Sailboat Navigation Tools and Safety Gear for Cruising

For sailors cruising along national and international coastlines, prepping one’s sailboat is essential for enjoying the perfect vacation. Although outfitting a sailboat with the proper sailboat parts is extremely important, it is also important to equip sailors with efficient navigation tools and safety gear.

Cruising for an extended period of time offers both adventures and risks. However, with the proper equipment, some of these risks can be avoided. Particularly, charting a course for one’s journey may be difficult if the sailor is not fully knowledgeable on the foreign region. With this said, modern navigation technology is becoming increasingly available for all sailors to utilize.

Aside from popular boat GPS units, improvements in navigation software for PCs have become another favorite in the latest navigation technology. Particularly, Maptech offers software such as the “Chart Navigator Pro” that promises to be easy to use and clear. Its special features include: new GPS planning and navigation software, best cartography, complete coverage on all U.S. coastal areas and major rivers, weather forecasts and free chart updates. Knowing the right course and direction for one’s sailboat is imperative in both safely steering the vessel and reaping all the fun benefits from the sailing vacation.

A sailor must be prepared for any and all emergency situations even though it may be frightening to think about. For these situations, safety and survival gear such as lifejackets and buoys are required for all sailing vessels. Other sailboat safety gear include: safety harnesses, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacon (EPIRB). In addition, ACR Electronics are guaranteed to ensure your safety when overboard your sailboat with their EPIRBs. Working as an internal GPS, this tool transmitts a sailor's GPS position and identifier to SARSAT satellites, immediately notifying search and rescue (SAR) forces. Special features include: 100 m GPS position accuracy, FastACQTM GPS engine, provides a GPS acquisition test, a full functional self test of internal circuitry, and battery voltage test, and automatically activates when out of bracket and in the water or can be manually activated. Both safety hardware for sailing (e.g. lifejackets) and technological devices facilitate in aiding a sailor’s survival.

It is very crucial for sailors and their families to be ready for their sailing excursion by not only practicing caution but also by possessing the appropriate sailing tools. With the proper safety gear and navigation equipment, a sailor and his or her family can fully enjoy long vacations out on the sea.

Sailors Cruise Along the Never-Ending South American Pacific Coastline

With an area of 6,890,000 square miles and bordered by the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and the Caribbean Sea, the South American coastline seems almost endless. Aside from the bountiful coastline, the continent is made up over a dozen unique countries that offer sailors the exotic climate, terrain, and cultures they look for on their sailing vacation. South American climate drastically changes from tropical rain forests to cold mountainous air to dry deserts. Cruising along the Pacific coastline introduces a sailor to attractive port cities in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile.

After leaving behind the adventures of the Caribbean and carefully navigating your boat compass southwards, the first popular sailing destination is Colombia. Particularly, many vacationing sailors visit the coastal city of Cartagena de Indias, one of the most attractive cities in South America. This colonial city is rich with history, architecture, and shopping opportunities. Its climate is constant with warm and humid temperatures. The city also offers opportunities to visit parks and enjoy ecological trips, engage in water sports, and explore the exciting night life. With plenty of museums, walking tours, and other attractions available, sailors and their families will always find entertainment in Cartagena de Indias.

Sailing just southwest of Colombia brings one to the Ecuadorian coast which reaches from the Andes to the Pacific. Although smaller in size, Ecuador possesses diversity in climate and in its current renewal process. This diversity is illustrated in the city of Guayaquil which lies on the western bank of the Guayas River. Almost 3 million people reside in Guayaquil where the it is also home to the largest shipping port on the Pacific Coast of the continent. Offering hot and humid temperatures throughout the year, Guayaquil is very much similar to Cartagena in its climate. In an attempt to restore the city from past fires, Guayaquil is going through gradual renovation that aims to supply various opportunities for tourists to enjoy themselves. However, history is still preserved in the colonial district of “Las Peñas”, in its various museums, and in the botanical gardens. While it continues it rejuvenation, Guayaquil will be a fascinating new destination to dock at in the coming years.

Only about 150 miles from Lima, lies Paracas also known as “The Galapagos of Peru". This sailing destination is made up of 700,000 acres of rugged shoreline, desert, and mountains. Paracas is the epitome of an eclectic vacation spot as it offers all different attractions including wildlife, spas, and museums documenting Pre-Incan history. For sailors vacationing with their children, the National Reserve may be the way to go as it houses several various types of wildlife such as sea lions, birds, and much more. Another attraction is the Spa of Paracas for those sailors looking for relaxation; this spa is just a few miles from the main city. Whether a sailor is looking to spend family time exploring wildlife or looking to be at ease on the sandy beaches, Paracas is one sailing destination no sailor should miss out on.

