Posts Tagged ‘Sailing’

MOT ? not plain sailing?

February 2nd, 2012

Are you one of the many car owners up and down the country who think that you’re getting a good quality check up of your car with your annual MOT? Well, if so think again as a recent study has shown that a car with a valid MOT isn’t as safe as you would like it to be.

In a recent survey by What Car? they found that there are massive differences between the various testing centres and the faults they detect even if you present them with the same car. A car which passes its MOT at one test centre might fail it at another.

There are approximately 22,000 approved testing stations in the UK which are checked by the officials on a regular basis depending on their risk of non-compliance. The rate of checks will thus vary between three times in eighteen months to once every three years.

The test carried out by What Car? saw them take a six year old car which had previously been inspected by the RAC and have it tested  at six random garages at different locations.  According to the RAC check the car was un-roadworthy because of play in steering and a parking brake which didn’t function properly.

Of the six garages tested only one failed the car and the points noted as advisory points varied from garage to garage.

So next time you take your car for an MOT and a service be careful of which garage you chose. It might be worth taking you car to a local garage belonging to a dealership, i.e. if you live in London and own a Ford, take it to an authorised dealer for Ford servicing London. That way you can be certain to get a thorough service and that your car isn’t dangerous to drive.

Amy Sawyer is an online marketing executive currently researching Ford servicing London.

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Sailing Away to Mallorca

January 31st, 2012

A yacht charter in Mallorca and Menorca are packed with the most exciting ride of your life. The two places have thousands to offer to its visitors – from its beaches, ancient buildings, annual festivals and fiestas, caves, and architectural treasures. For instance, Mallorca (also known locally as “Majorca”), has a lot of beach resorts, stalagmite caves, and ancient monasteries. Moreover, the island is also famous for its bird watching activities especially in Puerto Pollensa. Meanwhile, Menorca has some of Europe’s most protected and stunning coastlines. In fact, the UNESCO proclaimed the island as a Biosphere Reserve in 1993. Furthermore, it also has beautiful gorges where different kinds of rare and exotic flowers bloom.

Sailing in Mallorca and Menorca and bird watching are an interesting combination. There are thousand of birds that either nests or migrate in Mallorca.

These include the Marmora’s Warbler, Scoop Owls, Moustached Warbler, Audouin’s Gull, Eleonora’s Falcon, and the Black Vulture. These birds are considered to be rare and can only be found in the country. Roughly around 200 species of birds called the island their home. The best place to watch birds is in Puerto Pollensa. This is because its area is close to to Albufuera marsh.

On the other hand, the island of Minorca has also a lot of wildlife. Evidences of this include its densely forested areas, flush vegetation, and affluent fauna. About 15 percent of the whole island is covered with trees and plants. In fact, there are more than hundreds of plant species that can be found in Minorca. These include the capers, chamomile, prickly pears, wild fig, canes, rushes, and myrtle. Of the many trees in the area, the most numbers belong to the wild olive tree. When it comes to animals, the island has a lot of wild birds such as the Egyptian vultures, booted eagles, hawks, and red kites. In this place, hundreds of migrant birds occupy the sky with its bright and attractive feathers. The best time to watch birds is during the spring season – from the month of April to May.

Mallorca has many sheltered coves and nice harbors which are well worth a visit, such as Andraitx, Pollensa and Alcudia.

The coast of the ‘calas’ (‘coves’) is to be found on the south-east coast of Mallorca. This includes Porto Colom which is the best natural harbor and anchorage in Mallorca and possibly in the whole of the Balearic Islands.

You can also visit the nature reserve of Cabrera Island (you need a special permission for this) then continue up the east coast of Mallorca and sail across to Menorca where you can visit the nice harbor of Mahon.

Ibiza and Formentera are only a days sailing away. Ibiza town offering culture and great night life, contrasting with its neighbouring island of Formentera, with its relaxed attitude and beautiful beaches.

Meanwhile, the island of Menorca can offer its gently sloping hills and fertile forests. yacht charter in Mallorca and Menorca can be best enjoyed as you along with your trip visit this island. The place, especially on the northern region, has been well known because of its thick and lush vegetations. On the other hand, the island’s southern section is filled with sandy beaches.

