After an eight month national search the Canadian Yachting Association is pleased to announce Paddy Boyd is its new Executive Director effective September 15, 2009.
Boyd is a skilled executive with experience in both the administration of the sport of sailing, and the boating industry. A former Chief Executive and Training and Development Officer of the Irish Sailing Federation, in addition to a skilled administrator, Paddy is an experienced offshore racer, cruising instructor, yacht broker and master mariner. As the manager of the Irish Olympic Sailing Team at both the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and the 2000 Sydney, Australia Olympic Games, Paddy brings a wide range of skills to carry the CYA to the next level of sailing excellence, with the support and guidance of the Board of Directors.
Paddy, has and continues to serve on a number of committees of the International Sailing Federation including the Youth and Development Committee (2000 2004), and the Offshore Committee 2000 to the present. He also was the Irish representative to the European Boating Association and holds a number of commercial and sailing competency certificates including Deck Officer Class 1 Master Mariner.
Paddy is married and three children. He and his family are in the process of relocating to Kingston.
In order to ensure continuity Peter Wood, Interim Executive Director since October 2008, has agreed to assist in the transition by being available on an as needed basis.
The Canadian Yachting Association is the national governing body for the sport of sailing in Canada. It is financially supported by Sport Canada, Federal Government Department of Heritage. The Associations mission is to encourage participation and excellence in sailing and racing. The CYA achieves its goals through collaboration with its 10-member provincial sailing associations and close to 300 member sailing clubs. The Associations head office is located in Kingstons Portsmouth Olympic Harbour complex.
Witch Bay Pursuit Results
Grand Cru 3:09:30
Anteaus 3:27:30
Raven 3:29:35
Rebel 3:30:00
Sorcerer 3:37:15
Knock-out
Sanity
Borderline
Oh Boy
Scots and Water DNF
Intrepid DNF
New Super Yacht Crew Magazine
The magazine for superyacht crews goes on line
News about superyacht magazines seems to be dominating the blog at the moment but in the interests of reporting fairly I have another one to tell you about.
Having developed a popular portals for superyacht crew, Yotcru.com, and a magazine aimed at yacht crew The Yacht Report Group has announced The Crew Report is to go on line in conjunction with the nine times a year hard copy of the magazine.
Launching September 2009, as thecrewreport.com this new format will bring both products together into one package. The new site allows for full interaction of articles and stories.
In 2008 Yotcru.com was visited an average of 12,300 times per calendar month. On each visit, captains and crew read an average of 6.9 pages.
Sights of Dubrovnik then Goodbye to Croatia ..... August 2009
28 - 31 August 2009***Anchored for a few hours outside the old city walls of Dubrovnik***Cruise boats, ferries and sightseeing boats - Dubrovnik is a busy place in the high season***Feeling like the King of the Castle, high above the city in the fortress atop the city wall, and yes that little dot down there somewhere is Balvenie*** Street musicians, this one is playing a xylophone made out of beer bottles***
The anchorage at the head of Zaton Bay just north of Dubrovnik is large, shallow and protected from all but westerly winds. However the very steep sided hills that encompass the bay seem to draw the wind at night, so just after you tuck yourself in and turn off the lights get ready for the 25knot blasts out of the northeast, they carry on all night long and die away at dawn. The water stays flat, the holding is good but sleep is disturbed, oh well. We had enjoyed another excellent bar-b-que dinner onboard Gone with the Wind, the last of the season and
bade them farewell in the morning - they are heading back to Turkey for winter. We took the day off, had a long walk around the waterfront, topped up on groceries from a nearby excellent small supermarket and did some more never ending boat jobs.Next morning, instead of taking the bus into Dubrovnik, we decided to take Balvenie around and anchor off the old town for the day and if conditions permitted even stay the night there. The weather looked calm and settled so we motored the few miles around and anchored amongst the cruise ships outside the old harbour and city walls. This is a great spot in settled weather and we dinghied into the ancient harbour, the breakwater the oldest in Croatia and first constructed in the 7th century - with several additions and repairs since! Dubrovnik old town is an absolute gem and we decided to do the city walls walk which takes a couple of hours and is a complete circuit high above the town walking on the top of the solid thick walls. The views both out to sea and down into the heart of the town are
excellent and we could even keep an eye on Balvenie most of the time. We were also watching the weather as large thunder clouds were building, and although no wind was forecast you never can be sure. The walk was great, if somewhat busy as there were 4 large cruise ships in port. Back down in the town square there was live theatre, musicians and a real carnival atmosphere. Dubrovnik has bounced back so well after the pounding they received in the early 1990 war, two out of three properties needed repairs from shelling, and they have carried these out to blend in with the original materials and architecture as well as possible. It's a lovely place and we would have liked to spend longer wandering through all the alleys but the weather was closing in so we headed back to Balvenie.Although there still was no wind a large swell had come in which made the dinghy ride back and then getting back onboard a real challenge, both drenched in salt water we finally got on, just tied the dinghy on as lifting it onto the davits was not a possibility in the seas, and we pulled up anchor immediately - motored a short distance into the lee of a small nearby island where the water was flatter, raised the dinghy then headed south in the very wobbly seas the few miles to
Cavtat. We were concerned the anchorage there would be exposed to this swell but with no other option but to head back to Zaton Bay we continued on, we could see only 3 others masts in the anchorage but they looked steady, the outlying islands and headland providing enough cover for a reasonably comfortable stay. We were surprised at the lack of boats there but found out later that while we were in Dubrovnik one of the thunderstorms had hit here and they had 40knots through the anchorage and most boats had to leave. The weather this year has been far more unsettled than last, possibly because we are in higher latitudes than we were in Turkey but it has made for a more stressful time, always watching the skies and the wind.We went ashore for our last night in Croatia, Cavtat is a lovely little place, first settled by the Greeks around 300BC, it's just tiny and is a great option for checking in and out of Croatia. With clear skies, calm seas and a good forecast the next morning we motored around to the customs dock, completed our check out in a matter of minutes, got a couple of loaves of the best bread I have found in Croatia, changed the rest of our kuna into euro, let the lines go and pointed the bow southwest towards Brindisi, Italy here we come!
Cruising Info for Zaton Bay, Dubrovnik Old Town and Cavtat - Croatia:
Anchorages -
Zaton Bay ... 42 41.958N 18 02.555E 14m mud
Dubrovnik Old Town ... 42 38.391N 18 07.024E 10m sand and weed, can see the bottom to find sand patch. We stayed day only but know of boats that overnighted here in calm conditions, possibly pay anchorage if overnight if you are onboard at the wrong time!
Cavtat - Tiha Bay ... 42 35.138N 18 13.175E 10m. We found holding hold both times here but others had problems and boats dragged. In the main bay we have been told that it is an expensive pay anchorage but I have also been emailed by a cruiser who anchored twice over summer and weren't charged. ??!!
Internet - unlocked good signals at both Zaton and Tiha, didn't try Dubrovnik
Money - no ATM at Zaton, plenty at others, also bank in Cavtat to change those last Kuna
Provisions - Great small supermarket in Zaton on road at head of bay, adequate supermarket, good veg stalls and great bakery in Cavtat
Sightseeing - You can visit Dubrovnik by bus from either Zaton or Cavtat. Dubrovnik Wall Walk 50k pp and we also got the audio commentary at 40k pp which gave us more than enough history!
Formalities - Checking out in Cavtat took less than 10 minutes and there are no charges. As with checking in you MUST tie up to the customs dock, it was empty so we side tied.
Another New Magazine
But this one has a twist
Quite recently I was extolling the virtues of SuperYacht Business magazine and so I should because it is great read and anyway Frances and I write for it.
Go the Doll!!!
Congratulations to Michael Hiatt and his team aboard the Living Doll, Farr Yacht Design’s design #642. Michael and his team have won Audi’s Hamilton Island Race Week IRC Grand Prix division 1, and they’ve done it with a comfortable margin to spare. Their run away win in Hamilton Island comes right on the heels of their previous IRC win at the Meridien Marinas Airlie Beach Race Week. Both of the Doll’s victories were contested by Ray Roberts and his team on Evolution Racing, a Cookson 50, FYD’s design #541.
The Living Doll is one of Farr yacht Design’s latest IRC specific grand Prix designs and we are pleased to see it add to our extensive record of significant IRC results. Farr Yacht Design’s design #642, is a 55 foot IRC racing design with 2 boats constructed to the design. Our project goal with design 642 was to design a boat that could race in the same class as IRC optimized TP52’s while being faster with a relatively better handicap. The 55 foot length produces the desired performance leap and moderate increases in displacement, draft and sail area limit the increase in handicap. The hull was developed using the knowledge gained from our recent extensive CFD research on Volvo 70s and GP42s. A unique feature with a large impact on the hull design is the twin rudder steering arrangement. The twin rudders generate much less stern up force allowing the bow to be finer forward for less drag in waves and chop. Because the stern lifts less at high speeds the effective sailing length can be maximized over more of the speed range without incurring handling problems in extreme conditions. Ease of handling in reaching and running conditions was a prime driver in our design process as we worked to ensure that this boat can be just as dynamic as the smaller and marginally lighter TP52’s that it will compete against.
