Sailing

vagtri asked:

LEARNING TRIP TO PSARA-GREECE AND HAPPY MOMENTS WITH OTHER STUDENTS AND TEACHERS.

Paul Hata asked:


Planning for a great sailing vacation in the US? Always make your safety, comfort, and legalities as the main priorities. For those who don’t have any sailing experience in the US or to any other part of the world, it is best to rent a crewed boat wherein everything will be provided to you. The crew will ensure your safety because they are experienced enough to handle all kinds of emergencies in the middle of the sea.

A crewed boat also ensures that you have everything that you need from accommodation, food, and even entertainment are available. Here, all you have to do is to sit back and relax and enjoy the beauty of the surroundings while listening to the relaxing waters as it laps to the side of the boat.

If you want more adventure, opt for a bareboat. A “bareboat” is a boat that you can rent filled with all the things and amenities needed for sailing without the crew. If you go on sailing vacations in the US using bareboat, it means that you need to have sailing experience.

If you think that your knowledge in sailing is not enough despite your experience, you can enroll in various sailing lessons to enrich the information that you have. During lessons, you will be given first hand information on sailing and hands-on experience on it. It is always best to attend sailing lessons before going on sailing vacations in the US to ensure that you would know what and what not to do especially in cases of emergency.

Packing tips for sailing vacation in the US

Aside from educating yourself about your sailing destination, one of the things that you should consider before going on sailing vacations in the US is what are the things to pack. Bringing the things that you need would ensure that you will not miss out on something that is an integral part of your whole trip.

The following are just some of the things that you need to pack for sailing vacations in the US:

1. Travel documents – Since you’ll be going to another territory, you will need documents that will support your identity such as passport and the sailing charter paperwork. Upon booking for sailing vacations in the US, you will be given a confirmation packet.Bring photocopies of your travel documents in case of emergency or in cases it will be needed during visit to different islands.

2. Storage – This should always be kept in mind because you need to limit it as much as possible. Bear in mind that hard-sided suitcases are not ideal since they are big and bulky. Opt for durable duffel bags because these can be folded when not in use.

3. What to wear – Depending on the average weather condition of your vacation destination, the number of clothes should also be kept to a minimum. It is ideal to keep a pair of shorts, shirts, walking shoes, sandals, swimsuit, underwear sleepwear, toiletries, and towels. The number will depend on the number of days of your stay.

4. Easy to carry bag – This is vital especially if you sailing vacations in the US involve land tour or travel. This easy to carry bag will hold your basic necessities such as wallet with money, a pair of shades, passport, several guide books, bottled water, a bottle of sunscreen for sun protection, powder case, lip balm and other small items you will be needing outside.

expertvillage asked:

Learn information on hull types in thisfree video on sailing tips and instruction. Expert: Russ Ansley Bio: Russ Ansley began his sailing career as a member of the University of Texas Sailing Club in Austin, Texas, and has been a yachtsman and instructor for more than 20 years. Filmmaker: Erik Bosse

Linda S Cullum asked:


When two sailboats meet there are three rules to follow:

1. The boat on the port tack gives way to the boat on the starboard tack. 2. When on the same tack, the windward boat gives way to the leeward boat. 3. The overtaking vessel keeps clear of the slower vessel.

To learn more about the rules of the road, download a Free! “Rules of the Road” article with graphics at our website at http://learntosail.net/

Piloting- Deviation and Variation

There are two types of Poles; the Geographic North and South Poles, also called True North and True South, and the Magnetic North and South Poles. The Geographic poles are stationary. The earth is a big magnet with magnetic lines of force running from the magnetic north pole to the magnetic south pole. The magnetic pole is located in northern Canada; somewhat west of the Geographic Pole. It’s location changes over long periods of time.

Variation is the angle between the magnetic north and the true north. This is indicated by a compass when it is free of any nearby magnetic influences. A magnetized pointer, or needle, that is allowed to spin freely, will point to the magnetic north pole. On a boat compass, this needle is situated in the middle of a ring which shows 360 degrees. Now matter in which direction the boat heads, the compass still points to Magnetic North.

