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General Boating

Tips for Navigating Boats in Shallow Water

Even though it is imperative to be mindful of the local surroundings when sailing, it is even more important to be alert when it comes to navigating the shallow bodies of water.

Shallow Water Boats

If skinny water isn’t given the caution it deserves, a sailing boat could soon be left stuck, grounded, or holed. Nevertheless, by being more careful and using common sense in situations like this, you are much more able to navigate the shallow waters with confidence.

Here are some tips for navigating a boat in shallow bodies of water:

Soundings

In order to get a full appreciation of the conditions in shallow water situations it benefits to rely on some of the latest boat electronics which are starting to be priced within reach of most boaters finances. A high-quality electronic device like the depth finder is certain to be a highly dependable tool when it comes to gauging the depth of any particular body of water. It also helps to check on paper or electronic charts prior to departing port to checking for any areas on a planned route that might suddenly get shallow, which will give a clear idea of the areas that should be avoided on the sailing adventure.

Limits

If planning on hiring a boat where there is a chance that you will be navigating shallow waters, an appreciation of the boat’s draft is certain to be highly beneficial. The draft essentially relates to the area of the boat that is below water, and is measured in inches from the waterline to the lowest area of the boat.

Tides

If able to check the tides on a daily basis, you are more certain to have a successful sailing trip when exploring the coastal areas. Since tides can change by several feet on a daily basis, you really want to make certain that you are always able to have an up-to-date guideline of the low tide conditions to make certain that you aren’t left stranded with the moving tides.

Speed

If you are able to use the sailing or motor-driven at lower speeds when cruising the shallow waters there is a greater chance that you will be able to navigate the waters without incident. Plus, the type of hull can impact the use in the water. A boat with a planing hull is more effective at speed and will travel with ease over the surface of the water. But, once the speed is reduced and the throttle pulled back this can result in the hull going off plane and drops further into shallow water — in certain situations this could leave the boat at risk and a ground.

Read the Water

When sailing in the shallow waters there is a chance of seeing a varied range of water colors which can help to indicate the depth of the water. An area of water that appears dark is usually regarded as deep. Blue water is seen as safe and possible to sail through while white and brown could be an indication of increased difficulty.

Categories
Safety at Sea

Safety On Board a Sailing Boat

Safety on board a sailing charter needs to be a high priority. It is beneficial to incorporate safety into every action that is likely to take place on board.

Safety On Board a Sailing Boat

To remain safe, you really need to understand and include: preparation, planning, anticipation, and situational awareness, practice, and seamanship skills.

It doesn’t matter if you are borrowing, hiring, or own a sailing or motor-driven boat prior to leaving port it is highly advisable to inspect the vessel to ensure it is properly equipped and in a full working order. A boating vacation should be hassle-free, safe and fun. If able to cut the possibility of being left a victim of a stranded boat, there is a much higher chance that the trip will be that much more enjoyable. An inspection can start with looking over the hull for signs or cracks or similar damage. If the vessel is equipped with an inboard or outboard motor, check that the steering and throttle is able to operate smoothly. Also, make certain that the fuel and oil levels are at a sufficient volume to last the planned trip.

Beyond giving the vessel a visual inspection, a pre-departure checklist is also likely to be helpful for avoiding any potential dangers or inconveniences whilst out on the open waters.

A standard checklist is likely to include the following:

  • What is the expected weather forecast for the duration of the trip?
  • Are you likely to experience any local boating restrictions or hazards?
  • Do you have access to local charts and maps?
  • Is there a sufficient supply of lifejackets for those on board?
  • Does the safety equipment appear to be in full operational condition?
  • Are the electronic devices like the depth sounder and VHF radio working satisfactorily?
  • Is the vessel equipped with a well-packed first aid kit?

Also, when planning on going on a sailing charter trip, you really want to make certain that you are able to let someone know the planned itinerary for the trip, which is highly beneficial should you experience difficulties at sea and unable to return in line with the sail plan.

Navigation skills

Safety on board a sailboat is certain to relate to the navigation skills and experience of the skipper. Use a Chartplotter or similar instrument to help mark the precise course to help with minimizing potential dangers. A well-experienced skipper is more likely to be in a position of being safe while sailing compared to a complete novice. An ability to navigate on the open waters can also be improved with books, attending boat courses, or even using the wide-ranging apps that are now available on the market.

