Some places even have wooden boat kits that sell all the plans and pieces they need to create the exact boat they want without the hassle of having to find the proper materials. Wooden boat plans are one of the most simple to follow and as long as you do them correctly, you can have a boat that will last you a lifetime that you will be able to pass on to your children and grandchildren.

No matter if you are wanting to build a boat for recreational purposes or because you just need something to go fishing in, you can find plans or a kit to build your own boat. There are many advantages to building your own boat, one of the greatest advantages is that you are getting exactly what you want. You don’t have to worry about paying extra for different features because you can customize your wooden boat or sail boat to already include those features you want right from the start.

To build your own boat is a great experience that you can share with your kids and grand kids. If your son is a cub scout and needs that last badge, you can help him achieve his goal while also helping to achieve yours by involving him in your boat building. Even if you have never built anything before in your life, the instructions are easy enough that you won’t have any problems following them. Of course it will be time consuming to build your own but the rewards of knowing that you did it yourself will all be worth the time and effort you put into your boat.

This boating article is from Roy Thomsitt. For more, please see buildyourownboat.net

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/water-sports-articles/build-your-own-sailboat-and-sail-away-1776336.html

If you are a beginner in sailing, you will soon discover the large variety of sailing gear that is out on the market. As great as it would be to own all of this gear, not all of it is required for sailing. However, in order to stay safe while sailing, there is certain gear that you will absolutely need on your boat.

Should an emergency occur, having first aid kits, life jackets, and additional safety equipment are essential to ensure the care of passengers on your boat. Radio and navigation should also be present especially when sailing in the open seas or on the coastline.

Finding Discount Gear

If you search in the right places, you can find discount sailing gear in a variety of places.

First, the sailing gear can be found at different swap meets or flea markets within a sailing community. Often, sailing clubs will hold a swap meet once or twice per year enabling people to find used gear for a fraction of the cost.

In addition to these sailing clubs, advertisements in newspapers and sailing magazines offer used gear for sale. These are great options since you can go and check the condition of the gear before buying it.

There are also some online auctions that sell used gear, but these are a little more difficult to use since the items cannot be thoroughly checked before purchasing them. However, many of these online sites have a guarantee or a checks and balances system in place so that people are protected from fraudulent sellers.

MENS TOMMY HILFIGER SAILING GEAR SHORTS SIZE XL US $7.99 (1 Bid) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 19:00:36 PDT   | Watch this Item

Practical Sailor Guide to Sailing Gear: Take the Gues.. US $3.93 Auction Ends: Friday Jul-30-2010 10:00:42 PDT   | Watch this Item

MENS LARGE TOMMY HILFIGER JACKET HOODED SAILING GEAR! US $14.99 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Saturday Jul-31-2010 18:41:47 PDT   | Watch this Item

Top Swivel for Jib Furling Gear for Sailing Dinghy US $15.62 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Sunday Aug-01-2010 11:04:56 PDT   | Watch this Item

Vintage Tommy Hilfiger Sailing Gear Polo Shirt XL US $33.93 Auction Ends: Sunday Aug-01-2010 22:58:05 PDT   | Watch this Item

TOMMY HILFIGER MENS L S/S SAILING GEAR POLO SHIRT US $7.99 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Monday Aug-02-2010 18:31:55 PDT   | Watch this Item

Mens TOMMY HILFIGER Sailing Gear Shirt S/M, EXCELLENT US $9.99 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Monday Aug-02-2010 21:02:39 PDT   | Watch this Item

Tommy Hilfiger Navy Sailing Gear Shirt US $12.95 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Wednesday Aug-04-2010 17:21:31 PDT   | Watch this Item

Red Skipper Boat Nautical Dock Sailing Gear Sunglasses US $8.95 Auction Ends: Thursday Aug-05-2010 19:17:51 PDT   | Watch this Item

Sailing For Dummies NEW Navigation Boat Electronic Gear US $13.99 Auction Ends: Saturday Aug-07-2010 2:34:07 PDT   | Watch this Item

Where else can you find discount sailing gear?

For more information on sailing gear, equipment, boats, and more visit: http://sailingequipmentforsale.com

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/water-sports-articles/-where-to-find-discount-sailing-gear-1703260.html

People in most parts of the world wait for the summer season. They become happy about their summer vacations as summer is the season to enjoy the outdoor activities which is most of the time boating.

