Boating Articles
Sail The Florida Keys
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At the south point of Florida, there is a chain of islands 170 miles long that is embedded in turquoise water. This is the Keys, bordered by the unique living coral reef in the United States. The subtropical climate and the extraordinary beauty of the Atlantic have made this ecological wonder one of the most prized destinations for sailors.
Sailboat Chartering With or Without a Captain
You can choose from four types of sailboat vacation:
Leasing the sailboat without a captain or "Bareboat Chartering" - The sea has no secrets for you or your crew and you are capable of bringing the sailboat back to port even if a hitch happens during your trip.
Chartering a sailboat with a captain - You prefer to have a captain on board to help you with the bowline knot.
Sailboat training - You want to learn to navigate or you wish to enhance your knowledge. Charter companies offer courses at every level, for groups, couples, for a weekend or for the whole week.
Cruising with a captain and cook - You watch them raise the sails and manipulate the sauce pans, while you take it easy.
Choosing a Sailboat
The marinas cannot always accommodate boats that are too big. Also the draft of your boat should not exceed 4.5 to 5 feet and the beam 13.5 feet to 14 feet. We prefer mono hulls from 40 to 43 feet long. They combine space and comfort and generally find a spot in the small marinas of the Keys. These boats are also better equipped than the smaller sailboats. Catamarans rarely find a dock large enough and must anchor outside.
The boats are rented for a day, a weekend or for a week.
Best Time for Sailing the Keys
The Keys benefit from a subtropical climate. You can sail all year long but, like everywhere else, there is this fantastic time of the year and less favorable periods.
The best periods are: March, April, May, end of November and beginning of December.
The periods of tourism affluence are Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year
Possible cold front periods: End of December, January and February.
Hurricane, humidity and mosquitoes' months are June to November, with a peak in August September, and October.
Books
Cruising Guide to the Florida Keys, by Captain Frank Papy.
Good basic information about places to visit, marinas, underwater activity, etc. Excellent maps describing the entrances to ports and marinas, usually difficult in access because of shallow waters.
Diving and Snorkeling guide to The Florida Keys, by Halas and Kincaid.
Excellent guide for skin diving and snorkeling. Description of coral reefs, exotic fish and sunken Spanish Galleons. Indication of depth and the level of difficulty of the different sites.
Yacht Charter In The Central Cyclades
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The areas prevailing wind during the summer months is the infamous Meltemi blowing from the N-NW. It is first felt in June and becomes stronger through July, August and September when it can reach force 8. It dies down in October. In the spring and autumn gales are common from the N and the SE. The summer months are hot, average temperatures are 25 deg C and temperatures often reach 35 deg C.
Milos is the southwesternmost of the Cyclades. A large bay, Ormos Milou, was scooped out when an ancient volcano erupted and hot sulphur springs still exist today. Adhamas is the island's port Go bow or stern to the E side of the ferry pier or bow to the smaller pier to the E. It is also possible to anchor off to the SE of the short pier. The bottom is mud rocks and weed and poor holding in places. There is good shelter from the Meltemi but winds from the south can produce dangerous conditions. There is water on the ferry pier and fuel can be delivered. Most provisions can be obtained in the village and there are some tavernas. Climb the hill to the Chora at Milos for breathtaking views across the bay. There are several other anchorages in the bay that are exposed to the north. There are no facilities at any of them. Apollonia is in the NE of Milos. Go bow or stern to the pier or anchor of the beach. Holding is good on a sandy bottom. There are tavernas and a mini market ashore. Ormos Voudhia lies one mile to the south of Apollonia. There is good shelter from the Meltemi but the surroundings are unattractive with open cast mines and a wharf and ore carrier all in view.
Kimilos lies to the NE of Milos. There are two anchorages in Ormos Sikia in the SW of the island. They are exposed to the N - NW and unsuitable when the Meltemi is blowing. Pirgonisi is a long sandy beach on the south coast and yachts can anchor almost anywhere along it in attractive surroundings. Good holding on sand and weed. Psathi lies further along the coast to the east. Go bows to the quay or anchor off. There is little shelter from the Meltemi and yachts are advised to use this anchorage only in calm weather. There are a couple of tavernas ashore and limited provisions can be obtained in the village. Just to the north is Semina Creek and yachts can anchor in the bay. Like Psathi, there is little shelter from the Meltemi and Psathi should be used only in calm weather.