Deviation

Boats with lots of metal have their own magnetic fields and the compass may respond to it and be pulled somewhat away from the direction of magnetic north. When this happens, it is called compass deviation and needs to be compensated for. This can be done by installing small internal magnets in the compass, or, you can make up a deviation chart for your boat and refer to it when figuring out what course to steer by your compass. This especially applies to the small boat sailor who won’t be using a mounted compass with magnets.

Variation

Often you will be given a course to steer from one place to another in true directions. This means that you will have to convert this to magnetic in order to steer this course with your compass. There is a very consistent and simple rule to follow when going from true to magnetic. In the Eastern US and Canada, to go from a true course to a magnetic course, you add a west variation. To go from a magnetic course to a true course, you subtract a west variation. In the Western US and Canada, to go from a true course to a magnetic course, you subtract an east variation To go from a magnetic course to a true course, you add an east variation.

Sailing Terms

Piloting-Navigation performed using visual references such as aids to navigation.

Aids to Navigation-Established markers on land or sea that aid sailors to avoid danger and fix their position.

Bearing-The direction of an object to an observer, such as a buoy or other boat. Chart-A nautical map.

Demarcation-Boundary.

Nun- A buoy that is not lit but numbered, red and pointed, and always on the starboard side when returning from seaward, port side when going out.

Can- A buoy that is not lit but numbered, green and flat, and always on the port side when returning from seaward, starboard side when going out.

Happy Sailing! __/)_

Nancy asked:


Planning a get-away? There is nothing more relaxing than a BVI sailing vacation. Kick back, relax, and let the wind and your captain sail you away. BVI sailing vacations will have you exploring the Caribbean in a unique way. Sail from island to island and bask in the beauty of your surroundings. When you are feeling adventurous, slip into the blue waters of the Caribbean and snorkel among the coral with an extravagant array of fish.

A BVI sailing vacation has so much to present to the sea-loving traveler. Take a break from the daily grind and trade in your responsibilities for sun and fun. Explore what the islands of the BVI have to offer.

Hop aboard your boat and begin your adventure from Sea Cow’s Bay in Tortola and sail to Cooper Island. Soak up the sun on the white sandy beaches or relax at a beach bar under the shade of a palm tree.

Next you can sail off to Virgin Gorda and spend the day at The Baths and take pleasure in snorkeling the famous natural attraction of the giant boulder lined beaches. Tour the island shops and have lunch at the Top of the Baths Restaurant with an exclusive breathtaking view. If your BVI sailing vacation inspires romance, then head off to the quiet and sensual beaches of Drakes Anchorage or the charming Honeymoon Beach.

Come evening, dance the night away at the Bitter End Yacht Club with their premier live entertainment. Continue your trip to the casual island of Great Harbor Jost Van Dyke, the barefoot island. While you are there, experience their world class snorkeling on Monkey’s Point on Guana Island.

For real beauty, you can sail off to Sandy Cay, the most photographed desert island in the Caribbean. Snorkel and swim and then venture off to an overnight stay with great night life at Cane Garden Bay. To experience some of the local genre, travel to Soper’s Hole where you can mingle with the locals and purchase items that represent the true culture of the islands.

Before completing your BVI sailing vacation, visit Norman Island, also known as “Treasure Island”. It is rumored to be the sight of the famous novel written by Robert Louis Stevenson. While there, anchor your vessel and enjoy a sunset dinner at Willie T’s floating bar and restaurant. Round off your trip with a stop at the picturesque resort island of Peter Island.

BVI Sailing Vacations are among the easiest vacations to plan. All you need to bring for a great adventure is your ability to relax. Whatever you desire, the captain and crew can fulfill your wishes. Gather some friends and set sail on the BVI sailing vacation you’ve been dreaming of. For more information, visit our website at www.barecat.com to plan your BVI Sailing Vacation and let the fun begin. We will happily customize a sailing itinerary to fit your vacation schedule. BareCat Yacht Charters in the BVI invites you to come and experience life as it ought to be’..eat, sleep, and sail!

