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Coming to the Midlands next month is an exciting new boat show, BoatLife Live, which is set to get the year off to a fantastic start! Visitors to the show will be able to see a huge range of boats, as well as holiday and equipment companies. Guest speakers will include inspirational teenage yachtswoman Katie McCabe along with the Atlantic Flyers team who will be sharing stories from their Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. The show promises to be a great shop window to all things boating and a great day out for the whole family. FULL STORY PAGE 3

SEE PAGE 40

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STAR SAILORS RETIRING OLYMPIANS MOVING ON

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ANNIE O’SULLIVAN Q&A

MEET MAIDEN’S SKIPPER

PAGE The record-breaking teenager Katie McCabe in her yacht Falanda. Image: Tom Hurley/devondigital.co.uk. INSET: The Atlantic Flyers will be discussing all things rowing at BoatLife, which takes place at the NEC, Birmingham.

holiday special - WHERE WILL YOU BE SAILING IN 2022? SEE page 26

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ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

A C L A SSIC E N V I RON M E N T FOR T R A DI T ION A L BOATS Birdham Pool is the oldest marina in the UK and our haven for classic and traditional boats. Even its location, just four miles from the historic county town of Chichester, nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, reflects the pace and elegance of a bygone age. S T O R A G E , R E PA I R A N D M A I N T E N A N C E Looking after traditional boats is what we’re exceptionally good at. Our 30 tonne hoist and transport, dry storage ashore and a boat yard of modern

and traditional skills offered by our tenant artisans means we’re geared for storage, repair and maintenance of all watercraft.

To complete the experience, we have five-star customer facilities, café and great transport links complementing the enviable one-hour access to the Solent and sheltered inland location. Birdham is owned by Castle Marinas, a group of 11 coastal and inland marinas each with its own unique character. We are, and always will be large enough to cope, small enough to care.

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ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

FREE BOATLIFE FOR RYA MEMBERS

RYA members are eligible for one free ticket to the new BoatLife boat show taking place from 17 - 20 February at the NEC in Birmingham. As well as their exclusive free member ticket, they can also purchase up to five additional tickets at the special price of £10 each (children 16 and under go free). “We are delighted to be working with BoatLife to be able to bring this exclusive offer to our members, many of whom we are sure will be thrilled to take advantage of this great offer and enjoy all the show has in store,” said Ben Falla, RYA head of membership. Richard Dove, director BoatLife, added: “We look forward to welcoming RYA members through the doors of BoatLife Live 2022, the first ever exclusive boat show to be held in the Midlands. We hope it will be a great way to kick start the year and a great warm-up to the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show (26 - 27 February).” With three halls filled with boats from powerboats and RIBs to narrowboats, as well as holidays and equipment companies, the show promises to be a

great shop window to all things boating and a great day out for the whole family, with so much to see under one roof. With a replica traditional river-side pub and Mediterranean bar, there will be plenty of places to meet old friends and make new ones while listening to live music and enjoying the energetic atmosphere. Head to the Live Stage to hear talks from boating faces we know and love including Katie McCabe (pictured), then visit the Inland Zone and Virtual Reality feature to get your thrill of the day. The show is curated to give the whole family a day out, celebrate the boating lifestyle, and bring people together. The exhibition centre is accessible from all motorways and a short walk from the train station. With over 16,000 car parking spaces and plenty of hotels and restaurants, it makes for a great day or weekend away. www.rya.org.uk/membership/ membership-benefits/boatlife boatlifeevents.com www.rya.org.uk/events/dinghy-show

Image: Tom Hurley/ devondigital.co.uk

YOUR THOUGHTS… Last month we asked about your thoughts about a new boat show in the Midlands. Liz Carter got in touch to say: “As we live in the Midlands we will definitely go to this boat show. We used to have a boat show, combined with the caravan and camping show, at the NEC, but this got taken over with caravans and tents. A lot of people sail in the Midlands - on lakes, on the south coast, or Wales, or abroad and we have got a boat in Greece, so yes a boat show is needed in the Midlands.”

Congratulations to Hannah and Eilidh

Hannah Mills and Eilidh McIntyre. Image: Sailing Energy / World Sailing

In a virtual ceremony streamed live from the Royal Yacht Squadron in Cowes, Hannah Mills and Eilidh McIntyre won Rolex World Sailors of the Year in recognition of their sensational Tokyo 2020 gold medals. The women’s 470 Olympic champions made history this summer, with Hannah becoming the most successful female Olympic sailor of all time with two golds and a silver to her name, while Eilidh equalled the success of her father Mike who took the top spot in the Star class at Seoul 1988. The pair saw off some of the biggest names in women’s sailing to take top prize, including Brazil’s two-time Olympic champion Martine Grael, kitefoil world champion Daniela Moroz from the USA and French round-the-world yachtswoman Clarisse Cremer. It was a second win for Hannah, after also taking the title in 2016, with Saskia Clark.

everyone for voting for us and for all of your support. We would not be here without all of the amazing women pushing us.” The pair picked up 37 per cent of the public vote, making them clear winners. A record-breaking 40,000 votes were cast to honour the achievements of sailors across all disciplines. Double Olympic champion Giles Scott was shortlisted for the men’s award but was beaten to it by SailGP star Tom Slingsby. Also announced was the World Sailing 11th Hour Racing Sustainability Award, which went to the Sail Africa Youth Development Foundation for increasing the participation of ethnically diverse and female sailors in Durban, South Africa. Turn to page 8 to read about big name retirements from the British Sailing Team.

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Other British females to have won since the awards began in 1994 are Shirley Robertson (2000), Ellen Macarthur (2001 and 2005) and Sarah Ayton (2015). “I am completely blown away,” said Hannah, from Cardiff. “The line-up this year was absolutely incredible. I am so proud of Eilidh for everything she put into this Olympic campaign, she was the absolute best teammate. I am really honoured. “I feel privileged to be a female in sailing right now, there are so many opportunities out there. I really hope to be a part of forging the pathway for female sailors of today and for the future. It is inspirational to be part of a federation like World Sailing who take sustainability so seriously and I feel so lucky to be involved in such an amazing sport.” Eilidh, from Hayling Island, added: “I just want to say thank you to Hannah, and

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ALL ABOARD Captain Coconut to By Jane Hyde

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We are starting the new year as we mean to go on, with a packed issue of All at Sea full of fantastic features alongside your favourite regulars. We have not made any resolutions for 2022 as such, but I think all of us are hoping for better times to come and spending more quality time with our friends and family. That might just be popping round for a cup of tea – or something stronger in which Paul Antrobus has some interesting suggestions on page 42 – but for many a holiday is what is needed. Many of us have had get-aways cancelled and postponed over the past two years, and lots of people have understandably simply chosen to avoid the stress of it all. While no one can predict what is to come in 2022, I think it is safe to say we all want – and deserve – a fantastic holiday. To avoid the worry associated with foreign travel at the moment, a UK holiday is the perfect answer. For many it is the first choice anyway. Who needs to get on a plane or ferry to reach your destination when we have so many amazing places right here in the UK. Check out our Life’s A Beach feature on page 28 for great places to holiday around the country, but get in quick as I have a feeling they are going to get booked up fast. I am sure I am not alone in hoping to go abroad later in the year though, and so it was interesting to read this month’s Hot Topic from Sunsail and The Moorings’ Kate Staniforth. She highlights this year’s most popular sailing holiday destinations. As if that is not enough to get you dreaming about sunshine and blue seas, we also have our regular round-up of holiday news and ideas on page 27. Your holiday snaps often end up in our Photo of the Month page, but this month instead of new photos we are bringing you the best of 2021. Take a look on page 22 and let us know which is your favourite. We look forward to seeing your 2022 photos – who knows, yours might end up in our best of 2022! Taking lots of photos, I am sure, will be the crew on board Maiden, which re-starts its World Tour this

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month after an enforced Covid halt in early 2020. Despite a busy schedule we were able to chat with skipper Annie O’Sullivan before the team set off from Dubai. You can read the interview on page 21. While Maiden is just setting off, we also caught up with Sam Goodchild, fresh from completing the Transat Jacques Vabre with Aymeric Chapellier. It was fascinating to learn what it is like to compete in such a challenging race. For another group of sailors there will be no more racing, in the Olympics at least. The British Sailing Team has announced a number of big names – including Olympic medal winners – will not be challenging for a place at the Paris Games in 2024. You can find out who they are on page 8. Having been such a dominant force at the Olympic Games, it will be interesting to see who is coming through the ranks to replace those who are retiring. Of course, although some are leaving the sport, others are simply concentrating on different areas. We wish them all the best of luck in whatever they choose to do next.

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THIS MONTH JANUARY 2022

POWER TALK ............................... 15 Simon Everett discusses the on-going move to hydrogen powered craft.

complete 2018 GGR

editor@allatsea.co.uk

Image: Ocean Frontiers OGR/ GGR/CG580/Pic suppliers

Mark Sinclair set sail from Australia to complete his 2018 GGR voyage back to Les Sables d’Olonne on 5 December, exactly three years after stopping in Adelaide. Under the 2018 GGR Notice of Race he can continue the race in the Chichester Class, aiming to become the sixth finisher of the 2018 Golden Globe Race. Also known as Captain Coconut Mark, a former royal Australian Navy commander and an ocean hydrographic surveyor, was a competitor in the 2018 GGR, doing well until barnacles and a diminishing water supply forced him to stop at his home port of Adelaide.

Mark said: “I have unfinished business with the GGR and several reasons to complete my voyage. I sailed the easy part of the course and want to have a go at the second one. It is an interesting route: one week to Tasmania, another week to New Zealand, before another 2 months to Cape Horn. All sailors who finished the 2018 GGR had been around the world at least once, so this is a great preparation for the 2022 edition, rounding the Horn and bringing the boat back to Les Sables d’Olonne!” You can follow Mark’s 13,000nm voyage on his YB tracking page: my.yb.tl/yblogcoconut and his Facebook page: CoconutGGR.

LIFE’S A BEACH .......................... 28

CHANGING FACE OF MARINAS .... 39

Fabulous stress free beach holidays in the UK.

Premier Marinas continue to make big changes in both their existing and newly acquired marinas.

SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE .............. 21

With Annie O’Sullivan, skipper of Maiden, which kicks off a World Tour this month.

WIN A COAST TORCH .............. 40

PHOTO OF THE YEAR ................ 22

MASTERCLASS .......................... 40

Enter to win a fantastic Coast PolySteel 1000 Torch Worth £64.95!

HOT TOPIC.................................... 16

Vote for your favourite reader photo

What to look for in a navigation app.

of 2021!

Handy advice should you ever find yourself in need of towage or salvage.

KIT BAG ......................................... 17

NAUGHTY CAT ........................... 24

IN THE DRINK.............................. 42

This month we have buoyancy aids, a torch, which you can also win, and the new Garmin GPSMAP 79s.

We continue to follow the adventures oof Bekki and Gordon Olliver and their four Persian Chinchillas on board the catamaran Naughty Cat.

SHORESTYLE ............................... 17 From winning designs to new launches, we have some great ideas to kick off 2022.

VALUE OF TRAINING ................. 25

DIRTY WATER .............................. 18

HOT TOPIC................................... 26

The concerning issue of what is in the waters around our coast.

SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE ............ 20 With Sam Goodchild, fresh from racing in November’s Transat Jacques Vabre.

Here are a few of the RYA’s most popular training courses…

Helping you find your perfect 2022 charter holiday.

CRUISING ASSOCIATION .......... 30

Start the new year with some great cocktails made using your Christmas leftovers

The latest round-up of news from the Cruising Association.

ALL AT SEA QUIZ ....................... 33 Another collection of puzzles to challenge you.

MARINA FOCUS .......................... 34 Enjoy the delights of Cowes with a berth at the popular East Cowes Marina.

SAIL AWAY .................................. 27

MARINA GUIDE .......................... 36

Great winter get-aways and spring breaks for 2022

The latest news from around the UK’s marinas, plus your regional marina guide.

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ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

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ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

NEWS NEWS SNAPS SNAPS CARDIFF MEMORABILIA

If you fancy a bit of Cardiff City football club history, how about buying the owner’s £30M superyacht Asean Lady? Billionaire Vincent Tan is selling his asymmetrical multihull superyacht, which was designed to resemble a proa – a type of bamboo canoe used for centuries by the indigenous people of the South Pacific. The superyacht was crowned Most Innovative Motor Yacht by Showboats International in 2005. It is being sold by Singapore-based Raffles Yacht Group and, interestingly, was anchored off Phuket in Thailand when the Boxing Day tsunami hit.

BECKHAM'S YACHT

David Beckham has treated himself to a £5m yacht which he also helped to design. The craft is thought to be a 100ft Ferretti and will be moored in Miami, Florida, where the Inter Miami football team - in which David owns a stake - is based, and so you might spot spot David and his family the next time you holiday in Florida. The ex-England footballer was inspired to buy the boat after holidaying with Elton John and David Furnish on their yacht.

A-LIST INVESTORS

Arc electric boats have attracted a number of A-list investors to push the start-up’s funding past $30 million. The well-known entertainers backing the young company include Will Smith and Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. Arc has started production of its flagship, a 24-footer, known as Arc One. The electric speedboat will set you back $300,000, although eventually there will be craft at different prices points.

FAIRLINE DEALER

Fairline Yachts has announced the re-appointment of Boats.co.uk as the latest addition to its dealer network. As distributor for the Balearic Islands from its Cala d’Or, Mallorca base and from its Essex Marina head office in the UK, the Boats.co.uk teams will operate as Fairline Cala d’Or and Fairline East Coast (UK) respectively, providing sales and aftercare from both locations.

ROWING ACROSS THE ATLANTIC Two businesswomen from Gloucestershire and Hampshire are rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic to raise £100,000 for Women’s Aid and Shelter charities. Jessica Oliver and Charlotte Harris will be one of the first women rowing pairs since 2012 to take part in the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge. Described as the world’s toughest row challenge, the friends, who met at Cardiff University 10 years ago through a shared passion for sport, have no previous ocean or rowing experience. “Our friendship has always been dotted with incredible challenges,” said Jessica. “Marathons, triathlons and more recently an unbelievable ‘Fight Night’ with the WhiteCollar Fight Club.” They will row in their boat Cosimo for two hours on, two hours off continuously for up to 60 days, making 1.5 million row strokes and battling sleep deprivation, sea sickness, blisters, 30ft waves, raging storms, whales,

sharks and blue marlin attacks. They will need to consume 4,000 calories a day and drink at least 10 litres of water a day. Team Wild Waves started the race on 12 December racing 35 teams from around the world, travelling west from the Canary Islands to Antigua and finally, Barbuda. Charlotte said: “We wanted something that would be the most rewarding and lifechanging experience we can undertake. The Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge is certainly that and with no ocean or rowing experience it will certainly be our hardest test yet.” On 13 May Wild Waves will also be hosting a Charity Ball in London to raise money for Women’s Aid and Shelter charities. To make a donation or to find out more about the Charity Ball visit www.teamwildwaves.com. You can follow their journey on Twitter @teamwildwaves.

