Sail boat insurance policies can be custom fit to suit the 19′ Trailerable sailboat to the 46′ Custom Motor sailor and able to offer a multitude of comprehensive packages and competitive prices. A standard sailing vessel insurance package often includes such essentials as Physical damage (hull and machinery), Liability, Medical expenses, Personal effects, and Oil leaks.

To be able to track down the most competitive package it can often help to use the services of one of the reputable marine brokers or agents. This takes the hassle out of the search for the most appropriate insurance coverage. The agents are able to compare multiple sailboat insurance policies from the largest insurance providers with ease. This will in most cases return the best deals on offer.

Once those quotations are put before you its crucial to known the coverage on offer is adequate to protect the sailing vessel in all situations. Before accepting a quote take a moment to review the terms, conditions, and exclusions.

Some of the important questions to ask when reviewing the policies are – does the insurance stipulate a off-season or lay up dates, is the mast, spars, sails and rigging covered, and if covered is it full cover or is it just two-thirds of the value covered. Is the cruising area sufficient for the planned sailing trips and who is allowed to be in control of the vessel, is it just the insured or is anyone with boating handling experience able to take the helm.

It’s also a good idea to appreciate the extent of the coverage on offer. Is the insurance a agreed value policy (sum insured is agreed on at the time of arranging the insurance) or actual cash value (insured value is calculated on the age and condition at the time of a loss). All of the points just mention can have a dramatic impact on how a future claim is settled and the resulting compensation in the event of a loss.

Quotes often feature a choice of deductible amounts; with the higher the deductible figure the more affordable the annual premium will be. Opt for a deductible amount that’s able to combine a great premium with a deductible amount that the policy holder can afford to pay in the event of suffering a loss.

Its also wise to plan ahead. Does the policy offer flexibility in the coverage offered, such as is the intention there to compete in local club races or meetings or to hire the vessel out on a skippered or bareboat charter, and can the cruising area be extended for a one off trip to an island at a later date. Those are just a few of the possible add-ons that might be required at a later date.

Whether its a entry level day sailor or a offshore racing sloop in need of coverage there are a variety of sail boat insurance plans to assist in offering tailor-made cover to suit the specific needs at hand.

A boat in common parlance is a watercraft, generally smaller in size to most ships. A boat consists of structures called hulls and some system of propulsion, such as paddles, oars, a setting pole, a sail, paddlewheels and so forth.

The somewhat horizontal but arched structure that spans the boat’s hull is known as the “deck.” Unlike a ship, where there are numerous decks, a boat conventionally has just has one. The cabin’s floor is called the ’sole.’ The base of the deck is known as the “deck head.” The vertical “bulkheads” divide the internal area. Some bulkheads are significant in the overall structure of the boat. The boat’s front side is known as the bow (or prow); the back of the boat is the stern. The starboard and the port are the right and the left sides of the boat, respectively.

Today, the command area of a big boat is called – perhaps inappropriately – the “bridge.” The bridge, depending upon the design, can be the wheelhouse or the cockpit.

The toilet compartments are called the “heads,” and a trip to relieve oneself is called the “head call.” During olden days, the cord used to maneuver a sailboat was made of linen; today it is made of cotton. That cord is known as the “line.” Though they have their own names, “”halyards”" is the name given to the cord used for raising flags or sails; “sheets” control the sails’ positioning.

The cords and the wire are collectively termed “rigging.” The cords and the wires that are set up before the boat sets for sail is referred to as standing rigging; the cords that are used while the boat is in motion is known as running rigging. For example, the halyard or the sheet is part if the running rigging, and the forestay is a part of the standing rigging.”

You’ve decided you want to learn how to sail. Now you just need to choose a boat to learn how to sail in. There are a lot of choices, and several things you need to consider. There are several different kinds of sailboats to choose from. There are wet and dry beginner sailboats. There are also more advanced kinds such as catamaran sailboats, and there are cabin sailboats as well.

On Wet Beginner Sailboats, you can expect to get wet most of the time. You sit on the deck or on the floor. These boats are easier to manage so they are good for beginners. On Dry Beginner Sailboats, you will stay dry most of the time (in good weather). You sit on a seat or on the gunwhale. These boats make you feel relatively safe so they are good for beginners too. On Cabin Sailboats, you definitely stay dry. They can have a small cuddy for storage or a full size cabin for staying overnight in.