Kevin Hensey asked:


The Art of Focusing Your Mind – Lesson One

 

Focus and Concentration Tips – How to Make Your Mind Stay on Track

Kevin Hensey

 

 

Gaining focus and maintaining concentration on school, work, or whatever your goal is quite a challenge for most people. Both things however are important if you wish to attain your objectives efficiently and effectively.

 

Know What You Want

   It’s impossible for you to gain focus and concentration if you don’t know what you want. Be as specific as possible when describing your goals to yourself. If you know exactly what you want, the better you’ll be able to focus and concentrate on getting what you want.

 

Multi-Tasking Are for Computers

   And you’re not a computer, are you? Since you aren’t, then don’t expect your mind to be able to work like one. Even Einstein had to concentrate on the nuclear bomb exclusively before moving on to something else…less dangerous.

   If you wish to be able to accomplish your goal, you need to take things one step at a time.

 

Divide, Organize, and Conquer

 

In relation to doing things one at a time, the best way to gain focus and concentration is by dividing a huge task into smaller sections. Then, you can focus and concentrate on accomplishing one section after another. If you’ve a project to work on, divide it into sections such as planning, gathering for resources, implementing the changes, and so forth.

   If you do it that way, the next thing you know you’ve already completed the task way before the time allotted for you.

 

Expect Resistance

   Life is never smooth sailing for anyone in this world, not even for Bill Gates. As such, be prepared beforehand to encounter resistance of sorts to completing your goals. Distraction comes in all shapes and sizes, so it could be anything that would threaten your focus on concentration.

 

Knowing however that there will be an obstacle to overcome will already help you conquer whatever challenge you’re facing and resume your focus and concentration.

 

Gaining Focus and Concentration Takes Time

   Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you’ll gain instant success the first time you try to follow these tips. Sure, it’s possible for that to happen but it’s even more possible that it won’t. If you have trouble gaining focus and concentration, don’t feel worried and give up immediately because what you’re going through is normal.

   As time passes however, you’ll see that gaining focus and concentration gets easier every time.

 

Focus and Concentration Aren’t for Free

   You’ll always have to give up something to make room for something better. In this case, the price of focus and concentration may just be about anything but its most probably the one thing that causes you the most distraction.

   For some, it could be using the telephone during work hours while for some it’s their inner struggle for self-confidence.

 

Do Today What You Can Do Tomorrow

   In simple terms: avoid procrastinating. The earlier you start working on your goals, the better you’ll be able to gain focus and concentration. If you leave things too late, you’ll end up being stressed, pressured, and bothered by the ticking deadline. If you work early on the other hand, you’ll be more able to focus and concentrate because there’s nothing else to worry about except to get the job done.

   Once you do develop the right habits to be able to gain focus and concentration easily then don’t take your ability for granted. Practice, practice, and practice some more!

 

Check out “Mind Mapping”:

http://mindmapping.pan100.net/?e=kevin121554@yahoo.com

AnnaSwee94 asked:

Robyn needs some sailing lessons. Or skating. Or both. … bin skateboard robyn generally being weird.

David Faulkner asked:


Nobody who saw the movie “Titanic” will ever forget Leonardo di Caprio’s exuberant proclamation “I’m king of the world!” And while the ships created in the image of HMS Titanic are no more, the experience of being treated like royalty is still available for all those who choose the seven to sixteen day seagoing experiences offered by Crystal cruises.

Crystal Cruises Ports Of Call

From the sunny Caribbean an the shores of Puerto Vallarta to the dazzling white of Arctic glaciers and ice floes; from the quaint Guernsey Isle village of St. Peter’s Port to the tropical breezes of Polynesia’ and from the Greek isles to Scandinavia, Crystal Cruises will transport its clientele to six of the seven continents in elegance and style.