Closing in on the Pacific Coast of South America is Chile with almost 2,700 miles of coastline. The country's climate and temperatures greatly varies depending on the particular location since Chile spans across 2,700 miles. With this said, the country’s climate is diverse with desert, subtropical, and tundra conditions so it is best to dress appropriately with Harken apparel. On the way to Patagonia or Cape Horn, sailors dock at the port city of Puerto Montt in southern Chile. The city also acts as a transport center to Lake District and the island of Chiloé. Offering a large assortment of attractions such as national parks, museums, and day trips to islands, Puerto Montt is similar to the aforementioned cities. Sailors choose this city to dock at because of it entertainment and its proximity to other islands such as Cape Horn.

The Pacific Coast of South America offers the best sailing vacation destinations in Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Chile. These South American cities marked with rich and exotic history, architecture, recreational activities, shopping, and food make it easy for sailors and their families to fully enjoy their vacations.

Small Sailboat Parts for Every Sailboat

From daysailing and cruising to racing, sailboats come in all different shapes and sizes to accommodate various functions and purposes. Whether a sailor is looking for some recreational relaxation out on the water or seeking the thrill of an exciting regatta, a sailboat must be properly equipped for all sailing activities.

Since the art of sailing requires the sailor to harness the wind to control the boat’s speed and direction, certain sailboat parts become critical. Specifically, the rig must be correctly tuned and outfitted, including sails, booms, lines and blocks, as well as running and standing rigging.

Sailing lines, including both rope and steel cable, are used on a sailboat and its sails for both stationary and movable purposes. Lines that serve the latter purpose are referred to as a sailboat’s running rigging, which controls the actions of the sails. These movable lines are mostly composed of halyards, downhauls (also called cunninghams), and sheets which raise the sails, strike the sails, and adjust the sails, respectively. With every adjustment of the sails, another important component of sail shape management is sailing blocks. Working with lines, sailing blocks are pulleys used to control the shape of the sails. A system of the appropriate blocks for individual sailing purposes is necessary for smooth sailing. Blocks also provide leverage for sailors to adjust sails against the great pressure the wind can place on sails, particularly during heavier winds. Although these sailboat parts are indeed small, an appropriate set of blocks is important for all sailing adventures.

Known for their sailboat hardware and accessories, Harken offers a comprehensive selection of all types of blocks including single, double, triple, cheek, and snatch blocks. Harken is known for producing stong, durable, compact, and low friction blocks. These blocks come complete with special features including sheave and sideplates UV-stabilized with carbon-black additive for maximum protection and free-rolling Delrin® ball bearings. Catering to numerous needs, Harken blocks are specialized to be used for cunninghams/outhauls, flag halyards, traveler controls, barberhaulers, vangs, leech cords, lead car return tackles, and more.

With the right sailboat parts for one’s sailboat, no sailing get-aways or competitive races are out of reach.

One-Design Regattas in 2009

There is no better weather outlook imagined besides that of azure blue skies, placid waters, and a cool breeze. When Sperry Top-Sider Offshore One-Design (NOOD) Regattas take place this year, these are precisely the types of days which will be coveted. Almost all of these NOOD Regattas were plagued with some weather issues and delays last year. Hopefully this year’s prospects will improve and everyone will get to enjoy a remarkable weekend of sailing and racing.

The Sperry Top-Sider Chicago NOOD Regatta commenced on June 19^th until June 21^st in Chicago, IL. This NOOD Regatta, hosted by the Chicago Yacht Club, is known to place sailors in the turbulent Lake Michigan waters, and give them the opportunity to measure up their skills directly against fellow sailors without attention to the different designs between sailboats. Major entries in racing classes for this year’s fleet included Beneteau 40.7, Great Lakes, J/105, and Tartan Ten boats.

On July 23^rd until July 26^th the Sperry Top-Sider Marblehead NOOD Regatta was underway in Marblehead, MA. This Regatta is annually expected to draw the biggest crowds compared to other locations for NOOD Regattas. The Marblehead Racing Association expeted a turn out of over 1,00 sailors, as the even takes place in the Massachusetts Bay waters. A few of the fleet sailing in Marblehead will include boats from Sonar, Town Class, Viper 640, and J/105 classes.

Hosted by the Larchmont Yacht Club the Sperry Top-Spider Larchmont NOOD Regatta is taking place in September on the 12^th and 13^th in Larchmont, NY. This NOOD Regatta held by the Larchmont Yacht Club, one of the most prestigious yacht clubs in the nation, attracts many sailors to its unique and special waters. These are the same waters that last year caused quite a stir when winds directions shifted suddenly as much as 50 to 60 degrees prompting a few sailors to react fast or risk getting nudged off course. The fleet for this year includes boats from Farr 40, Express 37, Shields, Etchells, and many more classes.