Before setting out

Before setting out on a voyage make sure to fully appreciate the limitations of the skipper/crew on board the sailing boat. Make sure the boat is equipped to complete the intended trip and has the proper supplies and safety equipment. Plot the course before leaving port to minimizing potential hazards on the way. Also, have a means of navigating safety in the event of the GPS malfunctioning.

Categories
Boat & PWC Rental

When Is The Best Time To Charter A Sailboat?

Any time is great to hire a boat for cruising, snorkeling, fishing, whale watching, diving, etc.

Charter A Sailing Boat

But it is likely to be best if you are able to choose a time that is in-season and offers the right weather for the activity you are planning.

Boat Season

A typical boat season is likely to run from April to October each year in many countries, such as those bordering the Mediterranean and in the United States and likely to experience a significant amount of bright sunlight throughout this period. A sailing vacation is likely to be more enjoyable if you are able to avoid the busiest time of the year when many of the locals are taking their holidays, so you might want to avoid July and August.

Best time to charter

In reality, a sailing adventure is likely to be best enjoyed at the start of the season (mid-May to mid-July) or at the end of the season (early-September to mid-October) when the crowds are much more manageable and sea water is still warm. A further benefit is that the prices quoted by the rental companies are certain to be that much more affordable if you are to stay outside of the busiest parts of the season.

Plan early

If you are looking for more flexibility in the available dates for the sailing holiday and selection of yachts, you might want to look at making the arrangements early and booking the holiday well ahead of time. For a high season charter (July & August), an early booking is likely to be highly desirable. Although, if you are looking to charter a yacht throughout the mid to low-season, more flexibility is likely to be available and even possible to book the last minute charters.

Obviously there is a far-sight more sunlight throughout the main boating season, but if you would like a bit more tranquility and peace, a winter cruise might be highly desirable.

Charting in the Bahamas

Before planning to charter a yacht it benefits so look at the likely temperatures and conditions related to the preferred destination. A charter in the Bahamas for instance is most favored throughout the summer months with the temperature kept at a constant 80-90 degrees with cooling wind and sunny skies. Plus, it is possible to experience these pristine waters throughout the winter (December to February) with temperature falling to about 60-65 degrees. While this is a lot cooler it is still more pleasant than certain areas of the United States.

Certain times

Certain times of the year are significantly more popular than others for charting a yacht in the Caribbean or similar popular destinations. Christmas and New Year will need advanced booking to ensure a yacht is available for the preferred dates. Plus, in regions of the Mediterranean the availability of ports or marinas can be limited, so planning ahead is needed to make sure a preferred dockage is reserved for the time of the voyage.

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Go Boating

How to Prepare For a Sailing Trip the Right Way

Preparing for a sailing trip is likely to be a difficult process, especially if this is the first time you have experienced this type of adventure.

Sailing Destination

Making contact with the hire company is likely to provide a reliable checklist of the items that will be required, but in general travel items should include:

If packing for a sail charter, please remember that space is likely to be very restricted. You want to avoid the hard sided bags and suitcases since these aren’t practical choices on board a yacht. Rather a large-size duffel bag or backpack is ideal. A reason for using the duffel bags is that they are much easier to transport and can be folded and stored out of sight once the clothing and related supplies are packed away.

Visas, passports, boarding passes and similar such travel documents are vital to remember when it comes to preparing for the sailing holiday. If any of these documents are forgotten or mislaid, a sailing trip is certain to be compromised. And for any crucial items, like the travel documents, you might want to store them in a watertight and safe bag for extra protection.