Most of the people have the desire to own a yacht and head to the beach for an adventure ride. If you are one among those then Catalina Yachts are among the top yachts in the world and are looked upon highly at any Yacht club. These boats are recognized by their deluxe interiors, which have enough room for an entire family, while still featuring extremely high operation. Basically, these boats have all of the features of a larger boat, except they are created in a much smaller package, making them easier to handle and store.

The cockpit is unique because it is spacious enough for multiple human beings to sleep, so it can be enjoyed by a complete family. The decks are also more spacious than most other yachts of these dimensions, so they are much safer to stroll around on. Catalina Yachts can be enjoyed in a variety of different circumstances at sea, which means that they are versatile enough to withstand anything that the ocean can throw your way.

When you are at the Yacht Club, you will see a variety of Catalina Yachts there because these are some of the best boats in the world. Patrons at the Yacht club realize this and will surely show you the reverence that you deserve when you are seen with one of these great boats. This industry is frequently changing and new things are becoming popular, but Catalina Yachts are one of the things that should remain well-liked for quite some time to come at Yacht Clubs all over the country.

Yachts have forever been products that are out of reach for the majority of the people in the nation because they are linked with upper class society. While it is true that most luxury boats are comparable in cost to a luxury car or a small house, they are actually not as unattainable as many people believe. The truth of the situation is that nearly anyone can afford a yacht if he or she truly wants to, as it is a matter of setting priorities. Those who truly believe that they would love to purchase a yacht should definitely look into Catalina Yachts because their smaller sizes make many of them much more reasonably priced to purchase for the common person.

The American Sailboat Catalina Hunter Island Packet US $150.00 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 8:23:28 PDT   | Watch this Item

New Catalina 34 Sailboat Cockpit Cushions US $525.00 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 8:57:05 PDT   | Watch this Item

New Catalina 30 MK1 Sailboat Cockpit Cushions US $499.00 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 9:05:10 PDT   | Watch this Item

New Catalina 30 MKII Sailboat Cockpit Cushions US $525.00 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 9:08:36 PDT   | Watch this Item

New Catalina 22 Sailboat Mainsail Cover US $159.00 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 9:23:58 PDT   | Watch this Item

New Catalina 30 Sailboat Mainsail Cover US $179.00 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 9:27:14 PDT   | Watch this Item

1989 Catalina 27 Sailboat & Slip Bimini Roller Furl US $19,500.00 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 9:30:09 PDT   | Watch this Item

New Catalina 34 Sailboat Mainsail Cover US $199.00 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 9:32:57 PDT   | Watch this Item

Moby Tube Sailboat Pontoon Lowe Ranger Catalina Potter US $20.00 Auction Ends: Friday Jul-30-2010 9:46:17 PDT   | Watch this Item

1955 Pontiac Catalina Car On Dock Sailboats Ad US $5.00 Auction Ends: Friday Jul-30-2010 14:16:54 PDT   | Watch this Item

WindPath Fractional Yachting Boat Cluboffers affordable solution to own a boat, sail or power. Go Sailing or Power boating today on new Back Cove or Catalina Yacht at http://WindPath.com.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/water-sports-articles/catalina-yachts-one-of-the-popular-kinds-of-yachts-in-the-world-1726799.html

Venturing out on the sea for an extended period of time offers both adventures and risks. However, with the proper equipment, some of these risks can be avoided. Specifically, charting a course for one’s journey may be difficult if the sailor is new to the 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, free chart updates and weather forecasts. 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.

Although it may be frightening to even conjure up the idea of needing to abandon one’s sailboat, a sailor must be prepared for all emergency situations. For these situations, safety and survival gear such as lifejackets and buoys are required for all sailing vessels. Other sailboat safety gear include: first aid kits, fire extinguishers, safety harnesses, and Emergency Position Indicating Radiobeacon (EPIRB). For instance, ACR Electronics produces EPIRBs that are guaranteed to ensure your safety when overboard your sailboat. By transmitting a sailor’s GPS position and identifier to SARSAT satellites, this took works as an internal GPS receiver and immediately notifies search and rescue (SAR) forces. Special features include: FastACQTM GPS engine, 100 m GPS position accuracy, 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. A sailor and his or her family can fully enjoy long vacations out on the sea with the proper navigation equipment and safety gear.