POSITIVE INTEREST IN CUP

With Challengers now able to enter the America’s Cup, Alinghi Red Bull Racing has launched its bid and paid its initial $1.47 million entry fee. Alinghi and Red Bull have long been friendly rivals in series such as the GC32 Racing Tour and the Extreme Sailing Series. Red Bull has now joined forces with the double America’s Cup–winning syndicate Alinghi sailing under the flag of the Société Nautique de Genève. “While keeping the winning spirit that has always animated Alinghi, we want for this challenge to do something totally different, totally new, totally fresh,” said Alinghi founder Ernesto Bertarelli. “When we imagined with Dietrich Mateschitz the involvement of Red Bull in the America’s Cup, he said: Our way is not to get into the sport as sponsors, but to blend into the team, to form a true partnership, to nurture young athletes and turn them into the best in their field. He also proposed that we should make contributions to give the America’s Cup itself a new dimension.” In partnering with Alinghi, Red Bull also brings the expertise of the Red Bull Advanced Technologies unit that has supported Red Bull Racing in achieving five Formula One Drivers’ Championships including the 2021 title secured by Max Verstappen in the last lap of 2021. A core crew led by Alinghi’s GC32 coskipper Arnaud Psarofaghis and mainsail trimmer Bryan Mettraux will begin training during the winter to prepare a 100 per cent Swiss made crew. Owned by Swiss billionaire Ernesto Bertarelli, Alinghi has a good history

MINI-29

with event having won the Cup in 2003, defeating Team NZ 5-0 in the Cup match. They went on to defend the title in Valencia in 2007. Although they have not been involved in the America’s Cup since 2010, Alinghi has competed in the Extreme Sailing Series and, now, the GC32 Tour. Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton highlighted the significance of the Alinghi Red Bull Racing’s Challenge: “Ernesto and Alinghi have been sitting on the sidelines since 2010 and watching the America’s Cup through a number of class designs and iterations. Now that they have chosen to launch back into the America’s Cup, partnering with Red Bull, is a true testament to the success of the AC75 class and the boundaries of innovation, design and speed which appeals to a far wider audience than has been seen in the past. “Obviously we are aware of the resource that Sir Ben Ainslie has with his team, INEOS Britannia and their partnership with Mercedes AMG F1 team already. Now we have the Red Bull F1 team partnering with Alinghi.” In a matter of days, Alinghi’s news was followed by news of Luna Rossa’s entry. The team, backed by the Circolo della Vela Sicilia yacht club, were the Challenger of Record for the last America’s Cup in Auckland, losing to the Kiwis 7-3. Italian news outlets reported the skipper saying: “We have sent the ‘notice of challenge’, which includes the dossier with the documentation necessary to formalise registration for the event. Now

MINI-44

Ernesto Bertarelli of Switzerland and Alinghi Red Bull Racing seen during the press conference announcing the entry to 37th Americas Cup in Geneva. Image: Samo Vidic and Dean Treml for Red Bull Content Pool

Team New Zealand and the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron will verify the validity of the documents: if everything is in order, the challenge will be accepted.” Then, on 17 December a very simple statement on the America’s Cup website said: “The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron has formally accepted Circolo della Vela Sicilia and Luna Rossa Team Notice of Challenge lodged on 1 December, 2021.” So, as it stands, Luna Rossa joins INEOS Britannia (GBR) and Alinghi Red Bull Racing (SUI) as teams that have revealed their official challenge status for the 2024 competition. The entry period for Challengers runs until 31 July 2022, although late entries may be accepted until 31 May 2023. However, the order of entry determines

the allocation of the AC40 yachts and team bases at the AC37 venue. Kevin Shoebridge, COO of Emirates Team New Zealand said: “The Defender, RNZYS and Emirates Team New Zealand, have had very positive initial interest since the release of the Protocol of the 37th America’s Cup, feedback and interest from prospective teams, both existing and new has been very encouraging.” As well as the initial fee, teams must also make a second payment of $1.83 million by 21 September 2022, along with further costs including buying an AC40 yacht package and two hydrogenpowered support vessels. Sign up to the All at Sea newsletter to receive the latest Cup news! www.allatsea.co.uk

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SWIFT TRAWLER 48 Here is the new Swift Trawler 48, the design of which focuses on practical easy living. The aft cockpit can fit a folding table and two directors chairs, which together with the large bench seat maximise the indoor/outdoor living space. The transom double gate opens onto a large swim platform with an optional hydraulic lifting system able to carry a 350kg dinghy. On the foredeck there is the option of a sunpad with lift up sections creating forward seating – perfect for relaxing. Entering through the patio doors there is a large L-shaped galley. The Swift Trawler 48 can easily sleep up to eight persons with three cabins in the lower accommodation and the saloon dinette converts into a double bed with wrap around privacy curtains. It had been due its world premiere at boot Düsseldorf this month before the show's cancellation in December due to Covid.

Image: Armand Hubler

FOILING DINGHY The cancelled Boot Düsseldorf would also have seen the world premiere of the Peacoq, a single and double handed foiling dinghy. The objective of the Peacoq is simple: “To allow all sailing enthusiasts to discover the exhilarating sensations of flying on water while giving them the opportunity to improve their foiling level and become expert.” After the first flights, the rakers, boxes that regulate the angle of incidence of the

foils, allow users to increase their level to go higher, faster and further. The manufacturer, Foily, therefore aims to offer a foiler at the crossroads between easy learning and expertise experience. The Peacoq is equipped with a retractable device to store the foils, and thanks to this system boaters can switch from displacement mode (floating mode) to foiler mode (flying mode). www.peacoq.fr

SACS REBEL 55 PRINCESS DEBUT Princess Yachts has announced the launch of the all-new Princess V50 and V50-Open model, with the first V50 completing her initial sea trial in the manufacturer’s home of Plymouth. The Princess V50 replaces the ever-popular outgoing model in the company’s V Class range. Designed by the Princess Design Studio in collaboration with naval architects Olesinski and Italian design house, Pininfarina, the V50 has been created using new hull, deck and canopy moulds. At the heart of the new deep-V hull are twin Volvo Penta IPS600 or IPS650 engines that can deliver maximum speeds of over 30 knots, and

Images: Sacs Marine

After the launch of the Rebel 55 at the Cannes Yachting Festival, the world debut of a version with foldable bulwarks, was set for the now cancelled Boot Düsseldorf. Designer Christian Grande said: “Despite the generous volumes, the sporty character of the Rebel 55 is clearly expressed thanks to details such as the snorkel air intakes, the hard top suspended like a large wing on the cockpit and the powerful ‘T-foam’ profiles, which divide the area of the Rebel 55 in a balanced way.” The deck is characterised, in the centre of the cockpit, by a galley; towards the stern the space continues with two opposing sofas, to create a living area which can be converted into a dinner area, and finally a large sundeck. The bow spaces can be reached by the walkarounds and are divided into a seafront sofa and a second, generously sized sundeck. “The width of the Rebel 55 has made it possible to obtain a steering position plus three co-pilots in the console; the same width which, below deck, leaves

room for two cabins with separate bathroom and shower, as well as a comfortable and modern living area,” added Christian. The Sacs Rebel 55 comes in an inboard version, equipped with two 725hp Volvo Penta IPS 950 engines, but also includes a powerful outboard version, equipped with 4x600hp Mercury engines.

AN IZI BOAT! Here is a design which could solve many people’s problems relating to mooring or towing a boat. From IZIBoat comes a craft that can be packed away and set up in under 15 minutes. François Tissier, the designer of IZIBoat®, is a self-educated architect and entrepreneur, sailor, traveller and former competitor, who had the idea to invent an easy-to-use boat 20 years ago when he was living in the South Pacific region. It took years of research and 11 prototypes to create IZIBoat®. en.iziboat.com

an extended cruising range over the outgoing model through increased fuel capacity to allow owners to travel further afield.

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

NEW YEAR FAREWELLS British Sailing Team boss Mark Robinson has heaped praise on a host of sailing stars after they announced their retirement from Olympic campaigning.

Tokyo 2020 gold medallists Hannah Mills, Giles Scott and Stuart Bithell are among those calling time on their Olympic careers. London 2012 silver medallist Luke Patience, three-time Olympian Ali Young, two-timers Charlotte Dobson and Chris Grube and Rio 2016 Team GB athlete Ben Saxton have also taken the decision to move on. It follows a stellar performance from Team GB’s sailors at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, at which the team secured the top spot on the sailing medal table for the fifth time in six Games with three golds, a silver and a bronze. “All good things must come to an end, and as such these incredible athletes have taken the decision to step back from Olympic campaigning,” said Mark Robinson. “These individuals have made such a huge impact on our sport, their achievements speak for themselves and they have inspired countless youngsters to follow in their footsteps. Those retiring will be sorely missed. “However as a team we are wellprepared. Lots of our Tokyo team are going again, plus there are a whole host of talented sailors who have been waiting patiently in the wings to get their time to shine. With Paris 2024 less than three years away the British Sailing Team is fullsteam ahead, with the number one goal of defending our title of the world’s most successful Olympic sailing team.” Despite the loss of so many big names, the British Sailing Team remains in great shape. Gold medal winners Dylan Fletcher (49er) and Eilidh McIntyre (women’s 470) will both continue campaigning for the next Olympics with new crews, yet to be decided. Nacra 17 runners-up John Gimson and Anna Burnet are also continuing their bid for gold alongside Emma Wilson, bronze medallist in the women’s RS:X, windsurfer Tom Squires and 49erFX crew Saskia Tidey. A host of new faces will also be looking to make their mark in a bid to win selection for Team GB. Meanwhile Nick Dempsey, Britain’s greatest ever Olympic windsurfer with two silvers and a bronze to his name, is back in the British Sailing Team as coach to the men’s iQFOiL, the new foiling windsurfer class that will debut in Paris. Nick Dempsey retired from competition after scooping silver at Rio 2016, and went on to coach Japan’s Makoto Tomizawa for the Tokyo 2020 cycle.

Retiring sailors:

Hannah Mills: Hannah became the most successful female Olympic sailor of all time this summer when she defended her Rio 2016 gold medal alongside Eilidh McIntyre. Victory rounded off an incredible Olympic career in which she won silver at London 2012 then golds at Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020. Not only does that make her the greatest female Olympic sailor ever but also Wales’ most successful female Olympian. In recognition of their achievements, Hannah and Eilidh were voted female World Sailors of the Year. Hannah now turns her attention to the SailGP circuit which she joined last year as part of Sir Ben Ainslie’s British outfit, as well as continuing her environmental campaigning with her charity the Big Plastic Pledge. Giles Scott: Giles had his own challenge defending his Olympic title in the Finn, a class which will not feature at Paris 2024. An incredible fightback in the Medal Race saw him pick his way through the fleet to fourth, enough to snatch overall victory from race winner Zsombor Berecz. It sealed

Hannah Mills and Eilidh McIntyre.

Giles Scott. Image: Sailing

Image: Sailing Energy / World Sailing

Energy / World Sailing

Scott’s place in the history books as the final Finn Olympic champion. It also maintained Britain’s winning legacy, having taken gold in every Olympics since Sydney 2000 thanks first to Iain Percy and then Sir Ben Ainslie. The win was even more impressive given that he spent much of the time in between Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 campaigning to win the America’s Cup alongside Ben Ainslie, a project he will now return to. Stuart Bithell: Stuart took gold in the 49er class with Dylan Fletcher, adding to the silver medal he won with Luke Patience in the men’s 470 at London 2012. After missing out on selection for Rio 2016 at the hands of Dylan Fletcher and his then team-mate Alain Sign, Stuart and Dylan teamed up in 2017 and have been a formidable force ever since. A thrilling photo finish in the medal race saw them win the first ever gold medal for Britain in the 49er class. Luke Patience and Chris Grube: Luke Patience was just 25 when he won a silver medal alongside Stuart Bithell in the men’s 470 class at London 2012. After winning a spot with Team GB at Rio 2016, his campaign was turned upside down when crew Elliot Willis was diagnosed with cancer. Chris ‘Twiggy’ Grube had been part of the British Sailing Team for almost a decade when he got the last-minute call-up to join Luke. The pair went on to finish an incredible fifth, and took the partnership to Tokyo 2020 where a consistent series had them in the medal race as one of only five boats who could take home an Olympic medal.

Dylan Fletcher and Stuart Bithell. Image: Sailing Energy / World Sailing

Alison Young: With three Olympics under her belt, Alison is Britain’s greatest ever ILCA 6 (formerly Laser Radial) sailor. She was the first Brit to win a world championship in the class in 2016, and was among the favourites for an Olympic medal. However she was dealt a blow when she broke her ankle just eight weeks before the Games. An eighth in Rio fired her up for a tilt at Tokyo, where she finished 10th after a tricky week. Alison now plans on using her knowledge and experience to coach young athletes to success. Charlotte Dobson: After narrowly missing out on Olympic selection for two cycles running in the ILCA 6 (formerly the Laser Radial) Charlotte switched to the 49erFX skiff when it was introduced in 2014, teaming up with Sophie Ainsworth. The pair won their spot with Team GB for Rio 2016, finishing ninth. She then joined forces with Saskia Tidey and the duo quickly established themselves as a powerhouse of the 49erFX fleet. They led the Tokyo 2020 regatta in the early stages before being overhauled later on as the breeze turned light, eventually finishing sixth. Ben Saxton: After switching from the 470 class to the Nacra 17, multihull expert Ben Saxton was picked for Team GB at the Rio 2016 Olympics alongside crew Nicola Groves, finishing ninth. The following year saw victory at the 2017 world championships with Katie Dabson. Then, after teaming up with Nicola Boniface, Ben went on to score numerous podium finishes including winning the 2019 European championships and placing third at Ready Steady Tokyo, the test event for Tokyo 2020. He stepped away from Olympic sailing after losing out on Olympic selection to Tokyo 2020 silver medallists John Gimson and Anna Burnet, and recently started a job working for North Sails.

Charlotte Dobson with Saskia Tidey. Image: Sailing Energy / World Sailing

Ben Saxton. Image: Jesus Renedo/Sailing Energy/World Sailing Luke Patience and Chris Grube. Image: Sailing Energy / World Sailing

Alison Young. Image: Pedro Martinez/ Sailing Energy/World Sailing

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ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

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ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

NEWS SNAPS BOATY MCBOATFACE

In December engineers from the National Oceanography Centre headed out to the Thwaites Glacier in Antarctica with autonomous underwater vehicle Boaty McBoatface, to help understand what is causing ice loss from the glacier and better predict how its deterioration could contribute to sea level rise. The NOC is providing its innovative technology as part of the TARSAN project, a 101-day ship-based expedition investigating atmospheric and oceanic conditions on two ice shelves on the coast near Thwaites Glacier.

VIRTUAL SERIES

The International Olympic Committee has confirmed its Olympic Virtual Series will return in 2022. According to the IOC last year’s inaugural OVS, which ran from 13 May - 23 June, featured nearly 250,000 participants and had more than two million entries. The dates and sports to be included for the next OVS are set to be revealed in the first half of the year.

SPECIAL EVENT

World Sailing has awarded the 2022 Foiling Week Special Event status, ensuring the competition can grow, reach more people and partner with international and national foiling programmes and pathways to create events within the event. Foiling Week joins high profile activities with Special Event status such as the America’s Cup, The Ocean Race, SailGP, World Match Racing Tour and Star Sailors League.

WINNING READERS

Congratulations to November’s competition winners: Ian Pawson, from Brockenhurst, won a copy of the Cruising Almanac. Nigel Rennie, from Warsash, Martin Marks, from Lee-on-theSolent, and Adrian Smith, from Port Solent, all won a year’s subscription to savvynavvy.

HEARTY PORTION OF PLASTIC To help hammer home the severity of the issues of plastic pollution home water filtration system, Virgin Pure has partnered with marine conservation charity, PADI AWARE Foundation, to reimagine four classic fish recipes as they might be in 2050, by including one bizarre ingredient: plastic. Imagine tucking into a hearty portion of fish and chips, or a comforting fish pie, but instead of eating fish, you are confronted with dirty, discarded plastic. The damning image of whole fish replaced by plastic waste could well be a reality by 2050, when research predicts there will be more plastic than fish in our oceans. It may seem an extreme image, but it is already happening, albeit invisibly; studies continue to reveal how much we consume in the form of microplastics in our food and water. In total, some 7.7 billion plastic bottles are bought across the UK each year, resulting in substantial amounts of singleuse plastic waste. Data from PADI AWARE Foundation, which works with scuba divers across the world to remove plastic waste from the seas, also reveals there are over eight million pieces of plastic entering the ocean each day.

SAILING GOLD AGAIN

Sailing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games won Gold in the Best Coverage by the Host Broadcaster category of the International Olympic Committee Golden Rings Awards. Producer Henry Mok and director Leon Sefton received the award for providing an outstanding race experience for millions of viewers around the world via Olympic Broadcasting Services. Using on board cameras, viewers got the ultimate immersive experience. This is the third time sailing has won gold in this Golden Rings Awards category, following Beijing 2008 and London 2012.

DID YOU KNOW… We are producing more than 380 million tons of plastic every year, with up to 50 per cent of that for single-use purposes. It is estimated that over 10 million tons of plastic is dumped into our oceans every year.

Microfibres rife

New research from The Ocean Race has found microplastics, and in particular microfibres, to be prevalent across the length and breadth of Europe’s seas. All 36 water samples collected around Europe, including in the Baltic Sea, the English Channel, along the Atlantic coastline and in the Mediterranean Sea, were found to contain microfibres. The data, which was captured by sailing teams competing in the first edition of The Ocean Race Europe, found, on average, Europe’s seas contain 139 microplastic particles per cubic meter. 83 per cent of these particles are microfibres, with the remaining being fragments from the degradation of larger plastic items such as plastic bottles, packaging and microbeads in toiletries. Data from the race is contributing to the development of a map of plastic in the ocean and helping inform understanding

of how microplastics transfer into marine ecosystems. The data gathered in the race showed the Baltic Sea to have the highest levels of microplastics in Europe, with 230 particles found per cubic metre, on average, double the amount found in the Mediterranean (112 particles per cubic metre), which is considered a hotspot for plastic pollution. Dr Aaron Beck Senior, who coordinated the analysis of the microplastic samples, said:“The high abundance of microplastic in the Baltic Sea compared to the Mediterranean Sea is unexpected. Factors, such as the time of year that the data is collected, can have an impact on the distribution of microplastics. The more data we can gather, from different areas and seasons, the better we can understand the source of the plastics and where they end up.”