Checklist: What to take on a sailing trip:

  • Flight Tickets
  • Insurance documents
  • Passports
  • Certification / qualifications (original copies)
  • Money (local currency) and debit cards/credit cards
  • Cell phone and charger (keep in contact and get regular updates on weather forecasts or similar important news)
  • Swimwear
  • Beach towels
  • Shoes for use on board (deck shoes and/or soft soled shoes)
  • Clothing (light fleece, jumper, waterproof jacket, sunglasses, hat, casual tops, T-shirts, casual trousers, shorts, etc.)
  • Toiletries
  • Sun cream
  • Cream, spray, or gel-based insect repellent
  • Prescription medication and anti-histamine tablets or ointment
  • Camcorder or camera
  • CD’s or MP3 player or similar electrical equipment
  • Magazines or books to read
  • Basic snorkeling gear (flippers, mask, etc)

Space on a hire yacht is certain to be restricted, so make certain to pack the appropriate clothing to match the itinerary of the trip. If you are aware of the expected weather and any details of shore-based stop off points, it will be possible to plan ahead and only pack what is most likely to be required.

For the passenger that requires certain non-prescription and prescription medications, make certain to include a sufficient amount to last the entire duration of the sailing adventure. Sourcing medication is likely to be extremely difficult at foreign ports if forgotten or mislaid.

If sailing in one of the more tropical destinations with intense sunlight throughout the day, a high-strength sun block is certain to be a highly beneficial addition, to ensure that you are able to relax on the deck of the sailing yacht.

Food

Most food tastes are easily catered to when exploring the open waters on a yacht charter and this food can be packed on the boat. But, for those with food allergies (wheat gluten, milk, peanuts, etc.) it can be more difficult to source the food needed to cover the length of the planned voyage. For this reason it is more practical to take along the safe substitutes that have been sourced from home.

Categories
Boat & PWC Rental

What to Bring On a Yacht Charter Voyage

Good organization and preparation is critical to a successful sailing holiday. A well-prepared checklist is certain to help those that are planning a day or longer on the open waters.

Yacht Charter

And the necessities might include:

Items of equipment to pack:

  • Boat papers or charter agreement
  • Passport and relevant visas for the countries visiting
  • Sun block and sun cream
  • Nonprescription and prescription medication (remedies for seasickness might also be ideal)
  • Guidebooks
  • Binoculars
  • Camera (secured in a water repellent bag)
  • Hats
  • Glasses
  • Wallet (with sufficient traveler’s checks or cash for paying deposits, tips, provisions, etc)
  • Sunglasses

If you are likely to be bareboat sailing and taking on the responsibility of the navigation, you might want to include:

  • Sailing or motor competence certificates (check with the boat company to see which papers are required to meet the boat hire agreement)
  • Other relevant boating course certificates or training documentation
  • Proof of prior boating experience (contracts from previous hire companies)
  • VHF radio certificate

Technology items of use

Kindle, iPad or iPhone. Tech items offer a wide range of uses when on a yacht. A particularly useful aspect to the iPad or iPhone is the ability to download a range of apps which help in the process of navigation, safety, weather reports, and much more. If you believe that you might have difficulty charting a course, download the relevant app and rely on that to guide you across the open waters.

In the process of preparing for the sailing adventure, there are those items that shouldn’t be packed, including:

  • Nonessential valuables, like jewelry and watches (especially those that aren’t waterproof)
  • Any item which, if lost, could cause undue distress and inconvenience

Remember that a sailing yacht is certain to be very limited in relation to storage space and therefore you want to be as conservative as possible when it comes to packing for this adventure.

Leaving the yacht after the charter

Make sure to leave the yacht clean and in a similar state that was witnessed when first boarding. Check the responsibilities that are noted in accordance with the charter agreement that has been signed.

  • Ensure all items of a personal nature are packed up and taken when leaving the yacht.
  • Remove all items of food that were taken on board.
  • Also, make sure to take photographic evidence of any damage or things in need of fixing and have them reported. Plus, make notes if any complaints are likely to be made.

What is likely to be include on a yacht charter

  • Bedding is included
  • Navigational aids (instruments, charts, pilot books, etc.)
  • Blankets, towels, and similar essentials

Reminders

The faster the supplies are put together the easier it will be to set-off and get out onto the open waters. It is critical to get the right supplies packed to enjoy a safe and pleasant voyage

  • Buy a wide-ranging travel insurance plan when booking the yacht charter
  • Give the credit card provider notification of the intend use
  • Always check with the charter company to see what forms part of the package

Categories
Boating & Marine Accessories

4 Steps Involved in Choosing a Compass

A magnetic compass is a critical piece of boating equipment. A properly installed compass can help to give a real-time reading on the direction headed.