It is best for beginners to have a small simple boat. They require a lot less responsibility than bigger boats, and can be just as much fun. It is easier to learn the basics when there are fewer lines and sails. Small boats also have the advantage of being more responsive in light winds. Once you have learned the basics on small boats, you can apply the skills you’ve acquired to any size of boat.

You will want to begin on a boat that is rigged with one mast and one sail, since that will make it easier to focus on learning the fundamentals of sailing. A number of small boats are designed to perform well with just one sail.

You will also want a conventional single-hulled boat. Multihulled boats, such as catamarans and trimarans can be a bit too much for learners as they are more high performance boats. You will want to get a boat with a fiberglass hull. A fiberglass hull requires less maintenance than a wooden hull, and it is lightweight and fairly easy to repair.

You will want to buy a boat that is at least 12′ for two adults, or at least 10′ for two children. Make sure your boat is big enough for two people.

You will want a boat with a centerboard or daggerboard keel. Centerboard or daggerboard designed boats allow you to sail in shallow water. When you are sailing with the wind behind you, these keels can be pulled up for better performance. Leeboard keels will do the same thing, but they are more fussy because you have to change them with each tack

Sailing can be a lot of fun, when you have chosen the right boat for you. When you are beginning it is best to get a boat that is small (but big enough for two people) and simple (with one mast and one sail and a fiberglass hull) so that you can concentrate on learning the fundamentals of sailing. A small boat like this is more responsive in light winds. You will want a boat with a centerboard or daggerboard keel because they are less fussy than leeboard keels. Find the right boat and you will have many enjoyable sailing adventures. Have fun.

White Sail Level I – Section 1 covers safety with a look at lifejackets, actions to be followed immediately after a capsize and how to right a capsized boat. And the required items for a sailboat less than 5.5 meters long as outlined in the current Boating Safety Guide. Section 2 is Seamanship, Candidates must be able to tie 4 knots within a certain time and describe their uses. And describe four ways to identify from what direction the wind is blowing. Section three deals with preparation to sail including coiling a line correctly, making a line fast to a cleat and getting in and out of a boat safely at a dock or mooring. Section 4 looks at rigging, attaching sails, rigging sheets and halyards, fitting sail battens and the rudder and tiller, adjusting the centerboard and hoisting sails. Section 5 covers boat handling, firstly identifying the direction of the wind then while underway to keeping the sail just on the point of luffing while on a reach, keeping a boat going in a straight line on a reach for at least two minutes and righting a capsized boat and clearing it of water. The final section deals with securing and derigging, securing by the bow only, by the bow and stern and at a single mooring, in each case using the appropriate size line and knot, and leaving an appropriate length of line. Derigging the boat by lowering and removing the sails, removing and stowing the rudder and tiller, and properly securing the boom and centerboard. Folding and bagging a loose sail. And finally securing all gear in the boat upon completion of sailing. On the completion of White Sail I, the sailor will be able to perform the afore mentioned tasks in wind speeds of 4-9 knots where applicable.

White Sail Level II – Commences with a section on terminology, identifying the various parts of a sailboat pointing out and describing the functions various items in a sailboat, defining certain terms and describe the different points of sail. The second section covers seamanship, candidates must me able to tie a rolling hitch and sheetbend each within 10 seconds and describe two uses of each of these knots. And describe the wave conditions resulting from various speeds of wind. The next section is boat handling, candidates will act as both helmsman and crew while getting underway from, and returning to, a dock, mooring or beach. Act as helmsman and crew, using the proper commands and responses, while beating, reaching, running, tacking, gybing, bearing away and heading up. As a helmsman, stop a boat at a predetermined point by luffing up and as both skipper and crew, right a capsized boat. On the completion of White Sail II, the sailor will be able to perform the aforementioned mentioned tasks in wind speeds of 4-9 knots.