GARMIN MARINE MOUNT BRACKET COLORADO GPS 010-11031-00 US $31.00 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 5:59:24 PDT   | Watch this Item

GARMIN GPSMAP 421 MARINE GPS CHARTPLOTTER 010-00764-00 US $408.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 7:18:48 PDT   | Watch this Item

GARMIN GPSMAP 521 MARINE GPS CHARTPLOTTER 010-00760-00 US $571.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 7:19:15 PDT   | Watch this Item

GARMIN GPSMAP 526 MARINE GPS CHARTPLOTTER 010-00772-00 US $733.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 7:19:31 PDT   | Watch this Item

GARMIN GPSMAP 531 MARINE GPS CHARTPLOTTER 010-00761-00 US $609.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 7:19:49 PDT   | Watch this Item

GARMIN GPSMAP 536 MARINE GPS CHARTPLOTTER 010-00773-00 US $784.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 7:19:59 PDT   | Watch this Item

GARMIN GPSMAP 541 MARINE GPS CHARTPLOTTER 010-00762-00 US $652.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 7:20:15 PDT   | Watch this Item

GARMIN GPSMAP 546 MARINE GPS CHARTPLOTTER 010-00774-00 US $817.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 7:20:31 PDT   | Watch this Item

Box lot of marine electronics radar GPS wire harnesses US $49.95 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 7:32:09 PDT   | Watch this Item

MAGELLAN GPS SATELLITE NAVIGATOR (MARINE) US $10.59 (3 Bids) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 8:15:21 PDT   | Watch this Item

Marine IR Camera Reverse Video*4*KENWOOD P-NAV6019 gps US $169.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 8:58:27 PDT   | Watch this Item

Marine IR Camera Reversed Video*4*KENWOOD P-NAV6019 gps US $169.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 8:59:17 PDT   | Watch this Item

Garmin 640 Marine Auto GPS all in one new with warranty US $999.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 10:26:46 PDT   | Watch this Item

Marine GPS Antenna for Garmin GA 26C GPSMAP 100AVD 120 US $6.99 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 10:27:55 PDT   | Watch this Item

HUMMINBIRD 788C COMBO MARINE GPS FISHFINDER 407420-1 US $609.75 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 10:39:29 PDT   | Watch this Item

http://www.completesailor.com/

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/water-sports-articles/safety-gear-and-sailboat-navigation-tools-for-sailing-1581303.html

To supplement the fire alarm, there should be a carbon monoxide detector installed as well. Carbon monoxide poisoning claims many victims each year. 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 interior of the boat should be well lit. 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. Use a small halogen type lamp in order to control the direction of where the light is cast. 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 length of the boat will be a factor when selecting a model and type of external light. At least two miles should be the visibility of the exterior lights chosen. On the sailboat, there should be a floodlight for specific circumstances.

If it is possible, having a generator would also be a good idea. Select a generator that is efficient and worthwhile. 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.

http://www.completesailor.com/

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/water-sports-articles/safety-equipment-inside-a-sailboat-1451303.html

Out in the distance, there are no clouds as day fades to night. 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.

One clear advantage of the Quick Stop Method is that when it is preformed correctly it is very fast to do. The boat can remain close to the overboard crewmember in this method and thus allow a greater ease in spotting the crewmember. However this method is disadvantageous since a gybe maneuver must be performed which can be difficult in high winds or especially when the crew is minimal. The Quick Stop Method also cannot be performed if on a run.

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. It is significantly harder to blow the whistles that have the small balls in them, especially when filled with water. 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. The liferaft should not be stowed below deck if it is greater than 90 pounds in weight. 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. There should be meal rations and water in an emergency ditch bag in an easily reachable location in the event of its need.

