Click for complete program information, videos, session dates, testimonials and more: www.choicecamps.com Brother-sister camps Lake of the Woods Camp for Girls and Greenwoods Camp for Boys are located on 60 acres of lakefront property in Decatur, Michigan. In a non-competitive environment supported by a dedicated and caring staff, campers experience many traditional summer camp activities on land and in the water. The camp is renowned for exceptional instruction in programs that promote the highest national standards; the tennis program conforms to USTA standards, the swimming program is certified by the American Red Cross, and equestrian is taught through the Camp Horsemanship Associations riding program. As a testament to the quality of programming, Lake of the Woods and Greenwoods Camp were featured in Family Life Magazine as one of ten recommended camps in America. For families looking for a premiere four week camp experience, Lake of the Woods Camp and Greenwoods Camp for Boys are stand-out choices in Michigan. Program Description Each camp day consists of five 55 minute periods plus some free time and special events. Greenwoods campers create their own schedules before the start of camp by choosing between 9 and 10 instructional activities from a selection of more than 40 land and water options. The camp staff then customizes the campers schedule based on their selections; campers are guaranteed all of the activities they choose. In addition to the standard schedule …
Portable Power Shower and Dish Washer for camping, rving,kayaking, vandwelling and possibly backpacking with Handheld battery powered Cepia sprayer. Small, Handheld, powerful and fun to use.
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.
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.
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.
For some sailors docking a sailboat may be a frightening chore, however it is an important task that is unavoidable and must be learned. Docking involves carefully securing a sailboat to a dock or other station. Correspondingly, getting a sailboat ready for safely casting off is equally as important as docking. Executing these chores is highly important and is necessary for all sailors.
Although it is highly important to master the right techniques for docking and casting off, it is equally as necessary to carry the right equipment for this task. One of the most fundamental sailboat parts to have on board is an anchor. Sailboat anchors are utilized to fix a sailboat to the bottom of the ocean floor. There are various types of anchors to accommodate sailboats of any size and therefore choosing the right one for you may be overwhelming. Fortress Marine Anchors make it easier for sailors to make this selection by offering a reliable variety of anchors for sailboats of any size. All Fortress anchors are precision-machined from an aluminum alloy comparable to steel but only half the weight, have anodized finish for durability, are rustproof and sharp, penetrate deeper in the sea bottoms for great holding power, are easy to store and manage, and come with lifetime parts replacement warranty. With these anchors, sailors can look forward to being safely stationed out on the sea or back on the dock.
Along with anchors, sailboat anchor mounts are useful for trouble-free storage on the deck. Particularly, Windline anchor mounts fit the specifications of Danforth, Fortress, and Delta type anchors. Similar to Fortress, the Windline collection is made to fit sailboats of any size. Windline provides reliable features including: heavy-duty construction, ideal measurements for corresponding anchors, and are optimal for mounting anchors on sailboats with limited deck space.
Along with anchors, sailboat fenders are also imperative for docking. Sailboat fenders are used to protect sailboats from bumping into the dock or into one another. Polyform U.S. produces fenders that allow for maximum strength and utility. All Polyform U.S. fenders are made with even wall thickness, molded in ribs, reinforced ropeholds, and unique Polyform valves for long term durability. The difference between a securely guarded sailboat and a sailboat that is endangering iteself and others can be made by the appropriate sailboat fender.
In sailing, sailors can never be too prepared for such important tasks such as the docking and the casting off of their sailboats. Although the right techniques are crucial, it is just as necessary to choose and carry proper sailboat equipment for smooth docking and casting off. Without these trustworthy sailboat anchors and fenders, a sailor's efficient techniques may be hindered.
Whether you are a veteran sailor preparing for another adventure out on the sea, or a novice beginning to tread out onto the water, there are key sailing items that benefit every sailor.
First and foremost, protection from weather conditions is imperative when spending hours under the harsh rays of the sun. To shield oneself from these rays, it is important to protect your eyes with some form of eyewear. Harken offers a wide variety of sailing sunglasses to match your individual needs. These sunglasses come equipped with sturdy hypo-allergenic frames and polarized, hydrophic lenses made with distortion-free and anti-scratch glass. Sailing sunglasses are imperative in yachting and recreational sailing because they block the dangerous sun rays and depict a clear view of the surroundings.