IMOCA Champions

TRAINING PLATFORM

British Marine has a new Training Platform, offering free and low cost courses. The web-based portal offers more than 90 accredited courses covering a wide range of business needs alongside British Marine’s portfolio of marine-specific courses, to address skills gaps, reinforce career pathways and assist staff retention. Topics include Customer service, Health and Safety and Employee Welfare. britishmarine.co.uk

These plastics are not only ingested by animal life, but through drinking water and the food we eat. In fact, researchers believe that between 10 and 30 per cent of fish in any sample will be contaminated with microplastics. Virgin Pure has recreated four recipes as a wake-up call to bottled water buyers: Golden Beer-Battered Fish with Chips, a seafood Linguine, a traditional Fish Pie and a Seafood Paella to the same quality standard but with one additional standout ingredient replacing the majority of the seafood in each: plastic. All the plastic used in the dishes has been retrieved from the ocean by PADI Aware Foundation, meaning it is the exact plastic rubbish that is being dumped into the world’s oceans which causes serious issues for marine animals and the environment. To donate to PADI Aware Foundation: https://netdonor.net/ page/81717/donate/1

Paul Meilhat and Charlie Dalin are 2021 champions. Image: Jean-Louis Carli / Alea

They may have finished in second place in the Transat Jacques Vabre to LinkedOut, but no one can doubt that Charlie Dalin and Paul Meilhat on APIVIA have been the dominant force in the IMOCA Class this year and were rightly crowned IMOCA Champions for 2021. The pair took part in three of the four races in the 2021 championship. They skipped The Ocean Race Europe but won the Rolex Fastnet Race in August, repeated that feat in the Défi Azimut 48-Hours a month later and then followed that up with a highly competitive performance in the Transat Jacques Vabre. For Charlie Dalin, 37, it has been an impressively consistent season after taking line honours in the Vendée Globe,

when it is easy for teams to go off the boil as the double-handed calendar begins. However, he and Paul Meilhat, 39, got together early on and built a formidable partnership based on a warm friendship and a shared competitive intensity. “It has been a welcome double-handed year after the solo round the world race,” said Charlie after being presented with the trophy at a ceremony on the dockside at Fort de France on Martinique. Paul realised very quickly that Charlie had plenty of energy, even after the Vendée Globe, saying: “You think the skippers are ‘burnt out’ after the Vendée Globe, but right away, Charlie was already looking ahead to the 2021 season, so the motivation was very strong, but the freshness was well balanced too.” Perhaps the standout feature of the APIVIA year was the dominant performance by the duo in the Rolex Fastnet Race. They came out of the Solent to windward and then produced a flawless strategy all the way to the Fastnet Rock and back to the new finish at Cherbourg. Charlie chose this almost perfect race as his own high point of the 2021 season. “The exit from the Solent in the Rolex Fastnet Race left a big impression on me which was really a great memory for us, with really phenomenal speed compared to the others. First race, first victory with Paul – we really enjoyed it,” he said.

AkzoNobel Ocean Racing gets ready to install science equipment in Alicante, Spain, for The Ocean Race Europe. Image: Rosalin Kuiper/Akzonobel Ocean Racing

Great British Beach Clean The Marine Conservation Society’s annual Great British Beach Clean, which took place in September, saw 6,176 volunteers head outside to clear litter from their local streets, parks and over 55,000m of UK beaches. We can now report that a total of 5064.8kg of litter was collected and recorded over the week by volunteers. In positive news, the average litter recorded per 100m is dropping year on year across the UK. This time, an average of 385 items were found, dropping from averages of 425 in 2020, and 558 in 2019. Numbers of single-use plastic bags on beaches have continued to drop, from a high of 13 on average in 2013, down to just three in 2021. Plastic pieces remain the most prevalent form of litter on UK beaches though, with 75 per cent of all litter collected being plastic or polystyrene, with an average of 112 pieces found for every 100m of UK beach surveyed.

WHERE DO YOU MOOR YOURS? Do you know where this is? Turn to page 14 to see if you got it right!

Top 5 most common litter items on UK beaches (average per 100m): 1. Plastic and polystyrene pieces (111.7) 2. Cigarette stubs (27.8) 3. Crisp and sweet packets, lolly sticks etc (25.9) 4. Plastic caps and lids (15.5) 5. String/cord (15.3) The Marine Conservation Society is continuing to campaign for ambitious single-use plastics policies which would phase out the manufacture and sale of plastic products in the UK. www.mcsuk.org

Image: Marine Conservation Society

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

GLENLEE CELEBRATES 125 YEARS During The Tall Ship Glenlee’s 125th celebrations the Clyde Maritime Trust announced plans to ensure the Clyde built vessel is ship shape for future generations to learn and enjoy from its unique maritime past. Launched on 3 December 1896 the ship has changed name and function several time. As historic ships go, Glenlee is a survivor, making it one of the last three masted Clyde built ships afloat in the UK, having been passionately restored to provide a unique space for learning, heritage and entertainment. Amongst the plans announced, the charity that owns the ship intends to change its name to The Tall Ship Glenlee

Trust, to ensure the charitable status of the Glenlee is better understood by visitors. Glasgow comedy legend Elaine C Smith added her support after discovering the figurehead on the ship was named by the volunteers who restored her after her Rab C Nesbitt TV character ‘Mary Doll’. To signal the changes the Chair, Colin Botfield, announced proposals to broaden the diversity of the trustees and additional funding from Glasgow City Council to strengthen the leadership team with recruitment for a new CEO and Development Director. thetallship.com

Forever Grateful

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SUPPORT WITHDRAWN In December Discovery Shipyard reported that “our owner / shareholder will not be continuing his support of the Discovery Shipyard business. He announced that he will be withdrawing that support immediately and will not be providing further investment or funds.” The statement on LinkedIn went on to state: “the company will be forced to take the very difficult decision to appoint administrators / liquidators immediately in the hope that some better resolution can be found. This decision has come as a devastating blow to all concerned.”

Image: Bruce Newlands Transcnd

The Scottish Fisheries Museum has welcomed the arrival of a specially crafted 67ft Fore Mast, which was commissioned as part of the £1 million conservation of the Reaper and makes the last of the great First-Class Scottish Herring Luggers stronger than she has ever been in her 118-year history. The new mast built for this ‘rare survivor’ from the golden age of sail is almost as high as Reaper is long (70ft) and made from Douglas Fir, a species traditionally used for ‘Fifie’ masts because of its superior strength. As climate change has begun to impact on the ring strength of Douglas Fir, the wood components underwent a complex lamination process. This has made the new mast 30 per cent stronger and 50 per cent lighter than traditional pole masts, significantly reducing the stresses under sail. This, along with the

NEWS SNAPS

mast's lifespan of 30 – 40 years instead of the usual 10, will extend Reaper’s life. Additional strengthening work to the hull carried out as part of the conservation has also given Reaper, one of 46 core vessels in the UK’s prestigious National Historic Fleet kept in seagoing condition, probably the strongest hull of any ‘Fifie’ ever built. As a tribute to the many sponsors of the conservation programme, the museum plans to take the unusual step of naming the new mast. It will be called ‘Forever Grateful’. Following the conservation work, Reaper, which has starred on screen, including the TV series Outlander and film Tommy’s Honour, reopened to the public in the autumn at her mooring on Anstruther Harbour, once one of Scotland’s busiest fishing ports. www.scotfishmuseum.org

ELECTRIC SPIRIT BAR

Spirit Yachts and BAR Technologies are collaborating to deliver a fully electric, fully foiling 35ft motor yacht. Spirit Yachts is responsible for the styling while BAR Technologies will bring its Americas’ Cup expertise to design and manage the vessel’s electric powertrain to deliver a range of around 100nm and five hours foiling, after charging at the marina.

WINNING YOUNGSTERS A total of 14 youngsters have been given a huge boost in their sailing and windsurfing ambitions after being awarded their own boats and boards donated by the John Merricks Sailing Trust. Details on how to apply for the 2022 JMST and OnBoard partnership will be issued soon. The full list of winners can be found at www.allatsea.co.uk/news.

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

NEWS SNAPS WATERSPOUT SEEN

Incredible footage of a waterspout was caught on camera by Fazioli Brunoas as it moved over the ocean off the coast of Italy last month. You can watch the video at the All at Sea Facebook page. www.facebook.com/ allatseanewspaper

GOING PAPERLESS

More than 1,400 direct insurance clients and all intermediaries have swapped from paper to paperless insurance in 2021, helping Haven Knox-Johnston achieve their goal to raise £1,000 for WWF and adopt an Emperor Penguin (the penguin has been Haven K-J’s mascot since the 1990s). It was estimated that around 250,000 pieces of printed material were being posted out annually at the beginning of the year and the move to paperless insurance will reduce this enormously.

BUYING A YACHT?

HMS Queen Elizabeth returns home HMS Queen Elizabeth’s crew were given a big welcome back to their home base of Portsmouth after sailing 49,000nm to the Indo-Pacific and back. Royal Navy’s flagship aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth returned to Portsmouth after her global seven month maiden operational deployment leading Carrier Strike Group 21. In total 3,700 personnel from nine ships, a submarine, five air squadrons and a company of Royal Marines arrived home in time for Christmas having left the UK in early May. Defence Secretary Ben Wallace said: “The personnel and their families have made considerable sacrifices to make this deployment the success it has been. We thank them for all their efforts in strengthening our relationships with our allies and partners around the world.” Families and friends gathered to meet their loved ones. 25 of those

deployed on CSG21 met their babies, who were born in the last seven months, for the first time. Able Seaman Thomas Corby (First deployment in the Royal Navy) said: “The thing that I am looking forward to when I get home is being able to hug my grandparents again for the first time in nearly two years owing to Covid and the deployment. The highlight of the deployment for me was meeting the Prime Minister and talking him through how we drive the ship.” The Carrier Strike Group sailed across three oceans and five seas, cumulatively covering around 500,000nm. The group has engaged with 44 countries, strengthening partnerships with allies including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, France, Greece, Israel, India, Italy, Japan, Oman and the Republic of Korea. Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said: “Throughout the past seven months HMS Queen Elizabeth and her Strike Group have been furthering the UK’s interests and strengthening our partnerships around the globe. With involvement from across the Armed Forces, and our allies integrated throughout, this deployment has been a truly joint, truly international endeavour, which represents the very best of Global Britain.”

Round Ireland Race

The SAC is a catch photograph release event

Image: StoryTailor

Borkumriff II, a 31m schooner, has been listed for sale and is ideal for long-distance adventures or shorter cruises, having sailed around the world and crossed the Atlantic four times. She was originally delivered by German builder Lubbe Voss in 1982. After an extensive 18-month rebuild in 2009 that saw all her on board systems replaced or renewed, she was given further updates in 2019 and 2020 that saw her outfitted with a contemporary new interior as well as all-new sails and a full hull repaint in timeless black and off-white. She is listed for sale for €2.6M with the brokerage firm YachtFull.

SMALL CRAFT CHARTS

The UK Hydrographic Office has launched its ADMIRALTY Small Craft Charts service - formerly known as ADMIRALTY Leisure Chart Folios. This follows the news in May that UKHO will withdraw the regional folio structure for these charts. Instead users can purchase those charts that are relevant to their needs rather than the full regional folio. Until at least October 2022 users of the pre-existing ADMIRALTY Leisure Chart Folios will continue to be supported with Notices to Mariners. However, Folio charts should be replaced by the equivalent new edition Small Craft Chart once a new edition of the source Standard Nautical Charts has been published to ensure users have the latest navigational information. www.admiralty.co.uk/charts/smallcraft-charts

FOR MARINA NEWS SEE PAGE 36

Image: David Branigan/Oceanspor

SEA ANGLING CLASSIC The Sea Angling Classic is a unique international fishing competition taking place on 15 - 19 June, based from Portsmouth and using the diverse Solent fishing grounds. The event is a catch, photograph and release format, focusing on five species: Tope, Smooth hound, Rays, Bass and Black Bream. With the most valuable prize table ever offered in a UK sea fishing event, the competition has already captured the imagination of anglers. It is not difficult to see why with a £150,000 prize table on offer in the Recreational Boat Category including a high spec, fully rigged Extreme 745 Game King and trailer. The Charter Boat Category has a £50,000 prize table too. The event will be much more than a sea fishing competition as Angling Spirit and Sea Angling Classic founder Ross Honey explained: “This will be an event like no

other, tying together environmental cleanups and research, education, business and conservation while encouraging the next generation of anglers.” “We are working with numerous event partners, including the University of Portsmouth, to provide them with our fishing data to aid their research into the Solent’s flora and fauna, including its native seagrass. The Angling Trust will be bringing newcomers into the sport with special children’s activities.” To celebrate the build-up to the Sea Angling Classic, a new online live show Hooked! is being launched this month. Anglers, participants and anyone with an interest in sea angling will be able to join Ross Honey and various guests for the fortnightly online show (streamed via the Sea Angling Classic Facebook page) for an insight into the event, fishing tips, an opportunity to ask questions and more.

CLASSIC REGATTA FOR YOUNGSTERS

The Classic Young Sailors Foundation has launched an appeal to raise £9,000 for a sailtraining voyage for disadvantaged youngsters at next year’s Classic Channel Regatta. The Foundation aims to financially support a crew of nine young people on a nine-night voyage on the Island Trust’s replica Bristol Channel Pilot Cutter Pegasus, which will include participating in the 2022 Classic Channel Regatta. They will be on board for 10 days in early July, initially sailing from Plymouth to Dartmouth for two days of racing there, before racing in the Classic Channel Race to Paimpol in Brittany where the regatta will be at the heart of the town’s Bastille Day celebrations. There will then be a further race around the Île de Bréhat off Paimpol before sailing back across the Channel to Plymouth. www.cysf.org.uk

Online entry for the 704nm SSE Renewables Round Ireland Race opens on 24 January. After cancelling the 2020 race due to the pandemic, the 21st edition of this classic offshore event is being planned with relevant precautions in place to ensure a safe experience. The course follows the traditional route first contested in 1980 that states “leave Ireland and its islands to starboard” while starting and finishing at the scenic port of Wicklow on the east coast of Ireland. Berthing facilities at the pier and quays close to Wicklow Sailing Club’s base will be available, while the Royal

Irish Yacht Club in nearby Dun Laoghaire will once again act as a second club base for registration and inspection. Starting on 18 June, the event is also well-timed to allow completion of the race in good time to deliver to Crosshaven on the south coast for the biennial Cork Week and special celebrations of the 300th anniversary of the Royal Cork YC, which claims to be the world’s oldest yacht club. Entry will be open to IRC-rated yachts of at least 9.15m/30 feet overall and MOCRA-rated multihulls of 9.0m/29.53 feet with prizes awarded in a variety of categories.

DOGS AFLOAT Send your photos! editor@allatsea.co.uk

“This is Alfie, our Jack Russell Terrier who is sailing with us on our yacht in Greece. He loved sailing and swimming off the boat with us!” Sue Hattersley Does your dog love the water too? Send your photos to: editor@allatsea.co.uk

WIN A LIFEJACKET!

Make sure your dog is safe at sea! Here is your chance to win a dog life jacket courtesy of insurance company Pantaenius. Simply email us a photo of your dog on board, along with a suitable caption. Contact the team at Pantaenius today for your personal quote: quotes@pantaenius.co.uk / 01752 223 656.

BIGGER AND BETTER Image: Bob Martin for SailGP

SailGP will return for its third season with additional new teams, more iconic cities and thrilling racing. The global championship welcomes two new franchise teams for its third season, with Canada and Switzerland joining teams from Australia, Denmark, France, Great Britain, Japan, New Zealand, Spain and the United States. SailGP Season 3 has also been expanded to include 10 events, with seven grands prix taking place in 2022 and the remainder in the first quarter of 2023. The championship kicks-off in Bermuda again, and from there, the 10-nation fleet will head to a new SailGP destination in North America and a home race for Jimmy Spithill’s US team at Chicago’s Navy Pier on Lake Michigan in June.

The fleet will arrive in Europe for the summer with four European events planned. Following successful events in Season 2, SailGP will return to Plymouth over 30 – 31 July. The 2021 event saw an estimated 27,500 spectators enjoying the racing and £6.9 million brought into the local economy. Councillor Nick Kelly, leader of Plymouth City Council, said: “We have worked tirelessly to bring this marvellous event to our shores so that the people of Plymouth can benefit from not only the spectacle of world-class sport on their doorstep, but also the wider economic advantage that thousands flocking to our city will bring.” Great Britain SailGP Team CEO and driver, Ben Ainslie, said: “We are delighted that Plymouth has retained its place for Season 3, it has one of the world’s most visually stunning harbours and its natural amphitheatre creates the perfect SailGP race village for fans to immerse themselves in the racing. “We are looking forward to again supporting our Race For The Future partner, the local community and event organisers in activities that will help amplify positive scientific knowledge and empower young people to take positive action to protect nature, people and our planet.” The Plymouth event will be followed by Saint-Tropez in September and then later the same month Cádiz, in Andalucía, Spain. In addition, the fleet of hydrofoiling F50s will revisit Denmark, but this time, the capital city of Copenhagen will be host. Racing for 2022 will conclude with another new addition as SailGP hosts its first Middle Eastern event in Dubai on 11 - 12 November. Season 3 will continue into 2023 and include an event in New Zealand. The league will continue to give opportunities to female athletes as part of its Women’s Pathway Program as well as its community engagement arm – SailGP Inspire – to introduce young people from diverse backgrounds to the sport and give career opportunities within the wider marine industry. Impact League will also return. This tracks the positive actions the teams make to reduce their overall carbon footprint and help accelerate inclusivity in sailing. The end result is two podiums, one for sport and one for the planet.