Congratulations again to Michael and his team aboard the Living Doll. We look forward to many more victories from the Doll, and also to the upcoming launch of the second 642 currently nearing completion in Turkey.
Contact Farr Yacht Design to see how we can help your team produce IRC victories. Our IRC optimization services have produced an unparalleled list of significant results. Our specific targeted IRC custom design work is a clear extension of that optimization work and will ensure that your next custom boat project achieves the success that you deserve.
Patrick Shaughnessy
Free Subscription to SuperYacht Business Magazine
Just Because it is Free It does not mean it's Bad
If you are reading this blog it must mean you are interested in super yachts either because you own one or are working in a field associated with them.
Super yachting maybe expensive industry but there is one very valuable item that is completely free
Subscription to the industry magazine SuperYacht Business and its associated weekly newsletter is completely free to industry associates.
Given that we write regularly for the magazine you might think we are bound to say that but the fact is we truly believe it is a great read.
So go ahead click on the link below and subscribe. What can you loose when it is free and a good read?
To get your own, free subscription to SuperYacht Business magazine and get every issue, register at http://www.ibinews.com/ibinews/syb/sybsubs.html
To get your own, free subscription to SuperYacht Business weekly newsletter and get every issue, sent to you by e mail go online and register in the newsletter box at: http://www.ibinews.com/ibinews/syb/index.htm
Outrageous Super Yachts
New Book Highlights Superyachts of the Rich and Famous
In the 1950s and 60s, yachts such as Aristotle Onassis’ 99 metre yacht Christina were an exclusive indulgence – playgrounds for the rich, famous, heads of state and royalty. Today, fabulous yachts continue to be the definitive way for owners to display their wealth, power and good taste and they just keep getting bigger!
Some of them are truly outrageous and a new book Called Outrageous Yachts from three expert writers is about to be published on September 4th and will showcases 19 of them.
Each of the yachts, is toured from stem to stern, and editors Jill Bobrow, Kenny Wooton and Dana Jinkins provide information on their builders and editors designers. Ranging in size from a relatively modest 42 to an incredible 129 metres, the yachts covered include the rebuilt Christina O, Larry Ellison’s Rising Sun, Roman Abramovich’s Pelorus, Maltese Falcon, built for Tom Perkins. Others include the superfast Predator, the sedately Hyperion and the horrendous Sea Force One.
A chapter on chartering cruising aboard these superyachts in the Grenadines, French Polynesia and Antarctica gives a tantalising glimpse into an amazing alternative kind of holiday.
Outrageous Yachts will be published by Adlard Coles Nautical an imprint of A&C Black, and is priced at £40.00. The lavish volume looks as if it will be irresistible to anyone who interested in superyachts and just as soon as I get my copy I will tell you more about it.
Busy Korcula then returning to Nature - Croatia ..... August 2009
24 - 27 August 2009
***Entry into Korcula walled town***Korcula from the sea***The anchorage at the Monastery on Badija***
We arrived mid afternoon in the anchorage just outside the wonderful walled town of Korcula.
We had had a great sail in around 10 knots just aft of the beam along the bottom of Korcula island, then turned and went up the east coast a couple of miles harder on the wind before dropping sails and turning west for the last 1/2 mile into the channel between Korcula Island and mainland Croatia. What a difference on this side, the wind was whipping through around 25 knots, the kitesurfers were out in force having an amazing time in the brisk breeze and flat water. We decided to anchor in the town anchorage even though it is a pay one as we wanted to enjoy Korcula by day and night and be close enough to enable this. It's another small anchorage and like all the other town anchorages so far it ended up way too full. The one redeeming fact this time however was that everyone was anchoring in over 20knots so at least their anchors were setting by default!
We went ashore around 5.30pm, stopping enroute to meet Doug and Shanna off American yacht Hob Nob we had heard them on our morning radio net a few times so always great to finally put faces to the voices and say hi. While we were talking with them they spotted the dreaded 'anchor charges collector' doing his rounds, so we did the obvious and all skedaddled ashore to avoid paying, shame on us. Korcula is yet another outstanding example of a well preserved walled town, it's just tiny - set on a compact peninsular with only a handful of alleys running at right angles to each other so they can't have been too worried about the pirates gaining access, and it certainly did appear very well fortified. We settled down at a waterfront cafe and enjoyed a sundowner, reaching a new high for a small beer and a sprite at 40kuna, about 6Euro, oh well rather spend it on this than paying to anchor! Then we people watched a little longer, explored the streets again after dark, stopped for an excellent pizza and just lapped up the atmosphere oozing from this lovely town, priceless.
After a settled night the anchorage emptied out early so we decided to go ashore once again, have coffee and get a few provisions. We spotted Hob Nob whilst partaking in our morning coffee and people watching ritual and whiled a few hours away chatting with them in the town square. Then it was time for a quick top up with fruit and veg before the market closed, however one stall holder must have thought I'd just arrived on a cruise ship wanting 30kuna (4.50Euro) for 3 bananas!!! We found a small supermarket on the way back to Balvenie and got 5 bananas for 7kuna instead. Maybe she was the anchor charges mans wife trying to recuperate our unpaid fee!!!! Still it was the first time I have knowingly had someone try to overcharge me since we have been in Croatia so that's not too bad at all.
Mid afternoon we left the anchorage and motored a couple of miles east around the corner and nestled between some outlying islands by the Monastery on Badija, a delightful spot with the monastery surrounded by pine trees, the massive hills on the mainland as a backdrop and turquoise waters not unlike those in tropical islands lapping at the hull. 15 minutes but a million miles away from the hectic Korcula Town anchorage. We only stayed one night as time is marching on, but this is a place you could bury the anchor for days and just relax.
We continued on further southeast and returned to the sheltered anchorage at Polace in the Mljet National Park on Mljet Island. We still had our park tickets from when we stayed coming up and showed them again with no problems. We have heard they are valid for a year. Last time we were here there were around 60 yachts squeezed in, now on our first night we had 12, the 2nd night down to 7, the end of August is fast approaching. This is a favorite spot, the scent of pine in the air and the clicking of thousands of cicadas is overwhelming, give me the smells and sounds of nature any day over the city smells
and traffic noises. We met up again with Maurice and Heather off New Zealand yacht Baracca who we first met last year in Turkey, great to catch up again with them then the next night Hob Nob joined in as well, happy hours whilst cruising are really one of the highlights.
Our good friends on Gone with the Wind were in Dubrovnik getting ready to leave Croatia for Greece and continuing on back to Turkey for winter. We wanted to catch up one more time with them this season so left this tranquil setting and motored in glassy seas back down to Zaton Bay just north of Dubrovnik to rendezvous with them for the last time in 2009.
Cruising Info for Korcula Town on Korcula, Badija Monastery and Polace on Mljet - Croatia:
Anchorages -
Korcula Town (Uvala Luka) - Korcula ... 42 57.222N 17 08.49E 15m sand/mud 10 minutes walk into town. Anchorage is bigger than it looks on chart. PAY ANCHORAGE - Collects around 5-6pm but don't know how much it is
Monastery - Badija .... 42 56.942N 17 09.640E 14m sand, plenty of room and possibilities in this area.
Polace - Mljet ... 42 47.367N 17 27.050E 12m mud, excellent all round cover. NATIONAL PARK PAY ANCHORGE 90K per person tickets valid one year (we think)
Internet - Unlocked signals onboard at all. Signal at Korcula on and off, other two both good.
Money - ATM machine in Korcula and Polace
Provisions - All shops and adequate supermarket (one by bus terminal, another small store on road in from anchorage) in Korcula. Good bakery and butcher, they share a shop! in Korcula outside walled town. butchery closes for siesta though. Polace has 2 small supermarkets and a bakery all quite expensive here. Didn't go ashore at monastery but don't think anything there.
Fuel - There is a fuel dock between Korcula town anchorage and Badija Monastery. We didn't go to it so not sure of depths or prices.
***Entry into Korcula walled town***Korcula from the sea***The anchorage at the Monastery on Badija***
We arrived mid afternoon in the anchorage just outside the wonderful walled town of Korcula.
We had had a great sail in around 10 knots just aft of the beam along the bottom of Korcula island, then turned and went up the east coast a couple of miles harder on the wind before dropping sails and turning west for the last 1/2 mile into the channel between Korcula Island and mainland Croatia. What a difference on this side, the wind was whipping through around 25 knots, the kitesurfers were out in force having an amazing time in the brisk breeze and flat water. We decided to anchor in the town anchorage even though it is a pay one as we wanted to enjoy Korcula by day and night and be close enough to enable this. It's another small anchorage and like all the other town anchorages so far it ended up way too full. The one redeeming fact this time however was that everyone was anchoring in over 20knots so at least their anchors were setting by default!We went ashore around 5.30pm, stopping enroute to meet Doug and Shanna off American yacht Hob Nob we had heard them on our morning radio net a few times so always great to finally put faces to the voices and say hi. While we were talking with them they spotted the dreaded 'anchor charges collector' doing his rounds, so we did the obvious and all skedaddled ashore to avoid paying, shame on us. Korcula is yet another outstanding example of a well preserved walled town, it's just tiny - set on a compact peninsular with only a handful of alleys running at right angles to each other so they can't have been too worried about the pirates gaining access, and it certainly did appear very well fortified. We settled down at a waterfront cafe and enjoyed a sundowner, reaching a new high for a small beer and a sprite at 40kuna, about 6Euro, oh well rather spend it on this than paying to anchor! Then we people watched a little longer, explored the streets again after dark, stopped for an excellent pizza and just lapped up the atmosphere oozing from this lovely town, priceless.