White Sail Level III – A section on safety launches this section with a look at hypothermia and it’s causes, three ways to minimize the dangers and rules on how to treat a mild case of hypothermia after the victim is out of the water. Identification and the meaning of the colours and shapes in the lateral buoyage system. Listing local geographic and navigational hazards and describe the actions required to minimize their effects. Listing three sources of local weather information together with localized weather hazards, how they can be identified, the normal warning signs and the actions to be taken to reduce their effects. Section 2 covers further terminology, various items in a sailboat, the different parts of a sail and the distinguishing features different types of sailboats. Seamanship is section 3 with a look at how to sail away from and back to a beach with an on-shore wind, a dock for various wind directions and a mooring. Section 4 is on the rules of the road for prevention of collision at sea and considers the case of stand on and give way vessels in different situations and looks at some common sense actions you should take when sailing in the vicinity of commercial shipping. There is a look at racing with the sound signals and flags used to start a race and the rules in use while the race is underway. Section 5 is boat handling, students will act as both skipper and crew while sailing a boat away from and back to a dock for various wind directions, away from and back to a mooring and on a windward/leeward course. They will demonstrate how different body crew positions affect the trim and performance of a sailboat and indicate the best positions for three given points of sail. They will get a boat out of irons by backing the jib and main using proper rudder adjustments. Paddle a sailboat a distance of 30 meters (100 feet) without the use of a rudder in a reasonably straight line. They will demonstrate the following towing procedures, proper means to receive, secure and cast off a towline, the correct towing points on a sailboat, the proper securing inboard of a towline to a boat astern and the correct boat trim, steering procedures and crew alertness while on and releasing from the tow. They will demonstrate the actions to be taken if a person falls overboard, with the boat under sail form the time the person falls overboard without warning until the person is rescued. They will helm the boat by the lee for 90 meters without gybing and finally right a capsized boat. On completion of White Sail Level III the beginner will be able to sail confidently and competently in wind speeds of 4-9 knots and perform the aforementioned skills proficiently.

Bronze Sail Level IV – The first section deals with safety and the factors in your local area such as currents, tides and weather which should be considered before going sailing. The three types of flotation commonly found in dinghies and the factors which affect the self-rescuing capabilities of a dinghy And finally a look at chart of unfamiliar waters and identification of hazards and means of recognizing them. Seamanship is the next section and students will demonstrate their ability to whip the end of a line with a plain whipping of appropriate length, make a back splice and an eye splice and heave a 10 metre line to land across a 1 metre diameter target at least 7 metres away, in three tries out of four. The next section is further nautical terminology. Following that is some sailing theory including leeway and its importance on different points of sail. The centre of lateral resistance (CLR) and centre of effort (CE) affect lee and weather helm in theory and practice, weight distribution and centreboard adjustments affect on the CLR, the boat’s underwater shape affects its helm, sail trim, mast rake and position affect the CE and helm, draft (fullness in a sail) is and how it affects the power and the pointing ability of a sail, the use and position of telltales on shrouds and ticklers on a sail. The next section considers sail shape and how the main sail is affected by halyard tension, mainsheet tension, cunningham tension, traveller position, outhaul tension, mast bend, boom vang tension and mast rake. And how the shape of the jib sails affected by halyard tension, sheet tension and fairlead position. The use of outhaul, cunningham, mainsheet, and traveller, while sailing on a beat, a reach, and a run under the following conditions. On the water students will be asked to skipper and crew the boat on various points of sail and tacking and gybing. Carry out a self-rescue after capsizing in a dinghy and carry on sailing with a minimum time delay. Carry out the following tasks without a rudder, sail a course upwind toward a predetermined destination, make at least one controlled tack and settle down to a course to the predetermined destination, bear away or tack and return to the starting position. With sails backed, sail the boat astern to a predetermined destination 90 metres downwind. On completion of this level IV the candidate will be able to understand and apply the basic principles of sail trim and boat tuning for optimal performance in wind speeds of 9-14 knots.