Last year, damage from Hurricane Ike resulted in the cancelation of the 2008 Sperry Top-Sider Houston NOOD Regatta only a few days before it was scheduled to take place the weekend of the 19^th. This year’s Regatta takes place from September 25^th to September 27^th in Seabrook, TX. Be on deck and at the ready to raise those boat anchors because it can be surmised that the Houston Yacht Club is itching for a wicked revival. Pleasant skies and steady waters will definitely be the first request.

Whether it be a venue hosted by a local Yacht Club or sailing for pleasure, it will be foolish to miss out on the NOOD Championship which is taking place in Tortolla in the British Virgin Islands November 7^th to November 12^th. If last year’s NOOD Regattas were any indication, load up on boat supplies and start yearning for that perfect day, because this year’s Sperry Top-Sider NOOD Regatta season will certainly be full of surprises.

Setting Sail for Europe

Summer is underway and the perfect vacation is not unobtainable. With the rich culture of Europe, sailing on the coastlines of the Mediterranean Sea offers a truly unparalleled experience. There is exquisite art, fine cuisine, and breathtaking architecture along each port and coastline. Discover Europe like no other will by sailing through gorgeous cerulean waters.

The first stop is the ancient secrets of the Greek Islands. Greece is home to four seas and over a thousand different islands. A multitude of hidden coves are ideal for unearthing the quintessence of the Mediterranean. The white villages litter the mountainous coastline providing an unforgettable landscape. The islands are very closely grouped together and allows for many different coastlines to be cruised. Drop the boat anchor in Athens and enjoy an authentic Greek salad while enjoying a steady breeze on the sailboat.

The hidden gem of Europe is the coastlines of Croatia. A mild summer climate, curious villages, and historical towns pervade in 3107 miles of Adriatic coastline. There are many harbors to dock at in the numerous amount of islands in the country. The landscape offers lofty mountains and magnificent waterfalls. The southern region of Dalmatia is rich with history. The best time to visit these coastlines is now, just as the high season kicks off in July and August.

One of the biggest tourist capitals of the world is with out a doubt, Italy. There are over 5000 miles of coastline. While summer can be extremely busy on the west coast in the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian Sea, there should not be any foreseeable problems if advance bookings are made for a berth there. There better be a fishing pole and bait in the stock of boat supplies aboard because in Sicily there are ample waters for fishing. The islands offer excellent hiking opportunities and breathtaking volcanoes in the scenery. The Italian coastline simply cannot be fully enjoyed in only two weeks, as there is much to see and do.

France arguably offers the finest cuisine in Europe. The chic culture of the Cote d’Azur region offers a chance to sit champagne and reflect while docked at a harbor in Nice. A big crowd of Hollywood celebrities gather at the famous annual Cannes Film Festival held in Cannes. Since most of it is untouched by tourists, the secluded island of Corscia in the West Mediterranean has a timeless quality to it.

With dozens of countries to visit, there is scarcely enough time to see all that this region of the world has. The inhabitants of the Mediterranean are used to wet cool winters and dry hot summers. Being on a sailboat in the Mediterranean Sea is unequivocally a once in a lifetime journey. The real summer is just about to begin, and the waters of the Mediterranean beckon sailors

Harnessing Wind and Water When Sailing

It is an absolutely clear and calm day, and the wind and water are moving in the same direction. Movement is difficult in this situation as there is not a godo amount of energy to be extraced. The difference between the water and wind, create energy which can be captured. The sailboat captures this energy by utilizing the sail(s) and the hull(s).

The wind and sailboat will usually have different directions, and it is this particular difference is the apparent or relative wind. A sail uses this apparent wind and generates lift. This is an example of an airfoil, and using Bernoulli’s Principle the airfoil creates lift much like an airplane does. In fact, depending on the orientation of the sailboat, its point of sail, and its design it could conceivably obtain a speed faster than the true windspeed.

Using the sail, the boat will be able to move in the water. If a direction can be chosen, it is better than if the boat can move in the water alone directionless. To help direct the boat an underwater component is required, such as a centerboard, underwater foil, keel, or even the hull itself can be employed. The combination of the sail and underwater component allow for movement in any direction, except into the wind.

The tacking angle, the angle of the boat’s movement relative to the true wind, usually ranges between 35 and 80 degrees. Using a 35 degree tacking angle, on either side of the wind, a sailboat could cover over 290 degrees of the boat compass. Sailing into the wind can be accomplished indirectly by sailing close-hauled, about 45 degrees, and then tacking and sailing in a zigzag fashion. This is a prime example of both the sail and underwater component working in tandem to move in a given direction.

