4. Get some extra training

Ocean seamanship is more about fixing things and managing problems on board than navigation or routeing. Diesel engine maintenance, sea survival, medical and first aid training and courses run by manufacturers on servicing and maintaining their equipment are all invaluable preparation – for crew as well as skipper.

5. Make the most of your time out

Don’t rush the opening stages of your year(s) off; enjoy the great summer cruising on the route down to the Canaries and other hopping-off points. The West Country, France, Northern Spain, Portugal and Madeira could be some of the best places you visit.

6. Take more crew for the crossing

Never underestimate how tiring ocean sailing can be and consider how hard-pressed you’d be two-handed if the autopilot were to break. Extra crew make life much easier and add to the stimulation.

You can find fresh new faces from Crewseekers, but do assess your compatibility first on a trial cruise.