Silver Sail VI is an introduction to racing. Commencing with some sailing theory it looks at how the slot effects the drive of the mainsail under different points of sail, and how the size of the slot should be varied with the wind strength to give maximum drive, how to identify backwinding, and how to adjust the sails to remove or minimize its effect, how the driving forces acting on the sail can be divided into side and forward components, and how these vary for beating, reaching and running and how the resisting forces acting on a boat’s daggerboard/centreboard and rudder act in relation to the sail forces when beating, reaching and running. The apparent wind changes when gusts hit the sails and when waves slow or accelerate a boat and how to steer and trim sails to react to changes in apparent wind and how to correct the effects of the forces which cause a boat to heel. Section 2 looks at the rules of racing as laid down by the CYA and ISAF. Section 3 considers racing signals and courses including the purpose of the Race Committee, the Notice of Race, the Sailing Instructions and the Protest Committee. Section 4 looks at tactics. On the water students will demonstrate as both skipper and crew while beating, reaching, running, roll tacking, roll gybing, bearing away and heading up. Identify signals displayed and sounded by the race committee boat. Demonstrate the ability to be within one boat length or 5 seconds of a starting line at the starting signal in a race situation. Restart, after having been recalled for premature starting, as quickly as possible. Defend a position from another boat while on a beat – by luffing and backwinding a boat attempting to pass until the mast abeam position has been attained and on a reach or run – by avoiding blanketing, by luffing or by assuming starboard tack. Demonstrate how to blanket and backwind a competitor to your advantage while on the same tack on the windward leg of a race course. And finally compile a racing record and log in a dinghy class showing you have completed a minimum of 15 scheduled races, 10 as a skipper in a class consisting of a minimum of five sailboats. On completion of this section the candidate will be able to compete in a race with a sound understanding of the racing rules and perform the afore mentioned tasks in wind strengths of up to 18 knots.

Gold Sail Level VII completes the learn to sail programme and starts with boat tuning for speed and the adjustments that can be made to the mast, sails and rigging. How to control the spinnaker and pole in all wind conditions, on a reach and run. Boat trim and helming techniques which promote maximum efficiency of the rudder and centreboard in singlehanded or doublehanded dinghies. Section 2 covers the rules and candidates will have a thorough knowledge of the racing rules as a competitor, race committee member or protest committee member, The candidate must take charge of a race committee boat and run a club regatta or series of races using all necessary rules and race procedures. Section 3 looks at the preparation for a regatta. Candidates will ensure a wood or fibreglass dinghy is safe, leak proof and strong by testing for and repairing leaks, examining and replacing fittings and rigging, properly covering and storing boat during summer and winter, properly securing boat and equipment for trailer and/or car top transportation. They will ensure the dinghy hull and centreboard rudder are smooth, fair and light by using, fibreglass, epoxy, gelcoat, and other fairing materials, wet sanding or dry sanding and cleaning solvents. The students will maintain a written season plan that includes, a personal racing logbook, performance objectives, regatta schedule and goals, a physical training program, an on-water training program, sport nutrition and mental training, transportation and program administration They will be able to describe the influence on racing strategy of the fleet size, the starting procedures and timing, the course length and location, the finish line placement and time limits, the compass bearing to the windward mark and current/tide. Section 4 covers an assessment of the race course and includes registration and check in procedures, special protest requirements and starting procedures, current, tide and the weather. The next sections considers tactics that apply to starting, mark rounding, upwind, reaching, running and finishing. On the water candidates will demonstrate as skipper a roll tack and gybe, while helming take advantage of appropriate techniques in flat or choppy water, use body weight to maintain proper boat trim and assist steering and adjust equipment and sails. As crew, assist skipper with above tasks and supply compass readings to determine wind shifts and locate marks together with information for tactical decisions. As skipper and crew, prepare and fly spinnaker on a close, beam, broad reach, a run and by-the-lee, apply appropriate tactics on the water in large fleet or small fleet with strong current or tide either with or against the wind, in shifty oscillating winds, persistent shifts, increasing or decreasing winds, either leading or trailing in a race. Candidates must prepare a seasonal plan for competition indicating personal performance objectives, regatta schedule, physical training, on the water training, transportation and administration, nutrition, and mental training. They must have a race record which includes 5 regattas with 2 being outside their local area. On completion of this course a candidate will be able to race a dinghy with moderately good boat speed and control. The candidate will have a well-rounded knowledge of sail theory, racing rules and tactics.