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Sailing Gear – Winches Basic

January 30th, 2012

Your boat has many blocks or pulleys; they’re probably hanging from the boom, bolted to the deck, and built into your mast.Blocks come in all different sizes and shapes and must be matched to the task at hand, or they may cause problems.

Because of their many moving parts, they need more attention than pulleys. The manufacturer’s literature or the folks at the local marine store can help you pick out a winch (although most keelboats already have plenty) and maintenance supplies. In the following list, we provide the keys to maintaining your winches:

Clean your winch: Take the winch totally apart at least once a year (doing so is sort of like playing with an erector set — just don’t forget where each piece goes!) and clean all the internal metal parts. A big bucket with an inch or so of gasoline or paint thinner in it and a toothbrush make a great washtub and scrubber.

Lay out a huge drop cloth and have plenty of rags for this very messy job.

Keep your winch salt free: Flush it with freshwater after use and make sure that all the drain holes around its base are open so that any rainwater can escape.

Lubricate your winch: Check for any special instructions from the manufacturer. After taking the drum off and setting it aside, inspect and lubricate all the moving parts and bearing surfaces. Pay special attention to the pawls, which allow the winch to spin one way and not the other. The pawls should swing easily with the touch of a finger, with the spring providing sufficient power to return the pawl to the “open” position. If they don’t move freely after cleaning and a lube, replace both spring and pawl. Inspect and lubricate your winches at least twice a year (and more if you use the boat frequently).

Don’t forget — regular visual inspection is important. When sailing, pay attention to how well the winch works, and be especially concerned about any jerking under load or weird noises. Also, when you have the winch apart for lubrication, take a close look at all the internal parts for wear or signs of fatigue.

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Quality time sailing alone

January 28th, 2012

Many people visit the beach to benefit from its tranquility and somewhat healing effects of the sand and sea water most especially when the area is peaceful and quiet. The ocean is a place of retreat for many if they want to unwind, relax and spend a couple of hours, days or even weeks to enjoy by themselves. If you want to experience solitude and still be able to enjoy- taking a sailboat out would be the best decision to make. While out on the seas, you can have the choice to lounge around in the cabin, on the deck and dine as you catch the freshest fish.

If you plan to sail alone, it is most important that you know how to navigate a sailboat and have taken the RYA course which includes many London sailing courses and sailing lessons and their theories.

Taking sailing courses at a sailing school will not only teach you how to sail but it will include passage planning, preparation for sea, pilotage, passage making to enhance your ability as a skipper, yacht handling and sea survival particularly if you are enrolled in an advanced level.

If you are sailing by yourself, there are still many activities that you can do to complete your relaxation and quality time away. Many sailboats or yachts dock in ports found in the different areas of the city and from there you will be able to disembark from the boat and visit restaurants, quaint shops, and tourist spots to look for other activities that can let you enjoy your time on your own. Although there would be many people around, you don’t have to tour around with them so it gives you more freedom to hang around anywhere you want without someone else restricting you and your time.

For adventurers who solely want to be on the ocean, you can invite a reliable friend to assist you and go fishing the entire trip, but just make sure that your companion also knows how to have the benefit of being along and not be too clingy as you enjoy your privacy.

Sailing along can be as fun and exciting as it is done with a number of people. Give it a try and you will see how it changes you as a person as you will also learn many things as well as discover and know yourself more. Brave the oceans and set sail to the scenic views.

Christopher Miguel is a writer for a sailing lessons in UK.

TAG Heuer Sailing Watches

January 26th, 2012

Many concerning the posts on Calibre 11 concentrate concerning the deep romantic relationship that Heuer/ TAG Heuer has with engine racing- and in particular with Formula 1. You only should glimpse by means of a Heuer catalogue all through the 1970s to ascertain design most ideal after design named most ideal after well-known racing tracks scattered near to exotic components concerning the world.
But regardless of this engine racing focus, Heuer/ TAG Heuer also features a abundant track record of supporting other sports activities precisely where exact timing is essential, for example Diving, Skiing and in particular, Sailing. obviously there are lots of different parallels among the engine racing and sailing- slicing borders technology, the quest for pace as well as the ability to quickly consume great quantities of cash.
In add-on to requiring normal chronograph timing features important for engine racing, Sailing also lends alone to other problems for example tide indicators and specialised timing functions, so it is no shock that Heuer founded many different Sailing watches.
The Heuer/ TAG Heuer association with Sailing consists of many different notable America’s Cup campaigns, starting with providing chronographs toward the victorious Imperial in 1967 and operating by means of toward the help of celebration China all through the 2007 campaign.