After a settled night the anchorage emptied out early so we decided to go ashore once again, have coffee and get a few provisions. We spotted Hob Nob whilst partaking in our morning coffee and people watching ritual and whiled a few hours away chatting with them in the town square. Then it was time for a quick top up with fruit and veg before the market closed, however one stall holder must have thought I'd just arrived on a cruise ship wanting 30kuna (4.50Euro) for 3 bananas!!! We found a small supermarket on the way back to Balvenie and got 5 bananas for 7kuna instead. Maybe she was the anchor charges mans wife trying to recuperate our unpaid fee!!!! Still it was the first time I have knowingly had someone try to overcharge me since we have been in Croatia so that's not too bad at all.
Mid afternoon we left the anchorage and motored a couple of miles east around the corner and nestled between some outlying islands by the Monastery on Badija, a delightful spot with the monastery surrounded by pine trees, the massive hills on the mainland as a backdrop and turquoise waters not unlike those in tropical islands lapping at the hull. 15 minutes but a million miles away from the hectic Korcula Town anchorage. We only stayed one night as time is marching on, but this is a place you could bury the anchor for days and just relax.
We continued on further southeast and returned to the sheltered anchorage at Polace in the Mljet National Park on Mljet Island. We still had our park tickets from when we stayed coming up and showed them again with no problems. We have heard they are valid for a year. Last time we were here there were around 60 yachts squeezed in, now on our first night we had 12, the 2nd night down to 7, the end of August is fast approaching. This is a favorite spot, the scent of pine in the air and the clicking of thousands of cicadas is overwhelming, give me the smells and sounds of nature any day over the city smells
and traffic noises. We met up again with Maurice and Heather off New Zealand yacht Baracca who we first met last year in Turkey, great to catch up again with them then the next night Hob Nob joined in as well, happy hours whilst cruising are really one of the highlights.Our good friends on Gone with the Wind were in Dubrovnik getting ready to leave Croatia for Greece and continuing on back to Turkey for winter. We wanted to catch up one more time with them this season so left this tranquil setting and motored in glassy seas back down to Zaton Bay just north of Dubrovnik to rendezvous with them for the last time in 2009.
Cruising Info for Korcula Town on Korcula, Badija Monastery and Polace on Mljet - Croatia:
Anchorages -
Korcula Town (Uvala Luka) - Korcula ... 42 57.222N 17 08.49E 15m sand/mud 10 minutes walk into town. Anchorage is bigger than it looks on chart. PAY ANCHORAGE - Collects around 5-6pm but don't know how much it is
Monastery - Badija .... 42 56.942N 17 09.640E 14m sand, plenty of room and possibilities in this area.
Polace - Mljet ... 42 47.367N 17 27.050E 12m mud, excellent all round cover. NATIONAL PARK PAY ANCHORGE 90K per person tickets valid one year (we think)
Internet - Unlocked signals onboard at all. Signal at Korcula on and off, other two both good.
Money - ATM machine in Korcula and Polace
Provisions - All shops and adequate supermarket (one by bus terminal, another small store on road in from anchorage) in Korcula. Good bakery and butcher, they share a shop! in Korcula outside walled town. butchery closes for siesta though. Polace has 2 small supermarkets and a bakery all quite expensive here. Didn't go ashore at monastery but don't think anything there.
Fuel - There is a fuel dock between Korcula town anchorage and Badija Monastery. We didn't go to it so not sure of depths or prices.
Red Arrows to be Carbon Offset
Air Display at Monaco Super Yacht Show will offset carbon emissions
At last years Monaco Yacht Show the Red Arrows the aerobatic display team of the Royal Air Force provided a show stopping spectacle for all attendees at the show and provided fine representation for Britain. With the Monaco Superyacht Show acting as a forum for business professionals from the industry worldwide, it will happen again but with a difference.
The display has again been organised by Superyacht UK, supported by sponsors such as Pendennis, SuperYacht World and SuperYacht Business magazines but this year Yacht Carbon Offset will be among the sponsors of this event and have certified a Carbon Offset to balance the estimated greenhouse gas emissions from 7000 litres of Jet A1 fuel the aircraft are estimated to use during the display.
The burning of 7 or so tonnes of jet fuel will account for over 21 tons of carbon being emitted as the hydro carbons combine with oxygen from the atmosphere. Mark Robinson of Yacht Carbon Offset said: “It amounts to a few hundreds Euros worth of offset credits. It is difficult to be precise because prices change as the carbon market fluctuates but the Red Arrows always give an exhilarating display. They show confidence, expertise, grace and perfect timing. I’m really looking forward to their performance at the Monaco Yacht Show. We are delighted to support the team at Superyacht UK that has made it possible.”
The dramatic 30 minute display of airborne precision and excellence, will take place during the 2009 Show off the Outer Breakwater at 14.30 on 24th September 2009.
Charter Motor Yacht VICTORIAN ROSE - Labor Day
The motor yacht VICTORIAN ROSE is a perfect yacht for your Labor Day getaway!
Victorian Rose, based in Wickford Cove (Newport, Rhode Island), is available for 4-person charters in New England this summer and fall.
Victorian Rose, a 63-foot Burger motor yacht, is perfect for 2 couples or a small family. Guest accommodations are located aft and the crew are forward with their own head and shower. The master cabin is full width with a Queen berth and ensuite head and shower. The Guest cabin has twins with a separate head and shower.
Victorian Rose has an air conditioned and heated aft deck with removeable Isenglass curtains... State of the art entertainment, too!
Plus there is the experienced charter crew of Bob Davidson, Sharon Munroe, and Peter Limmer.
Great rates:
Have you made plans for Labor Day? Victorian Rose is available and would be a wonderful way to end the summer.
Victorian Rose, based in Wickford Cove (Newport, Rhode Island), is available for 4-person charters in New England this summer and fall.
Victorian Rose, a 63-foot Burger motor yacht, is perfect for 2 couples or a small family. Guest accommodations are located aft and the crew are forward with their own head and shower. The master cabin is full width with a Queen berth and ensuite head and shower. The Guest cabin has twins with a separate head and shower.
Victorian Rose has an air conditioned and heated aft deck with removeable Isenglass curtains... State of the art entertainment, too!
Plus there is the experienced charter crew of Bob Davidson, Sharon Munroe, and Peter Limmer.
Great rates:
- $13,000/wk, plus all expenses
- 1 day: $2,500, plus all expenses
- 2 days: $4,500, plus all expenses
- 3 days: $6,500, plus all expenses
Have you made plans for Labor Day? Victorian Rose is available and would be a wonderful way to end the summer.
Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book Victorian Rose
View Victorian Rose's online brochure
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
View Victorian Rose's online brochure
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
Selling Super Yachts the Franchised Way
Franchise Realtor seeks Agents to sell Yachts
Remax the estate agent that has over the years developed the franchise method of selling domestic property in the real estate world is planning to push its brand into the yacht selling market. Remax Marine is set to launch onto the selling of yachts on 11th September 2009 and is offering an initial saving of 50% off their brokerage fees. With a presence in more than 70 countries on six continents each office is independently owned and operated. The company is eagerly seeking to set up yacht business related offices and is offering a free information pack that explains all about becoming an agent.
Super Yacht Captain Comes Ashore
Superyacht Captain with Commercial Background takes Position with Swiss yacht management group
Captain Heiko Volz began in yachting as the commander of Hanseatic Explorer
A half yacht, half crew training ship owned by German ship owner Peter Harren . He moved on to become one of the two Captains aboard the Russian owned yacht A. Now he has swallowed the anchor and joined the Yacht Management Group a Swiss based company that offers a broad range of superyacht services including management, crew training, charter and brokerage.
There he will be responsible for the ISM and ISPS Services the company offers. He will also be involved with new build projects, where he will act as Superintendent.
Charter Motor Yacht ANALISA - Christmas Regular Rate
The charter motor yacht ANALISA is available for Christmas at her normal rates... NO Holiday Surcharge.
The Christmas charter must be for a minimum of 7 nights and finish by December 26, 2009.
Analisa is a 60-foot Hatteras and accomodates up to 4 guests, up to 6 if family. Analisa is fully air conditioned and has 2 guests cabins, for family charters 2 children can sleep in the salon.
RATES, all inclusive, BVI taxes included:
The Christmas charter must be for a minimum of 7 nights and finish by December 26, 2009.
Analisa is a 60-foot Hatteras and accomodates up to 4 guests, up to 6 if family. Analisa is fully air conditioned and has 2 guests cabins, for family charters 2 children can sleep in the salon.
RATES, all inclusive, BVI taxes included:
- 2 guests: $12,420
- 3 guests: $14,145
- 4 guests: $15,870
- 5 guests: $16,847
- 6 guests: $17,825
Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book Analisa
View Analisa's online brochure
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
View Analisa's online brochure
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
Italian Super Yacht Builder Gains Two Orders
Perini Navi tops off bumper year with two new orders
Claiming to have weathered the recession and posting a turnover for the year 2008 of 94 million Euros with pre-tax profits of 7 million Euros Perini Navi has added cream to the pudding by announcing it has signed orders for two new superyachts.