For those sailors interested in sailboat racing or yachting, guarding one’s hands from harm is also a crucial safety matter. Sailing gloves are required to adjust the lines of the sail boat’s running rigging when controlling the sails. Since performing this duty decides the conclusion of a race, gloves are highly useful. Ronstan supplies a diversified selection of gloves made with durable, synthetic leather, double stitching and thickness, UPF 50, and secure fitting. These dependable aspects are guaranteed to provide the best protection and grip for all sailors.
Aside from protecting oneself from the weather and safely operating sails, another necessary sailing item is a trustworthy sailing watch. With technology advancing, there are numerous facets of a watch other than just keeping track of time. By offering watches complete with sailing timer functions, Ronstan caters to the needs of sailors. These functions include: countdown repeat option, countdown and up for handicap races, ISAF start sequence with warning signals, instant synchronization option, and a shock resistant frame. These watches allow a sailor to keep track of time and prepare for any upcoming sailing races.
Now, a sailor is prepared with all of the must have sailing items. But where does a sailor store these sailing accessories and other personal belongings for the trip? Sailors need to keep these items safe, secure, and most definitely, dry. Harken produces an assortment of sailing bags and duffels to assure that their belongings are intact at the end of the day. Advantages of these bags and duffels lie in their functional attributes such as high capacity storage, handles and straps, multiple pockets, PVC free, and water-resistant zippers. The construction and materials of these bags promise to be a reliable tool for both sailors and their personal belongings.
With these must have sailing accessories, a sailor of any experience level is ready to set off onto the water for a safe and effectively equipped adventure.
Imagining yourself aboard a luxury yacht charter yachting under the sun and getting pleasure from the breeze coming from the waters, it definitely is worth the travel, do you think so? However, if you are looking forward to experiencing the best vacation you could ever have, however determining on where would be the best place to to spend your vacation to. Then, be sure to check out the Ford Thunderbird windscreen windblocker wind deflector wind restrictor windstop.
You may want to go cruising on a luxury yacht charter and go to various places like such as Barcelona, Monaco and Valencia. You may also visit exotic places located in the Mediterranean and Caribbean islands. These destinations are few of the famous places where people would love to go cruising, it is not enough to see them only on pictures, try to experience seeing them live. Then, be sure to check out the Jeep windscreen windblocker wind deflector wind restrictor windstop.
You do not have to worry about the accommodations, since it is a luxury yacht charter, you can assure yourself that you will enjoy the comfortable rooms, the accommodating crew, and the delectable food that they will be serving you throughout your travel. There is nothing more gratifying and more pleasing than experiencing to travel through a luxury yacht charter.
Accommodations would not be that much of a problem, since it is a luxury yacht charter, you can assure yourself that you will enjoy the comfortable rooms, the helpful crew, and the delicious food that they are going to serve while your stay. There is nothing more gratifying and more pleasing than experiencing to travel through a luxury yacht charter.
You may choose from different destinations as well as the various options you have in choosing a a yacht charter for you. You can either choose for yachts with crews, bareboat charters, yachts with skippers, or you may also opt to select private yachts, or maybe luxury super yachts. These are all your options in choosing the right one.
There are certain organizations that would be capable of providing you with specific accommodations for your yacht charter vacation. To make sure that you you know what you are doing, you must consider the venue and your budget. Next would be when do you plan to cruise, because you need at least 6 months to plan before the departure date. Researching online may help you plan the vacation accordingly.
Online, you can look into several companies who have their own websites which can give you tips regarding plans on your vacation and budgeting through yacht charter trips. This would then help you decide on the plan appropriately.
The Caribbean is well known for its gorgeous cerulean waters and amazing white beaches. Of course then the Caribbean would be an ideal location for sailing. There are over 7,000 inlets, reefs, and islands. Many people escape to the warm waters of the Caribbean every year for a slice of island life. For sailors however, nothing gets quite as good as the warm consistent winds from the east. There are so many shores, coves, and inlets awaiting discovery, and what better way to see them than from a sailboat cruising around. Cruise through the Bahamas, Belize, Costa Rica, and the Virgin Islands while enjoying some sun as only the Caribbean can provide.