The in the NW of island of Poliagos there is a lovely secluded anchorage just to the south of the tiny island of Moanolsi. There is shelter from the Meltemi and good holding on the sandy bottom. On the south side of the island there are several coves that yachts can anchor in when conditions are calm.
Folegandros is another barren, rocky island with exception of the small Chora in the NE that lies among green trees and shrubs. The island's ferry port is Karavostasi. Go bow or stern to the mole on the south side of the arm extending westward. There is poor holding in places on sand and rock. There is reasonable shelter from the Meltemi. There are several tavernas but provisions can be difficult to obtain and the island is totally reliant on deliveries by ferry. On the W side of Folegandros is the large bay, Ormos Vathi. It can only be used in calm weather and there is poor holding in places on sand and weed.
Sikinos lies to the E of Folegandros. Ormos Skala is the only harbour on the island. Yachts can go alongside the quay or anchor off. There are tavernas ashore and some provisions can be obtained. The setting is attractive and popular with Greek tourists.
3.5 miles to the east of Sikinos lies Ios. It is claimed Homer is buried here. He died aboard a ship on passage from Samos to Athens and his body was thrown overboard and later washed up on Ios. Go bow or stern to in the harbour of Port Ios. There is excellent holding in mud. A mini tanker can deliver fuel and water is available from a public fountain in the square. There are tavernas all around the harbour and most provisions can be obtained. The resort is popular with the young and most of the bars play loud music in the evenings/night. Ormos Milopotamou lies to the S of Port Ios. In the north of the bay there are 4 coves where yachts can anchor, the easterly two provide the best shelter. Holding is good on sand. There are tavernas and hotels on the beach. Ormos Manganari is a large bay on the south coast of Ios, it is possible to anchor throughout the bay with good holding on sand. There are tavernas ashore.
Thira is similar to Milos in as much as it is a volcano and when it erupted in 1440 - 1450 BC it created the bay as it is today. The close lying islands of Thirasia, Nea Kammeni and Palaia Kammeni are also part of this huge volcanic structure. Around the basin, on cliffs 300m high you will see white Cycladic houses with blue painted windows hanging from black volcanic rocks which rise sheer from the sea all group together to make Thira is one of the most popular destinations in Greece.
Finikia lies in the N of Thira. Anchor to the W of the mole in 10 -20m with a trip line because the bottom is rocky. Limited shelter from the Meltemi and completely open to the S. Skala Thira is the harbour of the island's capital on the steep slopes above. Go bow or stern to the quay with a line to the large mooring buoy. Departing is difficult with the confusion of the many lines attached to the buoy and it is recommended that yachts are not left unattended. There is water on the quay and several tavernas in the harbour.
On the coast south of Ak Akrotiri there are a number of anchorages that provide good shelter from the Meltemi. The bottom is good holding in sand but there is often some ground swell that causes yachts to roll badly. Monolithos is a small harbour on the E coast. Go bows to the breakwater near its extremity with a long line. There is a taverna and showers ashore.
Thirasia is the westernmost island and the only anchorage is Ayios Nikolaos. Yachts can anchor off but the small pier is reserved for local boats. There are tavernas ashore and some provisions are available in the village atop the cliffs.
Nea Kammeni has a number of small inlets where a yacht can anchor. A trip line should be used as the bottom is strewn with rocks that are likely to snag an anchor. Nea Kammeni is known for it's problem with large rats and there are many reports of the getting aboard yachts.
Anafi is the southernmost of the Cyclades. It has one anchorage on the S coast that is exposed. The island is barren and parched and you will not miss a lot if you choose not to visit.
Yacht Charter In The Northern Ionian Sea
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No look at the Ionian would be complete withouth mention of Homer and the Odyssey. The Odyssey tells the storey of Odysseus and his travels and adventures throughout the Mediterranean in around 800BC. The Trojan War concluded when the Greeks sucseeded into bringing a wooden horse into the city of Troy. Greek soldiers were hidden inside and opened the city gates to the Greek army who sacked the city. Odysseus and the other Greeks could know return to their kingdoms across the sea. To say Odysseus's journey was eventful is rather understating the matter.