Among the orders are the third in the Picchiotti-Vitruvius series designed by Philippe Briand with this one being 73.3 metres overall for completion in 2013. The first two yachts in the series of 50 and 55m, are already currently under construction. The second new order is for 50 m sailing yacht, designed by Perini Navi in collaboration with Ron Holland, and is planned for delivery in 2012
The new yachts, one for the Far East and another for the American market, means the builder now has seven superyachts under construction for delivery in the next few years.
New Marina for Scotland
Former oil-rig construction yard opens as Portavadie Marina
What was once a blot on the landscape created by the oil boom of the 1970s is to be turned into a muti million pound marina on the west coast of Scotland.
The first phase of the new 230-berth, deep-water, Portavadie Marina complex and resort was opened on 26th August by Jim Mather, Minister for Enterprise, Energy and Tourism.
Built on the site of a former 1970s oil-rig construction yard which never opened Portavadie Marina aims to provide some of the highest quality facilities in the UK for sailors
The opening of the marina comes at a time when Scotland is experiencing a boom in sailing as marine leisure activities are now second only to golf in attracting revenue from tourism.
Owners Portavadie Estates Ltd, have so far spent around £18million on the first phase of the development, including the marina, restaurant, accommodation and luxury facilities which will eventually create more than 100 jobs.
The 12 metre deep lagoon, which is situated directly east across Loch Fyne from the village of Tarbert, provides fully serviced berths for almost any size of leisure craft. There are also a variety of shore side benefits, including showers and toilets, a launderette, drying room and a number of self-catering family apartments and cottages for between two and eight persons.
Production Super Yachts find new European Distributors
Monte Fino takes over yachts formerly sold under Trader brand
Monte Fino Yachts Ltd, distributors of superyachts from 23 to 37 metres, throughout Europe has acquired the exclusive European rights to market three yachts formerly sold under the Trader brand.
The three motor yachts were originally marketed as the 64 Sunliner the 575 Sunliner and the 535 Signature, and each will continue to be built by the Ka Shing Shipyard in Taiwan, which owns the rights to the designs
The yachts will be rebranded as the Monte Fino T‐range and a 495 model will be added as the smallest member of the new range, replacing the former Trader Signature 475.
“It’s a logical move for us,” said Nigel Stevens of Monte Fino Yachts, “given our close relationship with Kha Shing. The T‐range also extends our portfolio with a new range of motor yachts that slots in neatly below our current smallest model, the 76, as well as introducing to Monte Fino a completely different style when compared to our larger custom yachts, thereby bringing in a whole new group of customers.”
Charter Yacht HIGHLAND BREEZE for Rolex Cup Sardinia
The 112-foot Swan, HIGHLAND BREEZE, is available for MAXI Yacht ROLEX CUP in Sardinia, 6-12 September 2009... The highlight of the Mediterranean yachting season!
Specifications:
Weekly Charter Rate (plus all expenses)
Specifications:
- Builder: Nautor Swan
- Year Built/Refit: 2002/2008
- Length: (m/ft) 34.34 / 112'08"
- Hull: Composite/GRP
- Cabins: 3
- Guests: 8
- Crew: 5
- Cruise Speed: 12 knots
- Winter Location: Caribbean
- Summer Location: Western Mediterranean
Weekly Charter Rate (plus all expenses)
- Summer: €52,000
- Winter: €46,000
Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book HIGHLAND BREEZE
View HIGHLAND BREEZE's online brochure, ask for password if necessary
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
View HIGHLAND BREEZE's online brochure, ask for password if necessary
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
Largest Ever Super Yacht not under construction in Fort Lauderdale
Donald Starkey the superyacht designer confirms it is not true
News that the worlds largest yacht ever was already under construction in Fort Lauderdale seems to have raised a few eyebrows not least those of the super yacht’s designer Donald Starkey.
The article that appeared in the International Business Times suggests that at 200 metres overall Project Everest and will eclipse the yacht recently launched for Roman Abramovitch by some 23 metres. The article goes onto to suggest that: costing an estimated $500 million dollars and currently under construction in Fort Lauderdale, Florida with delivery in 2010
But project designer Starkey says; “it just goes to show, you cannot believe all that you read!”
He admits being surprised my to read that Project Everest was being built in Fort Lauderdale and told me, “You would think that whoever wrote it might check whether there is a yard big enough there, before putting his or her foot in their mouth.”
Asked to give an up to date status on the yacht, Starkey, whose design offices are in Dubai told me, “All I can say is that I have been contracted to develop such a project ( the design is complete ) for an owner who has put things on hold for the moment but it will proceed at some time in the not too distant future.”
Re-post of Maritime Vital Asset Protection mission goals
Re-posted from Friday, April 25, 2008
Maritime Vital Asset Protection, LLC
As a relatively new security company (LLC), we provide security consultation and training for vessel owners, captains and crewmembers.
Services offered:
* Security Assessments. The first step in determining the needs of the client, we evaluate the risk and threat based upon where the vessel is primarily berthed, the waters frequently visited and ports of call the vessel intends to make. We draw upon a vast amount of resources worldwide to ensure an accurate assessment is made.
* Security Plans. The next step in the protection of the vessel and personnel. As the USCG/US Govt are becoming stricter in the security requirements being leveled at recreational boaters, we provide security plans based upon MTSA 33 and ISPS Code guidelines currently in effect for larger, commercial vessels. In addition, we take steps to ensure that the measures needed detract as little as possible to the enjoyment of the vessels intended purpose - recreation.
* Security Training. We provide training in and recommendation of various security devices, determined necessary during the assessment and plan. We do not endorse specific manufacturer's nor install alarms - we will point to solutions and advise the owner/captain the options available.
* Anti-theft and Anti-piracy Measures. We provide classroom and practical training evolutions, based on the assessment and on the captain/owners request. We will provide discrete security personnel as requested to augment the vessel and crew, if necessary.
* SCUBA Training. We provide PADI instruction in Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue, Divemaster and selected specialty courses. We can also provide limited underwater services.
* Emergency first Response (EFR) Training. We provide EFR training, to include CPR and AED training.
* Unarmed and Armed Self-protection Training. Based upon extensive martial arts and Special Operations background, we provide courses that are tailored to the needs of the client. We can also recommend additional training courses for further education that may be out of the realm of expertise of the staff.
Maritime Vital Asset Protection, LLC
As a relatively new security company (LLC), we provide security consultation and training for vessel owners, captains and crewmembers.
Services offered:
* Security Assessments. The first step in determining the needs of the client, we evaluate the risk and threat based upon where the vessel is primarily berthed, the waters frequently visited and ports of call the vessel intends to make. We draw upon a vast amount of resources worldwide to ensure an accurate assessment is made.
* Security Plans. The next step in the protection of the vessel and personnel. As the USCG/US Govt are becoming stricter in the security requirements being leveled at recreational boaters, we provide security plans based upon MTSA 33 and ISPS Code guidelines currently in effect for larger, commercial vessels. In addition, we take steps to ensure that the measures needed detract as little as possible to the enjoyment of the vessels intended purpose - recreation.
* Security Training. We provide training in and recommendation of various security devices, determined necessary during the assessment and plan. We do not endorse specific manufacturer's nor install alarms - we will point to solutions and advise the owner/captain the options available.
* Anti-theft and Anti-piracy Measures. We provide classroom and practical training evolutions, based on the assessment and on the captain/owners request. We will provide discrete security personnel as requested to augment the vessel and crew, if necessary.
* SCUBA Training. We provide PADI instruction in Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Rescue, Divemaster and selected specialty courses. We can also provide limited underwater services.
* Emergency first Response (EFR) Training. We provide EFR training, to include CPR and AED training.
* Unarmed and Armed Self-protection Training. Based upon extensive martial arts and Special Operations background, we provide courses that are tailored to the needs of the client. We can also recommend additional training courses for further education that may be out of the realm of expertise of the staff.
Two items for late Aug 09
In the Saturday, 16 Aug 2009 edition of the the Key West Keynoter (local newspaper), there is an article on the the rise in motor thefts - the gist being boaters are setting up 'neighborhood watch' type programs and looking out for each other. A good thing.
The second item is in the July 2009 issue of Yachts International, page 129 - there is a good article on security and some of the products available. For more information, drop me a line.
The second item is in the July 2009 issue of Yachts International, page 129 - there is a good article on security and some of the products available. For more information, drop me a line.
More Ancient Cities and time for Maintenance ..... August 2009
19 - 23 August 2009
***The busy town anchorage at Hvar Town looking up to the Fort***And now the busy town anchorage looking down from the fort!!*** An evening at the Opera in Hvar***Time to do some sewing, attaching new slugs to the mainsail***
Having secured our parking spot in Hvar Town harbour we sat back and watched with amusement as the afternoons armada arrived. There really was just too much going on around us to go ashore so we just cracked the bar open, sat back and got ready to fend off the odd boat that really did get that close!!! Describing it as busy and overcrowded is totally inadequate, it was manic but by about 7.30pm there were only a couple more late runners on the horizon so we
decided it was safe enough to leave Balvenie alone and head ashore for a look around. Every one of these old towns is different and all have been amazing, Hvar certainly was no exception. With one of the largest town squares in Croatia there is a huge arena overflowing with outdoor cafes and stalls selling anything from local artwork to the dried lavender the island is famous for. It is a beautiful place with a horseshoe shaped harbour, tiny local fishing craft crammed into one side and some seriously large super yachts fender to fender on the other, the display of wealth is overwhelming.