As with all awesome sporting associations, there are already many different timepieces inspired with the activity and featuring timing mechanisms particular toward the specifications of yacht-racing.
Heritage
Heuer’s Sailing heritage extends back again toward the very first Heuer Solunar (Solar/ Lunar) concerning the 1940s that featured the ability to check significant and reduced tides. The Solunar recognize was resurrected by Heuer all through the previous due 1970s in a really Calculator-style situation and is also among the the rarest concerning the Heuer timepieces from this period. This “Solunar II” is among the the only mechanised Heuer timepieces all through the 1970s to not create utilization of Heuer’s Chromomatic movement- instead relying concerning the Venus 2790 movement.
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America’s Cup
TAG Heuer’s current romantic relationship toward the America’s Cup began by means of its link with New Zealand Skipper Chris Dickson, who led the 1995 syndicate NZL-39 TAG Heuer Challenge. even although eventually unsuccessful, Dickson would afterwards proceed toward the BMW Orace Racing squad in 2002, and TAG Heuer followed.
This association ended most ideal after the 2003 series, when TAG Heuer entered in to a partership with celebration China. As with most factors concerning the America’s Cup, practically nothing is since it seems: even although celebration China is back again largely by chinese language courses funding, the yachting know-how arrives all through the French celebration Le DEFI, a celebration who formerly challenged for that Cup since the French entry.
Unfortunately, the America’s Cup may possibly be considered a touch of the mess these days- the number of different people even knew that probably the most current America’s Cup was held in feb . this year? Still, TAG Heuer stay linked with celebration China, but once the Cup will once again be available to many challengers is some thing that will possibly be left for that Courts to decide.
TAG Heuer’s sponsorship of America’s Cup challengers has founded two limited edition watches. The very first of those was the 2002 Oracle Racing Searacer (Ref CT11118), which was a limited Edition of 1500 timepieces centered concerning the Link.
The 2nd America’s Cup check may be the China celebration limited Edition (CAF7112; 2000 pieces) that was introduced in 2006.
Like the Searacer series, the Aquaracer Calibre S also features a Regatta purpose that is engaged by rotating the crown. This check demonstrates the versatility concerning the Calibre S movement, which may possibly be considered a quartz-mechanical hybrid movement- albeit much more of the quartz movement with mechanised complications: TAG Heuer state that there are 230 mechanised components all through the Calibre S movement.

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Sailing gear – Shackles basic

January 25th, 2012

This article focuses on the fittings that help your lines do their work — the shackles. Remember that a key part of caring for this gear is visual maintenance — looking for hairline cracks in metal parts, signs of corrosion, or other indications that something isn’t quite right.

Most sailing blocks are very low maintenance. Rinse any block with freshwater after a day of sailing in saltwater, and all blocks appreciate being stored out of those ultraviolet rays. Some blocks require occasional lubrication; however, check with the manufacturer’s directions first, because the lubricant may gum up the works. Often, the way the block is attached to the boat — by its shackle — is the weak link.

Shackles (the metal fittings used for attaching different parts of the boat, mast, and sails) are everywhere on your boat, just like blocks. Your boat may have twist shackles, snap shackles, brummel hooks, and/or captive pin shackles, to name a few.

Keep the following considerations in mind when picking out, installing, and maintaining shackles:

Strength: The shackle’s manufacturer specifies the safe working load; however, you can get a good idea of its strength by looking at the diameter of the metal.

Accessibility: A snap shackle is the easiest type of shackle to open, but it can be large and expensive. The D-shaped shackle is by far the most common, but it’s more difficult to open in a hurry.

Security: Shackles, especially the ones attached to the corners of the sails, can really get flapped about when the sails are luffing. Wrapping plastic tape around a snap shackle keeps it from opening accidentally. Dshaped shackles are often secured by a screw pin; tighten the pin securely with a wrench. As with any nut and bolt, be careful not to crossthread these shackles.