Image: David Gray for SailGP. Handout image supplied by SailGP

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

CRASHING OUT

The Great Britain SailGP Team crashed out of the Australian Sail Grand Prix after a collision with the Japan SailGP Team in the final race of the opening day. As the team on board the British F50 were focusing on closing down the gap to the American boat in the pre-start, they did not see the Japanese boat. That error resulted in a significant crash with both boats unable to continue racing, but thankfully no injuries. The day had started well for the British team in the opening race of the day with a second place followed by a fourth. The collision, though, resulted in the British team being docked six points for the event, and two points for the season. Ben Ainslie said: We just did not see them at all which was devastating for both teams. Everyone was ok which is the most important thing, but sadly it probably means the end of our season as we receive hefty penalty points for the damage caused.” Due to the crash, the Japan SailGP Team were initially thought to be unable to compete in their F50 on day two, while Ben Ainslie’s team withdrew from racing under the contact and damage policy rule. Japan’s Nathan Outteridge said: “No one ever

intentionally does that, so it has to be that they did not see us. I think they all feel terrible, no one wants to do that to other boats, the good news is everyone is ok. Unfortunately for us it has ruined our boat and ruined our chances of winning this event.” However, the British team offered the Japan SailGP Team any support they require to enable them to race the following day. In the end the Japanese team hit Sydney Harbour with a hybrid boat that comprised the Great Britain hull and the Japan team’s 24m wingsail and hydrofoils. Despite a heroic effort which saw the team claim both fleet races on day two it was not enough for Japan to make the final, which they missed out on by a solitary point. In the end Tom Slingsby and his Australia SailGP Team claimed a fourth grand prix win out of the last five held beating the USA and Spain in the three-boat final. The championship now races to San Francisco (26 – 27 March), with the event’s additional five qualifying races deciding which team will complete the trifecta to sail against the U.S. and Australia for the Season 2 title and the winner-takes-all $1 million. You can watch a video of the crash at www.allatsea.co.uk/category/news.

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SCALING UP PRODUCTION

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022 Electric watercraft maker Candela has secured a €24M investment from EQT Ventures. The funding will be used to triple R&D, invest in production automation and scale up production. The shift to zero emission boats and ships has been hampered by the enormous energy consumption and correspondingly low range of conventional electric boats. Flying on computer-guided underwater wings - hydrofoils - that massively reduce energy consumption, Candela’s craft soar above the waves in silence, for longer. The active hydrofoil system stabilises the vessels in-flight using computer power and software that accounts for waves and

CAptain’s Mate Upgrade The Cruising Association has released its upgraded CAptain’s Mate app. Putting thousands of cruising reports at users’ fingertips, CAptain’s Mate is packed with features and cruising content, covering over 6,500 locations in more than 70 countries. Lucy Gray, CA general manager, said: “The upgraded CAptain’s Mate app is another milestone in the Cruising Association’s ongoing investment in its member services and digital offering. Yacht or motor cruiser, CAptain’s Mate app is your go to platform.” CAptain’s Mate provides up-to-date and streamlined information on cruising locations, such as anchorage, marina, port, harbour and quay. The app displays detailed information via search and filter functions, including approach

CA Lectures As one of the many benefits of membership, the Cruising Association Sections run a comprehensive Autumn/Winter lecture series, with around 30 lectures from January to early April. To support the wider cruising community, many lectures are open to non-members too. Here is a taster of some of the lectures coming up this month. Please check the CA’s calendar for details on lectures for members and nonmembers: www.theca.org.uk/calendar Turn to page 30 for more news from the Cruising Association.

VAT change for boaters

Following the RYA's meeting with HM Treasury and HMRC, the Government has confirmed that from 1 January 2022, legislation was brought in to give certainty to recreational boat owners that they will not be required to pay a second amount of UK VAT because their vessels have been outside the UK for more than three-years. Confirmation of a Returned Goods Relief waiver is "outstanding news for UK recreational boat owners," according to the RYA. Boat owners returning their vessels to the UK can claim relief from import VAT under RGR if they meet all the conditions for the relief. One of these conditions is that the goods or effects must normally

WIN! 3 COPIES UP FOR GRABS

considerations, availability of and access to key facilities, such as water and fuel, and, if available, supermarket, restaurant and other amenities and boat services like crane and repair options. At the core of CAptain’s Mate is a database of members’ cruising reports, with more than 20,000 member contributions sharing expertise and tips on locations, along with photos. The app shows discount partners close to locations as well as worldwide, and the friend function displays nearby members of the CA community. Available on iOS and Android, once downloaded the app works with no internet connection or phone signal. For those who prefer using a keyboard and larger screen, the app is mirrored on the CA website. www.theca.org.uk/public/ captainsmate

■ 8 January / A Short History of Yachting in the Mediterranean by Rod Heikell ■ 11 January / Anchorages of the Channel Islands – Jersey ■ 13 January / Small Boat Surveying by Toby Lester ■ 18 January / Anchorages of the Channel Islands - Guernsey ■ 20 January / The Pioneer Sailing Trust by Felicity Lees ■ 25 January / Anchorages of the Channel Islands - Alderney ■ 29 January / Cruising Ireland by Norman Kean ■ 30 January / Cruising Scotland by Derek Lumb, Bob Bradfield and Alan Kohler

be re-imported into the UK within three-years of the original date of export. The changes that the Government are introducing are in response to concerns set out by the RYA over the past two-years, ensuring that legislation and GOV.UK guidance is aligned with previous practical application of RGR rules by making it clear that: The normal three-year time limit will be waived for personal effects which are being returned to the UK for the personal use of a UK resident person, without needing to prove that the effects could not be returned within the normal time limit due to exceptional circumstances; that a boat is treated as ‘personal effects’ for the purposes of this waiver. Katherine Green and Sophie Dean, HMRC Directors General, Borders and Trade, said: “We are pleased to be able to provide assurance to the sector that there will be no requirement to pay a second amount of UK VAT if vessels have been outside the UK for more than three years.” Mel Hide, RYA director of external affairs, said: “Confirmation of the waiver that the Government is introducing to RGR is outstanding news for UK recreational boater owners and we welcome it as a pragmatic outcome in response to the considerable amount of time and effort that the RYA has put in to secure this result.” Guidance on RGR will be updated from January once the legislation has been introduced.

side winds, allowing for a wake-free and smoother ride. The company is building on the success of the foiling C-7 sportsboat with the mass market Candela C-8, a day cruiser that the company has close to 100 orders for, just three months after launch. Gustav Hasselskog, CEO of Candela, said: “We are seeing boundless demand for the Candela C-8, as well as huge interest in our commercial vessels. The investment from EQT Ventures will allow us to double down on our mission to speed up the transition to fossil fuel-free lakes and oceans. It took us four years to develop the technology and two more years to master it. Now we are ready to scale up fast.” candela.com

The Sailor’s Bluffing Bible Tim Davison & John Quirk Fernhurst Books, £12.99

For a modest man, Tim Davison has done quite well for himself in the sailing world. He has won National and European championships from the 1970s to 2020s, has skippered his yacht from the Baltic to the Mediterranean and has written more than 20 books on sailing. Maintaining that sailing is too important to be taken seriously, he has used the bluffing skills described in this book to help propel his racing boats to the front of the fleet and his cruising boats to the warm waters of the Med – and back. In The Sailor’s Bluffing Bible, you will learn how to bluff with the best in the sailing club bar and manoeuvre yourself on to sleek yachts and fast dinghies. Once there, the tips on what to do, what to wear and what to say will come in very handy. Whether racing or cruising or on a sailing holiday you will be able to hold your own in conversation, staggering your audience with your sailing knowledge. The Sailor’s Bluffing Bible is illustrated by nautical cartoonist John Quirk. For a chance to win this book enter below or by email to editor@allatsea.co.uk with the subject header Bluffing Bible Competition. Q: What is the name of the cartoonist who has illustrated The Sailor’s Bluffing Bible? A: NAME: ADDRESS:

EMAIL: See postaladdress and competition T&Cs on page 42.

WHERE DO YOU MOOR YOURS? ANSWER: Did you get it right? It is Port Pendennis Marina.

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

POWER TALK

Simon Everett is the man in the know when it comes to what is being launched and the latest technologies emerging in marine engines. Get the inside scoop right here…

IN FAVOUR OF HYDROGEN? The race to decarbonise has polarised industry thinking with, so far, a heavy bias towards electrification for transportation requirements, but recent statements from Japan and South Korea have pointed towards those highly industrialised countries favouring hydrogen and fuel cells as the preferred national policy. There are good reasons for this. Japan has also committed to denuclearisation following the tragedy at Fukushima when a tsunami inundated the nuclear plant there with the inevitable resulting fallout. Do not forget, Japan was the first country to suffer the results of nuclear explosions and one can only imagine the cloud that the population lives under. The Land of the Rising Sun has put forward a compelling argument for their strategy, the main reason being that by going down the hydrogen route the existing infrastructure can be adapted far more easily and economically than having to install an entire new system of support, which in any case would be insufficient to provide enough power for the constant demand. Honda has been working on hydrogen fuelled outboards for eight or 10 years. The fact that Japan has decided to invest heavily in the development in hydrogen to replace fossil fuels must surely accelerate the wider take-up. How this translates into engine news for the British marine market is as a pointer to a

Image: ezps/Shutterstock

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more effective alternative to the constant bid to electrification. As if by magic Cox Marine have announced they will be working with Brighton University to convert one of their diesel outboards to run as a dual fuel diesel/hydrogen engine. This is part of the Port of Portsmouth initiative to create the first zero emissions maritime hub and has been entitled SHAPE (Shipping, Hydrogen and Port Ecosystems UK). The UK is in a good position to provide technological expertise and to develop the infrastructure giving birth to a new economic driver. Staying with the diesel outboard theme, OXE has partnered with Jet-Tech propulsion and developed a high performance waterjet model of the OXE diesel outboard. Waterjet propulsion is particularly suitable for use in shallow water and where there is a high risk of interaction with marine mammals, which is probably of more interest on the Intercoastal Waterway than the English Channel, but it shows

commitment to the diesel outboard concept, especially in commercial applications. The beauty of going down the hydrogen route is that it will maintain the viability of existing machinery. Imagine the ecological impact of replacing all those engines already in existence, rather than being able to make use of them. It is like running your car for 20 years, rather than changing it every three years, which is an ecological disaster and not at all green.

YOUR THOUGHTS

Would you welcome the use of hydrogen fuelled craft in recreational boating? We would love to know your thoughts... Post a comment at the All at Sea Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ allatseanewspaper) or send us an email at editor@allatsea.co.uk.

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

HOT TOPIC

We discuss important topics with marine industry experts who share their opinions and top tips to help you get the most from your boating.

All images: Boat Club Trafalgar

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A NAVIGATION APP

Hannah Cotterell, community manager at the savvy navvy boating app, considers the key things to look for in a boat navigation app.

arine navigation apps are a big topic with modern and traditional boaters alike. Some hate them, some love them and although we would always say it is important to fully understand the essential techniques of traditional navigation, there is no denying that technical innovations are helping keep people safe by providing a cross-check to traditional navigation, and in turn, enabling more people to enjoy time out on the water. So, what should you look for when scrolling through the endless options available? Here we discuss a few essential things to consider. Chart Data: the most important topic to start with is to look up your app’s information on where they source the chart data. Ensure they use official sources, such as hydrographic offices, so you know you are working with the most up-to-date and reliable information.

User-Friendly: If you think boating apps are complicated to use then think again. Modern boating apps are increasingly being developed with the end-user in mind. So when selecting an app make sure you are happy with how easy it is to use, how it looks and whether or not it is easy to navigate your way through all the options without getting lost and giving up. Remember these apps are supposed to make your life easier, not harder. Flexibility: Look for the option to change your screen interface depending on what you would like to do. For example, it is always great to have the option to view your charts in satellite mode, to take a closer look around harbours, marinas and bays. It is also nice to have the option of ‘chart mode’ where the app focuses on key nautical chart information rather than land-based details. In addition, it is important to have the option of ‘night mode’ so you can preserve your night vision when underway after dark. Consider getting an app that lets you use it on any boat. One weekend you might be on a motorboat (and more concerned about ETAs and fuel consumption) and the next on a sail boat searching for the best wind. Apps like savvy navvy that let you adjust your boat

settings between motorboats, sailboats and catamarans enable you to create passage plans that are designed for the type of vessel you are using that day. Automatic Route Planning: Having an app that can cross-check your traditional passage plan is great for peace of mind. By using savvy routing™, for example, you can calculate a highly detailed route in seconds on any device, compare it with your traditional navigation plans and then export it for use with your chartplotter.

Route Sharing: It is always nice to share your route either with other people sailing in another boat on a similar route or with your friends and family, so they know where you are going and can ensure you arrive safely. GPS Positioning: Being able to see your live position and check your Course Over Ground and Speed Over Ground is really handy if you do not need a full passage plan. In addition, visual distance markers around your location can be really useful to calculate the distance between your boat and key features around you. Offline: Ensure your app is able to work offline by downloading charts and weather

packs so you can continue to look at essential information or plan routes even when out of the reach of phone or WiFi signal. Distance Measurement: If you are not looking to plan an elaborate route and would just like to do a quick ETA in your head, make sure your app provides a distance ruler for quick references. Tides and Weather: It used to be the case that boaters used four or more apps to plan a trip at sea, which can be cumbersome. Now it is possible to get essential marine information in one place including tide, weather, routing and charts. www.savvy-navvy.com

Storing your boat indoors will help protect it from the elements

SHORE STYLE

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

MUSTANG SURVIVAL

It is always interesting to hear about newcomers to the UK market. Late last year the Wing Group launched its Mustang Survival range to Europe. Mustang Survival has actually been involved in the design and manufacture of lifesaving solutions since 1967, catering to the full range of users from recreational to military, and even NASA. Key products were showcased at METSTRADE including the men’s Hudson and women’s Helix drysuits. We will bring news of UK distributors as we receive it.

RENVYLE HOODED SPRAY TOP

Are you in the market for a new hooded smock? Typhoon’s spray top, the Renvyle Hooded Smock, is made from a two-layer TX-2 fabric and is designed to be waterproof, wind proof and highly breathable. Its ergonomic design, featuring hard wearing adjustable PU cuff seals, saltwater safe trims and a neoprene waistband with twin side adjusters, offers unrestricted movement as well as durability. The collar is fleece lined for maximum warmth and comfort, and the stowable hood can be adjusted with a drawcord. A large front pocket completes the design of this versatile hooded smock. Sizes: S – XXL £89.95 www.typhoon-int.co.uk

FLEXLITE VAPOUR WINS

When investing in sailing gear it is always reassuring to buy something that has already been tried and tested. Musto’s Flexlite Vapour, designed for fast-paced dinghy sailing, won ‘Clothing Innovation of the Year’ at the 2021 British Yachting Awards. The range, comprising seven pieces, was developed in tandem with the British Sailing Team, who wore items from the line-up at major championships throughout the last year. The range includes the men’s Flexlite Vapour 1.0 Long John, Pant, Long Sleeve top and Short. The Women’s Flexlite Vapour Pant and Top, meanwhille, offer adapted colour panels and a more feminine fit. Flexlite Vapour 1.0 Long John: £220 Flexlite Vapour 1.0 Pant: £170 Flexlite Vapour 1.0 Long Sleeve top: £140 Flexlite Vapour 1.0 Short: £130 www.musto.com

Feadship has launched its own range of premium branded merchandise. Sourced and designed in-house together with an expert in sustainable clothing, the collection is made to the high-end quality expected of the superyacht builder. From trims made partly with recycled plastic from the sea to the buttons of upcycled pearl shells, they have included multiple links to the oceanic theme. www.feadship-oceancollection.com

GARMIN GPSMAP 79S

The Coast PolySteel 1000 torch is storm proof, crush proof, drop proof and dust resistant. The torch, available from Nauticalia, offers a pure white LED beam, which can be focused, and three power levels so that you can control your light power with the push of a button. Cycle between full light, medium light and low light options. It is ideal for use in rugged, high-impact environments. £64.95 www.nauticalia.com

T u r n to page 40 to win! BALTIC LIFEJACKETS

The Slim Pro and Slim Reflective buoyancy aids from Baltic have a very slim fit, with an ergonomically designed back plate. The adjustable sides are made of soft neoprene, and the entire vest is lined with mesh for extra comfort and breathability. The Slim Reflective is for those looking for the highest possible visibility and comes with a retro-reflective cover. Size: Small 30 - 50kg, Medium 50 – 70kg, Large 70 – 90kg, X Large 90+ kg Colours: Pro - black and white / Reflective - silver £60.00 Slim Pro and £70.00 Slim Reflective www.baltic.se

JON BUOY CASES

Ocean Safety has extended its Jon Buoy Man Overboard Recovery range with the addition of a soft case option for its Jon Buoy Inflatable Rescue Sling and its Jon Buoy Inflatable Horseshoe. The soft case gives more stowage options on board and is easier to deploy when required. Offering flexibility when it comes to positioning, the soft case option comes with a hook and loop universal mounting system, allowing it to be mounted anywhere, from bulkhead to guard rail, or on a land-based fixture. Jon Buoy Glo Lite Horseshoe Soft Case from £128.97 Jon Buoy Glo Lite Rescue Sling Soft Case from £177.42 www.oceansafety.com

KIT BAG

COAST POLYSTEEL 1000 TORCH

FEADSHIP’S NEW OCEAN COLLECTION

From Garmin comes the GPSMAP 79s, which is designed to equip boaters with a suite of essential, easy-to-use on board navigation tools from the palm of their hand. Dan Bartel, Garmin vice president of global consumer sales, explained: “Along with a fresh new design, easy-to-interpret mapping and modern features, the GPSMAP 79 Series offers greater peace of mind and more efficient on-water navigation as mariners search for promising fishing spots or set out on a weekend cruise.” £299 www.garmin.com

DOUGAL

on tour

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

Solent based dinghy sailor David Henshall is a well known writer and speaker on topics covering the rich heritage of all aspects of leisure boating.