The Bahamas are made up of over 700 islands and there are over 2,000 uninhabited cays to explore and discover. Of these 700 islands, only about 30 to 40 are actually inhabited by people. This area is world renowned location for fishing and diving. The area is affected by a cooler winter, but the summer temperatures are known to reach well into the 90s with a high humidity. In the Bahamas, regattas are actually an important social interaction. These regattas are usually over the span of a few days, and feature traditional wooden sailboat parts. On the land there is a festival that is held, while the regatta is underway. Check out the Abacos chain of islands in the north, for a taste of British colonial style and culture.
Belize is most famously known for the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the longest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere and only the second largest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Take a chance to anchor and break out the snorkeling gear to see this amazing natural wonder. Three of the four coral atolls located in the Western Hemisphere are located off the coast of Belize. Besides snorkeling, the waters are also excellent for fishing and scuba diving. The region has an overall tropical climate, with summer temperatures getting into the comfortable 80s. Ambergris Caye's San Pedro Beach is definitely not to be missed.
Some of the numerous Virgin islands are inhabited while others are not. The region has a warm tropical climate with trade winds, and temperatures remain consistent throughout the year for the most part. Certain areas experience highs into the 90s while other areas remain at a comfortable 70 degree range. The Virgin Islands are prime locations for activities such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, swimming, and definitely sailing so make sure the sailboat accessories are stocked up. In fact, the Sperry Top-Sider National Offshore One-Design Regatta championship is being held there in 2009.
There are dozens of other countries to check out in the Caribbean, most of which are in close proximity. The crystalline tropical waters and climate of the Caribbean are truly unparalleled, which is why when anyone speaks of going some place nice for a vacation it is usually the Caribbean that comes to mind. Cruise through isolated inlets and coves, discovering all the beauty these waters really offer to a sailor. Sailing definitely has a strong and growing home in the Caribbean, with more attention attracted to its waters each year.
Africa has over 16,000 miles of coastline. This means there are 16,000 miles of coastline to cruise and explore with a sailboat. Stretching from south of the equator to north of it, Africa is the only continent to do this, and have unique climates. Arid air and a subarctic climate close to that of a desert is the north. Both savanna plains and dense jungle rainforests are in the tropical south. The coastlines vary depending on if the cruising location is in the north or south, but all these coastlines have amazing local villages and are bursting with culture and life. Thousands of miles of coastline are begging to be sailed including places like Morocco, South Africa, and Madagascar.
A small country on the North West of Africa is Morocco. Most will recognize the name of Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca. Dock at the harbor at this famous city and enjoy the life of the locals. Visit the local bazaar and pick up a few unique and special souvenirs or boat parts if need be. Moroccan cuisine is actually considered one of the most diversified cuisines in the world. This is most likely due to the influence from many neighboring countries such as Portugal, Spain, and the Mediterranean countries. Beware though, spicy foods happens to be one of their specialties. There are dozens of other harbors along the coastline, including amazing beaches with plenty of snorkeling potential.
When it comes to sailing the Southern region of Africa, there is definitely no better place to visit than South Africa. Cape Town is the second largest city in South Africa and is actually the most popular tourist destination in Africa surpassing even Cairo, Egypt. Cape Town has a great climate, and an incredibly well developed infrastructure. As a result of the geography of the city, numerous beaches are all close by and easy to visit. Drop boat anchor off the coast of these gorgeous beaches and take part in activities such as diving and especially surfing. Known for the colony of African penguins that frequent the area is Boulders Beach. The beaches which are located on the Atlantic Ocean side tend to have cold water, but the waters off the coast of False bay are much warmer, by up to even 18 degrees Fahrenheit.
The island of Madagascar is located only 250 miles east of continental Africa. Thermal winds year round, and amazing waters, are in Madagascar. Water temperatures here actually range well into 86 degrees Fahrenheit; most of the year the waters are warm in the 75 degree Fahrenheit range. Many different tropical fish, and a good amount of rainbow-colored fish, are hiding in the coral reefs. There are beaches that stretch for miles and it’s relatively easy to anchor and explore the mainland. Visit the coral reefs and snorkel, or sit down and fish from a sailboat. Considering its separation from the African mainland, there is no shortage of indigenous wildlife in Madagascar to see.