On departing Troy in what is now north west Turkey he sails south through the Aegean Sea. On reaching the southern tip of Greece he is blown off course to the lotus eaters in what is thought to be Libya. The it's on to Sicily where he runs into Cyclops. This one eyed giant eats two of the crew before they escape. More trouble in the Laestrygonians - Corsica or Sardinia. Here the fleet is attacked by giants hurling boulders and more of the crews are devoured. Theh survivors head east to Italy and the enchantress Circe. She entertains the sailors and then with a wave of her wand, turns them into swine. Odysseus is protected by the herb that the god Hermes has given him.
At some point in the journey reference is made to the pillars of Hercules. And this is supposed to be the Rock of Gibraltar and Jebel Musa in Morocco. These two mountains sit either side of the straights that are the enterance to the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean. Now he must pass the Sirens whose sweet singing lures sailors to their deaths. Odysseus plugs fills the ears of his crew with wax and then lashes himself to the mast so he cannot steer the ship onto the waiting rocks. Passing through the straits between Sicily and mainland Italy they run into Charybdis, who swallows the sea in a whirlpool, then spits it up again. And Scylla who uses each of her six hands to reach down from her cliff and pluck a sailor from the deck and then promptly, yes you guessed, eats them.
More misfortune as they upset the god Zeus who sends a thunderbolt to destroy the ship. Only Odysseus survives, washed ashore on Malta, the home of the nymph Calypsos who detains him against his will. Zeus, the king of the gods, sends Hermes skimming over the waves on magic sandals with orders for Odysseus's release. But when nearly home again another god, Posiedon, sends a storm to wreck his vessel and he is washed ashore on Corfu several days later. He falls asleep in an olive thicket and is woken to the sound of female laughter. This is the Princess Nausicaa come down to the riverside to wash her wedding dress. Odysseus approaches her and she agrees to help him try and finish his journey home. She introduces him to her father and when he has heard Odysseus's story he orders him sped home to Ithaca.
Once home he finds the island full of suitors for his wife's hand, after such a length of time Odysseus is believed dead. He and an ally fight and win a battle against overwhelming odds with a little help from the gods. And then Athena tells the contending parties to live together in peace down through the years to come.
Weather - The wind is consistent with conditions found throughout the Eastern Mediterranean. Little wind in the morning but from noon the wind freshens throughout the afternoon reaching perhaps 20 knots. The evening and night sees a return to calm cinditions. During the summer months it blows from the NW and from the SW for the remaining months.
The sailing area from the north
Corfu - . The island receives three times the average amount of rain for the area and as a consequence is a mass of green woodlands, wild pine-covered mountains, lakes and cultivated fields. It also has miles of sandy beaches. The island's capital, Corfu Town is atractivly situated on a promontory on the east coast, dominated by the New Fortress. Visit Sidari to the north to swim in the Canal d'Amour, the legend has it that lovers will stay together for life. 16 km to the south of Corfu Town is the Villa of Achillion, built in Italian Renaissance style and situated at an altitude of 145 m. It has magnificent gardens and attractive panoramic views. Today it is a museum. 3 km further south is the charming fishing village of Benitses and the remains of a Roman villa. Climb to the summit of Mount Pantokrator where you will find an abandoned monastery dating from 1347. The hilltop also provides beautiful views
The main harbour is in Corfu town. Enter the Old Harbour from the eastern end of the breakwater. The entrance into the interior of the harbour is very narrow and a strong northwesterly makes entry difficult. Once inside there is excellent shelter in all weathers. Visitor's berths are behind the windward mole, alongside, two and three deep. Anchoring is not advised, you will almost cetainly get gear tangled. Having berthed you are within walking distance of the town's centre. Adjacent to the harbour you will find chandlers, machine shops, boat engine repair services and others for electrical and electronic gear. Corfu town unquestionably offers the best all-round facilities in the northern Ionian.
3 miles to the NW is Linin Gouvia, a large land locked bay. At it's southern end is Gouvia marina which has become Corfu's centre of yachting. It is home to a Venetian arsenal.The surrounding area has beeen given over to the package holiday and there are more pleasent places to spend time on a yachting holiday.
