Preparing for your Pelagic

Westport Seabirds

Pelagic Trips

Preparing For your Trip

Being prepared with the right clothing, equipment, food and beverages, a restful night before, and sensible

eating will help ensure a successful pelagic trip.

Get a good nights rest. Elsewhere on this web site (Directions to Westport page), we provide some suggestions for motels that are reasonably priced, or call or e-mail us for further information on lodgings.

Bring a lunch and beverages. The boat has coffee, hot water, and fresh water, so please bring any other beverages you may want. Lunches should be ready to eat foods like sandwiches, fruit, crackers; making your lunch on the boat while you’re trying to watch birds and hang on is not advised. Box lunches or lunch supplies can be purchased at the 24 hour supermarket in Westport, located at the only stop light in town, about a mile south of the docks.

Dress warmly. Layered clothing works the best so you can adjust to temperature changes. Bring rain gear. Even if it does not rain it makes a great wind break, will keep any spray off, and will keep you warm. Water resistant shoes are also suggested to guard against rain or ocean spray.

Pack your things in a small backpack. Storage space is limited on the boat, so try and be as compact as possible. We do not have space for large coolers unless you’re part of a large group. Fanny packs are very useful for keeping food, drink, notebook and other supplies close at hand.

Bring binoculars. They are a must if you are to have a successful trip. Cameras and film, (sometimes lots of film) and a cloth for cleaning optics are suggested items to bring. Spotting scopes are useless on the ocean.

Seasickness is possible. Medication (over the counter like Bonine and Dramamine or prescription types like the ear patch) may be advisable. You may want to check with your physician before taking any medications. Most medications need to be taken before the trip. If you become ill, fresh air, not drugs, will help you the most. See Michael Donahue’s article in Birding for further tips on preventing or managing seasickness.