Dirty Waters

When we go out in our boats how often can we honestly say that we think about what is in the water around us? Perhaps you might take a closer look next time… The heavy, cast iron sewer pipes were at the mercy of wave action and settlement, at which point leakage could occur straight out on to a popular bathing beach. Image: David Henshall

corrective action is taken. Quite rightly, there has been a storm of protest and we will be following up on this story as it unfolds, for this is too important a topic to ignore. Having the waters around our coasts so polluted is a situation that must not be allowed to continue. And yet, before we jump on to the bandwagon of popular megaphone politics, it is worth stepping back and taking a longer and harder look at where we are, as this must surely help inform us as how we can best proceed. We often chart the growth of leisure boating back to that golden era in the 1960s, when getting afloat was the thing to do, and it is at this point that I should hold my hand up to admitting that I was already afloat myself by then. Better still, I lived in a house that backed on to the beach of Southampton Water, so in many ways I am a true ‘child of the Solent’. I grew up with the water as a back garden, and we were as likely to be in it as on it.

they are today, but I would struggle to explain just how bad they really were! For starters, this is not just a problem of today, or even one of recent times, but a situation that has roots as far back as the Middle Ages, a time when coastal trade was becoming increasingly international, which saw port areas such as Southampton and Portsmouth growing fast. Yet as the docksides and wharfs spread out, nothing had been done to deal with the massive increase in population, which saw the Solent’s double tides as little more than an ‘extended flush’ that carried the daily discharges from the cities out to sea. Little wonder that over 500 years ago there were complaints about the state of the water around Southampton, saying that “inhabitants of this Towne, espetially those dwellings nere about the watergate, doe cast the filth of there howses into the sea which is very dangerous for destroyenge the harbor”.

The good old days?

The problem then, just as it is now, is one of growth. Detailed records going back into our history show how the concentration of population into areas such as Southampton and Portsmouth had placed an incredible burden on all of the services needed, with the provision

However, before we set the tumbrils rolling down the streets, we need to understand that back in the ‘old days’, yes, those supposedly glorious, freewheeling golden years of the 1960s, that things were not only worse than

A growth problem

“No wonder the environmentalists have described the central South Coast, and the Solent in particular, as being one of the most ‘stressed’ areas around our coasts.”

ere at All at Sea we are proud to be able to bring you the news without getting dragged down into any of the great political debates of the day. Taking this stance is not always easy, as events in the bigger world do have an impact on our lives as boaters, be that in the issues of taking our boats abroad post Brexit, the ever-rising cost of fuel or the rights and wrongs of restrictions caused by the Covid pandemic. However, there is a debate that is currently raging in the Press that really does impact on us as we ‘go down to the sea in ships’ for it apparently seems that for various reasons some Water companies have been allowing torrents of untreated sewage to pour into our coastal waters and inland rivers. In some areas the situation is now serious, with the sailing hotspot of Chichester Harbour starting to look like, not to mention smell like, an open drain. I motored around a number of popular sailing locations and was disturbed to find large areas of mis-coloured and foul-smelling water that undoubtedly said ‘sewage’!

Wildlife at risk

The boating community are not the only ones that use the harbour, as the whole complex of wetlands and waterways has long been renowned for the diversity and quality of the wildlife who have relied on us to share it, without destroying it. Yet, looking at the statistics, the fear now is that it is not just that the wildlife in the harbour is under threat, but that there is a real risk of it being killed off before belatedly

The recent headlines about massive discharges of untreated waste into the sea and inland waterways is a national scandal. In a new three part series, local sailor Dougal Henshall looks at how things were, then how they now are, before hopefully looking to a brighter, cleaner future for our seas. Image: Jon Shore/Shutterstock

Even in the calm of a foggy day, the bell buoy will still ring out its warning to approaching sailors. Image: Dan Hanscom / Shutterstock

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022 Today, the SS Shieldhall offers amazing local trips around the Solent on a genuine steamship. Yet, by design, her role was much less charming, as she took tank loads of heavy sewage sludge and flushed it out into the open waters south of the Isle of Wight Image: Peter Titmuss/Shutterstock

of sewage treatment being almost nonexistent until we move forward into the era of the Victorians. Even then, rather than sewage being discharged with the storm water overflows as can happen today, the drains and sewers simply emptied straight into the sea. Everything that went down the ‘water closet’ would bubble back up, untreated in any way, into our coastal waters. There were measures put in place to minimise the impact, with the drains feeding into sewer pipes that were built out from the shoreline to reach below the point of low water springs, so in theory the successive tides would disperse the outfalls. The pipes were supposed to be fitted with a ‘clapper’, a mechanical cup that was operated by tidal pressure, so that it only opened on the ebb. In today’s enlightened thinking, it is hard to report this as being a ‘good’ idea, but it was the best that could be done at the time. However, the nutrient rich contents of the pipe attracted high levels of marine growth and a combination of this and poor maintenance meant that many pipes were open at all stages of the tide. A hot day in summer, with a tide at the top of neaps, with little in the way of tidal flow, and an ugly, bubbling slick would soon form. Then, get an onshore sea-breeze and the inevitable happened, with the whole lot ending up on the beach. Nor was it just the clappers that suffered from poor maintenance, as building extended pipes out over the inter-tidal zone, often across soft mud, was an expensive and time-consuming business. Heavy and prone to damage, either from boat strikes or from the settlement of the foundations, would see the start of ‘content leakage’ closer to the shore.

Flushing into the sea

As recently as the 1950s and early 1960s, the popular sailing area of Southampton Water looked like an open drain, smelt like one and in those early days of wetsuits, you had to wash them out after use, otherwise by the following weekend they would be festering. Times were becoming more enlightened though, and sewage treatment plants started the process of cleaning up our waters, except that there was a limit to what they could do. This was already a quantum leap forward from the earlier efforts of

simply letting the tide do the job of diluting the mess, but it was far from perfect, as the by-product of the sewage treatment was a heavy ‘sludge’. There was only one way to handle this tricky product, and that was to pipe it into specially constructed tankers, who would then sail offshore to an area of deep and open waters, where the tanks would be opened, flushing the sludge into the sea. The justification for this approach was that this was ‘open’ water and that there was nothing there, so this was okay. One such tanker was the Shieldhall, which was famous for being built on the Clyde with triple expansion steam engines (similar in operation to those used on the RMS Titanic). After disposing of Glasgow’s sludge for 20 years, the Shieldhall moved south to perform a similar task, taking the waste from Southampton to dump it off the back of the Island. Now one must not make allegations, after all a valve could have stuck somewhere, but on a number of occasions, as the Shieldhall puffed her way down Southampton Water and into the Solent she left a lengthening, foul smelling slick in her wake that bubbled as it stained the water brown.

Our beaches would be in an even worse state, were it not for the incredible efforts of the next generation who work so hard during the Final Straw Foundation beach cleans. Image: Final Straw Foundation

Not just sewage

It would be wrong though, to think that sewage was the only problem around the Solent, as in those less than environmentally aware days, there were other problems too. Major oil spills from either the Hamble or Fawley terminals varied from an unpleasant surface scum that left a tide line on the hull (I have no idea what it did to the local sailors) to the more serious breaches that left the sea carpeted in a thick layer of crude oil. This was great fun for the boys of the waterside villages, as stones thrown in made no splash, but vanished silently beneath the dark oily blanket on the surface. Even though some of these spills were 50 years ago, it is still possible to walk along the high tide line and find stones that still have a dark oily patina on them than can be scratched off with a fingernail.

Playing our part

A classic Victorian sewer pipe, that extends out to the low-water springs margin, but be in no doubt that this carried completely untreated sewage. Image: David Henshall

And finally, we should not forget the part that we ourselves played, as sailors out afloat. Sailing in one of the slower classes in Cowes Week was easy, in that you did not need a navigator. One simply followed the trail of discarded Coke bottles (pre-cans!), Mars Bar wrappers, banana skins and the like. Recycling was still a way off into the future, it did not matter what it was, things were used and then ‘ditched’ overboard. In what is still the ‘recent past’ I was Race Officer for a major Solent event that featured two races in the day. After waiting for the back markers to finish the first heat, we got the second start away, then looked in disbelief at the Start Area, which looked as if a well laden bin lorry had sunk on its way through. No wonder the environmentalists have described the central South Coast, and the Solent in particular, as being one of the most ‘stressed’ areas around our coasts. A strange tidal pattern that floated Southampton sewage to Portsmouth and then visa versa on the ebb, regular oils spills and unchecked ‘gash’ disposal straight into the water. So, whilst things may be bad today they were worse yesterday. But next month in Part 2 we will look at how bad – or good - things are today. Then, in Part 3, we can hopefully look forward to a cleaner and brighter future – or can we?

Shootin’ the Breeze We catch up with Sam Goodchild, fresh from racing on board Leyton in November’s Transat Jacques Vabre. TELL US ABOUT THE BOAT YOU

RACED AND HOW YOU WORKED WITH YOUR CO-SKIPPER AYMERIC CHAPPELLIER.

SG: The boat is a 50ft trimaran; it is light and fast but also more stable upside down than the right way up. The sailing part is like all other sailing boats but you cannot take as much risk because the price for overstepping the line is game over. If you get caught out by a squall or too much wind you are in danger of capsizing. When the wind gets above 18 knots the safety element is more important. Aymeric is an experienced shorthanded sailor and came second in the Route du Rhum. His engineering background means his technical knowledge is second to none. He is also the team manager of our sailing team so he really knows the boat. It was not just race preparation, we built the whole 2021 project together so it is a relationship we have had for a long time. We are both all-round sailors, so our relationship is complementary and we share a lot of the same ambitions and desires.

WHICH SAILORS HAVE INSPIRED YOU (PAST OR PRESENT)?

SG: When I was younger, Alex Thompson and Mike Golding. Once I moved to France and started learning about offshore racing, watching fellow Musto ambassador Jeremie Beyou dominate the Figaro was inspiring. There are so many legends in the sport and I try to look at every sailor and learn all I can from them. Sam and Aymeric were third in the Ocean Fifty class in the 2021 Transat Jacques Vabre

The only non-French sailor in the Ocean Fifty class in the 2021 Transat Jacques Vabre, Sam Goodchild took third place on board Leyton, 3 hours 48 minutes and 29 seconds behind class winner Primonial. With co-skipper Aymeric Chappellier, Sam completed the TJV course from Le Havre to Martinique in 15 days 17 hours 15 minutes and 43 seconds.

HOW DID YOU FIRST GET INTO SAILING AND WHAT WAS YOUR ROUTE TO THE TRANSAT JACQUES VABRE?

SG: I got into sailing by living on a boat with my parents - they decided to go on a world tour when I was a baby. It became a lifestyle for us so I grew up on a boat. I realised I could make a living sailing through my introduction to The British Keelboat Academy, which had Alex Thompson racing, as well as Hugo Boss and 5 Degrees West. I did a Transat and a trip across the pacific with them when I was 17, and then a few days after my A-Levels they asked me to help their technical team with odd jobs. It was those experiences that made me want to pursue sailing as a career. My first experience with the Transat Jacques Vabre was in 2011, and I have been trying to get as much experience as I can ever since. My big break came when I met Leyton three years ago; I have gone from being the co-skipper to the skipper of their small Figaro to the skipper of the 50ft trimaran.

WHAT WERE YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN THE TRANSAT JACQUES VABRE?

SG: The biggest challenge we had was the first 12 24 hours. It was our first shorthanded Transat on a multihull and, while there are similarities to sailing shorthanded on a monohull or fully crewed on a multihull, there were a few differences we needed to iron out. Unfortunately it was a race where the first 24 hours were crucial and the 10 - 15 miles we lost then widened when we got past Portugal and we spent the next two weeks trying to catch up. We also had to find a mode of sailing that was safe and fast and was not too high maintenance in terms of trimming. The other challenge was getting used to working with a navigator on land. It was a new experience for me and that relationship of decision making and discussion was something we had to develop throughout the race.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN HOW THE WEATHER YOU ENCOUNTERED AFFECTED YOUR TACTICS AND THE BOAT HANDLING?

SG: When you set off from the English channel in November you expect storms. We ended up drifting around for 24 – 36 hours in the Bay of Biscay. So it was not exactly as expected, but it proved to be a key point in the race. The biggest difficulty was finding out where to go tactically because once we got into trade winds the sail changes were fairly simple. In terms of manoeuvres, it was a fairly mild Transat Jacques Vabre. Sam has a busy 2022 coming up including the Route du Rhum and Pro Sailing Tour

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

WHAT WERE YOUR CONSIDERATIONS WHEN CHOOSING YOUR KIT?

SG: When we packed our bags and got to the start line we were not sure if we would go south in shorts or head hard west - we needed to be ready for all weather conditions. I ended up taking Musto HPX Gear - the Gore Tex fabric is really durable and breathable, so it keeps you warm in foul weather but stops you sweating in the heat.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COMPETITIVE RACE SO FAR IN YOUR CAREER AND WHAT RACE(S) DO YOU STILL WANT TO TAKE ON?

SG: I enjoy the Figaro the most, especially last year. It did not end particularly well for me but I had three very competitive legs and had a great race. I felt like I had the boat speed and the tactics to stay in the game. My biggest aim is the Vendée Globe, but I am focusing on the Route du Rhum right now.

WHAT IS COMING UP FOR YOU IN 2022?

SG: We are doing another season in the Ocean Fifty, with four grand prix events for the Pro Sailing Tour. We are also doing the Dream Cup, a single-handed 1,000 mile race in July. The Route du Rhum is our overarching focus for the year though. My work with the Magenta Project is also ongoing. We had a successful year, and had great feedback from the women and girls who came sailing with us. I hope we can keep helping people who do not have the opportunities I had when I started my sailing career.

Sam Goodchild is a Musto ambassador. For more information visit www.musto.com.

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

Shootin’ the Breeze Q We catch up with Annie O’sullivan, skipper of Maiden, which is kicking off a new world tour this month.

COVID FORCED THE POSTPONEMENT OF MAIDEN’S TOUR IN MARCH 2020. YOU SHOULD HAVE BEEN ON BOARD, SO WHAT SAILING HAVE YOU BEEN ABLE TO DO IN THE MEANTIME?

The short answer is very little, but I was lucky living in Cowes at the time and having friends with boats. When restrictions allowed I was able to ‘escape’ to the sea. I sailed to Yarmouth on a folk boat, did Cowes Week on a Sigma 33, sailed many times to Poole on a bilge keeler and did some local regattas.

TELL US ABOUT THE NEW DP WORLD TOUR WHICH BEGINS THIS MONTH?

It is very exciting! DP World are such a great fit with Maiden and her mission as three of their legacy areas are education, women’s empowerment and oceans. Maiden arrived in Dubai at the beginning of December ahead of her new three-year world tour, sailing around the globe raising awareness and funds for girls’ education and encouraging girls into STEM subjects increasing their career and life opportunities. In this post pandemic and unstable world never before has the importance of girls’ education been so vital, so we will do our best to change the narrative of just what a girl can do.

WHO ARE THE CREW JOINING YOU ON BOARD?