Only if proper safety rules are not followed can sailing be dangerous. There should be no forseeable reason that the crew cannot have a good day out, because the crew will know to be mindful and calm.

http://www.completesailor.com/

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/water-sports-articles/sailing-safely-crew-overboard-methods-1451333.html

Lego Minifig Lot GIRL BOY BOAT / RAFT LIFE VESTS #1043 US $9.95 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 9:25:38 PDT   | Watch this Item

LIFE JACKET,4 STRAP VEST STYLE, BOAT,SNORKLE,SWIM US $22.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 12:58:15 PDT   | Watch this Item

LIFE JACKET,4 STRAP VEST STYLE, BOAT,SNORKLE, UNISEX US $22.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 13:53:30 PDT   | Watch this Item

LIFE JACKET,4 STRAP VEST STYLE, BOAT,SNORKLE, Women's US $21.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 15:23:07 PDT   | Watch this Item

LIFE JACKET,4 STRAP VEST STYLE, BOAT,SNORKLE,SWIM US $21.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 15:23:10 PDT   | Watch this Item

LIFE JACKET,4 STRAP VEST STYLE, BOAT,SNORKLE, Women's US $21.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 16:26:25 PDT   | Watch this Item

LIFE JACKET,4 STRAP VEST STYLE, BOAT,SNORKLE,SWIM US $21.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 16:26:30 PDT   | Watch this Item

LIFE JACKET,4 STRAP VEST STYLE, BOAT,SNORKLE, Women's US $21.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 18:36:06 PDT   | Watch this Item

LIFE JACKET,4 STRAP VEST STYLE, BOAT,SNORKLE,SWIM US $21.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 18:36:09 PDT   | Watch this Item

BUOYANCY SKI VEST SIZE 6 CHD WATER SKI BOAT LIFE JACKET US $49.08 Auction Ends: Friday Jul-30-2010 2:30:29 PDT   | Watch this Item

For some sailors docking a sailboat may be a daunting task, however it is a vital chore that is inevitable and highly emphasized. The proper docking technicque safely secures a sailboat to a dock or other station. However, preparing a sailboat for safely casting off is a task equivalent in importance. Executing these chores is highly important and is necessary for all sailors.

Learning to properly dock and cast off is highly valuable, however it is equally as important to carry the right equipment for these tasks. 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. Choosing the right anchor for one’s sailboat may be overwhelming due to the numerous types of anchors available. Making the appropriate choice for sailboat anchors may seem difficult but Fortress Marine Anchors make it easier by offering a wide variety of anchors for all sailboats. All Fortress anchors are precision-machined from an aluminum alloy comparable to steel but only half the weight, penetrate deeper in the sea bottoms for great holding power, have anodized finish for durability, are rustproof and sharp, 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. Like Fortress, Windline caters to the size specifications of any sailboat. 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.

In addition to anchors, sailboat fenders are also essential equipment 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 proper sailboat fender determines the safety of both one’s sailboat and the sailboats of others at the dock.

Sailors can never be too prepared for critical chores such as docking and casting off. Although the right techniques are crucial, it is just as necessary to choose and carry proper sailboat equipment for smooth docking and casting off. A sailor’s efficient techniques may be hindered without these trustworthy sailboat anchors and fenders.

http://www.completesailor.com/

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/water-sports-articles/sailors-utilize-the-right-sailboat-anchors-and-fenders-1451355.html

Frosted Gold NAUTICAL NECKLACE Anchor Sailboat Shell US $12.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:42:31 PDT   | Watch this Item

Sailboats & Anchors Quilting Fabric by Yard #1599 US $4.85 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 7:23:55 PDT   | Watch this Item

Set of 4 Boat Anchor Cloth Napkins NEW Sailboat US $9.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 8:52:28 PDT   | Watch this Item

NEW D SHACKLE 3/8" pin : BL 4900 LB : SAILBOAT ANCHOR US $7.95 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 12:43:34 PDT   | Watch this Item

3/4" X250' Nylon Anchor Rope Line Boat Sailboat Mooring US $135.00 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 13:35:37 PDT   | Watch this Item

5/8" X 200' Nylon Anchor Rope Line / Boat / Sailboat US $79.95 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 13:35:46 PDT   | Watch this Item

Nautical Ship Sailboat Anchor & Wheel Garden Hose Reel US $27.77 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 13:43:16 PDT   | Watch this Item

Sailboat,anchor,tablecloth,60Wx50W,sq,nice summer item! US $7.99 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 15:52:20 PDT   | Watch this Item

PORCELAIN SAILBOAT red white blue + Gold Anchor inside US $4.95 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 16:11:15 PDT   | Watch this Item

SAILBOAT BORDER Rubber Stamp NAUTICAL ANCHOR WHEEL US $2.95 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 17:49:51 PDT   | Watch this Item

The nightlife is vibrant in a quaint harbor on the coast of Thailand. 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. Thailand harbor’s will lend a different experience than docking at a harbor in the Philippines or India. Come sail along the coastlines of Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, and India and be immersed in many of their exclusive customs.