Formerly yacht was defined as “a light, fast sailing vessel used to move only chief people”. Today, the yacht charter has come to cover a wider variety of vessels, either run by sail, power, or even both. A yacht that is not motorized with sails and wind is generally known to as a motor yacht. A motor yacht normally has a good comfy feel to it. The archetypal motor yacht provides two staterooms estranged by the total length of the motor yacht, along with a spacious living area in between. Motor yacht usually has cabins akin to hotel suites.

Most of the boating fans agree that a motor yacht’s is appeal decisive by the dimensions of its sundeck, fly bridge, and covered aft deck. A motor yacht that comprises of these features is planned for space and especially for comfort. On a sizable motor yacht, the open bridge could place up eight and the sheltered aft deck and fore deck are generally open.

The emblematic cruising speed for a motor yacht is about the 20 knot range with average weight conditions and ocean state. Top speeds might be between 25 and 30 knots, it actually depends up on the model of the motor yacht. Higher cruise and peak end speeds are as well accessible on some models, particularly those premeditated for racing. The majority of motor yachts are mainly fuel competent when roaming at speeds of 8-10 knots that is in fact the average speed of trolling. The higher the speed toured with the motor yacht, the more petroleum would burns. For more detailed petroleum ranges, one should check with the manufacturer.

When you want to purchase a motor yacht, it is commonly most excellent to purchase a smaller one first. A larger motor yacht could cost to the extent that several million US dollars. There are other cost factors as well to be considered, such as trip rental fees, where the motor yacht would be stored, and year on year maintenance. This preservation comprises of having the boat cleaned and worn out once or twice a year. The present high price of gasoline as well contributes to a bigger motor yacht being more expensive.

The bareboat charter company will give you maps, instructions on what to watch for, and information on where you need to stay while you’re out bareboating. But really, why would they worry about where you are?

The answer: because there are some surprising dangers if you venture outside the prescribed waters of the British Virgin Islands. Storms, pirates, and reefs all pose hazards that can do more than just ruin your vacation.

Perhaps the most common danger is overestimating your own skills with boating. Even if you have a boating license accepted by the charter company, do you really know what you’re doing? Can you handle sails with the crew you have by yourself, or do they need more seasoning? If there is any doubt in your mind, a day or two with a bareboat captain to train everyone might be a wise decision.

Storms are something you may worry about, especially during hurricane season. For the most part, the British Virgin Islands are free of sudden squalls, though you can expect afternoon showers to be common during summer. If you charter your bareboat in advance during hurricane season, make sure you also purchase vacation insurance. It is rare that a hurricane hits this area without warning, but it does happen occasionally. If you’re worried about the sky or wind, fire up the radio or head to shore. The charter company should be available to tell you what to do. Never try to ride the storm out yourself; while it’s true that boats near shore can be broken up by the wave action, ideally you should not be in the boat at all during a hurricane. If you are, stay in constant contact with the charter company so they can send you help.

Reefs are another hazard, but if you stay within the bounds of the map your charter company gave you, you shouldn’t find them to be a problem. If you do find yourself out to sea during a storm, they may become a problem, and you’ll want to steer well clear and downwind/downcurrent of them. Otherwise, just follow your maps.

Pirates are part of the history of the British Virgin Islands, and pirates still exist today throughout the world. They’re just thieves in boats, after all. If you’re in a boat by yourself on the sea, you are in a uniquely vulnerable position. The good news is that the British Virgin Islands are well-monitored by the U.S. Coast Guard and the BVI’s coast guard service, and pirates rarely venture into areas that are so heavily traveled. As long as you stay within the area prescribed by your charter company, you should be safe. Venture outside, and you may find some unpleasant surprises.

Most piracy around the Caribbean takes place close to mainland shores: Venezuela, Guatemala, Columbia, Brazil (where at least one wealthy yacht owner was killed), and other poverty-prone areas are most likely to have pirates operating offshore. On the islands, you’re more likely to find them near Trinidad. It is, however, a bad idea to pick up strangers without radioing shore first. Pirates sometimes masquerade as castaways or migrant workers. In addition, picking up a stranger may get you in trouble with the British Virgin Islands, as they do have a problem with illegal immigration and therefore have very strict laws. To protect yourself, always check first before picking up strangers, and pull in only at docks that your charter company recommends.

Avoid trouble in general. You’re on your vacation; don’t let it be ruined by mishaps.