No one mentioned it yet, but I think it would be a good idea to don life
jackets. Hopefully, you won't need them, but it is better to put them on and
not need them then to not put them on an wish you had. If you have the room,
you might also consider coming off the wind on a beam or broad reach to
reduce the apparent wind.

--

Njord

I must go down to the seas again, for the call of the running tide
Is a wild call and a clear call that may not be denied;
And all I ask is a windy day with the white clouds flying,
And the flung spray and the blown spume, and the sea-gulls crying.

From Sea-Fever by John Masefield