The north Corfu channel is the stretch of water between Corfu and Albania. Beware the reef just to the north of Agios Stefanos.
Agios Stefanos is a small inlet in the North Corfu Channel. No objection is normally made to anchoring here despite the presence of a nearby military post. Anchor in the middle of the bay in depths of 3 - 6m. The bottom is thick weed and mud which can be difficult to get through. Good shelter from the prevailing NW wind. There is a rough stone mole on the south side of the bay but this is usually taken by local boats. There are numerous tavernas around the shore. Some holiday villas have been built here but the bay retains a calm and a beauty well worth the stop for the night. Limited provisions can be obtained
Agni Bay is immediately south of Kalami in the north east of the island. It is open to the south and and east but offers good shelter from the prevailing NW wind.
There are three taverns, each with it's own private jetty, where you may anchor preferably bow to. If you overnight here it is better to anchor at the northern or southern end of the bay to avoid the large waves created by the ferries that enter and leave during the night.
Paleokastritsa is on the east side of the Island it is an attractive tourist resort dominated by the Monastery of Panayia Theotokos wich perches on a high cliff. A 90 minute hours climb takes you to the ruins of Angelokastro Castle which dates from the 13th century. There are many sea caves in the locality that can be reached by tender or dinghy. It is not easy by day to distinguish the entrance to the bay when approaching from the northwest. However the monastery on the peak of the peninsula is conspicuous. The harbour is situated on the western side of the bay and protected by a quay running north south. Usually full of fishing caiques the only a few available berths are to be found near the head of the quay. Protection is good in all weathers excepting strong southerlies when waves crash over the break water and create a large swell in the harbour. The port has no water. Fuel can be delivered. There are bars, restaurants and a supermarket all within walking distance.
Petriti Village - To the north of the harbour is an old quarry which visible from a distance. There are shallows stretching south of the harbour along the bay and care is needed. Good protection from all weather in the harbour. Head for the new quay towards the land where depths are greater than 2 meters. If you moor hehind the breakwater be aware of the shallows nearby. The taverns ashore usually have fresh fish. There are shops at the village of Argyrades some three km away. Good beaches for swimming nearby
Paxos is 7 miles to the south of Corfu. It is a charming little island, covered with pine trees. It can be explored fully in a few days with a car or motorbike both of which can be rented locally. The architecture of the three main towns, Gaios, Laka, and Logos is typically Ionian with colourful two and three-story homes lining the streets. By contrast the rural landscape is filled with low stone houses surrounded by lush green gardens.
The emblem of Paxos is the trident. It is said that Poseidon, the god of the seas, wanted to create a beautiful, peaceful island apart from the other gods and men and intended to live there with his beloved Amfitriti. So he struck the southern part of Corfu hard and Paxos was formed. However he lost his trident striking the blow which was later found by Paxiots who made it their emblem.
Gaiosis the capital of Paxos. It is a charming port and spreads itself along the waterfront. Enter Gaios from a northerly direction passing two small islands, Panayia and St Nicholas Island. Soak up the atmosphere of this bustling capital in Gaios square. In it's centre is the church of St Apostoli. Gaios harbour and the approaching inlet are very safe overnight moorings with security patrols on both land and water. There are several buildings worth visiting the castle of St Nicholas, the Monastery of Panayia, the Church of Agioi Apostoli and the early Christian church of Agia Marina. Take in the sunset at the Ostries. Ther are fine beaches at loni Gouli, Kamini and Kaki Lagada.
Port Gaios is the principal port of the island. You can moor right in the middle of the busy touristy scenery or choose aquieter berth further down the long quay. If you want a berth in July and August be here early in the afternoon. Excellent shelter in all weathers. Care should be taken when laying your anchor as passing ferries in the narrow channel may foul your chain.
Lakka, in the north of Paxos is set in a gorgeous horseshoe shaped bay and is flanked by high ground covered in cypres trees and olive groves. The bay which nearly landlocked is excellent for swimming and water sports. Holding is good. Some swell may occur dependent on the wind's direction. There are some berths on the quay, limited to around 10 yachts. Fresh water from the local water truck.
Its tiny sister island, just to the south, Anti Paxos is surrounded with crystal clear waters lapping onto some lovely sandy beaches.