Sailing along the coasts of Morocco, South Africa, and Madagascar have shown the continent’s rich diversity and excellent sailing prospects. There are so many miles of coastline to cruise along, that it would be impossible to get bored. It could even be considered a worthy adventure to circumvent all of Africa to get the full exposure of these rich and beautiful shores. Stock up on boat supplies and get ready for some good weather, a decent amount of sun, and warm waters; Africa is definitely a great location to check out for cruising potential.
There are a few safety features on a sailbot that should undoubtedly be installed. A fire alarm should be installed below deck, without a doubt. It is equally as important to test this boat fire alarm once a month to make sure it is working adequately and properly. Sailors are left unknowingly vulnerable when the fire alarm batteries run out of juice, as they often do. The fire alarm which is purchased and installed should definitely be loud in pitch when going off. This will ensure that it will be loud enough to hear all around the boat.
To supplement the fire alarm, there should be a carbon monoxide detector installed as well. Many people each year fall victim to having carbon monoxide poisoning. The most deadly aspect of carbon monoxide is that it is odorless, and even those with a keen nose will miss its presence. There should be one installed in every sleeping area, galley, and confined space to maximize coverage and protection for the crew. Installing a carbon monoxide detector will provide early detection of the situation and prevent needless health injuries.
The boat interior should be well lit without a doubt. Utilize boat interior lighting which is cost beneficial. There are many types to chose from, including attachable LED lights which can be mounted on the wall or ceiling. There are smaller halogen types lamps which can adjust direction so light can be cast where it is needed. This latter type would be ideal for reading. It is also important of course to get a waterproof design. For smaller spaces and other situations, keep a powerful flashlight aboard. Some flashlights even come with built in FM radio.
Beyond safety within the sailboat, the exterior of the boat should also be well lit with boat exterior lighting. These lights are used also for navigational purposes. The best type will be the LED type, since they use half the energy and have a long life. The types and models of external lights that are chosen is going to vary on the specific length of the boat. Two miles at the least should be the visibility allowed by the exterior lights. On the sailboat, there should be a floodlight for specific circumstances.
It would be a good idea to have a generator on board as well, if possible. An efficient and worthwhile generator needs to be selected. The long term benefits will make themselves known, even if this will cost a bit more. There needs to be specific features installed on a boat for safety purposes. To those who sail actively, it becomes known that just as important as maintaining the sailboat is maintaining safety on a sailboat.
On the coast of Thailand, the nightlife is vibrant in a quaint harbor. The locals have laid out a small bazaar selling everything from clothing to food to fish to knock off DVDs. This is just a small sample of the lifestyle one encounters while sailing along the coasts of Asia. Docking at a harbor in Thailand will bring a different adventure than docking at a harbor in India or the Philippines. Come sail along the coastlines of Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, and India and be immersed in many of their exclusive customs.
The warm tropical climate and immaculate white sands welcome sailors to the many islands of Thailand. The year round cruising potential, and the friendliness of the Thai people lends credit to the draw of these waters. There are amazing coral reefs off the shore which attract many divers to its waters. Thai cuisine has ample selection for all, and there will never be an empty stomach or idle moment. Of course the must-see city is Bangkok, where the Thai identity is still visible beneath the modern guise of the bustling metropolis.
There are so many islands in Indonesia that there is actually no offical count as to exactly how many islands total. There are definitely 13,000 to 17,000 individual islands in the range. With all these numerous islands, it is conceivable to sail and discover an untouched landscape and coral reefs thriving with life. For the avid surfers, drop boat anchor in Flores or Lombok. Sumatra has an excellent location for surfing. Visit Komodo and see the infamous Komodo dragons. For a taste of the city life, the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is the most populated city in Southeast Asia.
In Vietnam, the first place to visit is Halong Bay. The limestone islands on the north coast are exactly the type of breathtaking backdrops to sail a boat alongside of. These massive pinnacles, which also go by karsts, have stirred many local legends, mythology, and poetry. For lush beaches visit Nha Trang and hang out with the fish in the waters ideal for snorkeling. Enjoy the sun set over the horizon, lighting up the limestone in radiant warm colors, while sitting on a sailboat.