We returned to Balvenie just before a light evening breeze off the land filled in. It was time for some of the charter boats to go walkabout again, luckily for all concerned there were no unmanned boats involved. Boats were re anchoring and dragging again, lifting other boats anchors and getting in a tangle, all in no more than 12knots of wind - much entertainment. Once everyone was settled, and when the super yacht tenders stopped ferrying the rich and famous backwards and forwards the anchorage calmed down and we managed a good sleep. Next morning most of the boats had left by 9am, leaving just a handful so we decided it was safe enough to leave Balvenie without fear of someone pulling her anchor out while we weren't onboard. We went ashore and picked our way up through the maze of tiny streets to the Fortress Spanjol perched high above the town with a stunning vista out over the surrounding
islands and the sparkling seas of the Adriatic. The present day structure was built to defend the town from Turkish invasion, since then the Austrians and the Venetians have had turns occupying it, along with several others. It was worth the 20kuna entry fee to stroll around and enjoy the vista. Back down in the town square while enjoying a coffee and people watching we noticed a sign for an "Evening of Opera" that evening at 9pm in the Franciscan Citadel, we checked the weather forecast and things looked calm and settled so we decided to chance it and stay another night.
By 7pm it was full on chaos again, by 8pm more boats were dragging - mmmmm only 10 knots this time, we are not sure if some of the charterers know that the anchor needs to not only touch the bottom but that you then should put more chain out, make sure it is dug in, then more chain, then just to be sure put some more out!!! Oh well, more details will come in my special "Anchoring Antics" blog to be done at some stage. By 8.30pm everyone was settled and it looked safe enough to leave, so we did the med thing and put all our fenders out and went ashore - if you can't beat them - join them.
The opera was fabulous, we are not opera buffs but appreciate most live music especially seated in an enclosed stone courtyard setting, vines clawing down the weathered stone walls, just perfect. There was1 Croatian, 2 Slovenians and 1 Canadian performer, they were all excellent and for 50kuna each it was an excellent evening out. We always love to go ashore at night, especially into these old towns, but it is not always practical or safe especially if it is a long dinghy ride back so it is always a treat when we do. We have been lucky with some of the harbours here as they are fairly enclosed and we can anchor reasonably close to shore. As with Split Harbour we expected to have to pay to anchor here but on both evenings we were on the boat until dark and we were not charged - no complaints from us, we are just baffled at how it all works!!
Time to find some peace, quiet and flat water. We sailed south and of course the wind was from the south - always on the nose. Still it was light, the seas flattened once we got away from the powerboats wash and we sailed slowly all day to the southwest corner of Korcula and anchored for 2 nights in the beautiful quiet bay of Tri Luce, amazingly with only 2 other boats, ah peace at last. We were behind on our maintenance so took the day catching up. The mainsail came down and I sat and replaced 3 slugs that had been broken for a couple of weeks, never an easy job getting the main off, repaired and back on again but we managed to get it all done before too much wind came up. Skipper was servicing the outboard engine, it has been chugging away sounding somewhat unhealthy for a while and we blamed it on our 14 month old Egyptian fuel, but we had recently drained it and put new fuel in which it liked even less, so apart it all came, all cleaned out and after a few attempts now runs like a new one and goes faster!!! Next on the list was an oil change but on further investigation Mark checked the log and we have only motored 130 hours so far this season so that has been put back on the 'to do' list for a later date. Only one more job to do, the foot control button for raising the anchor on the electric windlass had been playing up, jamming on then not working at all so all apart it came, everything cleaned up, wires sanded and put back together again, hopefully it will behave itself for the rest of the season. Jobs completed - rest of the day at leisure!
We loved this anchorage, after all the busy ones it felt so remote and peaceful, we didn't even go ashore but there looked to be just a few houses and nothing much else. We kept moving on though as we wanted to meet up again with friends before we all parted ways to head for our winter homes. We had a very gentle sail in light winds along the southern coast of Korcula to the little harbour town of Brna. We anchored in the bay and went ashore for a walk around the very small town, topped up on a few supplies and had a sundowner, not much else to do there. Just on dark the dreaded 'anchor charges collector' paid us a visit wanting 10 kuna a metre to park. We just refused, yet again, and after about 20 minutes he gave up on us in disgust. I expect we are getting a reputation as being tight-fisted, quite frankly I don't mind, we were the only boat in there, it was a nondescript town with no redeeming features, no ATM, 1 average restaurant, an expensive supermarket and the anchorage wasn't great. We left early the next morning before we were run out of town, best really, and had a great sail in about 15 knots on the beam for a change around to Korcula Town.
Cruising Info for Hvar Town on Hvar, Tri Luce and Brne on Korcula - Croatia:
Anchorages -
Hvar Town - Hvar ... 43 10.153N 16 26.312E 18m Very very busy at night. Must anchor to port as looking ashore as ferrys come in on starboard (shame as much shallower over there)
Tri Luce - Korcula ... 42 55.505N 16 40.036E 11m sand with weed patches but could see anchor on bottom.
Brna - Korcula ... 42 54.251N 16 51.533E 15m sand and weed. PAY ANCHORAGE. Fjord like anchorage just behind Brna looked ok, would need to stern tie, supposed to be free
Internet - No signals at any onboard. Found a Internet cafe ashore in Hvar (just off main square - well signposted), free access for 20 minutes with coffee - use their laptops or take your own
Money - ATM machine in Hvar
Provisions - All shops and good supermarket in Hvar town, small supermarket in Brna (no meat or bread and vegetables looked dead)
***The busy town anchorage at Hvar Town looking up to the Fort***And now the busy town anchorage looking down from the fort!!*** An evening at the Opera in Hvar***Time to do some sewing, attaching new slugs to the mainsail***
Having secured our parking spot in Hvar Town harbour we sat back and watched with amusement as the afternoons armada arrived. There really was just too much going on around us to go ashore so we just cracked the bar open, sat back and got ready to fend off the odd boat that really did get that close!!! Describing it as busy and overcrowded is totally inadequate, it was manic but by about 7.30pm there were only a couple more late runners on the horizon so we
decided it was safe enough to leave Balvenie alone and head ashore for a look around. Every one of these old towns is different and all have been amazing, Hvar certainly was no exception. With one of the largest town squares in Croatia there is a huge arena overflowing with outdoor cafes and stalls selling anything from local artwork to the dried lavender the island is famous for. It is a beautiful place with a horseshoe shaped harbour, tiny local fishing craft crammed into one side and some seriously large super yachts fender to fender on the other, the display of wealth is overwhelming.We returned to Balvenie just before a light evening breeze off the land filled in. It was time for some of the charter boats to go walkabout again, luckily for all concerned there were no unmanned boats involved. Boats were re anchoring and dragging again, lifting other boats anchors and getting in a tangle, all in no more than 12knots of wind - much entertainment. Once everyone was settled, and when the super yacht tenders stopped ferrying the rich and famous backwards and forwards the anchorage calmed down and we managed a good sleep. Next morning most of the boats had left by 9am, leaving just a handful so we decided it was safe enough to leave Balvenie without fear of someone pulling her anchor out while we weren't onboard. We went ashore and picked our way up through the maze of tiny streets to the Fortress Spanjol perched high above the town with a stunning vista out over the surrounding
islands and the sparkling seas of the Adriatic. The present day structure was built to defend the town from Turkish invasion, since then the Austrians and the Venetians have had turns occupying it, along with several others. It was worth the 20kuna entry fee to stroll around and enjoy the vista. Back down in the town square while enjoying a coffee and people watching we noticed a sign for an "Evening of Opera" that evening at 9pm in the Franciscan Citadel, we checked the weather forecast and things looked calm and settled so we decided to chance it and stay another night.By 7pm it was full on chaos again, by 8pm more boats were dragging - mmmmm only 10 knots this time, we are not sure if some of the charterers know that the anchor needs to not only touch the bottom but that you then should put more chain out, make sure it is dug in, then more chain, then just to be sure put some more out!!! Oh well, more details will come in my special "Anchoring Antics" blog to be done at some stage. By 8.30pm everyone was settled and it looked safe enough to leave, so we did the med thing and put all our fenders out and went ashore - if you can't beat them - join them.
The opera was fabulous, we are not opera buffs but appreciate most live music especially seated in an enclosed stone courtyard setting, vines clawing down the weathered stone walls, just perfect. There was1 Croatian, 2 Slovenians and 1 Canadian performer, they were all excellent and for 50kuna each it was an excellent evening out. We always love to go ashore at night, especially into these old towns, but it is not always practical or safe especially if it is a long dinghy ride back so it is always a treat when we do. We have been lucky with some of the harbours here as they are fairly enclosed and we can anchor reasonably close to shore. As with Split Harbour we expected to have to pay to anchor here but on both evenings we were on the boat until dark and we were not charged - no complaints from us, we are just baffled at how it all works!!