Boat CompassGoing with the right compass for a motor-driven or sail boat can be a difficult process because of the wide-ranging choices in the market. Plus, this type of instrument should be seen as a must-have item of safety gear.

Here are four of the major issues to consider in the process of installing and adjusting the right compass:

Brand

A high-end compass should come from a reputable and established manufacturer. The best compasses rely on the latest engineering methods to ensure a dependable and accurate reading is possible at all times.

Mount Type

A compass is installed using one of several different types of mount systems. A preferred mount technique will relate to the set-up of the specific boat – which mostly relates to the space and layout of the piloting area. Common mount types include:

  • Bracket (easy to mount to the deck or dash area)
  • Flush (a space-saving option with its ability to recede into the dash)
  • Surface (similar in design to the flash unit, but rests on the surface of the dash area)
  • Dash (easy to mount in a vertical position)
  • Bulkhead (a practical choice to save space or avoid issues with interference)
  • Binnacle (comes complete with case and light-protecting lib)

Dial Type

  • Direct read – An easy to read dial like that direct read is intended to be read when in front and close to the eye level.
  • Flat card – A flat card dial makes it easy to read a compass that is flat on a deck or similar area.
  • Combi dial – A combi dial is a versatile option and makes it possible to read the compass in both a flat card and direct read, so able to permit reading of dial at any angle.

Size

The size of compass dials can vary quite significantly from about 2 to 6 inches in diameter. Compass size is likely to match the size of the vessel and length of voyage. If planning to travel at greater distances, it benefits to have a large compass that is easy to read at regular intervals.

Compass size guidelines:

  • Motor-driven boat < 16-ft = 2 inch dial
  • Motor-driven boat < 20-ft = 2.25 inch dial
  • Motor-driven boat and Sail boat < 24-ft = 2.75 inch dial
  • Motor-driven boat and Sail boat < 28-ft = 3 inch dial
  • Motor-driven boat and Sail boat 25 to 34-ft = 3.75 inch dial
  • Motor-driven boat and Sail boat 29 to 42-ft = 4.5 inch dial
  • Motor-driven boat and Sail boat > 30-ft = 5-6 inch dial

Maintenance and Protection

A compass should be protected from long spells of exposure to direct sunlight when out of commission. Use the protective cover if applicable, to help minimize these issues. Also, to avoid issues with interference make sure to create a safe, non-magnetic environment that will not be disturbed by steel or iron items within close proximity.

Categories
Go Boating

11 Boating Apps to Help Get There And Back Again

It is really amazing the number of helpful apps that are now available for the Android and iOS platforms.

Boating Apps

Here is a selection of some of the high-quality yachting, boating, and sailing apps sold for the mobile devices-

Navigation, Charts, and Maps

One of the most essential applications to download to the iPhone is likely to relate to the charts and maps for helping to navigate the open waters. They are likely to be highly desirable if you are doing a bareboat charter.

  • Navionics Nautical Charts: An app with the ability to include nautical maps worldwide (US Coasts, Mediterranean, Europe) is likely to be highly desirable, and works perfectly if you are able to download to a larger screen device, like tablets or iPad.
  • Boat Beacon: If you want to remain fully aware of boats that might be in your local area, using the Boat Beacon app is certain to help with avoiding collisions. Its collision detection capabilities are designed to detect other boats within a radius of 60 miles.
  • Anchor Alert: A simple yet effective app to give an alert in the event the anchor is being dragged.
  • Flashlight: A simple app like the Flashlight is intended to give a high-intensity light that is great for working in low-light conditions such as reading the serial number on boat equipment or supplies. Plus, this app can double up and provide SOS and strobe lighting as well.
  • Windbuoy: This app will give reliable notifications of water and air temperature, wave heights and periods, wind speeds, gusts, and direction that are sourced from a high number of NOAA buoys.
  • Cheap Gas Plus: A great idea for the trailable boats. This app is designed to help identify a cheap gas station en route to the planned cruising waters.

Tides and Weather

In an attempt to guarantee a safer sailing trip, an app programmed to monitor the tides, currents, and weather is likely to be highly desirable. If you want to keep constantly up-to-date with the local conditions, using the right app means this information is always just seconds away.

