⛵ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1.Who are Lucas and Mattia? Hi! We're Lucas and Mattia, and we run this as a small, heartfelt business by choice. We love hosting relaxed sailing weeks for gay men who enjoy the sea, simple yet delicious food, and great company. We always put quality and genuine care first—which is why we never run trips back-to-back. We want to be fully rested and truly excited to welcome you on board! 😊

  • We speak English, Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish, and English is usually the main language during the trip. 🗣️

2. What kind of boat will we be on? In the Mediterranean: We use our own boat, a well-loved Oceanis 461—14 meters long, with three comfortable cabins and two bathrooms (heads). She's clean, safe, and meticulously maintained.

3. How many people will be on board? We keep things intimate and never overcrowd.

  • On our own boat: max 4 guests.
  • On chartered boats: max 6 guests.

4. Do I need sailing experience? Absolutely not! You're welcome to get involved and learn as much (or as little) as you want, or just kick back and enjoy the views. It's your holiday—we'll make sure it feels just right for you. 🧭

5. What about seasickness? We plan routes that hug the islands, so big open-sea waves are rare. We'll happily share our best tips to help prevent it, and we always recommend bringing some medication just in case. 💊


6. Life on board: Toilet & smoking Toilet (head): Marine toilets are a bit delicate, so please don't flush toilet paper or any hygiene products—we provide bins for those. 🚽

  • Smoking: Only allowed at the stern (back of the boat), never inside or during meals. 🚭
7. How clothing-optional is it on board?
We're clothing-optional whenever conditions feel right, always guided by respect and common sense:
It's completely your personal choice.
We stay covered up in marinas or busy harbors for discretion and to avoid trouble.

For hygiene, please use a towel when sitting on shared seats or cushions.

8. Is there a dog on board? Yes! Our little dog joins us on European trips (not outside Europe). If you don't like dogs, the mediterranean trips are not for you. 🐾


9. What about food and drinks? Lucas is a former chef and loves preparing fresh, tasty meals every day. Wine, coffee, and water are included.


  • Feel free to bring your favorite beers, sodas, or spirits.

  • Tips are not expected, but if we made your week special, they're always warmly appreciated. ❤️ 🍽️

10. Payment & reservations To secure your spot, we ask for a 70% deposit. The remaining 30% is due one month before departure.

  • We accept EUR, USD, GBP and BRL via bank transfer, wise or revolut, often fast and low-cost, even internationally.  💳
11. Cancellation policy

On our boat in the mediterranean
3 months or more before departure: full refund (minus ~€20 bank fees for non-EU transfers).

2 months before: 50% refund.

  • Our Fair Play Promise: If you need to cancel (anytime), we'll actively try to resell your spot. If we succeed, you get a full refund (minus any fees)—even if it's just a couple of weeks before departure. 

    While we can’t offer refunds for out of the Mediterranean  if you’re unable to make it, we’re happy to post your spot for resale. If it sells, you’ll receive a full refund.

12. Check-in, check-out & packing 

Check-in: after 2:00 PM

  • Check-out: by 10:00 AM

  • Pack light if you can. 🎒
13. Where do guests usually come from? We're a very international bunch! Most guests come from Italy, Belgium, the USA, and many other countries. 🌎
What’s the typical age group? All ages are truly welcome, though most guests tend to be millennials and Gen X. 🎂


14. Mostly singles or couples? About 50/50—lots of solo travelers, plus couples and friends. 👬

What’s the vibe like? Relaxed, warm, and friendly—like sailing with a group of good friends rather than "customers." Every week has its own unique energy depending on the group.

15. What does a typical day look like? No rigid schedule—it's all about going with the flow. A day might start with breakfast at anchor and a morning swim, a gentle sail to the next spot, lunch and another dip, then relaxing in a new bay for sunset, dinner (on board or ashore), and easy conversation under the stars. 🌅


16.What if I’m shy or introverted? Totally fine—and very common! There's zero pressure to socialize constantly. Many solo guests love the calm, natural way connections happen (or don't). Your space and comfort are always respected. 👋

17. What’s the weather usually like? It depends on the destination and season, but we always plan for comfort and safety. Flexibility is part of the adventure—weather changes often create the best memories! ☁️
Safety on board Safety is our absolute top priority. We sail conservatively, watch the weather closely, and adjust plans as needed. The boat has all required safety gear, and we'll give everyone a thorough briefing at the start. 🦺

18. Why do you keep groups so small? Because it makes everything better: more space, less stress, tastier meals, deeper connections, and an all-around calmer vibe. It's at the heart of what we do. 