Bvi Yacht Charters What A Way To Experience The British Virgin Islands
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BVI Yacht Charters is a company that operates sailing charters to the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean. The sailing yachts range from 32 to 65 feet in length and include bareboat single hull and multihull boats. With BVI you also have a choice of operating the yachts on your own, hiring a full crew or just a captain. There are also all-inclusive BVI yacht charters, which will give you the impression you are vacationing at a floating resort.
As soon as you cast off from the dock, your adventure with BVI yacht charters begins. You can experience the thrill of sunbathing on deck, feeling the warm wind blowing in your face and the sights and sounds of the Caribbean islands. When you choose one of the BVI sailing charters with a full crew, you also have many other choices to make. The website will give you lists for you to choose from, such as what meals you want aboard the boat. You can also choose what you want in a Starter Kit if you are choosing a bareboat charter. With the many things that BVI can supply for you, you have less luggage to take with you and you can just have all the extras added to the price.
Even if you intend to bring everything with you for the yacht charter, taking a look at the list of provisions on the BVI Yacht Charters website will give you an excellent idea of what you will need. For example, if you like to barbeque, you may not realize that you do need to have your own coals, fluid and matches with you. Since you are on the water with BVI sailing charters, you just can't pop to the store whenever you realize that you need supplies. You will have to wait until you reach your next destination.
For all-inclusive BVI Yacht Charters, you can order the kind of wine and drinks you want before you even arrive. This is because unlike a resort, everything you need for the perfect vacation has to be packed on board the sailing yacht. When you book one of the BVI sailing charters, you fly to St. Thomas and then take a ferry to Tortola. This is the starting destination for the yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands. There are also hotels in Tortola where you can spend the night before you leave on the yacht charter or the night after you return.
Before you actually depart on your charter, BVI Yacht Charters will brief you on how to use the charts on board the yachts for navigating the Caribbean waters. They will also give you advice on what to do and what not to do as well as places that you should avoid. When you do book a BVI sailing charter, the anchorage fees are included in the cost, but you can also buoys at various locations if you do not want to enter a port. BVI Yacht Charters has a well-established reputation for providing its customers with everything they need in a sailing charter.
Bali Paradise Of Indonesia
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Bali - Paradise of Indonesia
"Glorious Bali Island" - that's the official motto of this paradise island, well known to the entire world since World War II. Bali is the most famous tourist destination of Indonesia and preferred location for sun lovers from the west, so undoubtedly the next choice of www.travelonguide.com had to be Bali.
Beach lovers can have a wonderful time in Bali, since day time they could enjoy the sun and at night enjoy the dances and cultural shows on the beach. On a full moon day the Balinese people organize special beach games.... and guess what even a funeral is a procession and an event where people enjoy themselves. Opt for a candle light beach dinner and we guarantee you that the experience will be something that you will cherish throughout your life, the Balinese dancers and singers will add icing to this special moment.
If you are planning your trip to Bali, then its best to have some information about its climatic conditions. Since Bali has a tropical climate, the temperature throughout the year is not more than 26 degrees Celsius. The dry season starts from April till September and the wet season from October till March, and the best time to be there is from May to August, when the sun shines bright and the uninvited drizzle keeps the climate cool.
Water sport lovers, just should miss this place. Bali offers world class scuba diving experience, there are special schools where one could learn scuba diving. The coral reefs are purely untouched and display a wide range of sea life, never seen before even on Discovery Channel. If you like to see the corals, then make sure that you take a trip to Nusa Penida. This beach also offers various other water sports options. For people who are more adventurous, can go rafting in the Ayung river or try some mountain cycling. Walking in rice paddies is also a wonderful experience.
Bali is one of very few places of Indonesia dominated by the Hindus, who celebrate all Hindu festivals and have retained all Hindu traditions. Coming to the food options, Bali offers all cuisine right from Indian, Chinese, Malaysian, Moroccan and even Mexican. One should not forget to try the sumptuous Grilled Lobsters specially served with a typical Balinese sauce.