The hospitality of Crystal Cruise ships does not end with their gangways. Crystal Cruise guests will enjoy onshore accommodations at the very best hotels in all Crystal Cruises ports-of-call, and will have access to onshore activities more suitable to James Bond than to the regular traveler. Crystal Cruises can arrange such adventures as Porsche test drives or MiG flightseeing.

Onboard Activities

Crystal Cruises will make sure that its guests are well-informed about the cultures they are visiting by providing lectures on the history and customs of local populations. Crystal Cruise ships have movie theaters showing new releases, name entertainment and plenty of live musical acts, including live Jazz at the Avenue Saloon, and cigar smoking at the Connoisseur Club. They of course offer casino fun, with their Caesar’s Palace Casino staffed by Caesar’s Palace professionals, and as a twist, offer bridge lessons for those with an aversion to poker.

All Crystal Cruises passengers have access to the ships’ fitness centers, where they can indulge in exercise lessons or yoga instruction. Swimming pools and Jacuzzis, driving ranges and putting greens, shuffle board and table tennis are all available.

The Dining Experience

Like all cruise lines Crystal Cruises pay special attention to their passengers’ dining experience. The Crystal Dining Room offers fine French cuisines at breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with an alternative selection of vegetarian and low cholesterol meals. Other restaurants include Italian Prego and Asian specialties at the Jade Garden on the Crystal Symphony.

Those passengers who would prefer to take their meals on deck are pampered with a range of buffets and those who like to sleep in after an evening’s entertainment can find late breakfast at the Trident Grill and Ice Cream Bar. The British tradition of Afternoon Tea is observed each afternoon in the Palm Court, to music from a live string ensemble.

The three ships of the Crystal Cruises fleet are usually booked up months in advance, but the chance of feel like ocean-going royalty is worth the wait!

European discount cruises will not shortchange you on your shipboard amenities, gourmet meals and snacks, live music and stage shows, movies, and casino fun. You will be pampered by ship staff throughout your cruise and return from your onshore adventures each evening knowing that your cabin will be ready with a freshly turned-down bed so that you can get the sleep you need to prepare for the next day’s excitement!

Joseph A. Michelli asked:


Soaring gas prices and the US credit crunch have many business owners scurrying to reduce costs and “do more with less.”  But this natural and reflexive approach to economic uncertainty is often the worst path a business leader can take.  In fact, while researching my recently released book The New Gold Standard: 5 Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Ed Staros, a founder of the modern-day Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company noted that during difficult economic times in the 1980’s many hotel chains were cutting back on flower arrangements in the lobby and not placing mouthwash in guest rooms. Ed shared. “We always believed that economic challenges didn’t mean that people didn’t need or want mouthwash. It meant we had to raise the standard in a quality efficient way.” So, how do business leaders decide when to pull-back products or service versus expanding them, particularly when business begins to slow? For example, many marketers suggest that the best time to advertise is in a tight market, namely because fewer people are doing so (allowing you to position your product with less clutter) and because it is the time when customers need most to be reminded that you are still there.

While cost cutting may be inevitable in tighter economic cycles, I gained key insights during my conversations with the leadership at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company about how to avoid a scarcity mentality in challenging times:

1) When consumers face economic challenges they often place a greater emphasis on value.   While many customers will “pinch pennies” and “clip coupons” to address financial hardships, they will still look for opportunities to “treat” themselves.  When consumers do spend money freely they will want to experience true quality and not a watered-down or corporately scaled-back version of quality.

2) Focused excellence prevails.  If cutbacks are necessary, companies can and should reallocate resources toward their core areas of excellence. To be “excellent” means resisting the urge to overreach into areas where your products or service will be mediocre. Doing a few things expertly beats doing many things adequately.

3) Inspire staff to focus on purpose and outcomes, not fulfillment and procedures.  I have long believed that all business is personal. This is particularly clear in the world of luxury hotels and resorts. While most hotel companies that compete for this market segment have exquisitely clean and well-appointed facilities, the primary driver for guest loyalty emerges from the personal attention and caring of staff. From the onset of their employee selection process, leadership at Ritz-Carlton looks for underlying talent in service characteristics.  They then train and certify the skills necessary for the new hires to do their jobs while constantly linking job function to the overarching purpose of the business — namely to provide for “the genuine care and comfort” of their guest.

