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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.

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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.

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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.

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Use the Proper Lay-up Techniques for a Sail Boat

Nothing is likely to cause more long-term damage to a sailing boat than neglect.

Sail Boat in Action

If the proper lay-up techniques aren’t put into practice for the duration of the off-season, a boat is certain to notice the ill effects. A significant aspect of preparing a boat for the lay-up is to avoid potential damage from freezing conditions. Liquids or fluids need to be protected or removed. Anything that might be damaged by poor weather needs to be removed from the vessel.

Preparing a checklist

If you really want to make certain that you are properly prepared for winterizing a vessel an in-depth checklist is certain to help with completing the ideal steps. By writing out a complete checklist of things to do at the season end, this should ensure a vessel is more likely to be in a high state of repair when spring next arrives.

Winter lay-up responsibilities include:

Empty lockers

A simple step is to clear lockers of can, bottles, and perishables or similar such items that don’t need the left on board the sailing boat.

Pump out the tanks

In an attempt to avoid the freezing liquids, it will be highly beneficial if you are able to drain the water heater, pump out the holding tank, and empty all freshwater tanks.

Remove sails and rigging

If the sails, rigging, and canvas are less exposed to the winter conditions – whether this might be furled or folders – it is certain to shorten the overall lifespan of these items.

Use lubrication on the furling system

A good time to lubricate the furling system is at the season’s end.

Remove the electronic equipment

If you are able to remove electronics and navigational equipment (VHF radios, radar displays, chart plotters, fish finders, etc.) from the vessel and store them in a safe and protected location for the winter period this is certain to prolong the overall usable lifespan. A further reason to take the electronics off the sailing boat is to protect against theft. Plus, make sure to wrap loose connectors or cable ends with high-quality electrical tape.

Also ensure other boat related equipment (ski ropes, fenders, flares, fire extinguishers, dock lines, life jackets, etc.) is protected throughout the off-season. Protect all gear on board that might be subjected to moisture and dirt.

Place marine batteries in a safe area like a workbench or similar that isn’t on the ground. Give the battery terminals and cables a clean and light coat of good quality grease.

Secure the trailer

If planning to winterize the boat on its trailer make sure to prevent the possibility of theft by blocking up the axles on the trailer. Plus, removing the tires during the lay-up is certain to help minimize the chance of flat spots appearing after a long period of resting in one position.

Fight against moisture

Avoid problems with a build up of moisture in the bilges by ensuring this area is free of oil, dirt, or standing water. This inspection should also apply to the storage areas, fish holds, livewells, drawers, or other similar lockers.

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15 Sailing Terms for Beginners

Whether a complete novice or an experienced sailor, it is highly beneficial to have knowledge of the many sailing terms used in the day-to-day operation of a boat.

Sailing TermsBy having a fundamental grasp of the vocabulary used in sailing it will be that much easier to learn the different components of a boat and the relevant maneuvers. A sailor who is able to relay the right sailing terminology is certain to be that much more confident when it concerns conveying the right information and safely guiding a vessel.

Here are 15 useful sailing terms for the beginners:

  • Aft: aft relates to the rearmost region of a sailing boat.
  • Ballast: ballast is vital in sailboats to help weigh down or steady the boat to compensate for the lateral force of the sails. A sailboat with insufficient ballast is likely to heel or tip significantly in high winds.
  • Bilge: the bilge relates to the lowest and rounded region of the sailing boat, so forms the area between the sides and bottom of the hull.
  • Boom: the boom is designed to attach to the mast in a certain position to help with holding the foot or bottom of the mainsail.
  • Capsize: a boat that overturns is referred to as capsized.
  • Centerboard: a sector of the boat that is mounted to the bottom section of the vessel and helps with balancing and preventing the boat from drifting.
  • Helm: the helm relates to the equipment for steering the sailing boat, or an able skipper who is able to control such apparatus.
  • Keel: the keel is a structure of the hull which sticks down into the sea from the bottom region of a sailing boat, and helps with balance and avoids rolling.
  • Leeway: leeway relates to the drift or movement that is experienced by a sailing boat due to the wind or current.
  • Luffing: this is a term that relates to a sail that isn’t yet set and isn’t in a taught position and continues to move in the wind
  • Mast: the mast is there it help with supporting the mainsail. It is kept in a vertical position to the boat hull.
  • Rudder: the rudder is a suitably sized piece of plastic, metal, or wood which is mounted to a sailing boat to help with steering or turning the vessel. It helps with changing direction by altering the direction in which water or air pushes past a boat.
  • Seaworthy: relates to the condition of a vessel and ensures it is in a safe state to operate.
  • Starboard: relates to the right-side of a sailing boat (the opposite side of the boat is known as port).
  • Wake: a boats wake relates to the water mark that follows behind a faster moving vessel like a speed or a motorboat.

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Bass Boats: Exceeding All Expectations for Fishing

Bass boats are fast, low-profile boats built for fishing parties and easily maneuver around rivers or lakes to arrive at a preferred fishing spot.

Bass Boat

Most of the bass boats are built with purpose-made seats or platforms for complete openness to fish.

Other features include:

  • Built-in tackle boxes
  • Fish cleaning station
  • Aerated livewell
  • Rod holders

A bass boat is built to accept 2-3 anglers to cast lines from the spacious platform areas at the front and rear of the vessel. Certain models are rated to accept 3-5 anglers, but in general, most of bass boat models offer comfortable seating for the lower number of passengers.

A tournament or professional-grade model of the bass boat is built to accept an outboard motor rated at 125-300HP. Alternatively, a buddy or casual tournament angler can accept the low-performance models in aluminum or fiberglass, which are fitted with a 150HP motor.

Aluminum is the less expensive and lighter of the construction materials. But, the fiberglass built models can provide greater versatility in relation to outboard motor size, performance and handling and size. An entry-level bass boat is in the region of 16-18 ft in length. A professional tournament edition is closer to 18-20 ft in length.

Whether the bass boat is constructed in fiberglass or aluminum, the layout or floor plan is quite similar in either case. Seating is quite low in the vessel and situated close to the stern. The aft deck is usually spacious and open to provide anglers a comfortable casting platform. Stool seats are built into the stern or the bow deck to provide the angler with 360° motion range to cast the fishing line.

A trolling motor is deployed and used for the most precise and stealthy control after arriving at the fishing hole. Bass boats are purpose built with a lot of storage space in the gunnels and floors to accept the wide-ranging supplies.

A standard feature of the tournament bass boat is the built-in aerated livewells (provides oxygenated, cool water to the hooked bass). A trolling motor is a further common feature. Plus, sonar equipment and GPS are installed to help travel to the right fishing spot with precision.

Popular bass boat brands include Bass Cat, Nitro, Ranger, Tracker, and Triton; each model of fishing boat varies slightly from the other to ensure a great choice is available in the market.

What is the right bass boat?

A variety of issues need careful consideration when it comes to deciding on the right bass boat to purchase. Some of the critical factors include:

  • Cost
  • Storage options
  • Trailering
  • Use

Cost

A bass boat purchase can be heavily impacted by the number of add-ons and accessories chosen. Outfit the vessel with the must-have features to match the specific angling practice. Any extra add-ons that aren’t critical can be included at a later date.

Storage options

The fishing season for bass is usually restricted to part of the year, so for the out-of-season lay-up period it is critical to have proper storage in place. A boat storage facility is a practical and safe option to provide a high level of protection when the vessel isn’t in actual use. A cost-effective option is storing at home, but this is subject to approval in the local area and an ability to protect and cover from the weather.