For those who are not so adventurous type and like being spoilt and pampered, then Bali is where you should head to. Apart from the beautiful resorts like any other beach destination, you will also find beach villas. These villas are well equipped, some with private pool, trained cooks, maids and house boys, who just don't leave any effort to pamper you. Hiring a private villa could be a much cheaper and cozier experience for those who are on a honeymoon and need some intimacy. Just like Mauritius and Maldives, getting married in Bali is also possible.
We hope that we have truly tried to inspire our readers to pack their bags and head to Bali, and if you indeed enjoyed reading about Bali, then make sure to log on to www.travelonguide.com for more exotic locations.
Boat Shows
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Boat shows are great for new and experienced boaters alike
It doesn't matter if you were born on the water or if you just started lake boating(http://www.laketrash.com/) with your buddies, a boat show may just be the perfect, fun outing for you to go to. Boat shows are held all over the country, from Seattle to Chicago to Miami, and they include not only boats, but seminars, new product displays and more. If you are interested in seeing a boat show near you, ask your local lake officials where and when the nearest show is coming.
Here is what most boat shows cover:
About a gazillion boats: At it's core, a boat show is in fact a showing off of boats, meaning you can shuttle around the water checking out some of the most prestigious, shiny new boats from other boaters. The bigger boat shows could have upwards of a hundred or more boats while smaller shows may have 10 or 20 boats. The boaters that are displaying their boats often prepare for this event for some time before hand, to make sure their vehicle is clean and ready. If you want to have your boat displayed in a show, talk to the event hosts well in advance.
Seminars: Most boat shows also have seminars for different things relating to boats. Seminars may inform you of the best ways to clean certain parts of your boat or may include guest speaker appearances. The seminars are either held on a bigger boat docked on the water or on shore.
Ten Watertight Lux Yacht Builders
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While the size of one's boat may set yachtsmen apart, the underlying commonality is that all yacht owners are seamen at heart. Making a big splash on the marine scene today calls for something of substantive value. While every yacht out there is not a superyacht of 100 feet or more, or a mega-superyacht exceeding 200 feet in length, it should be equally superb as a looker and a performer.
Here is a recap of some the yacht builders we presented over the past year or so. Each one is a shipbuilder of worldwide acclaim. Trinity Yacht can produce a 400-foot-long vessel. Azimut Yachts is renowned for its advancements in soundproofing technology. Christensen Shipyards has built more yachts measuring 120 feet or longer of composite materials than any other builder. The Burger Boat Company built numerous vessels for the U.S. during wartime. The firm also produced the first all-steel-welded hull made in the U.S. All are capable of fulfilling a buyer's vision of a "dreamboat," whether it is a power or a sailing yacht.
Presenting the newest, the best, and the most innovative in all matters of luxury lifestyle is a never-ending process. So stay tuned. More noteworthy and up-and-coming yacht builders will be introduced throughout 2007 - and beyond.
Azimut Yachts offer the best combination of features and benefits to its lucky owners. The Azimut 85, which premiered at the Genoa Boat Show in October 2005, is luxury afloat at its finest. The 85's length is actually a tad longer than its name and 22 feet wide. Stephano Righini designed the exterior and Carlo Galeazzi manned the interior. The advanced soundproofing techniques and windows on both decks are only two of the yacht's noteworthy and unique features.
Marquis Yacht is a U.S.-based firm that is definitely on the rise. With each release, beginning with the Carver 59 Marquis, the company is diligently establishing its niche for launching innovative, Italian-inspired-designed yachts. The 59 features twin 660 horsepower Cummins QSM11 diesel inboards, with the option to upgrade to twin 825 horsepower MTU Series 60 diesel inboards. The ship's overall length is nearly 60 feet with platform and a waterline length that exceeds 45 feet. Standard features include a hydraulic swim platform and fore and aft shore-power ties.
Saying it in Italian just sounds more romantic than saying it in English. But no matter how you say it, the 44.8-meters long Gran Finale by Delta Marine is one beautiful boat! Launched in 2002, this tri-deck is the winner of the 2003 "Best Motor Yacht Over 38 Meters" by Showboats International. Its all-encompassing craftsmanship is perhaps the boat's greatest benefit. However, providing a smooth ride at a cruising speed of 18 knots and a top speed over 20 knots, with its twin Caterpillar 3512B engine, is quite impressive too.