Understanding the dynamics between capturing and using the energy from the motions of wind and water can help answer the following questions:

1)How do sailboats move?

2)How can a sailboat sail upwind?

3)How can a boat sail faster than the wind?

Most sailors are not physicists but they are undoubtedly cognizant of the physical principles that govern basic movements in the water when sailing. A boat and its crew would be dead in the water if it wasn't for these principles.

Sailing Safely, Equipment and Tips for Crew Overboard

As afternoon fades into evening, scarce clouds hover on the horizon. For a sailor in his Wayfarer, an ominous feeling cannot be shaken. A voice breaks the persistent silence between the rushing of water against the sailboat, “Crew Overboard!” It is not something anyone wants to hear while sailing, but these few simple tips about rescuing crew members is invaluable:

1)First it is important to note the position of the overboard crewmember and mark the time. Over the course of time, if there is a current, the crewmember will move.

2)Throw as many flotation devices to the overboard crewmember as possible, as it will help the person overboard, and also create a localized area enclosing the person.

3)Have at least one person on the crew spot the overboard crewmember while rescue is underway so that he or she is always being monitored.

4)If the size of the crew is minimal, one of the crew may have to let go of the jib and maneuver with the main sail alone.

5)Use either the Quick Stop Method or Figure 8 (Quick Turn) Method to bring the crewmember back on board the sailboat.

The Quick Stop Method, when done correctly, is a fast technique. The boat can remain close to the overboard crewmember in this method and thus allow a greater ease in spotting the crewmember. When the crew is minimal, it is difficult to perform the gybe manuever, therefore making this method disadvangateous compared to others in certain circumstances. If the boat is on a run, the quick stop method cannot be preformed.

The Figure 8 (Quick Turn) Method is advantageous as it can be preformed from any point of sail, and because a gybe is not required. However trading in for these advantages leaves the consequence of being farther away from the overboard crewmember and possibly lose sight of him or her.

Rescuing the crewmember is dependent on other aspects as well, such as using flotation devices. It will also help if the crewmember is wearing a boat life jacket. While most regulations require life jackets, ideally the life jacket should have the boat’s name, and be fitted with reflective material and a whistle. Try not to get the whistles with small balls in them, as when they are filled with water they are very hard to blow. The life jacket should also contain a flare so that in the event of poor visibility, the overboard crewmember could light it to signal his or her location in the water.

It is essential to have a liferaft in the occurence of a serious problem with the boat. The liferaft should be stowed in a location that allows its retrieval in 15 seconds or less. If the liferaft is heavy, greater than 90 pounds in weight, it should not be stowed below deck. Make sure to verify that the boat liferaft is kept up to date and inflated every so often so that in a critical moment, it operates as expected. A ditch bag, which contains emergency meal rations and water, should be kept in a location that is easy to reach if need be.

Only if proper safety rules are not followed can sailing be dangerous. The crew is definitely capable of having a fantastic day out on the water, as long as the crew is calm and vigilant of the actions around them.

Sailboat Upkeep: Supplies and a Cleaning Schedule

There is nothing quite as disappointing as finding rust eating a sailboat up, or grime stuck to the decks and hull. Maintaining a sailboat assures that every time it is taken out, it will perform to the best of its ability and effectively. With little effort a sailboat can be kept in excellent condition. There are some key tools and methods involved in maintenance.

First off the sailboat itself needs to be well protected against the elements. Carefully wash the boat with soap, being sure not to use bleach products unless prompted to. From time to time, the hull of a boat needs to be adequately recoated. A smoother surface against the water is created, as well as a protective seal for the hull aganist rust. A fresh coat of varnish on the deck should be from time to time. Boat paint and varnish can serve a sailor very well with general upkeep of a sailboat.

From bow to stern, sailboats should be routinely inspected. Small imperfections and cracks can be revealed by carefully glancing along the sailboat and which could grow to be a bigger problem if not addressed early. Assessing and acting on these cracks can help a sailor save time and money on more costly repairs down the line. For small cracks, a liquid sealant which does not shrink when cured is best. Such boat calking and adhesives are durable and cost efficient to use.

Long term problems can be prevented from building up by cleaning the sailboat every so often. Protect the sailboat now and often, and then cleaning will not be as difficult as if the sailboat was only cleaned once in awhile. Creating an effective schedule for routine boat maintenance comes from dedicating time to each aspect to address. Be sure to be stocked up boat cleaning supplies and get down to business.

Many sailors fall victim to costly repairs and maintenance because they did not establish a cleaning schedule for cost effective maintenance themselves and stick to it. Taking care of a sailboat does not have to cost an arm and a leg if you know what to do. Time management and a cleaning schedule can help assure that a sailboat will see many more sunsets without breaking the bank.