4) Empowering the front-line saves money.  While many business leaders talk about their empowered workforce, few put money behind the hype. At Ritz-Carlton, staff members (referred to as the Ladies and Gentlemen of The Ritz-Carlton) are given the authority to spend up to $2,000 per day per guest, without seeking the approval of their supervisors. This authority allows front-line workers to immediately resolve service breakdowns for guests or simply engage guests by doing something unexpected that will make the hotel stay memorable. The cost-saving nature of this seemingly risky level of financial empowerment is derived from the morale and loyalty of employees, the clear cost savings of resolving problems immediately, and the impact that this type of empowered workforce has on customers. Essentially, empowered employees consistently transform otherwise satisfied customers into fully-engaged brand loyalists that spend more and refer family and friends to the business.

In my book The New Gold Standard, I identify 5 key business principles that have allowed The Ritz-Carlton to continue to be a recognized leader in product quality and service excellence (two time winner of the Malcolm Baldridge award for service excellence). Rather than contracting or adopting a defensive posture during economic uncertainty, The Ritz-Carlton leadership stays the course with these five principles:

Define and Refine

Empower through Trust

It’s Not About You

Deliver Wow!

Leave a Lasting Footprint

While concepts like empower through trust have been alluded to earlier, concepts such as “define and refine” and “it’s not about you” warrant further exploration. By clearly “defining” the core components of the company’s values, quality standards, and service tradition, Ritz-Carlton constantly communicates the path by which a guest’s experience can be elevated, how the staff member can purposefully add value and the means by which the company will thrive. By having every staff member take time every day at every hotel worldwide to  participate in a process called line-up, Ritz-Carlton leadership re-engages staff in a discussion of the overarching mission they all share. Further, by being attentive to the need to “refine” the brand so that it remains relevant in changing economic times, for evolving customer segments and in diverse international markets, leadership builds on their well-defined culture.

The “It’s not about you” principle reflects the disciplined practice of listening to staff, customers, vendors and all stakeholders to constantly assure that business does not principally serve the needs and preferences of leadership.  By adopting a penchant for listening to stated and unstated needs while maintaining a passion for service, great leaders produce businesses that endure.  From the customer’s perspective, these businesses are extensions of themselves and not commodities.

While none of us can control the winds of economic change, taking a few lessons from The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company can help us adjust our sails to arrive at our desired destination. I welcome your thoughts about the journey…

 

©2008 Joseph A. Michelli

Leon Johnson asked:


When thinking of New York, images of bustling streets, crowded subways cars, street performers and hordes of tourists come to mind. Central Park, China Town, Wall Street and Times Square.  But how many times have you thought of seeing New York from a sail boat? Viewing the waterfront sights without the hassle of  long lines and overcrowded ferries, sailing down the Hudson River to New York Harbor and sitting within 100 yards of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Brooklyn Bridge. This is an unforgettable way to experience New York City and its breathtaking views and has become one of the prevailing ways to experience the city.

Sailing season is right around the corner and yachting companies are busy gearing up for what promises to be a spectacular season.   Many people are already scheduling charters and sailing lessons to experience the solitude and serenity that only sailing can bring.  “This winter has been particularly long and harsh.  New Yorkers are ready for their much deserved break” said Amanda Vlastas, manager of Atlantic Yachting.  “Sailboat charters are the perfect getaway from the daily stresses of life and leave you feeling fresh and rejuvenated.”

In addition to sailing the typical city route, many people are sailing north to experience the beauty of the scenic Palisades.  New Yorkers can’t wait to get outside and experience the solitude and serenity that only sailing can bring. Sailboat charters are the perfect getaway from the daily stresses of life.

Come sail with us: http://www.atlanticyachting.com