Stay Sun Smart While Cruising
Sun protection for cruisers is essential. Life on the water means constant exposure to intense UV radiation, especially with sunlight reflecting off the sea. Without proper protection, the risk of sunburn and skin cancer rises significantly. Here’s how to stay safe while still enjoying the cruising lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- UV exposure is significantly higher on the water
- Protective clothing and shade are your first line of defense
- Regular skin checks are critical for early detection
- Reef-safe sunscreen helps protect both you and the ocean
When do you ever feel more alive than when you’re out on the ocean—immersed in the elements, feeling the sun and salty breeze on your skin while steering the boat? Once at anchor, there’s a whole range of outdoor activities cruisers indulge in: snorkeling, beach walks, surfing, kite-surfing, SUPing, and, of course, less enjoyable tasks like polishing stainless bits or doing deck maintenance. Whether for hobbies or chores, the great thing about the cruising lifestyle is that we spend more time in nature than most people. But this also means we’re exposed to more UV radiation—especially since sunlight reflects off the sea. Sun protection is therefore crucial on boats!
I have to admit I used to foolishly chase the perfect tan. Growing up in Austria with long, cold winters made me drop all precautions—along with all garments—in spring. I would roast myself in the sun for that perfect summer glow. Once we started cruising, I became more aware and careful, especially after we reached tropical latitudes where the sun’s rays burn noticeably stronger. Suddenly the sun was no longer a pleasant source of energy but a scorching menace. Like most cruisers, we adopted the habit of wearing shirts and hats for protection.
Then Christian developed a “pimple” on his shoulder that wouldn’t go away. The dermatologist in Tahiti cut it out, and the lab confirmed her diagnosis: basal cell carcinoma. This type of cancer is fortunately usually confined to the outer layer of the skin and doesn’t spread, so removal was sufficient. Still, we were shaken—and resolved to be even more careful in the future.
Skin cancers are the most commonly diagnosed cancers globally, with over 1.5 million new cases annually. In 2022 alone, an estimated 330,000 cases of melanoma were reported, with nearly 60,000 deaths. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer by age 70, and more than two people die of it every hour in the U.S. It’s estimated that 95–99% of all skin cancers are caused by sun exposure—and each sunburn significantly raises melanoma risk.
With ozone levels gradually depleting around the globe, we’re more exposed to harmful UV radiation. The ozone layer has thinned by approximately 5–9% since the 1960s, especially over Australia and nearby regions. As a result, nearly two out of three Australians will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime.
The Australian government and SunSmart launched a sun protection campaign back in the 1980s with a memorable slogan:
Slip, Slop, Slap!—Slip on a shirt, Slop on sunscreen, Slap on a hat. In 2007, they added: Seek (shade) and Slide (on sunglasses).
So, what should cruisers do to reduce their risk of skin cancer?
- Install a bimini (ideally with sides that can be lowered) and a sprayhood to shade the cockpit and keep the helmsperson cool.
- Wear long sleeves, long trousers, and a hat when going ashore or spending time on deck—especially when sitting down to work.
- Even on overcast days, up to 90% of UV rays still penetrate the clouds!
- When Christian stands bow watch, he covers up completely—shirt, hat, trousers. Some cruisers go further with hoodies, gloves, socks, and shoes to cover all skin.
- For snorkeling, we use neoprene suits (in cold water) or full-body lycra suits (in warm water), minimizing the need for sunscreen.
- Use SPF 50 sunscreen on exposed areas. Even “water-proof” types wash off eventually—ending up in the sea—so make sure your sunscreen is reef-safe!
- We track moles and skin changes, and aim for an annual dermatologist check-up.
- Finally, be mindful of ozone-depleting substances. Many aerosols and older refrigeration/AC systems still contain harmful compounds. Avoid them when possible.
The outlook for skin cancer is generally positive—if detected early. Basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas have high cure rates when caught in time. Melanoma, while more serious, also has a strong survival rate when diagnosed early.
So, slip on long clothes, slop on SPF 50, slap on a hat, seek shade under your bimini, slide on polarized sunglasses—and enjoy your time cruising!
Birgit and Christian have been cruising on their SV Pitufa since 2011. Visit their blog for more info and check out their books on Amazon.
What This Means for Cruisers
Spending more time outdoors is one of the greatest rewards of cruising—but it comes with responsibility. A few simple habits can dramatically reduce long-term health risks, allowing you to enjoy the ocean for years to come.
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