Time to find some peace, quiet and flat water. We sailed south and of course the wind was from the south - always on the nose. Still it was light, the seas flattened once we got away from the powerboats wash and we sailed slowly all day to the southwest corner of Korcula and anchored for 2 nights in the beautiful quiet bay of Tri Luce, amazingly with only 2 other boats, ah peace at last. We were behind on our maintenance so took the day catching up. The mainsail came down and I sat and replaced 3 slugs that had been broken for a couple of weeks, never an easy job getting the main off, repaired and back on again but we managed to get it all done before too much wind came up. Skipper was servicing the outboard engine, it has been chugging away sounding somewhat unhealthy for a while and we blamed it on our 14 month old Egyptian fuel, but we had recently drained it and put new fuel in which it liked even less, so apart it all came, all cleaned out and after a few attempts now runs like a new one and goes faster!!! Next on the list was an oil change but on further investigation Mark checked the log and we have only motored 130 hours so far this season so that has been put back on the 'to do' list for a later date. Only one more job to do, the foot control button for raising the anchor on the electric windlass had been playing up, jamming on then not working at all so all apart it came, everything cleaned up, wires sanded and put back together again, hopefully it will behave itself for the rest of the season. Jobs completed - rest of the day at leisure!
We loved this anchorage, after all the busy ones it felt so remote and peaceful, we didn't even go ashore but there looked to be just a few houses and nothing much else. We kept moving on though as we wanted to meet up again with friends before we all parted ways to head for our winter homes. We had a very gentle sail in light winds along the southern coast of Korcula to the little harbour town of Brna. We anchored in the bay and went ashore for a walk around the very small town, topped up on a few supplies and had a sundowner, not much else to do there. Just on dark the dreaded 'anchor charges collector' paid us a visit wanting 10 kuna a metre to park. We just refused, yet again, and after about 20 minutes he gave up on us in disgust. I expect we are getting a reputation as being tight-fisted, quite frankly I don't mind, we were the only boat in there, it was a nondescript town with no redeeming features, no ATM, 1 average restaurant, an expensive supermarket and the anchorage wasn't great. We left early the next morning before we were run out of town, best really, and had a great sail in about 15 knots on the beam for a change around to Korcula Town.Cruising Info for Hvar Town on Hvar, Tri Luce and Brne on Korcula - Croatia:
Anchorages -
Hvar Town - Hvar ... 43 10.153N 16 26.312E 18m Very very busy at night. Must anchor to port as looking ashore as ferrys come in on starboard (shame as much shallower over there)
Tri Luce - Korcula ... 42 55.505N 16 40.036E 11m sand with weed patches but could see anchor on bottom.
Brna - Korcula ... 42 54.251N 16 51.533E 15m sand and weed. PAY ANCHORAGE. Fjord like anchorage just behind Brna looked ok, would need to stern tie, supposed to be free
Internet - No signals at any onboard. Found a Internet cafe ashore in Hvar (just off main square - well signposted), free access for 20 minutes with coffee - use their laptops or take your own
Money - ATM machine in Hvar
Provisions - All shops and good supermarket in Hvar town, small supermarket in Brna (no meat or bread and vegetables looked dead)
Day 4 from the Medcup Portugal in Portimao
Wow! day 4 was a tough one. The forecast was for a light unstable breeze on day 4 but the committee took us out in search of suitable racing breeze. We started our pre-race practice in about 6-8 knots and put in some upwind work, a set, and some downwind work. The committee started a sequence in breeze that was now up to around 12 knots and was combined with a sloppy swell.
We started race 6 slow and probably a half boat length back off of the line. In that position we were in a tough sandwich between Airis to Leeward, and Endesa and Puerto Calero to windward. After trying to hold our lane in a drag to the left we finally had to tack out and take some sterns. The rest of the beat was like watching a bad movie as we continued to sail backwards out of contention for the race, and the regatta. We rounded the topmark last, and remained last down the run and around the leeward mark.
On the second beat we were set up left of the fleet and benefited from a 10 degree shift and some pressure right at the top of the beat which allowed us to leapfrog 3 boats and to round 2nd. Is this a miracle comeback in the making? It was certainly looking that way because Airis was running 3rd ahead of Endesa which would have given us the Portimao trophy. We did our part to finish second behind Puerto Calero, but Airis couldn’t stay in front of Endessa so we watch our miracle slip away.
In the end we finished the Portimao regatta equal on points with Endesa but lost on the countback, so 2nd place for the Roma in Portimao. We also ended up in a tie with Puerto Calero for the Medcup series, but again we lose the countback, and end up listed as 2nd. The tie in the Medcup standings certainly sets up the next regatta in Cartagena as the battle royal.
The sailing is very close amongst the top 3 boats and we will need to be on our toes to pull out the win. The mods we completed at FYD for Roma have certainly resulting in a more all around boat than in the previous season. If we can consistently start well we should be able to win the Medcup. Certainly our upwind speed is superior, and our maneuvers are good. Downwind we have to work hard to defend. Mentally we need to toughen up a bit as well in order to secure the win.
Next for me is a long travel day on Monday, followed by a short week in the office. Next weekend I’m off to a show in Amsterdam for the launch of the new Bavaria Cruiser 32 designed by FYD. Stand by for an update regarding the launch of our newest production boat design.
Patrick Shaughnessy
We started race 6 slow and probably a half boat length back off of the line. In that position we were in a tough sandwich between Airis to Leeward, and Endesa and Puerto Calero to windward. After trying to hold our lane in a drag to the left we finally had to tack out and take some sterns. The rest of the beat was like watching a bad movie as we continued to sail backwards out of contention for the race, and the regatta. We rounded the topmark last, and remained last down the run and around the leeward mark.
On the second beat we were set up left of the fleet and benefited from a 10 degree shift and some pressure right at the top of the beat which allowed us to leapfrog 3 boats and to round 2nd. Is this a miracle comeback in the making? It was certainly looking that way because Airis was running 3rd ahead of Endesa which would have given us the Portimao trophy. We did our part to finish second behind Puerto Calero, but Airis couldn’t stay in front of Endessa so we watch our miracle slip away.
In the end we finished the Portimao regatta equal on points with Endesa but lost on the countback, so 2nd place for the Roma in Portimao. We also ended up in a tie with Puerto Calero for the Medcup series, but again we lose the countback, and end up listed as 2nd. The tie in the Medcup standings certainly sets up the next regatta in Cartagena as the battle royal.
The sailing is very close amongst the top 3 boats and we will need to be on our toes to pull out the win. The mods we completed at FYD for Roma have certainly resulting in a more all around boat than in the previous season. If we can consistently start well we should be able to win the Medcup. Certainly our upwind speed is superior, and our maneuvers are good. Downwind we have to work hard to defend. Mentally we need to toughen up a bit as well in order to secure the win.
Next for me is a long travel day on Monday, followed by a short week in the office. Next weekend I’m off to a show in Amsterdam for the launch of the new Bavaria Cruiser 32 designed by FYD. Stand by for an update regarding the launch of our newest production boat design.
Patrick Shaughnessy
Day 3 at the Medcup Portugal in Portimao
No racing on day 3. In fact, we had no sailing at all on day 3. What we had instead was plenty of waiting inshore inside the air-conditioned tent. The race committee patiently waited for a stable wind suitable for racing, but after our long wait there just wasn’t anything to work with.
So it was in the tent where we spent the day. These days are pretty valuable because a whole top end slice of our industry is stationary in the same place with time to kill. So meetings, and chats fill up everyone’s day.
The forecast is light again for day 4 so there is a good chance that we will have no more racing. That would be a shame because I think we can build on our Medcup lead and potentially win the regatta here in Portimao as well. For sure what we don’t want however is a race in light unstable wind that turns into a lottery. So stand by, we’ll see what happens.
Patrick Shaughnessy
So it was in the tent where we spent the day. These days are pretty valuable because a whole top end slice of our industry is stationary in the same place with time to kill. So meetings, and chats fill up everyone’s day.
The forecast is light again for day 4 so there is a good chance that we will have no more racing. That would be a shame because I think we can build on our Medcup lead and potentially win the regatta here in Portimao as well. For sure what we don’t want however is a race in light unstable wind that turns into a lottery. So stand by, we’ll see what happens.
Patrick Shaughnessy
Day 2 at the Medcup Portugal in Portimao
Day 2 was a good big picture day for us on the Roma. I say that because although we are still 1 point out of first for the regatta, we’ve moved back into the Medcup lead by 1 point. So a positive day when viewed in terms of overall goals.
The fleet was held inshore for a while waiting for the breeze to build today. Once the AP was lowered we were one of the first boats off the dock and eager to get into some practice sailing. Before our warning we were able to accomplish a good amount of upwind work, a set, a nice downwind session, and also some time on distance work. Our practice was in a slowly building breeze of 10-12 knots.
Race 4 was started in 12-14 knots, and we had a good start which we were able to extend slightly into a 1st place position at the top mark. The wind built into the run and was now up to 15-17 which is right about where the effort level gets big. At the bottom of the run we were set up for a right hand “kiwi” drop and had a last minute change to an “easy” left. Only the easy part didn’t quite happen because Endessa snuck in for room at the left mark which added plenty of excitement between the two Latin tempered teams. The boats were quite close and protest flags flew. After the rounding we were able to force them off our hip and re-establish a lead which we held onto for the remainder of the race. Puerto Calero had a bad 5th place race, and so the point swing for the Medcup was starting.