International Yacht Collection is a fourfold specialist in the luxury boating industry. The firm is capable of managing and maintaining a yacht for personal or corporate owners; taking a boating project from inception to design to completion; offering brokering services; and yacht-chartering specialists for either corporate or personal needs.
The Rasselas, the latest vessel launched by Feadship De Vries of the Netherlands, is the most technologically advanced yacht to ever float across the waters. Strident progress has been made in shipbuilding technology over the past 10 years, and this craft has incorporated it all. The innovative technology addresses environmental and operational issues, reduces noise level, and facilitates maintenance and favorably. Specifically, it burns fuel more efficiently and is easier to keep in tip-top condition. Measuring out at 62 meters, it is nearly 30 feet longer than the previous Rasselas.
Thank goodness the Burger Boat Company was revitalized in the early 90s and put back in the waters of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, by its new owners, David Ross and Jim Ruffolo. Founded in 1863 by Henry B. Burger, the contributions this organization made to the U.S. and to the boating industry are historic, patriotic and most inventive. From 1870 to the turn of the century, the firm specialized in manufacturing steamers, tugs, scows, schooners and barges to support the industrialization efforts of the USA. During World War I, Burger manufactured 22 vessels for the U.S. Navy and Emergency Corps. READ MORE
When the topic of the conversation turns to yachts, the size of a vessel is generally at the top of the pecking list. However, the more significant issue regarding long-term value is the materials used in the construction of ships. Christensen Shipyards has built more 120-plus-feet yachts with composite materials than any shipbuilder in the world. Composite materials eliminate rust and corrosion and provide better insulation and strength compared to ships built from aluminum and steel. This makes overall maintenance easier and extends the life of a ship threefold compared to those predominantly constructed with metals. Christensen Shipyards is a certified shipbuilder by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), which was established in 1862 and is the governing agency for safety standards of the marine industry. ABS is a non-profit organization with 150 offices in 70 countries.
Trinity Yacht encourages all yachtsmen to have it your way! Whether you are seeking a 72-footer, a 200-footer or a whopping 400-footer, your selection is built and designed to meet and, probably, exceed your expectations. Trinity can place bid on designs drawn up independently from outside sources or provide patrons with designs stemming from either its Victory Lane or Global Explorer series.
It is very difficult to begin a sentence with a company that prefers not to capitalize its name or products, such as eLuxury, iPod, or oceAnco. However, what oceAnco does capitalize wisely are its resources when it comes to designing and building superyachts. The firm has built some of the finest 50-meter-plus vessels to clientele around the world. Its main office is in Monaco, and its shipyard is based in Albasserdam, Holland. The yacht builder's Web site boasts of 16 launched boats. Over the past three years, oceAnco has launched three stunning 60-meter-plus yachts: the Lady Lola at 62.6 meters, the Alfa Four at 60 meters, and the Dilbar at 66 meters. The Dilbar has two master suites and a dip pool on its sundeck that is over 15 feet wide. Mr. Alberto Pino is the interior designer of the steel hull with an aluminum superstructure, and oceAnco is both the naval architect and the exterior designers.
Princess Yachts International is a shipbuilder with over 40 years of know-how. The company, which began in 1965 and was known as Marine Projects (Plymouth) Ltd., originally specialized in making 20- to 30-foot ships. Today the company is regarded as one of the world's most prominent manufacturers of Flybridge yachts and "V" class sports yachts. Yacht building began in 1970 with the launching of the Princess 32. Over the next decade, approximately 1,200 Princess 32s were ordered and sold.
Rudder Angle Indicators A Smarter Way To Dock
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When maneuvering a vessel in tight quarters, the ability to have a quick visual reference of your rudder angle is very important. A collision could jeopardize the safety of your passengers and of others. It could damage your boat and your pride. Luckily for us, technology provides a solution.
A rudder angle indicator is a nautical device which monitors your rudder's horizontal position. It is also referred to as a rudder reference gauge, rudder locator, or a rudder position sensor. We took a look at several different types of rudder angle indicators and reviewed them for you in this article.
Gravity Driven Rudder Reference Gauge
The first type we reviewed are gravity driven rudder angle locators. These simple devices attach to the center of your steering wheel and use gravity to pull a needle downward as the gauge moves in synch with the wheel. These units are inexpensive and easy to install with no cabling or drilling required.