  • AyeTides: An ability to read the currents and tides in almost any port is likely to be highly desirable for increased safety in mooring up in one of the ports worldwide.
  • NavClock: A quick and easy reference to same important information is possible with the Nav Clock app. This application is designed to indicate with large graphics the location, weather, time, and date.
  • WeatherAlert: A basic app that is designed to give an instant notification of weather issues in the local area.
  • YachtWeather: If you are planning on hiring a boat for the day, a slick weather app like the YachtWeather offers wide-ranging information, including humidity, rainfall risk, storm risk, wave period, wavelength, wave height, wind speed and direction, and temperature. Data is updated at regular intervals to make certain you always have the most up-to-date information.
  • Emergency Distress Beacon: Emits a call of distress (and provide location) to someone that can provide assistance or alert the authorities.

Categories
Boat & PWC Rental

Charting the Right Boat for a Vacation

One of the first steps that need to be taken in the process of deciding on the type of sailing vacation is to match the circumstances to know more about the available sailing options, including the services provided and the types of boats available.

Boat Vacation

Depending on the specific requirements, a sailing adventure is likely to be that much more enjoyable if able to make the right choices in relation to the type of boat hired; Sailing, Motorboat or Catamaran. The size of the vessel is likely to relate to the group budget and the number of people on board. Even if you are very limited in relation to practical sailing experience, a yacht can be chartered with a full time skipper on board who can take complete control of the navigating, while you are left to completely relax and enjoy the experience.

Choices of boat include:

Catamaran

A highly popular choice for the sailing holidays, a multi-hull like the catamaran is available to hire in a wide range of sizes and shapes from the large size cruising boats to be much smaller and easier to manage boats. A catamaran is likely to offer a very exhilarating and fast sailing experience. Many of the catamarans are likely to require at least two experienced sailors on board to manage and navigate them.

Keelboat

A keelboat is certain to be able to offer a very smooth and pleasant experience on a sailing holiday. A charter sailing boat is available in a wide range of sizes and configurations to make certain you are always able to hire the most appropriate type of boat to match the needs. They are very comfortable to sail by a skipper and one or more crew and likely to feature a range of comforts including the bathroom (head), toilet, kitchen (galley) area, and sufficient beds (bunks).

Motorboat

If you’re searching for a charter boat able to offer easy handling and higher speed performance, a motorized boat is certain to be the more desirable option. A motorboat offers a perfect opportunity to explore the local coastal waters at home or in an exotic destination and able to offer a variety of comforts for a day trip.

Canal Boat

A memorable journey is certain to be had on the fabulous rivers and canals throughout continental Europe, UK, and Ireland. A canal boat is among the easiest to control, while also being cost-effective, self-contained, and comfortable. It is a very versatile option and perfect for singles to groups and honeymoons to families. A high-end canal boat can be luxurious inside and come complete with a fully fitted galley, air conditioning, central heating, satellite navigation, comfortable cabins, and similar comforts expected at home.

Sport Fishing Yacht

A purpose-make sports fishing yacht is certain to make it possible to enjoy the unrivaled thrills that come with the epic battles against the ocean fish. A specially equipped boat will make it easy to get to the best fishing sites fast and outfitted with the proper supplies (bait, lures, line, reels, rods, etc.)

Categories
Fishing

11 Must-Have Items to Include In Fishing Tackle Box

The contents of the tackle box will vary in relation to the type of fishing, but it helps to be prepared with the proper stuff to make the fishing better and easier.

Fishing Lures and Tackle BoxA tackle box checklist should consist of items like extra fishing line, sinkers, scales, insect repellent, sharp knife, needlenose pliers, hooks, swivels, floaters, sunscreen, and leaders.

Here are eleven of the useful tools that feature in a well-prepared fishing tackle box:

1 – Adjustable Wrench

An adjustable wrench is a practical tool to add to the tackle box and comes in handy for tightening bolts to opening reel covers.

2 – First-Aid Kit

A complete first-aid kit is certain to be an instant remedy for treating minor injuries when out on the water. Plus, include aspirin or similar over-the-counter medication to help treat headaches, aches, or pains. Also, include other regular medication that is needed for the general health.