The between race “grande casino” was again time short, as the 52’s were off on a coastal race. Our workload was reduced slightly because we re-used the same A2 on both runs. All cleaned up we were ready for race 5 with plenty of time to spare.
Race 5 started in 14-16 knots and built to near 18. We had an OK start and did fine on the beat to end up second at the topmark. We we’re a bit divided in our attention between battling with Endessa for the race lead, and covering Puerto Calero for the Medcup lead. In the end we gave up a position on the 1st run, and another on the 2nd beat. In our battle to cover Puerto Calero we also drew their anger when they perceived that we tacked too close on a leebow however the on the water jury decided no penalty was due. We kept our cover on Puerto Calero to finish ahead of them in 4th place. A disappointing waste of opportunity to build a lead in the big battle but a point gained never the less on our main rival for the Medcup.
No protests were heard onshore so the races counted as the finished which is always the best way for our sport to work. The on the water judge is a big help to resolve the majority of the protest opportunities before they reach land. I think this also helps to keep the shore more a friendly place where we all can relax a bit.
For me, many of the maneuvers were quite tight timing wise so I had plenty on. With my fingers taped together after the dislocation yesterday I was at a bit of a disadvantage in grip on my left hand, but the pain was low in the heat of the battle. All good fun.
Light forecast for days 3, and 4 so hopefully we will get to test some of FYD’s promising light air improvement work.
Patrick Shaughnessy
The fleet was held inshore for a while waiting for the breeze to build today. Once the AP was lowered we were one of the first boats off the dock and eager to get into some practice sailing. Before our warning we were able to accomplish a good amount of upwind work, a set, a nice downwind session, and also some time on distance work. Our practice was in a slowly building breeze of 10-12 knots.
Race 4 was started in 12-14 knots, and we had a good start which we were able to extend slightly into a 1st place position at the top mark. The wind built into the run and was now up to 15-17 which is right about where the effort level gets big. At the bottom of the run we were set up for a right hand “kiwi” drop and had a last minute change to an “easy” left. Only the easy part didn’t quite happen because Endessa snuck in for room at the left mark which added plenty of excitement between the two Latin tempered teams. The boats were quite close and protest flags flew. After the rounding we were able to force them off our hip and re-establish a lead which we held onto for the remainder of the race. Puerto Calero had a bad 5th place race, and so the point swing for the Medcup was starting.
The between race “grande casino” was again time short, as the 52’s were off on a coastal race. Our workload was reduced slightly because we re-used the same A2 on both runs. All cleaned up we were ready for race 5 with plenty of time to spare.
Race 5 started in 14-16 knots and built to near 18. We had an OK start and did fine on the beat to end up second at the topmark. We we’re a bit divided in our attention between battling with Endessa for the race lead, and covering Puerto Calero for the Medcup lead. In the end we gave up a position on the 1st run, and another on the 2nd beat. In our battle to cover Puerto Calero we also drew their anger when they perceived that we tacked too close on a leebow however the on the water jury decided no penalty was due. We kept our cover on Puerto Calero to finish ahead of them in 4th place. A disappointing waste of opportunity to build a lead in the big battle but a point gained never the less on our main rival for the Medcup.
No protests were heard onshore so the races counted as the finished which is always the best way for our sport to work. The on the water judge is a big help to resolve the majority of the protest opportunities before they reach land. I think this also helps to keep the shore more a friendly place where we all can relax a bit.
For me, many of the maneuvers were quite tight timing wise so I had plenty on. With my fingers taped together after the dislocation yesterday I was at a bit of a disadvantage in grip on my left hand, but the pain was low in the heat of the battle. All good fun.
Light forecast for days 3, and 4 so hopefully we will get to test some of FYD’s promising light air improvement work.
Patrick Shaughnessy
SASKIANNA, Classic Bruce King Design - New England
S/Y SASKIANNA is available for charter in New England, summer 2009
S/Y SASKIANNA
57' Classic Bruce King design Sloop
Year Built: 1985/Recent refit
SASKIANNA is a light, airy, comfortable charter yacht with a layout well suited to couples and family cruising. Her classic fine lines, traditional hull, beautiful brightwork, and teak decks turn heads wherever she goes. Below decks her white enamel paint and varnished teak trim echo the classic interiors of Nat Herreshoff. Her modern elegance truly sets her apart.
SASKIANNA can accommodate 4 guests in 2 cabins.
The Master cabin has a queen size bed, a single bed, shower and toilet. The guest cabin has upper and lower singles beds. SASKIANNA is fully air conditioned throughout. Crew share companionway, heads and showers with guests.
Rate:
Get ready for a fabulous week!
S/Y SASKIANNA
57' Classic Bruce King design Sloop
Year Built: 1985/Recent refit
SASKIANNA is a light, airy, comfortable charter yacht with a layout well suited to couples and family cruising. Her classic fine lines, traditional hull, beautiful brightwork, and teak decks turn heads wherever she goes. Below decks her white enamel paint and varnished teak trim echo the classic interiors of Nat Herreshoff. Her modern elegance truly sets her apart.
SASKIANNA can accommodate 4 guests in 2 cabins.
The Master cabin has a queen size bed, a single bed, shower and toilet. The guest cabin has upper and lower singles beds. SASKIANNA is fully air conditioned throughout. Crew share companionway, heads and showers with guests.Rate:
- $8,500/wk, plus all expenses
Get ready for a fabulous week!
Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book Saskianna
View Saskianna's online brochure
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
View Saskianna's online brochure
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
Day 1 from the Medcup Portugal in Portimao
We were the first boat out sailing on day 1. We spent plenty of time sailing up and down in a very light but slowly building breeze. These are the conditions that we worked hard to improve at FYD. The changes seem to be quite good and I don’t think we lack for pace in the light. The race start was postponed a bit as the breeze stabilized enough for racing. We finally got into our sequence about an hour later than planned in a 15 knot plus wind.
We had a good start to race 1 and established a 1 or 2 boat length lead that we carried around legs 1, 2, and 3. Unfortunately the team on Puerto Calero passed us on the final run with some nice surfing. Bummer to have the race end that way after leading for 80% of the race.
Between races is full on action as you need to be pack and wool multiple spinnakers, flake headsails, rig tune, and race debrief and plan. The breeze was up a bit going into race 2 and we were pretty pressed to be ready in time for the start.
Race 2’s start saw us pushing Airis up toward the line but we were just a tad too far behind them to force their position such that they would be OCS. We ended up directly on their transom across the line and were forced to tack away to right immediately. We reached the topmark in 3rd and stayed that way until the 2nd beat where we forced a penalty on Puerto Calero in order to pass them. The altercation was tacking too close and the on the water jury penalized them immediately. Their turns put us in second, where we stayed until the finish.
The between race action was even a bit more frenzied after race 2 because the TP52’s were done for the day. Because of that our time between races was even shorter. After the full clean up we only just hoisted the jib 3 minutes before the start. Our starting position was penalized for sure as we limped off the line much slower that the boats around us. We managed to keep our heads however and turn the race into a 2nd. The breeze was up in the 3rd race to around 24 knots so we saw some nice downwind action, routinely sailing 17-20 knots is always fun.
My day was hard but fun. We were already aware that our team would be weighed at the end of the day so food and water had been very scarce during the day. Big breeze without food and water is always hard. My job on the boat as a pitman includes grinding during the hoists and gybes so there is plenty of fast paced action with and occasional rest upwind. Afterwards I was definitely dehydrated and tired. I also managed to dislocate my index finger on my left hand which makes gripping quite painful. Anyway after some food, water, and ice we’re off to do it again.
Forecast for day 2 is for a competing breeze to lighten and die around 1-2. The building breeze should be a bit later today than yesterday so maybe we won’t quite get into the solid big breeze we saw yesterday. Stand by for an update from day 2.
Patrick Shaughnessy
We had a good start to race 1 and established a 1 or 2 boat length lead that we carried around legs 1, 2, and 3. Unfortunately the team on Puerto Calero passed us on the final run with some nice surfing. Bummer to have the race end that way after leading for 80% of the race.
Between races is full on action as you need to be pack and wool multiple spinnakers, flake headsails, rig tune, and race debrief and plan. The breeze was up a bit going into race 2 and we were pretty pressed to be ready in time for the start.
Race 2’s start saw us pushing Airis up toward the line but we were just a tad too far behind them to force their position such that they would be OCS. We ended up directly on their transom across the line and were forced to tack away to right immediately. We reached the topmark in 3rd and stayed that way until the 2nd beat where we forced a penalty on Puerto Calero in order to pass them. The altercation was tacking too close and the on the water jury penalized them immediately. Their turns put us in second, where we stayed until the finish.
The between race action was even a bit more frenzied after race 2 because the TP52’s were done for the day. Because of that our time between races was even shorter. After the full clean up we only just hoisted the jib 3 minutes before the start. Our starting position was penalized for sure as we limped off the line much slower that the boats around us. We managed to keep our heads however and turn the race into a 2nd. The breeze was up in the 3rd race to around 24 knots so we saw some nice downwind action, routinely sailing 17-20 knots is always fun.
