as to where we might be during the time you wish to join us. The calendar is subject to change at any time and will be regularly updated to reflect our best guess as to where we might be cruising in the future. For example, the calendar might show we plan to be on the Chesapeake Bay in May. We might have some locations and events marked on the calendar which we find interesting, e.g. the Elf Regatta.

In many cases, we will make an effort to get to these places or events; however, there is no guarantee we will adhere to the calendar because weather, mechanical issues or some other fun is causing us to change our plans. As a result, you may have to adjust your plans accordingly. For example, your plan to fly in to BWI airport would not change. However, instead of you meeting us in Annapolis, you might have to meet us at a different location on the Bay. We can work out these details in the final days prior to your arrival.

What will we see and do?
In some cases, we will have specific places we plan to go and things we plan to do. However, we are open to changing our plans if we/you find something more fun or interesting. We want to make the most of each day. Together we’ll develop a general plan and work out the details as we go. We will solicit your input as we plan our time together. We want to make sure we/you have a good time. Strict schedules can cause what was intended to be a relaxing journey to morph into a very stressful and un-enjoyable experience. We don’t want this to happen.

How long will I be able to cruise with you?
For as long as we are mutually enjoying each other’s company. We will let you know if your company is no longer welcome (just kidding, or not!) and you can leave whenever you want. We won’t keep you from jumping ship.

What should I bring?
What you bring depends upon a number of factors such as the anticipated weather, how long you intend to travel with us and what activities we might plan. For example, you shouldn’t need a winter coat in the Florida Keys when the average temperature is forecast High 85/Low 70. Click here [link to “what to bring” page on Guest Orientation tab] for a suggested list of what to bring.

Where will I sleep?
Guests will either sleep in the forward cabin, the main saloon or the cockpit in fair weather. It all depends on how many people will be aboard, their gender, ages, relationships and sleeping preferences. Foreign Affair can accommodate five adult guests. However, seven adults aboard at one time is very crowded. Two adults and three children or four adults is better.  Two adults and two kids or less is comfortable.

How will I get to the boat?
We can work out the general plan well in advance of your travel. The exact location of our rendezvous point and how you will get there will have to wait until just prior to your arrival.

What if I get sea sick?
There are medications and devices which help prevent you from getting sea sick. We will be in protected waters for much of our journey which means cruising should present no more challenge than you experience while riding in a car. We will have bonine aboard and suggest you take some if you feel we will be traveling in conditions likely to cause you discomfort.

What expenses might I plan for during my stay?
Upon arrival, you are our guests. We’ll shelter, feed and hydrate you. If you want to contribute to the trip expense, that’s fine and is greatly appreciated. Let us tell you now: don’t be surprised if we meet other cruisers along the way and end up joining then for “docktails” and potluck meals. It’s all part of the cruising adventure.

We do expect you to cover the cost of your admission to attractions or events we encounter along the way.

We are looking forward to many of our friends and relatives joining us and creating great memories. The key points to remember are don’t fret over the details, remain flexible, go with the flow and enjoy the experience. Remember, cruising on Foreign Affair is an adventure.