3 – File

A reliable file will help with sharpening the knife and keeping hooks sharp. The most promising files are the triangle or flat models. Alternatively, a whetstone can be kept in the tackle box to offer a similar function, although the file is more lightweight and versatile.

4 – Flashlight

A flashlight is a versatile tool and helps in a variety of situations including signaling for help.

5 – Kitchen towel

A roll of kitchen towel or similar is certain to help with wiping up sunscreen to starting a fire. A Ziploc bag is a perfect place to keep the supplies that should be kept free of moisture.

6 – Knife

A knife in stainless steel is certain to offer long-term performance and less likely to rust in the damp environment. Sharp knives are useful in a variety of applications, from cutting fishing line, opening tins, cutting bait, etc. A multi-function knife can also come with a scaling blade.

7 – Lighter

A simple lighter can offer a versatile tool in a variety of situations where heat can benefit. It can be used to repair damage to plastic worms to melting the tips of nylon rope to avoid issues with fraying.

8 – Lures

A tackle box is never complete without a varied selection of lures. Make sure to pack the lures to match the type of fishing and species to ensure the activity is more productive. Plus, include a lure dye to help instantly change the color of the fish bait in seconds.

9 – Nail Clippers

A pair of nail clippers is perfect for clipping fishing line.

10 – Needlenose Pliers

Use a set of needlenose pliers to help remove hooks from the captured fish. Most of these pliers have cutters to help with clipping the line. Plus, these versatile tools can also help with crimp leaders, mash splitshot, and similar other duties.

11 – Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must for those fishermen that will be exposed to strong sunlight for long periods of time while out fishing. Repeat applications are necessary to put back on what is lost as you sweat throughout the day.

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Go Boating

Bayliner Boats: Inexpensive Runabouts to High-End Cruisers

Bayliner manufactures a series of well-made power boats for families which range in length from 16 to 33 ft. Bayliner boats were established 1957, and has produced popular cruising, fishing, and water sports boats for the newly initiated to the experienced boater. Plus, these boats are very easy to drive and set-up.

Bayliner Deckboat

Most of the models include a forward-beam design which makes it easy to move about the cockpit, bow, and cabin. Also, a generous amount of storage space is provided to avoid issues with a cluttered boat.

By investing in a Bayliner you will have a high-quality vessel that comes at a very affordable price and is certain to give multiple seasons of on water activity.

Here are the some of the featured models

Bayliner Element boats

The series of Bayliner Element boats is perfect for the person or family that is just starting out with this water-based activity. Boating is completely in reach for those searching a performance packed recreational watercraft. Popular characteristics include class leading safety features, high-quality stability, and automotive-style handling. Plus, these vessels come at quite affordable prices.

Bayliner Sport Boats

Bayliner design and make several different sport boat models that are perfect for day trips and fully outfitted for fishing and water sport activities. This series of runabouts consists of 10 models that range in the region of 16 to 23 ft in length. The Flight series is certain to help entertain those interested in water sports, while the Ski & Fish models are sure to delight the fishing enthusiasts.

Bayliner Deck Boats

A relaxing time on the lakes is certain to be experienced on the Bayliner deck boats which are spacious enough to easily fit a number of friends and family members. Plus, these deck boats come with a wide range of amenities to ensure the desired comfort is provided while out on the water.

Bayliner Cuddy Boats

A Bayliner Cuddy provides the versatility of a Bowrider with great storage space, power, and ability to accept two people in its cabin. The power boats in this series are 21.4 and 24.6 ft in length and built for entertaining, lounging, and cruising in open waters. The cabin V-berth is fitted out with a wide range of amenities such as a removable Porta Potti, transom shower, and foldaway faucet, which can make the boats great for the occasional overnight trip or weekend getaway.

Bayliner Cruisers

At the high-end of the market is the series of Bayliner cruisers at 25 to 33 ft in length. These are built with a private head, spacious galley, well-equipped sleeping quarters, and a very bright internal space. A generous cockpit area makes it very comfortable to control the cruiser. Even though these vessels are powerful and provide great storage, they are still within the affordable range. The larger models are configured with the joystick maneuvering system for complete ease in handling, as well as twin Sterndrive engines. There is no restriction on the type of cruise to enjoy, so go ahead and explore the wide-ranging opportunities at sea.