During testing we found that these rudder locators to be inaccurate and unreliable. Any time that the boat rocks from side to side, the needle swings back and forth making it virtually useless in choppy water. On vessels with hydraulic steering, these indicators give poor reference of the rudder angle due to variances in hydraulic fluid pressure. Our Score: 3/10
Mechanical Arm Rudder AngleIndicators
The second type of rudder indicator we reviewed operates using a mechanical arm. Mechanical arm rudder locators are the most common type on the market. Arm-driven units like come stand-alone or as a part of auto-navigational systems.
These mechanical indicators consist of a dashboard gauge and an arm (often sold separately) that connects to your rudder or outboard motor. A downside to these devices is that on some vessels the rudder moves further in one direction than another, this cannot be read by the mechanical arm. Otherwise, these units are accurate and reliable. They are somewhat pricey though, ranging from $350-$2000 and typically require expert installation. Our Score: 6/10
Cable Driven Rudder Locators
Last but certainly not least, we reviewed cable-driven rudder angle indicators. Unlike other indicators, these units work for both in-board and out-board motors. A company called SmarTrac inc. currently holds a patent on the system which is used in their product the SmarTrac Rudder Locator.
The SmarTrac rudder angle indicator has a sending unit (also
called a potentiometer) that is mounted near your rudder or outboard motor. A steel cable is then pulled from the sending unit and hooked to your rudder linkage. This unique cable driven system allows the device to measure the entire range of rudder movement.
The sensor sends data through a 3-conductor cable to the dashboard gauge which then calculates a reading using a built-in microprocessor. The microprocessor is easily programmed to match the specifics of your vessel. This product is effective for use on hydraulic steering systems because it connects directly to the rudder linkage. Accurate, inexpensive ($199), and easy to install, this new technology could make a big splash in the nautical electronics market. Our Score: 10/10
Hawaii Yacht Charters Enjoy A Sailing Vacation In Paradise
(category: Boating, Word count: 479)
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Hawaii yacht charters allow you to sail around the most beautiful coastline in the world. Enjoy the balmy winds of the Hawaiian Islands and sunbathe on the deck of the yacht. Watch the surfers perform their feats of expertise on the huge waves from your berth at the dock. Along with the stunning landscape, you can also enjoy some of the most famous beaches in the world by booking one of the Hawaii yacht charters. This type of sailing vacation will be the vacation you have always fantasized about.
There are many coves and inlets you can visit during your yacht charter to Hawaii where you can be completely alone, The 3800 -foot cliffs on Moloka are the highest in the world and the Pelekunu Valley opens into a uninhabited valley. There are golden beaches in this area and if you wish you can moor your yacht offshore and row to shore in the dinghy. Hawaii Yacht Charters will also provide you with the opportunity to engage in spectacular diving experiences. With Hawaiian sailing vacations you can also enjoy the thrill of sliding down over 10 foot waves, something you won't encounter on other tropical yacht charters.
Hawaiian sailing vacations are very fast - much faster than in the Caribbean. This is what makes Hawaii yacht charters so popular with those that have been sailing for years. You do have to have some knowledge of sailing the waters around Hawaii when before you take one of the bareboat charters. Tips to help you have a safe Hawaiian vacation with a yacht charter include such things as not taking a night trip on the water when the wings lay and avoiding going to the windward when the trades winds are up.
One of the advantages of booking one of the Hawaii yacht charters for the sailing vacation of your dreams is that there are no taxes in Hawaii. Therefore the cost you are quoted is what you pay. You don't have to allow any extra money for Hawaiian sailing vacations. The director will find the perfect yacht to suit your needs. There are also many options you can have included, for an extra price of course, so that you have a truly customized Hawaiian vacation.
Some of the various Hawaii yacht charters that you can choose from include sunset dinner charters, event charters, activity charters and charters for formal occasions, such as weddings. You can choose a yacht that can only hold 6 passengers or choose one that can hold as many as 49. This larger yacht is a powered boat and it is crewed so that you can enjoy a private resort as you are sailing the islands of Hawaii. You can book your Hawaii yacht charters completely online without leaving the comfort of your home.
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