One of the lesser visited destinations of Southeast Asia, the Philippines boasts over 7,107 islands laid out on 1000 km of turquoise waters. Most of these islands have sandy beaches and volcanic mountains. Visit the island of Puerto Galera for some of the best beaches. Anchorages in Cebu and its neighboring islands are supposed to be some of the best. Most visitors to this island archipelago stop by the country’s capital, Manila. If one happens to find themselves on Roxas Boulevard, be sure to view the sunset. Glimpses of Spanish culture are fused into the architecture and lifestyle prevalent among its people.
If time allows it is decidedly rewarding to sail along the coastlines of India. There is an interconnected waterway more 560 miles long in the region of Kerala. One could view the entire natural habitat all from the comfort of a boat as it travels in rivers, lakes, and inlets. Off the coast, there are many fish and sea turtles in the main waters. Snorkeling and diving are ideal to do in the coral reefs which are in close proximity. In the isolated archipelago of Nicobar and Andaman, there are over 500 islands away from the well developed shorelines.
While sailing along the coasts of these Asian Countries, there is a cultural diffusion, and broadening of experiences such as fishing, diving, snorkeling, and of course fine cuisine. There is a collection of so many islands of different countries in such proximity. The sun rises over a placid Pacific Ocean as a cool breeze whips through the air, catching the sails, propelling sailors into the fascinating unknown.
All sailors know that it is absolutely essential to be prepared for all situations, and most importantly the apparel sailors wear are going to depend on the weather. Weather dictates every day apparel decisions, but it is even more crucial when sailing. On shore, the weather might be warm and sunny, but out on the water it could very well be chilly and breezy. Being equipped with many layers and especially the correct layers could also save a life if a sailor happens to go overboard and drift in frigid waters.
The weather can change in an instant, even if it looks sunny on the shore. Also the weather out on the water might be drastically different thus take a sailing jacket to protect from cool wind or even rain. Harken jackets in particular are a sailor’s jacket of choice. This is usually due to its light weight which increases mobility, breathable fabric, and its premiere quality. Consider an alternative such as a Gill vest or jacket. Any sailing jacket which is purchased should have a neoprene waistband and sleeve so that the wearer remains dry and can still breathe.
Compliment the sailing jacket with sailing shorts and sailing rashguards. Columbia Sportswear and Gill are brand options for boat shorts. These shorts will be padded to lessen the effect of hard decks aboard the sailboat. Usually a built in SPF protection of 35+ is done in sailing shorts. Sailing rashguards will protect against chafing as a result of wearing personal flotation devices, or harnesses. The sailing rashguards are made of spandex and usually also have built in UV protection ranging up to 50+ UVP. Both Harken and Ronstan are excellent choices for sailing rashguards. Sailors can choose between a short sleeve and long sleeve sailing rashguards. A thumb hole is built into long sleeve rashguards so that it is kept in place while sailors move about.
A sailing wetsuit will protect and insulate the whole body. A great selection of sailing wetsuits is available from Ronstant, all made with the latest neoprene technology. Neoprene allows the body to breathe, while providing thermal insulation and even buoyancy. The wetsuit will stretch and contour to each sailor’s body. The knees of the wetsuits are reinforced for durability and protection. There is no decrease in mobility with these wetsuits as they are designed for sailors specifically. There is a choice between a full body sailing wetsuit or half-body sailing wetsuit depending on the situation and need.
A sailor will need the correct sailing apparel to protect the body when sailing on the water. Weather is well known to change in an instant, and being prepared for that change is half the battle usually. Be ready to adapt to any variations encountered, and help make it easier to sail by wearing the right sailing apparel for all weather conditions. As much as the spray will allow while sailing, sailors can stay as dry as possible with the best foul weather gear and sailing apparel.
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 19th until June 21st 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 23rd until July 26th 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 12th and 13th 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 19th. This year’s Regatta takes place from September 25th to September 27th 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 7th to November 12th. 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.
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
![Reblog this post [with Zemanta]](http://img.zemanta.com/reblog_e.png?x-id=22a56380-6277-44b7-8864-5be0db1c1926)
Recent Comments