I am very much for proper training and equipment. I would not suggest anyone just sail off and see what happens. Insurance companies ARE into this. Rates are much higher for ocean crossings than daysails. They frequently deny coverage to single and double handed operations. More than one couple has been displeased to find the insurance company requiring a third hand at the least for an ocean passage if not more. Any offshore race has pretty strict requirements to enter the race that are actually quite expensive to meet. You can see them here: http://www.sailing.org/specialregs. There is a ton of stuff in there about training requirements, equipment, etc. etc. Boats built after 2010 have to be in class too, no random “looks good enough” designs. No winpy flares, only SOLAS stuff, etc. etc.
But…and there is always a but…
Getting the government involved is nothing I am in favor of right now. I am up to my eyeballs in it for charter flying and I would HATE to see that kind of death-by-paperwork descend on my boat.
[QUOTE=Tugs;131560]I agree that it would not happen but what are your thoughts on getting the proper training and equipment before trying to sail across any ocean or large body of water? Also, I am surprised the the Insurance Companies have not got into it yet. I guess the numbers of those claims are low as most do not try to sail that far.[/QUOTE]