D-shaped shackles and other fittings can have a clevis pin with a cotter pin or ring ding securing it. Ring dings are easier to put on and take off, but you must tape them so that they don’t catch something and open up. Cotter pins shouldn’t be too long and should be spread open, with the ends bent out just enough to facilitate removing the pins in an emergency, and taped, because their points are very sharp.

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Sailing The Hawaiin Islands

January 24th, 2012

Sailing around the Hawaiian islands is not for the unwary, or the inexperienced. The islands are isolated in the middle of the Pacific and seas can be rough, but the coastal views of the Big Island’s volcanoes still spilling white hot lava into the sea, the sunsets off Maui or the North Beach of Oahu, the sheer cliffs of the Na Pali coast of Kauai rising 4000 feet straight out of the sea, all these can only be appreciated from the ocean.

Hawaii’s Big Island – is the youngest of all six of the Hawaiian Islands and is still growing, possibly because it is home to one of the world’s most active volcano’s (Kilauea), the tallest sea mountain (Mauna Kea) and the most massive mountain in the world (Mauna Loa). There are lush rain forests, volcanic desserts, snow capped mountains and Black sandy beaches, all on the same island.

Maui is the second largest of the islands.

Stand high above the sea of clouds on top of Haleakala, watch a 45 foot whale breach off the coast and lose count of the waterfalls along the hairpin bends of the Hana highway. Maui’s smaller population makes it popular with visitors looking for small towns and airy resorts.

Lanai is the smallest island but still manages to squeeze in three golf courses. There is an intriguing course which is relatively small at 6,200 yards and winds over gulches and through hills, each hole has amazing views from mountain ravines to the ocean and is surrounded by eucalyptus trees and soaring pines. There is an even more challenging course at Manele which roams across hundreds of acres of plunging ravines and lava outcrops, native kiawe and towering trees.

Molokai is the 5th largest island. Imagine a Hawaii of the past, no skyscrapers or stoplights, unspoiled country and untouched white sandy beaches.

It is only 38 miles long and 10 miles wide and is home to the worlds highest cliffs and Hawaii’s longest continuous reef. With a large percentage of the population being of native Hawaiian ancestry, the culture thrives as they continue their rural lifestyle.

Oahu – is home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population, where east meets west. The clear blue waters of Kailua beach meets the cityscape’s of Honalulu. The historic Iolani Palace meets the memories of Pearl Harbor. The big city of Waikiki meets the small town of Haleiwa. There is variety to be found at every turn in Oahu.

Kauai – is the 4th largest and the oldest island and is draped in emerald valleys, sharp mountain spires, jagged cliffs, tropical rainforest’s and cascading waterfalls, some parts of the island are only accessible by sea. The island has a laid back atmosphere and surprisingly is home to a variety of outdoor activities.

All of the islands are incredible, but the voyage is not without it’s risks. Checkout your boat and your equipment before you set off and be doubly certain of your radio, just in case.

Whenever heading anywhere on a boat safety needs to be the first thing on your mind. A reliable form of communication can be a lifesaver in an emergency. You have several options, a traditional marine or cb radio, a Handheld CB Radio or 10 Meter Radios. A 10 meter radio offers greater broadcasting power while a handheld model offers portability and no installation.

Benefits of Sailing Jacket

January 21st, 2012

Now-a-days every individual likes to wear good designer wear. Whatever be the occasion everyone is becoming conscious of their dressing styles. Whether it will be a marriage ceremony, family holiday, adventurous trip many people use to buy designer outfits. In an adventurous trip like sailing; it is essential that you buy specialist Sailing clothing which includes jackets, salopettes, spray tops, deck shoes, caps, etc.

Layered clothing and comfortable shoes is necessary for sailing so one should be concerned about clothing for every type of weather. When choosing the clothes for sailing purpose one has to be sure of certain technical aspects about the kit. The material should be durable, breathable, waterproof and safe. A popular choice for sailors is a Softshell sailing jacket which can be purchased at numerous stores online at affordable prices.

They offer a variety of jackets and other related sailing products.

Jackets are to be made with good quality waterproof material which can survive even on harsh weather conditions. Investing in the sailing jackets is found to be cost effective, as it can also be used onshore for casual wear and are very effective in rainy climates. These types of jacket provide warmth inside even in cold conditions because it is made in such a way that no air can pass through it. In addition to jacket Sailing salopettes are also and essential item of clothing.