Sailors can feel welcomed in Thailand with the white pristine sands, and the warm tropical climate. These waters draw people year round, partly due to to the renowned friendliness of the Thai people, and of course the year round cruising possibilities. There are many divers who visit these waters for the magnificent coral reefs off the shore. 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 is no official count as to exactly how many islands are in Indonesia since there are so many. However the range is within 13,000 to 17,000 individual islands. 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. Surfing in Sumatra is unparallelled. 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. One island to visit for its superb beaches is Puerto Galera. For excellent anchorages, stop by Cebu and its neighboring islands. 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.

With time permitting, sailing on the coastlines of India is decidedly rewarding. 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. The waters off the main coast are abundant with sea turtles and fish. Diving and snorkeling can be done since nearby there are coral reefs. The coastlines are well developed but there are over 500 islands of the archipelago of Andaman or Nicobar which are well isolated.

There are so many experiences, such as fine cuisine, diving, fishing, snorkeling, and cultural diffusion when sailing along the coasts of these Asian countries. 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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sailing (Picture Library) By Norman Barrett US $3.80 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 5:59:59 PDT   | Watch this Item

NEW NAVIS GORE-TEX PERFORMANCE OFFSHORE SAILING JACKET US $59.50 (6 Bids) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:02:23 PDT   | Watch this Item

NEW NAVIS GORE-TEX PERFORMANCE OFFSHORE SAILING JACKET US $34.37 (8 Bids) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:02:41 PDT   | Watch this Item

NAVIS GORETEX PERFORMAN OFFSHORE SAILING TROUSERS PANTS US $67.09 (14 Bids) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:07:21 PDT   | Watch this Item

NAVIS GORETEX PERFORMAN OFFSHORE SAILING TROUSERS PANTS US $34.37 (9 Bids) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:07:34 PDT   | Watch this Item

~ VINTAGE BLUE SAILING SHIP SAFE HARBOUR COVERED BOWL US $6.99 (0 Bid) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:11:05 PDT   | Watch this Item

Sailing Alone Around the World by Joshua Slocum US $5.98 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:17:01 PDT   | Watch this Item

VINTAGE STERLING SILVER SAILING YACHT BOAT CHARM US $4.66 (3 Bids) Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:18:35 PDT   | Watch this Item

Sailing School (A Queen Anne Press By Doug Schryver US $2.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:18:56 PDT   | Watch this Item

Dinghy Sailing (Pelham practical sp By Bob Bond,Steve S US $2.99 Auction Ends: Thursday Jul-29-2010 6:19:46 PDT   | Watch this Item

The advantage of owning a boat is that you can go on a sailing vacation at anytime. You don’t have to call your travel agent or make any reservation online since the boat is just sitting at the dock waiting for you to come aboard. The only thing you have to do is buy food and fuel which should be enough to get you back to port.

The boat also brings financial benefits because when you are not using it, this can be rented out to those who want to go on their own sailing vacation as long as they are able to pay your rate. This of course means additional revenue for you so the ship stays in good shape.

This makes it also ideal for those who want to conduct business on board because this is a tax deductible once you register your boat as a place of business. To see how this works, get in touch with your tax advisor

Another financial benefit of owning your own yacht is the fact that this is considered to be a second home. This is as long as the boat has at least one berth, a permanent galley and a head which is the requirement of the IRS.

If you can’t buy your own yacht, there is something called fractional boat ownership which means for a certain period during the year, you can do whatever you want with the boat. This will allow you to use it to go on a trip with your family.

The best thing about this is that a group of you share the cost of owning the yacht which already includes its maintenance, insurance,dock space, equipment, fuel and repairs.

