Conquer Sunburn At Sea: Your Comprehensive Guide on Sun Protection While Sailing

Published: 14 May 2025
Navigating the vast ocean waters doesn't mean you have to fall prey to harmful sunburn. Here is an all-inclusive guide to staying sun safe on the water.

The allure of the open sea is undeniable - its vastness and grandeur, promising adventure and solitude. As much as one revels in the joys of being on water, little do they remember that along with adventure and picturesque elegance, sunshine is a constant companion, sometimes a enemy when proper precautions are not taken. Let’s dive into the ocean of knowledge to uncover how to halt the havoc of harmful sun rays.

Very often overlooked, sea sailors need to comprehend that the risk of getting sunburned is heightened on water - thanks to the reflectivity of the ocean’s surface. This is quite logical, if one considers the fact that, rays reflected off the water can still hit skin from below, thus tempting a sunburn more than ever.

Yet, sunscreen application is just the start. Coupling it with UV protective clothing can double the defense against the sun. The market now brims with clothing designed with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) technology, which blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Remember, not all sun is bad – it gifts us the vital Vitamin D. But too much of a good thing can be harmful. Therefore, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, long-sleeved shirts, and full-length pants or skirts can also aid in creating a physical barrier against sun exposure. Bringing along a parasol or creating a shade with a beach tent or umbrella can also be a lifesaver in intense tropical climates. Sailing is an exhilarating experience. Let’s make it a sun-safe one too!