My day was hard but fun. We were already aware that our team would be weighed at the end of the day so food and water had been very scarce during the day. Big breeze without food and water is always hard. My job on the boat as a pitman includes grinding during the hoists and gybes so there is plenty of fast paced action with and occasional rest upwind. Afterwards I was definitely dehydrated and tired. I also managed to dislocate my index finger on my left hand which makes gripping quite painful. Anyway after some food, water, and ice we’re off to do it again.
Forecast for day 2 is for a competing breeze to lighten and die around 1-2. The building breeze should be a bit later today than yesterday so maybe we won’t quite get into the solid big breeze we saw yesterday. Stand by for an update from day 2.
Patrick Shaughnessy
Semi Production Super Yacht Launched
Dutch Yard refuses to name latest superyacht launch
Amels a member of the Damen shipbuilding group has delivered their fifth in the line of LIMITED EDITIONS AMELS 171, semi custom yachts. The 52.30-metre yacht, designed by Tim Heywood, has an interior styling resulting from collaboration between Laura Sessa Romboli and Nuvolari Lenard. The yacht, which the company refuses to name was completed in just eleven months after her hull built elsewhere was moved into the Dutch company’s Vlissingen complex. The yacht is managed by Imperial Yachts of Monaco.
There are currently nine projects under construction at the yard, whose Order Book has scheduled deliveries into 2013. Photo credit: Arthur Lavooij
Tropical Storm ANA & Hurricane BILL - Yacht Updates
With the threat of TS ANA & Hurricane Bill coming our way, we decided to sail our own boat over to Curaçao but then ANA was forecast to pass to the south of us and thus getting in our way, and as BILL was to miss the islands to the Northeast, we stayed put in St. Martin. ANA became disorganized and then spread out more like a tropical wave.
We heard from Gus & Marcella (catamaran MAROLANGA). They went to their hurricane hole in Vieques (Spanish Virgin Islands) and had lots of heavy rain & lightning. Their poor cat Sasha hid under a shelf and tried to make himself very small. They stayed there to wait out Hurricane Bill which fortunately gave our islands a wide berth. Marcella wrote today to say that they've "only had some little gusts and some rain. Not too bad…Now we getting a little bit rain from the tail of Bill. Outside are still waves 7-11 feet, so we waiting until tomorrow with sailing to Puerto Rico. Wind we have practically zero."
They are going to go into the boatyard for a little bit for new bottom paint and this and that. Marolanga is one of the few yachts chartering in the Virgin Islands through the summer season.
The trimaran PROMENADE went to their hurricane hole in Virgin Gorda, BVIs. Here's a photo of Bazza & Simeon tying lines up to the mangroves.
Kerry is very happy to be back at their dock now that the storms have safely passed by.
Charter Yacht BLITHE SPIRIT is down in Trinidad where Dominique & Michel are growing tomatoes while in the boatyard!
Dominique didn't have to tether down her plants as Trinidad is theoretically out of the hurricane zone and Bill was nowhere close.
John & Heidi, owner-operators of the charter yacht ANTILLEAN, are also in the boatyard in Trinidad. No pictures yet, but Heidi says that she has a crop of 30 tomato plants that she's grown from seed. Sounds like there's a little farming competition going on down there :)
Leslie & Charles of PHAEDRUS wrote to us last week... "We just got to NC on Friday and have been busy doing odd jobs, like cleaning the deck & pulling weeds out of the walkway. It's very hot here, but hopefully the temp will go down on Wednesday". Sounds like the equivalent of scraping the hull :)
STORM PETREL is chartering in New England this summer. Laura is Illinois doing a few house projects and nursing, while Phil is aboard Storm Petrel based in Falmouth, Buzzards Bay. They had a great repositioning trip, taking only 10 days to get there from St. Thomas. Phil's advice for us was: "To come north, just set your autopilot to 355, and enjoy. The spring trip is usually easy, no winds over 30 kts, seas calm... Fall is much more of an adventure!!!!"
So, if you want an affordable, fun charter, aboard a yacht with LOTS of local knowledge of the New England cruising area, look no further than Storm Petrel. Short charters, weekend & daysails, too. Contact Paradise Connections and we'll set you up!
A couple of weeks ago, Eric from ALOHA MALOLO wrote to say that they were "going to the Statue of Liberty today if we can get this RV through the traffic. I miss the ocean and Saltydog but we are visiting many past guests who have invited us to stop by on our trip."
Charter yacht HANALEI BAY is on the hard in Trinidad. We received a call recently from Diane. They miss being on the water but they have a beautiful view of it from their patio in Vancouver BC. They had front row seats for the annual fireworks festival, The Celebration of Light, from their pieds-à-terre.
Kim & Rich from the charter yacht QWEST wrote to us from the boatyard in in Fajardo, Puerto Rico where they were working on the boat and getting it ready to leave while they go to the States for a couple of months.
Kim wrote "One of the high points of our summer is the Bean Blossom Blues Fest that we going to in Brown County, Indiana, next month. We'll be spending lots of time playing our ukes and jamming with friends. We don't have any photos (yet), but here's a link to a video of a jam from last year's Bean."
So, back now to Bob & Sheila at Paradise Connections... Due to the recent storms our plans have changed a little, but we intend to pick up our mail soon in St. Thomas (thanks Reefco!) and then sail towards Curaçao. We did Hurricane OMAR last year and we don't want to do that again. Quite a scary night... Especially when you have this boat dragging down on you during the stormy night of a category 3 hurricane!
Nope, don't want to do that again :)
We heard from Gus & Marcella (catamaran MAROLANGA). They went to their hurricane hole in Vieques (Spanish Virgin Islands) and had lots of heavy rain & lightning. Their poor cat Sasha hid under a shelf and tried to make himself very small. They stayed there to wait out Hurricane Bill which fortunately gave our islands a wide berth. Marcella wrote today to say that they've "only had some little gusts and some rain. Not too bad…Now we getting a little bit rain from the tail of Bill. Outside are still waves 7-11 feet, so we waiting until tomorrow with sailing to Puerto Rico. Wind we have practically zero."They are going to go into the boatyard for a little bit for new bottom paint and this and that. Marolanga is one of the few yachts chartering in the Virgin Islands through the summer season.
The trimaran PROMENADE went to their hurricane hole in Virgin Gorda, BVIs. Here's a photo of Bazza & Simeon tying lines up to the mangroves.
Charter Yacht BLITHE SPIRIT is down in Trinidad where Dominique & Michel are growing tomatoes while in the boatyard!
John & Heidi, owner-operators of the charter yacht ANTILLEAN, are also in the boatyard in Trinidad. No pictures yet, but Heidi says that she has a crop of 30 tomato plants that she's grown from seed. Sounds like there's a little farming competition going on down there :)
Leslie & Charles of PHAEDRUS wrote to us last week... "We just got to NC on Friday and have been busy doing odd jobs, like cleaning the deck & pulling weeds out of the walkway. It's very hot here, but hopefully the temp will go down on Wednesday". Sounds like the equivalent of scraping the hull :)
STORM PETREL is chartering in New England this summer. Laura is Illinois doing a few house projects and nursing, while Phil is aboard Storm Petrel based in Falmouth, Buzzards Bay. They had a great repositioning trip, taking only 10 days to get there from St. Thomas. Phil's advice for us was: "To come north, just set your autopilot to 355, and enjoy. The spring trip is usually easy, no winds over 30 kts, seas calm... Fall is much more of an adventure!!!!"So, if you want an affordable, fun charter, aboard a yacht with LOTS of local knowledge of the New England cruising area, look no further than Storm Petrel. Short charters, weekend & daysails, too. Contact Paradise Connections and we'll set you up!
A couple of weeks ago, Eric from ALOHA MALOLO wrote to say that they were "going to the Statue of Liberty today if we can get this RV through the traffic. I miss the ocean and Saltydog but we are visiting many past guests who have invited us to stop by on our trip."
Charter yacht HANALEI BAY is on the hard in Trinidad. We received a call recently from Diane. They miss being on the water but they have a beautiful view of it from their patio in Vancouver BC. They had front row seats for the annual fireworks festival, The Celebration of Light, from their pieds-à-terre.
Kim & Rich from the charter yacht QWEST wrote to us from the boatyard in in Fajardo, Puerto Rico where they were working on the boat and getting it ready to leave while they go to the States for a couple of months.Kim wrote "One of the high points of our summer is the Bean Blossom Blues Fest that we going to in Brown County, Indiana, next month. We'll be spending lots of time playing our ukes and jamming with friends. We don't have any photos (yet), but here's a link to a video of a jam from last year's Bean."
So, back now to Bob & Sheila at Paradise Connections... Due to the recent storms our plans have changed a little, but we intend to pick up our mail soon in St. Thomas (thanks Reefco!) and then sail towards Curaçao. We did Hurricane OMAR last year and we don't want to do that again. Quite a scary night... Especially when you have this boat dragging down on you during the stormy night of a category 3 hurricane!
Nope, don't want to do that again :)
Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to start planning
your sailing vacation
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
your sailing vacation
Visit our website: www.ParadiseConnections.com
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