19. Is this a party boat? We love good wine, laughter, and shared moments, but the atmosphere is relaxed and respectful—no loud music all the time, heavy partying, or pressure to drink. It's about the sea, connection, and feeling truly at ease. 🍷


20. What’s not included in the price? Flights, transfers to/from the marina, personal travel insurance, meals ashore, and any personal spending on land. ✈️


21. Physical ability & mobility Sailing involves some movement—steps, balancing on deck, getting in/out of the water. You should be comfortable with basic mobility. If you have any concerns, please reach out beforehand so we can talk it through. 🪜


22. Do I need to be able to swim? Yes!  Guests should feel comfortable swimming. 🏊‍♂️

23. Electricity & charging devices Power is limited on board. Phones, cameras, and small gadgets can be charged daily, but high-power items like hair dryers aren't suitable. 🔌

24. Medical conditions & medication Please let us know in advance about any conditions, allergies, or medications that might matter in an emergency. We keep this completely confidential—it just helps us keep you safe. 🩺

25. Photos & privacy Always ask for consent before photographing others. 📸

26. Language on board English is the main language, with Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese spoken too. We do our best to make everyone feel included. 🗺️

27. Route & itinerary changes Plans can shift due to weather or sea conditions—it's part of real sailing and always for safety. Changes aren't grounds for refunds. 🔄

28. Who this trip might not suit It might not be the best fit if you're seeking a party boat, fixed daily schedule, hotel-style luxury service, or a big-group scene. 

29. Insurance We have comprehensive coverage through Generali for you, us, and the boat while you're on board. Once you leave the boat (including swimming), you're no longer covered. We strongly recommend your own travel insurance—we can suggest an affordable, excellent option (~€50–70/month) that includes full coverage and emergency repatriation if needed. 📋

30. Why do you organize trips specifically for gay men?
We are often asked why we focus on the gay community rather than offering general sailing trips. For us, it’s about creating a specific kind of atmosphere that only happens when people feel completely at ease. Here is why we choose this path:

A Space to Be Yourself: On a small boat, you are in close quarters with others. We want to provide a "brave space" where you don’t have to "filter" your conversations, your partner's name, or who you are. You can simply be yourself from the moment you step on deck.

Safety and Comfort: Unfortunately, the world isn't always welcoming. By organizing trips for the community, we eliminate the "social anxiety" of wondering if your cabin mates or fellow travelers will be judgmental or uncomfortable with your identity.

Vibe and Connection: There is an immediate, shared understanding within the community. Our trips aren't just about sailing; they are about making friendships. It’s much easier to bond and create a atmosphere when everyone starts on common ground.

Peace of Mind: When you book a general tour, there is always a small risk of being paired with people who might hold unwelcome views. We curate our groups to ensure that everyone on board shares values of respect, inclusion, and openness.

31. What kind of personality fits best with Gay Sailing?

Gay Sailing is for men who enjoy adventure, nature, and real experiences, not packaged holidays.

Life on a sailboat is active and shared. We work with the wind, adapt to the sea, and earn each day on the water. Long sails, changing conditions, swims in open water, simple but good food, and quiet nights at anchor are all part of the journey. A calm mindset, flexibility, and a sense of humor are essential.

This trip is a great fit if you:

  • Enjoy being part of a small crew

  • Are easygoing, relaxed, and emotionally mature

  • Enjoy adventure and nature

  • Respect boundaries, consent, and different comfort levels 

  • Are comfortable sharing cabins and common spaces

  • Stay relaxed when plans change due to wind or weather

  • Value authenticity, presence, and connection 

  • Enjoy simplicity, nature, and meaningful moments

It may not be the right fit if you:

  • Need constant comfort, luxury, or fast service

  • Expect fixed itineraries or guaranteed daily plans

  • Get easily stressed by nature, weather, or group dynamics

  • Are highly demanding, easily dissatisfied, or expect the experience to revolve around your personal preferences

  • Expect heavy partying or being drunk most of the week

  • See the boat as a floating hotel rather than a shared expedition

  • Hold traditional or conservative values that clash with an open, progressive, and inclusive space

  • Feel the need to judge, limit, or control how others express themselves



If you have any other questions please contact us via email, whatsuo or IG! :)

Email: gaysailingeurope@gmail.com
IG: Gay.sailing
Whatsup: +393884455823