We have two returning crew, Erica Lush (USA) and Amalia Infante (Spain), one former crew, Belle Henry (Aus), has become our shore manager and there are two Brits, Ami Hopkins and Heather Thomas. We will be taking on two apprentices each year, giving them experience, developing them to Yachtmaster, building confidence and equipping them with skills to further their sailing careers. The first two apprentices are Alesea Charles and Junella King from Antigua.

WHAT DO YOU THINK CAN BE DONE TO ENCOURAGE MORE WOMEN TO CHOOSE MARITIME CAREERS?

Annie O’Sullivan at the helm. Image: The Maiden Factor

WHEN DID YOU FIRST GET INTO SAILING?

When I was at school in London I was quite sporty and was offered the opportunity to sail a dinghy on a not so glamourous reservoir in Tottenham as the only girl. In between jobs I went backpacking in Australia and met someone needing crew for a race; it was amazing! I really got into managing the boat with Gill, the Yachtmaster I had met. At night I slept outside on the deck, we swam to deserted islands and enjoyed the beauty, it was brilliant. I loved every minute of it and was hooked.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE TO SAIL?

HOW DID YOU GET INVOLVED WITH THE MAIDEN FACTOR?

It was through a chance encounter with Tracy Edwards. I met Tracy in 2001 at a talk she was giving in a school. She was already a heroine of mine; I had watched the moment on TV when she returned to Southampton to a rapturous welcome and had read all her books. Years later it was the Greig City Academy sailing project, set up by the amazing John Holt, that put us back in touch. Luckily for me the skipper position became available and I jumped at the chance. Why not, with a combination of sailing the seas and inspiring and empowering girls around the world through education?

I love the Caribbean (who doesn’t!), but The Solent is an incredible stretch of water and my favourite place to be. I have been sailing/teaching around Cowes for more than 15 years. It is never dull. There are so many places to explore and a huge variety of moorings/ marinas to visit with challenging weather patterns where you really get four seasons in one day.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE REGATTAS TO TAKE PART IN?

Definitely Cowes Week – the spectacle of having more than 500 boats racing around this tiny stretch of water, from the smallest dinghies to lavish superyachts, is a sight to behold. There is always a ‘windy Wednesday’ (or Thursday) that gets everyone very excited. There is also a great family feeling, and I often feel like I am part of making history just by taking part. It is a phenomenal week.

AS AN RYA YACHTMASTER INSTRUCTOR, WHAT IS THE MOST REWARDING ASPECT OF YOUR WORK?

Apart from the biggest role of teaching people to sail, it was developing the fantastic sailing talent out there. There are some amazing instructors out there now. I am honoured to have worked with and supported some amazing sailors, like Sophie O’Neil, Vicky Ellis and Nikki Henderson, who went on to great careers in sailing,. These sailors, and others, are outstanding role models for girls and women in sailing and life.

L to R: Alesea Charles (Antigua); Erica Lush (USA); Ami Hopkins (UK); Amalia Infante (Sp); Tracy Edwards MBE; Heather Thomas (UK) and skipper Annie O’Sullivan (UK). Image: The Maiden Factor

“In this post pandemic and unstable world never before has the importance of girls’ education been so vital, so we will do our best to change the narrative of just what a girl can do.”

I think it needs an attitude shift. It is happening, but more needs to be done. Whether it is a career in sailing or a career in maritime industries, there is the phrase ‘a girl needs to see it to be it’, which I really believe is so true. In sailing you only have to look at someone like Pip Hare, who is amazing and as good as any man in sailing, and also the many women working at DP World in previously traditional ‘male’ roles.

WHAT BOAT DO YOU OWN AND WHAT IS YOUR DREAM BOAT?

I sold my Elan 37 and my Beneteau 40.7, much to my sadness, but it gave me the opportunity to jump on other boats and see what they are like to form my idea of a dream boat in the future. Maiden has got to be one of my dream boats, the history behind her, the inspiration and I cannot wait to sail her into Sydney one day … www.themaidenfactor.org

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

PHOTO OF THE YEAR

Send your vote to editor@allatsea.co.uk or vote online at the All at Sea Facebook page (www.facebook.com/allatseanewspaper This month we are asking you to vote for your favourite reader photo of 2021. Here are the best images sent in over the past 12 months. To be in with a chance of winning next year send in your photos now!

THE BEST OF 2021!

APRIL

Send your entries, with a caption, to editor@allatsea.co.uk with the subject header Photo of the Month FEBRUARY

“A wild sea at Teignmouth”. April’s winner was Paul Hruza.

MAY

The finale to a gorgeous sunny day out on the water was this super sunset at Hythe Marina Village. Sent in by Timo Galeon.

MARCH “I took this while motor-sailing aboard a Cornish Shrimper on the stretch of river between Gins Farm and the Solent with the Needs Ore old Coastguard Cottages in the background. I have worked here in the yacht brokerage office in earlier days and never, in many years, have I seen two seal crew enjoying an owner’s tender!” Thanks to Richard Bagnall for this pic, which was our May winner..

JUNE

The start line of Ilfracombe YC ‘Around Lundy Island Race’. Thanks to Mike Elmer for sending in this photo.

“Entering The Needles.” This stunning shot was sent in by Jan Steadman.

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

JULY

We love this unusual picture of Sovereign Lighthouse, Eastbourne taken by James Robert-Poulain.

AUGUST

Dan Shillaker took this winning photo on a Sunsail bareboat holiday in Procida, Italy.

SEPTEMBER

Another seal winner! We love this photo from Pat Selby taken while kayaking of a very laid back seal at Brixham.

OCTOBER

This was taken on The River Ore at Orford, very early one August morning by Peter Wright. The colours are beautiful.

NOVEMBER

“Fun at Bembridge Beach.” This was sent in by regular contributor to these pages Karen Howcroft.

DECEMBER

What a beautiful place to sail. This Devon photo was sent in by Terry and was our last winner of the year..

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

Adventures of Naughty Cat

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ast time we heard from Bekki and Gordon as they began their adventure sailing to Guernsey to have Animal Health Certificates completed for their four felines, before heading to the islands of Herm and Sark followed by Jersey. We catch up with the couple as they departed St. Helier for Fance. We set off from St Helier at 05:15 for an anchorage on Ile de Brehat, off the northern coast of Brittany. Winds were only 5.4kn, the skies were dark and cloudy so we had to travel under engine. Slowly the wind increased to 17.3kn, so under full sail and making good progress we changed our plan and headed for Roscoff in Brittany. In rolling sea swell and heavy rain, we finally moored up at 20:00. This was our first experience of Europe post Brexit. We had plenty of forms from the marina and customs to complete and, as France had very strict Covid regulations at that time, masks were worn in all indoor spaces. We also needed the Covid Pass QR code, which proves you are double vaccinated. I had spent a long time in the UK downloading the app and getting all the correct documentation saved on to our phones. Roscoff is a lovely town with lots of excellent restaurants and quaint shops. We were happy to spend a couple of days there sampling the cuisine and definitely recommend it as a stopover. We had always planned to use our Passeport Escales in each marina, so we left the marina two days later at 05:30, heading for L’Aber Wrac’h to the west.

Persian Chinchillas loving life afloat...

Jumping Ship

Gordon steers the couple to their next destination

Clear Communications

Each time we enter or leave a port it is my responsibility to stand at the bow of our yacht, keep watch and, using our bluetooth headsets, give Gordon clear instructions to enable him to enter/exit the port safely. On our catamaran it is impossible to see the opposite bow from the helm and purchasing the Sena Expand Boom communication system was probably one of the best things we did. When we are manoeuvring in or out of a marina, anchoring or in rough seas when changing sails it provides us with safety and security knowing that we can always hear each other clearly, and saves us shouting at each other too. As we turned the corner around the long sea wall of Roscoff, the sea state was immediately rough. We were heading straight into wind and the yacht was crashing into the waves. I managed to keep balance and put the lines and fenders away, scrambling back to the stern. I went inside whilst Gordon steered the boat from outside. Naughty Cat was ploughing through the large waves with ease but inside things were different. One of our cats, Coffee Cupcake, seemed frightened by the motion of the boat and was meowing. I picked him up to comfort him, but as I did so the china in the cupboard started crashing about. The boat was facing some very big waves. At this point I managed to sit down but immediately felt unwell and disorientated in the dark. I do not like sailing in the dark in rough weather and, to me, this was very rough.

would have had 5 knots of tide against us, so in theory we could have been travelling backwards. Timing was crucial. We reached La Val Belle at 10:48 and were thrilled to change our heading to 180 degrees south for the first time, this also indicated the start of the Chenal Du Four. We had arrived bang on time as per our plan. As the Raz de Sein has three different fast tides entering it at the same time, we needed to time our passage exactly. To ensure a smooth passage through, we had to slow down to approximately 1 knot so as not to arrive too early and then we would have the tides travelling with us in the same direction. With Gordon’s preparation, kind weather and sails down, we were able to follow our plan and had a very smooth ride through the notorious stretch of water, ensuring that I also took lots of photos of the lighthouse as we passed.

Gordon and Bekki have passed many fascinating views

Who wouldn’t enjoy that view!

Calm at last

I stayed with Gordon for a few hours until the sails were set and daylight broke, assisting him negotiate a path around all the fishing vessels that had no AIS trackers. I was thankful to eventually lie down. The cats finally settled down too, and slept on the seats. Two hours later, Gordon called me for assistance. The sea state had calmed and

we needed to negotiate a difficult route in between some large rocks, through a very narrow channel and into a river. Once in the river Wrac’h, we watched many boats out for a weekend pleasure sail and passed several sailing schools instructing children. We motored up to the marina and straight into a vacant berth at the end of the visitors’ pontoon. L’Aber Wrac’h is a very small community, just a couple of shops and several restaurants/bars on the front and a lengthy walk to the nearest grocery shop. It does have some lovely scenery and great views from the surrounding hills. A word of warning, never park on the outside of the visitors’ pontoon. We experienced huge waves and rocking motions with the constant passing of small vessels extremely close to us. We would have moved but there was no inside berth available.

Crucial timing

Both Gordon and I were very concerned about the trip through the Raz du Seine. It is located in the north-west Brittany area of France just below Brest. It lies between the Isle of Seine (Ile de Sein) and the Pointe du Raz in Finistere and is a very dangerous zone for navigation due to the violent sea currents and up to 6 knots of tides causing the sea to rise quickly. The jagged rocks and sea swell make it concerning for most sailors. Gordon had spent many hours researching, discussing and planning our passage through this channel, but as always we had to rely on the weather on the actual day to ensure a safe journey. We left at 07:45, with clear skies and just a light sea mist. We put the main sail up. We kept the engines running and put up the jib too as we needed to arrive with the tide at the Chenal Du Four to ensure a safe passage. If we arrived late at this waypoint, we

With the Raz out of the way, the gennaker was put up again, engines off and we made it to Audierne Bay as the daylight disappeared. Our destination was Port Plaisance, Audierne. In pitch black, we carefully navigated the tiny channel between the markers, looking out for the many fishing boats moored along the way. Again we had managed to follow our plan exactly because we needed to be on the river at high tide otherwise it would be too shallow for us to enter. At 19:17 we arrived at the tiny marina and were able to park on the only available hammerhead. A friendly boat owner took our lines and tied us up on to the very wobbly pontoon. Both Strawberry Shortcake and Coffee Cupcake immediately jumped ship and went for a quick wander on the pontoon, but we soon bought them back on board. All four cats do love to wander around the deck and have a look at each new place we visit. They have coped really well on the boat and have never experienced any seasickness. They tend to curl up on the seats and sleep whilst we are sailing but always appear at 4pm for their dinner, no matter where we are or how rough the water may be, they will make it known that it is feeding time. We woke early and left the Audierne marina at 07:00, navigation is always easier on the way out and by following a small fishing boat down the narrow channel, we made good time to Audierne Bay. Our next plan was to anchor overnight in a bay on the west coast of Belle Ile, a natural stopping point on our exciting journey south. Bekki and Gordon departed from Chatham Maritime Marina in September with their four cats, Diamond Dancer, Coffee Cupcake, Vanilla Cheesecake and Strawberry Shortcake, heading to the Mediterranean for the start of their adventure, which may last a year or more. For updates from Bekki and Gordon, follow Naughty Cat’s on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube (Naughty Cat Sailing), and you can also read regular up-dates about their adventure in All at Sea too. www.facebook.com/NautitechOpen40

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

THE VALUE OF TRAINING More than 270,000 people of all ages and abilities undertake some form of RYA training each year. Do you have training plans for 2022? Marine Radio (SRC) Duration: 7 to 10 hours in the classroom or online, plus independent exam Minimum age: 16 Required experience: None The RYA Marine Radio Short Range Certificate is the minimum qualification required by law to operate VHF and VHF Digital Selective Calling equipment in the UK. The one-day course and exam covers the basics of radio operation, distress, emergency and medical assistance procedures and everything you need to know to be able to operate the radio. Arnaud Coville took the course online last summer and said: “The course itself was very good. It was easy, very didactic and the instructions are fool proof. The best thing was I could choose the timing and duration of the sessions.”

RYA Day Skipper covers all aspects of yacht sailing. Image: Shaun Roster Photography

YA courses are recognised the world over for delivering the skills and knowledge to stay safe and enjoy our time on the water. But with no legal requirement to hold a licence to skipper a vessel in UK waters, why is RYA training so popular?

Something for everyone

You only need to glance at the courses section of RYA website to see the breadth of courses on offer: from sail and motor cruising to powerboating, small boat sailing, windsurfing and wingsurfing, inland waterways and personal watercraft, specialist short courses and navigation and seamanship theory. In total there are more than 100 different courses covering every boating activity looked after by the RYA. With many of the RYA’s theory courses now available online and with more flexible options for practical courses to fit in around busy lifestyles, it is becoming more and more convenient for people to take courses wherever and whenever works for them. Although you do not legally need a license to skipper a vessel in UK waters, RYA qualifications are highly respected worldwide and can be used as proof of competence. So, whether you want to charter a yacht on holiday or start a career at sea, an RYA certificate will prove your experience and ability as a skipper. For other activities, having a qualification is law. For example, if you have a VHF radio on board your boat or carry a handheld VHF whilst out on the water, you need to hold an operator’s licence to use it. Whatever your motivation, RYA courses and qualifications offer an opportunity to build confidence, have fun and are often the starting point of a lifelong love of sailing, powerboating or watersports. They also make our waters a safer and more enjoyable place to be – for everyone who uses them.

Top picks

With so much on offer, you might be wondering where to start. Here are a few of the RYA’s most popular training courses… Level 2 Powerboat Handling Duration: 2 days Minimum age: 12 Required experience: None This entry-level course is aimed at anyone wanting to drive small open powerboats for either leisure, work or in connection with another activity such as sailing or rescue. You will focus on low-speed close quarters handling, man overboard recovery, driving at planing speed and collision regulations. For Victoria Jacobs, the course was a way to develop her confidence when her family first bought their 6m RIB. She decided to do an ‘own boat’ course on their powerboat and nineyear-old son Thomas was also able to come along and do the RYA Level 1 Start Powerboating course (minimum age 8). “My husband is boat mad and has a lot of experience, which meant when we first got the RIB he used to end up doing everything,” explained Victoria. “I wanted to be able to contribute to the family fun and to have the confidence to take over should something go wrong. “I loved all of it, but for me the best thing was seeing how much Thomas learnt and enjoyed it, as well as gaining confidence myself. I now know my family is much safer on the water.” Day Skipper Practical Sail Duration: 5 days Minimum age: 16 Required experience: Basic sailing ability, five days, 100 miles and fournight hours on board a sailing yacht. Navigation and theory knowledge to Day Skipper Shorebased level RYA Day Skipper is a qualification which enables you to safely take charge of a 30-45ft sail cruising yacht and its crew by day in familiar waters.

Level 2 Powerboat Handling is an entry-level course Image: Victoria Jacobs

Learn to Wingsurf Duration: Up to 4 hours Minimum age: None, but always check with the training centre as some will prefer children to be aged 8 and above Required experience: none Wingsurfing, and the more advanced wingfoiling, are the latest watersports to hit our waters. To help make them accessible to everyone, the RYA introduced a new training scheme in 2021. The RYA Learn to Wingsurf course is aimed at complete beginners and consists of two parts: learning to fly the wing ashore, and then afloat. By the end of the course you should be able to launch and land safely, travel a short distance across the wind and complete a basic gybe. Looking to try something new, watersports novice Sarah-Maeva Cialec was one of the first people to take the course last year. “I thought it was going to be really difficult,” she explained. “But it did not take as long as I expected to get up and feel comfortable on the board. I cannot wait to get back out and try it again.”