Trailering

Getting the bass boat to and from the fishing site is achieved by towing from the place of storage. A critical issue to determine early with a planned purchase is the ability to tow the vessel on the highway. Any road vehicle used must have the rating to safely tow the weight of the boat – usually in the region of 3,500 pounds or more. Check the user manual for the vehicle to establish the safe towable limit. Most trucks and SUV’s have the ability to tow the vessel from lake to lake.

Use

Investing in a bass boat is more practical for those that plan on visiting the lakes and rivers often throughout the season. But, for the occasional angler that plans on going out on the water 1-2 times each season, a boat rental might be the most practical and cost-effective option. Bass boat rental is possible at most of the popular fishing sites across the country.

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Small Trailerable Houseboats: Easy to Move Anywhere

Offering the ultimate in mobility, small trailerable houseboats – at anywhere from 3,500 to 9,000-pounds – offer the perfect opportunity to trail to several different freshwater lakes or rivers throughout the season – a great alternative to being limited to a single stretch of water.

Trailerable Houseboat

Amenities

A modern-inspired trailerable houseboat incorporates the amenities, function and performance seen in some of the large-sized houseboats. Small trailerable houseboats are sized to accept two to four passengers with ease. Floor plans are devised with space-conservation kept in mind – including such areas as a kitchen, dinette, and shower room – and amenities such as hot and cold running water, fridge, electrical outlets, stove, etc. House boats on a more luxury scale come with a fly bridge, dual-helm, and air-conditioning.

Build materials

Build materials consist of fiberglass, wood, steel, and aluminum, with the fiberglass, wooden and aluminum constructed houseboats the most favored – and steel not so favored, with this build material decreasing in popularity.

Trailering

Offering a reasonably light payload (compare to other vessel’s offering similar amenities) the small trailerable houseboats are towable by a sports utility, small pick-up or similar powered-vehicle. Trailering a short or long distance is a relatively simple and practical process.

For ease in on-road transporting, a trailerable houseboat is liable to come complete with a specifically designed trailer for effortless unloading and loading. A dual-axle trailer in aluminum is equipped with hydraulic brakes, submersible lights, and electric winch for complete ease in operation.

Manufactures

There is a variety of styles for the trailerable houseboats and these are manufactured for the various rivers and lakes and intended uses. They are able to offer luxury and comfort with wide-ranging amenities for a highly pleasurable experience out on the water. A permanent or trailerable floating home is highly popular for those interested in getting a break from day-to-day activities, and perfect for a holiday rental.

TravelWave360 Stoll Manufacturing
STROLL MANUFACTURING
1374 Highway 77,
Marysville,
KS 66508
Tel: (785) 629-8043
www.travelwave360.com

Stoll Manufacturing – manufacture the Travelwave 360. This trailerable vessel, at 36-ft in length x 14-ft in width, is constructed with a patented pontoon lifting system to transfer the vessel in and out of its travel mode – with the pontoons lifted, the hull width is reduced to 8-ft for a much more practical size for trailing on the highway.

Nomad25
Nomad Houseboats, Inc
17695 Campground Road,
Phillipsburg,
MO 65722
Tel: (252) 288-5670
www.nomadhouseboats.com

Nomad Houseboats, Inc – manufacture the all-welded aluminum Nomad 25 – trail, launch and retrieve with complete ease – coming with a wide, spacious interior, a great range of amenities, and room to accept 2-people.

Adventure Craft
Niemela Industries LLC
Calumet,
Michigan,
49913
www.adventurecraft.com

Popular lakes

Some of the popular freshwater lake and river destinations to tow a 18-ft to 28-ft houseboat consist of Lake Cumberland in Kentucky, Lake Mead in Nevada, Dale Hollow and Center Hill Lakes in Tennessee, Lake Powell in Utah, and several bodies of water in Northern California, such as Lake Shasta. Take your pick of the endless list of lakes and river across the US offering gentle waters and unique landscapes to discover.

In summary

A trailerable houseboat offers the opportunity to explore the local (or even further afield) rivers and lakes and gives the opportunity to avoid having to pay hotel fees or similar expenses when away for the weekend.