Salopettes come in various styles and colors. At present, Children sailing salopettes are also becoming more popular. Salopettes are usually worn underneath the spray tops. Good sailing clothing should be water resistant in order to protect from weather conditions. Sailing clothing includes Spray topsand deck shoes. Spray tops are commonly the the most stylish among all. Lots of youngsters seem to prefer designer tops in order to impress their peers but sometimes sacrifice quality. Many spray tops consist of zipped pockets so you can put your valuables inside in the knowledge of them remaining safe whilst sailing.
 

it is essential that you buy specialist Sailing clothing which includes jackets, salopettes, spray tops, deck shoes, caps, etc. In addition to jacket Sailing salopettes are also and essential item of clothing.the market. For more details visit us at:http://www.finmarine.co.uk/
 

Whitsunday Sailing Guides

January 19th, 2012

Whitsunday is one of the most popular tourist spots in Australia. The region has a main island and several small islands that comprise much of the natural attractions. Each island holds white sand shores and clear waters that prove ideal for different water activities.

Sailing is one of the popular beach activities here. Australias steady winds coupled with the shorelines of the Great Barrier Reef prove tempting for many tourists to resist. Most tourists looking to sail Whitsunday have several options for sailing requirements ranging from small dinghy sailboats to sailboats running on fuel.

While sailing may seem expensive, learning it is actually a relaxing experience. You can try chartered sail tours, where an instructor will guide you on the basic steps and emergency procedures. If an individual program sounds tedious, getting a group learning activity may suit you better. For other tips, try some of the following tips.

Get travel insurance before sailing in Whitsundays. The philosophy hope for the best but prepare for the worst applies in this situation, because you need to safeguard yourself while travelling. While no one wants to get in an accident, its still best to have insurance in case you need immediate hospitalization or other medical needs. Travel insurance will also be useful, if you need emergency transport back home if an unwanted incident happens.

Go on a group package while sailing in Whitsundays. If you wish to take advantage of the sailing experience at a lower cost, go on a group sailing experience. Group packages are available all year round, as most tourists enjoy the experience with friends. These packages may help you learn about sailing better if you enjoy working as a team. Going on groups would also help you meet new people and it can help you learn some extra tips about sailing.

Follow the instructions of your leader or guide when sailing the Whitsunday islands. Although you are out there for fun, you have to follow what the guide says for your own safety. Listen to the instructions and take note of the lecture. Later, you can ask your questions or ask for further demonstrations on concepts you didnt understand.

Visit www.whitsundaydive.com.au for more details.

Advanced Sailing Classes Guide

January 17th, 2012

After you spend a season or so refining your basic sailing skills, you’re ready to take the next step in your education. If you’re interested in cruising and recreational sailing aboard keelboats, then you should head to the next levels of certification, such as those the ASA or US Sailing offers. For example, the ASA’s progression of keelboat standards is as follows:

Basic Keelboat Sailing
Basic Coastal Cruising
Bareboat Chartering
Coastal Navigation
Advanced Coastal Cruising
Celestial Navigation
Offshore Passage Making

How far you go within the structure of an educational system depends on what kind of sailing you want to do and what other opportunities you have for gaining experience and practical education. After you’ve taken three or so levels of education over a couple of years, you may be comfortable enough to stop there.

Or you may enjoy the challenge of moving up the certification system.

The U.S. Coast Guard may offer classroom courses in your area on subjects such as safety, seamanship, basic rules of the road, navigation, knots, and weather. Some of these courses are oriented for powerboaters, but most of the classroom subjects pertain equally well to sailing. Check out the Web site (www.uscgboating.org) for details.

If you’re more interested in racing, then you have to find a boat on which you can race. Spread the word that you’re an eager and willing crew member. We know of no better way to begin racing than to get out there and do it.During the off-season, you may consider taking one of the sailboat-racing classroom courses offered in your area; find class information through your local sailmakers. We have both taught at a national racing seminar series called North U. Who knows? Maybe we’ll see you there!

This author writes about Home Plans and Designs and Easy Wooden Projects. Visit the Woodworking4Home Review website and get 14000 woodworking plans.

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