Endless opportunities

“If you learn how to do something properly you enjoy it more, which fuels the encouragement and motivation to continue and learn more,” explained Amanda Van Santen, chief instructor of the RYA Dinghy and Windsurfing training schemes. “Enjoyment is ultimately the only reason anyone stays in any sport, but why people enjoy something varies. Personal challenge and achievement are huge. Many people also want to give back to the sport they love and getting trained enables them to do that as skilled volunteers or professional. “Getting trained gives people the opportunity to develop a lifetime’s enjoyment on the water and that is what we want.” For more information about RYA courses and to find an A recognised training centre near you visit: www.rya.org.uk training

As well as giving you the confidence to enjoy your boat and stay safe, it shows charter and boat share companies that you have enough knowledge and practical experience to look after their boats too. You will also be able to apply for an ICC (International Certificate for Operators of Pleasure Craft), which means you can go cruising abroad. The course covers all aspects of yacht sailing: how to trim sails, plan a passage, moor and anchor safely, as well as learning how to make key decisions on everything from safety management and equipment to the well-being of everyone on board. RYA chief instructor of the Sail and Motor Cruising schemes, Vaughan Marsh explained: “RYA Day Skipper is a challenging and fun course which comes with fantastic rewards. When you feel able to head off on a sailing trip with your friends and family – that is when the hard work really pays off.” The RYA Day Skipper course can also be taken on a motor cruiser.

Wingsurfing is growing in popularity, so why not take a course this year. Image: Sarah-Maeva

The RYA covers all forms of boating, including dinghy and yacht racing, motor and sail cruising, RIBs and sports boats, windsurfing, inland cruising and narrowboats and personal watercraft.

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

CHOOSING YOUR PERFECT 2022 SAILING HOLIDAY

fter another turbulent year, we know many people are itching to get away, craving reliable breaks, health-boosting experiences and invigorating immersions in nature. As expected, flexible booking options, clear and fair cancellation conditions, financial protection and stringent health and hygiene factors are more important than ever before. We believe people will be more open to different types of holidays than before the pandemic and will look to steer away from crowded hotels and buffet-style dining. Instead, demand will likely shift towards holiday experiences that offer more of a secluded retreat vibe, including selfcatering, private charters and villas. In addition, we expect there to be an increase in appetite for activity and adventure-based holidays. The desire to go on holiday to a safe place and switch off from current affairs will see a rise in off-grid holidays. Particularly where customers prioritise exclusivity and avoid destinations with large groups or crowds.

Dalmatian Coast A Croatian cruising holiday takes you on a voyage through the world-class Dalmatian Islands, where a wondrous blend of history, culture and natural beauty await. Experience a Mediterranean paradise of scenic passages to secluded anchorages, turquoise seas, quiet, colourful islands and picturesque port towns steeped in history, delicious fresh seafood and friendly, welcoming locals. Unspoilt coves and dramatic waterfalls, ancient forts and lush, green forests all lie in wait along the country’s celebrated Dalmatian Coast. Average temperatures from April to May are 22°C to 28°C. During June to August you can expect sunny, blue skies every day, with temperatures from 26°C to 30°C. More experienced sailors can enjoy longer spells out on the open ocean and take part in regattas and other events. Occasional strong mistral winds provide more challenging conditions for those who relish more action-packed sailing.

2022 top cruising holida destinations

Whether your preference is power or sail, and no matter your experience, a private yacht charter is a great way to enjoy a holiday with close friends and family, in a personal sanctuary. For us, Greece is currently the most desirable destination, showing strong levels of interest from our UK customers, followed by Croatia and the BVI.

Greece continues to be a top choice for sailing holidays

“ hether our preference is power or sail and no matter our e perience a pri ate acht charter is a great wa to enjo a holida with close friends and famil in a personal sanctuar .”

A Croatian sailing holiday allows you to experience a Mediterranean paradise

British Virgin Islands From secret fishing spots to mysterious museums, there are numerous and relatively unknown locations waiting to be discovered in the British Virgin Islands. Comprising approximately 60 islands, island hopping is easily one of the best ways to experience the BVI. Uncrowded and unspoilt, this is a truly indulging holiday destination. Easy line-of-sight navigation and sheltered anchorages makes bareboat and flotilla holidays ideal options for new sailors and skilled skippers alike. Or see more of the BVI with the speed and style of a luxury power charter. Throughout this cruising playground, you will find small food shacks serving all kinds of Caribbean delights. Relax with family and friends at Savannah Bay beach, the shallowest on Virgin Gorda, or take a hike in Gorda Peak National Park and soak up the panoramic views. July and August are the hottest months of the year with an average temperature of 28°C, although September and October always feel hotter as there is less breeze to keep you cool. The coolest months are December to March, with an average temperature of 25.5°C and more wind. Thinking about booking a yacht charter? You may like to know it is more affordable than you think. The cost of having your own private yacht charter with a skipper may not be as expensive as you first imagine. One week with a skipper can cost about the same as a week in a four-to-five-star hotel for a family of four!

How to book

All images: Boat Club Trafalgar

ate taniforth head of marketing for unsail and The Moorings highlights this ear s most popular sailing holida destinations.

The Ionian Islands Greece continues to be a top destination, and with good reason. Take your senses on a timeless journey that blends stories of the past with picture-perfect memories of your own. Revered for its magnificent coastlines, mouth-watering cuisine and a myriad of iconic ancient ruins, Athens embodies every bit of Greece’s irresistible charm. Sheltered anchorages, calm conditions and easy moorings make Lefkas, the beautiful green island on the west coast of Greece, the perfect destination for newly qualified seafarers as well as those more experienced looking to relax and unwind. Average temperatures rise from 18°C at the start of May to 28°C in July, and can hit the mid-30°Cs in July and August at the height of summer.

All images: Boat Club Trafalgar

HOT TOPIC

We discuss important topics with marine industry experts who share their opinions and top tips to help you get the most from your boating.

There will be a range of considerations when planning a charter holiday, and you should do your research before you book. Check to see if your travel provider is offering a fair and flexible booking and cancellation policy. We also strongly recommend booking with a company that is a member of ABTA and ATOL, so you can book and travel with confidence knowing you are financially protected.

The BVI is an ideal sailing destination for every level of sailor

If you have any queries or concerns, you should speak to your travel company. Your holiday provider should be able to talk to you about your options, from destinations to types of holiday, whether you are looking to book a bareboat, crewed or flotilla charter. They should also be able to advise you on how your holiday might look different to previous years, so you are aware of any changes before you book. If you are unsure what the current travel advice

means for your planned holiday, your travel provider will be able to provide further support and guidance. Before you travel internationally, double check the latest travel advice, ensure you have the correct travel insurance, a passport that is in date and you meet any entry requirements. It is also important to check any destination requirements, as some require registration prior to entry. Before you travel back to the UK, you may also be required to fill out documentation which can

be found on the Government website. The latest Covid testing requirements can also be found here. As members of ATOL and ABTA, Sunsail and The Moorings offer flexible rebooking terms and comprehensive health and safety measures, so customers can book and travel with confidence, making the most of their time on the water. www.moorings.co.uk www.sunsail.co.uk

Storing your boat indoors will help protect it from the elements

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

Image: leoks/Shutterstock

SAIL AWAY Paddling in the Cayman Islands

Visit Cayman Islands has partnered with British Canoeing, the national governing body for paddlesports in the UK, to inspire people to pursue a passion for paddling.

Offering both physical and mental health benefits, as well as an opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors, paddlesports are accessible to all ages and abilities. Through the partnership they hope to raise awareness of the benefits of paddlesports both in the UK and the Cayman Islands, whilst encouraging keen enthusiasts to consider this British Overseas Territory for their next paddlesports adventure.

Spring Break

The new year is traditionally a popular time to book upcoming get-aways, and if you are thinking of a spring break here are some great ideas from Sailing Holidays. Easter sailing - be one of the first to explore the Ionian Islands in the spring. Hop on board one of their Beneteaus on 17 April, with sizes ranging from 32 - 45ft. This flotilla will cruise from Gouvia Marina, Corfu down to Sivota on Lefkas, taking in many popular stops along the way. With the Ionian’s great weather it is a great time to set sail. From £835pp for two people. Or how about a two-week Faraway Islands flotilla. Do not let the name mislead you, as they are not really all that far away. They are named as they are Greece’s furthest islands from Athens. As well as mainland Greece stops, the flotilla takes in Paxos, Corfu and Ericousa. There are four 2022 dates, but this spring you can choose 23 April – 8 May or 8 - 15 May. www.sailingholidays.com

Winter in the Caribbean

on your dream holiday this year with the latest news and oﬀers

With paddling continuing to increase in popularity across the UK, and participants doubling in the past two years to reach a record 5.6m, including 2.2m Stand Up Paddleboarders, the broad and inclusive reach of this sporting activity complements the appeal of the Cayman Islands as a unique bucket list holiday destination. Known for its pristine turquoise waters with clear visibility and exceptional marine life, warm seas, consistent sunshine and glorious scenery, the Cayman Islands is an ideal destination for all paddlesports. Nestled in the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, the Cayman Islands is made up of three

idyllic islands, all offering luxurious island escapes. Average year-round temperatures of 28°C make it the perfect place to escape the British winter. As ‘the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean’ visitors are spoilt for choice with more than 200 restaurants all offering the freshest seasonal dishes, including healthy fare to help fuel active bodies ahead of sporting activity. There is also plenty to discover from the colourful marine life, to the rare indigenous Blue Iguanas at the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park or learning about the islands’ rich seafaring heritage at the capital’s George Town Museum.

Travel rules up-date

Image: Ascannio / Shutterstock.com

Image: BVI Tourism

Meeting UK demand

In a move that should benefit UK travellers, SamBoat, an online platform for listing and renting boats worldwide, has incorporated two additional boat rental agencies, the UK’s LateSail and France’s Vents de Mer. Talking about the move, Laurent Calando, co-founder of SamBoat, said: “Together, we will deliver the highest quality boating holiday, unlike no other, which will help us meet the increased boating holiday demand in the UK.” Russell Stevens, sales manager of LateSail, added: “Our customers will benefit from a greater and wider range of boats and destinations. They will also see more attractive prices and higher levels of support not usually associated with the boat rental market.” In addition to its global expansion plans, SamBoat has also committed to the Save the Ocean Project providing each client with an eco-responsible charter to help them navigate their journeys in an environmentally friendly way. www.samboat.com

It is interesting to learn that private travel saw an unprecedented rise in volume last year, and private aviation in particular has had its busiest quarter in history. As a result Magellan Jets, provider of private aviation solutions, and IYC, charter yacht fleet operator, are encouraging private travellers to get their winter getaways booked as soon as possible. Turning to the Caribbean, which holiday-makers usually visit between November and April, Magellan and IYC have highlighted five destinations that are perfect for escaping the winter weather, and they are definitely not exclusively for those travelling privately! The US Virgin Islands are a paradise of white sands and blue seas teeming with colourful marine life - and sophisticated dining and shopping opportunities on land. At the British Virgin Islands the temperature rarely dips below 26°C, which makes these islands a great remedy for the winter blues.

BVI offers hundreds of options for sailing, filled with countless coves, reefs and stunning beaches. St Barts is perhaps the most exclusive in the entire Caribbean. Offering the very best in gastronomy, parties, shopping, regattas, beaches and more, Saint Barthélemy (better known as St. Barts) is a true paradise. St. Maarten has two distinct personalities, owing to its split French and Dutch ownership. Visitors can experience a vibrant mixture of cultures, which is more than matched by the island’s diverse scenery. Packed with vibrant nightlife, carnivals and gourmet cuisine, the island is sure to please any palate. Lastly, private locations, volcanic landscapes and stunning reefs define St. Vincent and The Grenadines, a renowned sailing destination. Whether guests choose to dive or snorkel, they will encounter diverse marine life like seahorses, octopi, frogfish and manta rays.

At the time of writing, for the fully vaccinated, before you travel to England you must take a Covid-19 test in the two days before you travel, book a PCR test to be taken after you arrive in England (within two days) and complete a passenger locator form in the 48 hours before you arrive. You must quarantine in your home or the place you are staying while you await your test result. Children aged 5 to 17 have to follow the testing and quarantine rules for people who qualify as fully vaccinated on arrival in England. Fully vaccinated 12 to 15-year-olds are now able to access a NHS Covid Pass letter for international travel. If you are not fully vaccinated please refer the government website

for information. There are no red list countries at this time. Remember, though, to also check the entry requirements of the country you are visiting as they will vary and may require testing on arrival. Passengers should continue to check gov.uk travel guidance including FCDO travel advice before, during and after travel to keep up-to-date with entry requirements and ensure compliance with the latest regulations for the country being visited. It is also important to check your insurance before you travel. If in doubt about what is covered it is recommended that you contact your insurance provider. Travel guidance varies across the UK and so check the rules for your area.

FURTHER INFORMATION IMPORTANT The outbreak of COVID-19 continues to evolve. Please check FCO travel advice pages for the latest travel information: www. gov.uk/foreigntravel-advice.

■ Nautilus Yachting: www.nautilusyachting.com ■ Nisos Yacht Charter: www.nisosyachtcharter.com ■ Seafarer: www.seafarersailing.co.uk ■ BVI Charters: www.bviyachtcharters.com ■ Ocean Elements: www.ocean-elements.co.uk ■ The Moorings: www.moorings.co.uk ■ Mauri Pro: www.mauripro.com ■ Dream Yacht Charter: www.dreamyachtcharter.co.uk ■ Sunsail: www.sunsail.co.uk ■ Mallorca Yacht Charter: www.mallorcayachtcharter.eu ■ Tall Ships Adventures: tallships.org ■ Naleia Yachting: www.naleiayachting.com

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

Life’s a beach

Steve Philp looks at stress free beach holidays in the UK as the staycation trend continues into 2022.

lready on an upward trend, seaside staycations soared last year as UK holidaymakers shied away from the Covidinduced stress and uncertainty of travelling abroad. Travel experts believe staycationers now recognise that most British coastal resorts have so much to offer in terms of quality as well as stress free travel compared with the Spanish Costas and Greek islands; perfect for low stress breakaways, catering for an influx of new visitors seeking a relaxed seaside or ‘café culture’ holiday. Here we look at some top UK seaside getaways you might choose to moor up nearby to this year.

Broadstairs, Kent

While its Isle of Thanet neighbour Ramsgate is enjoying a bicentennial revival, just up the coast, Broadstairs never lost its appeal to many, largely due to links with Charles Dickens. This Victorian town has a relaxed and Bohemian vibe plus an international reputation for its annual international folk festival, Dickens Week and the acclaimed Broadstairs Food Festival. The harbour area has a Cornish feel now, enhanced by a new seafood restaurant at the pier end. The quaint town streets have many independent shops and restaurants, and some overlook the harbour and main sands.

The numerous beaches, many with blue flag status, are famous for spectacular sunrises – usually followed by scenic breakfasts – and several offer watersports equipment and lessons for surfing and paddleboarding. Broadstairs also offers the same walking, cycling, golfing and nature-watching activities as Ramsgate. Nearby Moorings: Royal Ramsgate Marina

St. Ives, Cornwall

This beautiful town grew around its picturesque harbour, and the quaint cobbled streets are lined with fishermen’s cottages, but there is a rich artistic heritage, highlighted by the Tate St Ives gallery hosting many exhibitions and events. Seasonal high points include the St Ives Food & Drink Festival (13 – 15 May). Quieter than its ‘party-time’ neighbour further up the coast, Newquay, St Ives has four main beaches with Porthmeor the most popular, facing the Atlantic and backing on to the Tate. Surfing is popular and suitable for beginners – most beaches in the area offer hire equipment and lessons. With freshly caught fish available on its doorstep, St Ives also has some famous eateries too, such as the award-winning Porthminster Beach Café. Nearby Moorings: St Ives Harbour and a little further: Portleven Harbour, Penzance Harbour, Penlee Marina, Portreath Harbour

Ramsgate, Kent

Last year it celebrated the 200th anniversary of its status as the UK’s only Royal harbour, enhancing a heritage including architecture designed or influenced by the great Victorian architect Pugin, who lived in the area and created the Houses of Parliament. It was also home to a young Queen Victoria. The beachfront is being redeveloped alongside the famous Royal Harbour, including the £50 million Royal Sands Ramsgate beachfront project, enhancing a café and dining out culture on the waterside and in the town highlighted by the Royal Harbour Brasserie, a seafood restaurant overlooking the historic harbour – the gathering point for ‘The Little Ships’ so pivotal to World War II’s Dunkirk rescue mission. Family-friendly award-winning beaches, the 32-mile Viking Coastal Trail, Pegwell Nature Reserve and many top golf courses – including the nearby Royal St. George’s in Sandwich, which hosted the 2021 Open – add to the town’s bicentennial rebirth as a top resort. Nearby Moorings: Royal Ramsgate Marina, Sandwich Marina

Newquay, Cornwall

Newquay can claim to be ‘Britain’s Surfing Capital’ thanks to great Atlantic Ocean waves and four Aussies who put board to surf for the first time here in 1964. The stunning beaches offer many other watersports and there are great coastal walks, golfing and the new ‘coasteering’ sport (the exploration of a coastline by using various means including climbing, cliff jumping, swimming and scrambling). Town attractions include the Blue Reef Aquarium - with an underwater tunnel through a coral reef tank alive with pufferfish, sharks and rays while Newquay Zoo and its tropical gardens are a short drive away.

