How rough? It was so calm one year they cancelled a day of racing due to lack of wind. Another year there were broken/damaged boats from too much wind. We have been on chase boats for 10+ years (sadly, not this year though) and have seen just a few people get sick. A few rum punches into the day and you will be fine!

Depending on the waves and your location on the boat will determine if your equipment gets wet. You should be fine with paying some attention to the conditions. Carol take some good equipment so she can perhaps answer better but we have been on the same boat multiple times.

Also, I am a former "vetteguy". I owned a 1969 t-top for a long time and wish I still had it.