Tips for Sailors with Contact Lenses

In 2023, the UK yachting industry surged to an estimated £1.2 billion, marking a 3.4% increase from the previous year, according to Nautech News. The appeal of yacht vacations grew significantly during 2020 and 2021 as people sought socially distanced holiday options. This trend continues, with popular Mediterranean destinations like Greece, Croatia, Italy, and Spain among British travellers’ top choices for chartered sailing holidays, reports Sailing Today.

While the freedom and beauty of the open sea offer unforgettable experiences, contact lens wearers should take special precautions. As Professor John Dart highlighted in Sky News, contact lenses are generally safe, but certain habits, like sleeping with lenses or using reusable monthly lenses, may increase the risk of infections. For yachting enthusiasts who wear contact lenses, proper eye care is essential. Here are four safety tips to ensure your lenses stay clean, your eyes stay comfortable, and you get the most out of your sailing holiday.

 Maintain good contact lens hygiene 

Good hygiene is the cornerstone of safe contact lens use. Always wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses to avoid transferring bacteria that could cause infections. When removing your lenses, clean them immediately with a suitable solution, as recommended by your optometrist. For example, place a drop of a soft contact lens cleaner on the lens. Gently rub the lens for about 15 to 20 seconds on both sides, then rinse thoroughly with sterile saline solution. This simple routine minimises the risk of bacteria and keeps your eyes healthy throughout your trip.

 Bring a good supply 

Preparation is key to a stress-free sailing holiday, so be sure to pack plenty of extra contact lenses. Accidents like a torn or lost lens can happen, especially in an active setting like a yacht. Luckily, online retailers make it easy to stock up on lenses before your trip. You can order contact lenses online from Vision Direct’s website, which offers fast shipping and a wide selection of sailing-friendly options, including the 1-Day Acuvue Moist. These lenses protect against 80% of harmful UV radiation, a crucial benefit when spending hours under the sun. The site also carries multifocal and toric lenses to suit different vision needs.

 Avoid swimming 

Experts strongly advise against swimming with contact lenses, as open water can contain bacteria that may enter your cornea through tiny abrasions and cause painful eye infections. For instance, acanthamoeba, a common microorganism found in lakes, oceans, and rivers, can cause severe eye diseases if it infects the cornea. To prevent this, always remove your lenses before swimming in any body of water. If you need vision correction while in the water, consider prescription swimming goggles, like the Inland iRx goggles. These promise clear vision while shielding your eyes from harmful contaminants, making them ideal for any water-based activities.

 Wear sunglasses 

As we discussed in a previous post, though there’s no strict dress code for sailing, packing a good pair of sunglasses is always wise. Being out on the water exposes you to intense sunlight, which increases the risk of eye conditions like photokeratitis and cataracts. Sunglasses provide essential UV protection and act as a physical barrier, preventing water splashes and particles from getting in your eyes and interfering with your contact lenses. Look for polarised shades, such as the Costa Reefton frames, which block horizontal light and reduce sun glare, allowing you to enjoy stunning ocean views without compromising eye safety or comfort.

A little planning goes a long way in keeping your eyes healthy and your vision clear during your time on the water. By prioritising proper hygiene, bringing adequate supplies, avoiding water contact, and protecting your eyes from UV rays, you can fully embrace the adventure of the open sea.