This can only happen of course after you have completed a boating safety class and a safety orientation. This will not be a problem for you if you are already certified to sail a boat and know how to use all the equipment like charts, compass and GPS on board.

The other option is to join a boat club. Unlike part time sharing, you don’t get to own a boat. But as a member, you are entitled to up to 4 advanced reservations at any given time and access to powerboats or to sailboats that are up to 30 feet in length. The club for its part will shoulder all  the other expenses such as maintenance, cleaning, storage and insurance.

There are many of then around so you won’t have a hard time choosing one. Some cater to one market while others cater to all. They also offer boating classes for those who want to do this for fun or commit themselves in the sport.

Adventure sailing vacation is truly better when you own the yacht as the only thing you have to do is drive on over to the docks, stow your gear on board and then sail off into the sunset.

Rules

•    Port gives way to starboard. This is the universal rule as far as sailing is concerned. It means that if there is a boat approaching on your starboard and you are on a possible collision course, then your boat will give way to the other. In sailing, this rule is extended. The boat that has its sail set to the wind coming in from the left hand side (port) must give way to the ship that has its sail set for the wind coming in from the right hand side (starboard). If both the boats have their sail set in the same direction, then the boat that is closer to the wind and is called as the windward boat. It must make way for the boat that is away from the wind and is called as leeward boat.
•    The more maneuverable vessel must always take the initiative and move away from the path of the less maneuverable one. It is always better for a small sized vessel to stay away from the path of one of the bigger ships. This rule does not necessarily mean that power gives way to sail. In simpler terms, if you are on a smaller vessel and see that a bigger one is making the way towards you, simply turn away from it.
•    Even if you have the right of way, you must take immediate action to avoid a collision. Even if you have the right of way or the opposite party does, both of you have to take prompt action to avoid a collision. In such a situation, the collision is the only factor to consider and everything must be done to avoid it.

Other Rules And Regulations
Besides these basic rules, there are some basic rules of safety that sailors are supposed to know. However, a beginner is not expected to know them all in the start. As and when you pursue sailing, you will get a better grip on all the rules and eventually master it. There are many terms in sailing like port tack, starboard, leeward etc that will give you a better idea about sailing as well as will help you in understanding the rules. It is better if you learn these terms before hand. So arm yourself with as much information as you can and have a great sailing experience.

If you have ever met a sailor then you might have heard him say that sailing is extremely easy, but your mind refuses to accept this. Can being in the sea all alone in a boat that has more ropes than a rope factory, be that easy? Especially, when you have no clue about which rope controls which part of the boat. Then there are always the thoughts in your brain that add to the agony. When you think of the sea, the only thought that comes to your mind is a great white chewing away on your limbs. Thanks to Steven Spielberg and Jaws, the sea has become a nightmare for many. There are people who feel that sailing is very expensive. But is it really expensive?

Busting The Myths
If you are paranoid about being all alone in the sailboat then you can choose catamarans. These are large sailing boats, which have a crew who control the boat. All your fears and phobias of being stranded in the sea will be busted instantly. If you are concerned about great whites, the please be aware that no great white shark attacks a ship. These great creatures do not lurk in the shallow waters waiting for a man and his sailboat. They are extremely rare. There are many areas where giant fish do not tread and is full of colorful marine life. You can enjoy sailing in such areas. Oh, and yeah, the Loch ness monster does not exist.

Expense
If it is the monetary aspect that is keeping you from enjoying the benefits of sailing, then you need to start with the dinghy. The dinghy is small, and is inexpensive. Usually dinghies are part of a larger boat and are used for off boat excursions. But there are many small dinghy clubs which teach sailing with the dinghy. Once you enroll in such clubs, you will be introduced to the world of sailing almost instantly.

Sailing Lessons And Safety Gear
So now we know that sailing is a reasonably safe thing to indulge in. But how do we get started?  It is quite simple. There are many sailing schools, which have a wide range of courses in sailing. So you can choose from introductory level courses to advanced courses in sailing. These courses will also teach you about the safety gear in sailing. Safety gear is extremely crucial and needs to be carried at all times while on a sailboat. With the right safety gear, you can be well protected at all times. So choose what type of sailing you would like to learn and have a great time sailing in the great blue sea.