Many of the eateries and restaurants offer splendid views and the town hosts several food and drink festivals. Nearby Moorings: Padstow Marina and a little further: Portreath Harbour, Newquay Harbour

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Brighton, East Sussex

Home to a pier that is the most visited tourist attraction outside London and once dubbed ‘The Queen of Watering Places’, Brighton is also famous for its long pebble beach, which can pick up big waves and attract surfers and windsurfers. The booming art scene in Brighton adds to a vibrant community supporting a wide range of shops, restaurants and cafes plus the boutiques and curio shops of ‘The Lanes’, yet the peace and scenic walks of the South Downs are not far away. Brighton is also host to music events, the famous Brighton Pride gay festival and the city’s full and half marathons. Other major attractions include Sea Life Brighton - the world’s oldest operating aquarium - the British Airways i360 162m observation tower on the long seafront and the historic Brighton Pavilion. Nearby Moorings: Brighton Marina, Newhaven Marina, Lady Bee Marina

Portmeirion, Wales

Designed and built from 1925 - 75 by architect Sir Clough WilliamsEllis in the style of an Italian village, Portmeirion is an enchanting mix of pastel-coloured houses, cobbled streets and lush manicured gardens overlooking a small estuary, while the mountains of Wales rise mightily above the rooftops. Nature lovers can explore 70 acres of exotic woodlands with 19

miles of pathways through forests, secret spaces and coastal coves. The subtropical forest, The Gwyllt (Wildwood in Welsh), features some of Britain’s largest trees, plus secret gardens, a derelict castle and rare flowers. There are also 16 miles of coastal paths accessing the white sandy beaches of the Dwyryd Estuary and its hidden caves, gullies and exotic plants, an Oriental Garden and ‘secret’

Durdle Door, Dorset

This ‘Jurassic Coast’ limestone arch landmark stands over pebbled beaches and crystal clear waters and can be part of scenic clifftop walks to popular neighbouring areas and potential holiday bases, such as

sites such as the Dog Cemetery, Tangle Wood, Ghost Garden and Shelter Valley. Portmeirion has also been a location for films and TV shows, famously as The Village in the 1960s television show The Prisoner; many of the show’s fans make regular pilgrimages. Nearby Moorings: Harbwr Porthmadog, Hafan Pwlheli Marina, Abersoch Marina

secluded Lulworth Cove, Swanage, Lyme Regis, West Bay and beyond via the South West Coast Path. This path accesses yet more beaches, stunning countryside and other Jurassic Coast landmarks - ideal for walking, exploring, watersports, sunbathing or swimming.

Bamburgh, Northumberland

A brooding clifftop castle puts this small Northumberland village – the Bebbanburg of the popular Last Kingdom TV series and books – on the map. It is flanked by golden sandy beaches, the most popular being to the north and backed by high dunes and with rock pools to attract young sealife explorers. Though small, the village offers a good choice of fine dining and English tearooms such as the acclaimed Copper Kettle Tearoom. Nearby Moorings: Alnmouth Marina Harbour, Amble Marina

Lossiemouth, Scotland

Cromer, Norfolk

Cromer is ideal for families hunting a more traditional seaside holiday, thanks to sandy beaches, museums, surfing, many other attractions and scenery along the Norfolk Coast Path. The Victorian-style pier is home to a lifeboat station with a proud history, in part due to Henry Blogg – a much decorated and perhaps the RNLI’s greatest lifeboatman. The Henry Blogg Museum was founded to commemorate Cromer’s local legend. The pier’s Pavilion Theatre is famous for staging, twice yearly, the UK’s only remaining traditional ‘end of the pier’ variety show. Families enjoy crabbing, surfing and paddleboarding off the beach and swimmers close to shore can explore the 20-mile Cromer Shoal Chalk Bed - remains from the Mesozoic Era, when dinosaurs roamed. Cromer is famous for its crab, offered in many of the pubs, cafes and restaurants in the streets and alleys of this bustling town, which also celebrates its maritime heritage with the annual Cromer Carnival (13 - 19 August) and Crab & Lobster Festival (15 – 16 May). Nearby Moorings: Broads Edge Marina

The Jurassic Coast was England’s first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site, a dramatic 95-mile stretch of coastline with secret beaches, crumbling limestone cliffs and prehistoric remains. Nearby Moorings: Weymouth Marina, Portland Marina

Dubbed The Jewel of the Moray Firth, Lossiemouth is a golf-oriented resort on the Scottish northeast coast, blessed with two sandy beaches, dunes and beautiful countryside. The beach east of the harbour is white sand and dunes, offering great walks, while that to the west includes Covesea Lighthouse, with great views of Moray Firth and the neighbouring RAF base. Apart from enjoying the abundant wildlife visitors can also surf and sail, or take a dolphin-spotting boat ride or fishing trip. The attractive harbour’s Fisheries Museum includes a re-creation of the study of local-lad-madegood James Ramsey MacDonald, Britain’s first Labour Prime Minister. Nearby Moorings: Lossiemouth Marina, Whitehills Marina, Banff Marina, Findhorn Marina

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

CRUISING MATTERS The latest news and views from the Cruising Association.

The CA was founded in 0 speci call to meet the needs of cruising sailors and pro ides ser ices information help and ad ice to thousands of members worldwide. or more information isit www.theca.org.uk.

CAptain s Mate App Released on 1 December 2021, the Cruising Association’s upgraded CAptain’s Mate app provides an invaluable and intuitive toolbox of knowledge designed to empower yacht and motor cruisers. Putting thousands of cruising reports at users’ fingertips, the app is packed with innovative features and provides a breadth of cruising content in one digital interface, covering over 6,500 locations in more than 70 countries around the world. CAptain’s Mate provides up-to-date and streamlined information on cruising locations, such as anchorage, marina, port, harbour and quay. The app displays detailed information via search and filter functions, including approach considerations, availability of and access to key facilities, such as water and fuel, and, if available, supermarket, restaurant and other amenities and boat services. At the core of CAptain’s Mate is a database of members’ insightful cruising reports, with 20,000+ contributions sharing expertise and tips on locations, along with photos. The app shows discount partners close to locations as well as worldwide, and the friend function displays nearby members of the CA community. Lucy Gray, CA general manager, said: “The upgraded CAptain’s Mate app is another milestone in the Cruising Association’s ongoing investment in its member services and digital offering. “CAptain’s Mate is a pioneering app for the cruising community, with its combination of worldwide spread of

New CA resident At its Annual General Meeting at CA House in London, the Cruising Association elected Derek Lumb as its 33rd President, succeeding Julian Dussek. A CA member since 2008 and an active volunteer, Derek steps up to the Presidency from past roles including Council member (2013 - 2017) and VicePresident (2018 - 2021). “I am honoured to find myself President of this fabulous organisation,” said Derek. “Fabulous because it has such knowledgeable and capable members who are so willing to share their experience and knowledge. The Cruising Association is its members.” The position of President is principally to act as ambassador and flag bearer for the Cruising Association, and ensure the interests of the yacht and motor cruising community are actively represented across the worldwide remit of the association. Derek’s lifelong love for sailing started in childhood, as he moved from dinghy sailing to yachting, enjoying time on friends’ boats and stints with the Ocean Youth Club. After buying his first yacht in 1997, various adventures unfolded including sailing round Britain in 2005 and Scotland in 2006, which sealed a future of cruising. It was after joining the Westerly Owners Association

locations, extent of information and verified content. Yacht or motor cruiser, CAptain’s Mate app is your go to platform.” CAptain’s Mate is a trusted and proven app, with content verified by a team of 40+ editors who ensure location information and reports are reliable, factual, accurate and free from commercial influence. Available on iOS and Android, once downloaded the app works with no internet connection or phone signal. If you prefer using a keyboard and larger screen, the app is mirrored on the CA website. You can watch an introduction video and discover more about CAptain’s Mate app at www.theca.org.uk/public/captainsmate. The CAptain’s Mate app is exclusive to CA members and is one of the many benefits of being a member. Discover more about the association, member benefits and how to be part of it at www.theca.org.uk/public/benefits.

and attending a talk on the Baltic, that Derek was first introduced to the benefits and value of CA membership, becoming a member in 2008. Derek brings decades of cruising experience to his leadership of the CA, and is joined by the elected officers and Council members. Read the full report at: www.theca.org.uk/news/ca-elects-new-president-agm-2021 Derek Lumb, President of the Cruising Association

THE LATEST ROM RAT The Regulations and Technical Services group (RATS) is the CA’s expert volunteer committee, representing the interests of yacht and motor cruisers and addressing issues of concern or interest on regulatory and technical aspects of cruising. Below is an overview of recent issues addressed by RATS and you can discover more about their work at: www.theca.org.uk/public/rats Ofcom VHF Radio Licence Compliance - boat owners in the UK holding a VHF radio licence must ensure compliance with the new licence conditions introduced by Ofcom, due to concerns about the risk of exposure to electromagnetic field emissions which are transmitted by all radio equipment. This change in licence conditions affects boat owners using radio, radar and other emergency alerting equipment on UK vessels. For most radio equipment, Ofcom required existing licence holders to have assessed compliance with the new licence conditions by 18 November 2021 (except for HF/ SSB transmitters for which the effective date is 22 May 2022). Find out more at: www. theca.org.uk/news/rats/rf-safetyassessment Small Craft Reporting when departing from/arriving to the UK or IOM - as the UK is no longer part of the EU single market, pleasure craft owners now need to report in line with the ‘Rest of World’ requirements. From 1 January 2022, all pleasure craft arriving and departing the UK and the Isle of Man (including those arriving and departing EU countries) will have to comply with these new reporting obligations. The preferred method of reporting is via a new e-C1331, an Excel template, downloadable from the Border Force website, that allows data to be submitted via email to the National Yachtline and the relevant regional Border Force command. Details at: www.gov.uk/ government/publications/sailing-aleisure-craft-to-and-from-the-uk

Online Beacon Registry - the Maritime and Coastguard Agency has announced a new digital service allowing the online registry of 406MHz beacons including Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons and Personal Locator Beacons. This service allows owners of beacons to manage the data about their beacons online instead of having to submit documentation via post. If you register, you will be able to claim any beacons that you previously registered using the same email address and update your details as necessary. Register at: register-406-beacons.service. gov.uk UKHO Admiralty Small Craft Folios - the UK Hydrographic Office has announced the final withdrawal of the Admiralty Small Craft Folios of leisure charts for UK waters. The UKHO is replacing the SCFs with individual Small Craft Chart sheets, printed on demand at their wholesale chart distributors. Full details at: www.admiralty.co.uk/ charts/small-craft-charts The new SCC sheets can ensure that the chart is up-to-date at the time of printing. However, RATS has raised concerns that the SCC sheets will be substantially more expensive than the equivalent Folios and will result in reduced availability at retail chandleries. Furthermore most, if not all, electronic leisure charts are currently “not approved for navigation”. Hence, if you are planning on cruising in UK waters, you should consider the most appropriate combination of paper and electronic charts for your voyage. If you find the current UKHO Folios useful, you may wish to purchase the latest versions of the SCFs before they are out of stock – updating of course for safety critical changes using the Notices to Mariners in the usual way. Depending on location, other chart folios may be available from other suppliers such as Imray and NV Charts.

ollow the Cruising Association

c d f @cruisingassociation

@cruising_assoc

@cruisingassociation

Disclaimer: Any advice has been prepared voluntarily by the Cruising Association, its members and others and they and it have tried to ensure that the contents are accurate. However, the Cruising Association, its employees, contributors and relevant members shall not be liable for any loss, damage or inconvenience of any kind howsoever arising in connection with the use of such advice, save to the extent required by applicable law.

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

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ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

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ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

OFF WATCH SUDOKU EASY

8 5

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2 Beard found on a bract of grass (3)

3 Person with no fixed residence (5) 4 Flask for carrying water (7)

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6 Unexpectedly dull or insignificant occasion (3-5)

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9 Naturally illuminated (6)

12 Person stranded in an isolated place (8)

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14 To the opposite side (6)

19 Old Testament patriarch (5)

15 Cheap purchase (7)

21 Depletes (4)

18 News chief (6)

23 Ailing (3)

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ANSWERS ON PAGE 42

A B C D E F G H I J K L M

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W O R DW H Using the letters in the wheel, you have ten minutes to find as many words as possible of three or more letters, none of which may be plurals, foreign words or proper nouns. Each word must contain the central letter and no letters can be used more than once per word unless they appear in different sections of the wheel. There is at least one nine-letter word to be found. Nine-letter word(s): _________________________________________________________

E E

I A

R L

S I

E L

4 4 5

1 1 4

Check-box 5

8 4 1

Each letter of the alphabet has been given a different number. Substitute numbers for letters to make words to complete the puzzle. The check-box and letters either side of the grid may help you keep track.

25 Not so warm (6)

20 Methane produced when vegetation decomposes in water (5,3)

2 7

16 Receptacle used by smokers (7)

13 Rotten (7)

1 Compulsory force or threat (6)

5 Bath powder (4)

11 Rebuke (5)

TOUGH 5 9 4

3 3 6

10 Fastened together (8)

24 Capital of Taiwan (6)

CODEWORD

6 5 9

8 Money demanded by a kidnapper (6)

6 9

7 Major river of Brazil (6)

22 Aid, be of help (6)

1 Protestant layman who assists the minister (6)

17 Compose a letter (5)

3 8 4

9 7 7

9 8

4 3

4 5

3 2

MODERATE 1 4 8 7

8 3

Solve the puzzle, then rearrange the letters in the shaded squares to spell out a type of water vessel. Down

Across

Place a number (from 1 to 9 inclusive) into each square in such a way that every digit appears once in each horizontal row, each vertical column and each box of nine squares.

CROSSWORD

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

MARINA FOCUS EAST COWES MARINA

Manager: Mike Townshend 01983 293 983 eastcowes@boatfolk.co.uk Postcode: PO32 6UB Lat & long: 50o 45’ .0N, 1o 17, .5W what3words: swanky.shorts.joys

The visitors’ area at the marina

Enjoy the many delights of Cowes with a berth at the popular East Cowes Marina. East Cowes Marina is located on the South Coast of England, on the Eastern banks of River Medina, on the Isle of Wight. Tourism is deep rooted in the past, as the island has popular tourist resorts that date way back to the Victorian period. It lies in a

sheltered location, protected from the winds and waves, while its position on the right side of the river assures you a sunshiny day, all day long. The restaurants and cafés in the area serve delicious food accompanied by stunning views.

FACILITIES & BERTHING

The marina is fully equipped with more than 300 berths and has all the facilities that a boat owner needs, or can be found close-by. The first series of pontoons, ‘A’ and ‘B’, at the northern end of the marina are entirely dedicated to visitors. The marina also accommodates visiting yachts throughout the marina on finger berths belonging to resident holders who are away. All pontoons are fully serviced with fresh water and power, which are included in the berthing cost. Pontoons have ample power points, and extensions and adaptors are available for hire from the marina office. The marina has excellent shower, toilet and laundry facilities, free wireless broadband internet access, free car park, rubbish and waste oil disposal facilities. It also exchanges gas bottles.

The staff can arrange to have hire bikes delivered to the marina too. Whether you are a lover of Lycra, a muddy mountain-biker or a countrylanes cruiser you will find perfect cycle lanes and wonderful off-road trails across the island. The pump-out berth, for use by any boat (with prior notice), is located on the south pontoon at Shepards Marina in Cowes. Please call the marina on 01983 297821 or VHF Ch 80 to arrange access. Cowes Harbour Commission levies no charges for the holding tank pump-out to encourage more sailors and boaters to use the facility. Diesel and petrol are available on the west bank of the Medina River either from the Cowes Harbour Fuels barge just south of the Chain Ferry or from Lallows pontoon between Shepherds Wharf Marina and Cowes Yacht Haven.

Whilst the boatcare service centre at Haslar Marina in Gosport and Deacons on the Hamble provide a one-stop shop for all boat repair and maintenance tasks, from deck repairs to rigging and electronics, there are lift-out facilities at Kingston Yard, the Medina Yard, Cowes Yacht Haven and at Richardsons in Island Harbour. For smaller motorboats Tristan and his team have great facilities next door to the marina at Solent Marine Services in Clarence Boatyard. Ideal for boat lovers across the South Coast, East Cowes Marina is also home to boatpoint, a growing boat sales business by boatfolk in partnership with Network Yacht Brokers. The boat sales arm of boatfolk provides a professional yacht brokerage service in the heart of the Solent and the surrounding area. There are several more marine businesses close-by and on-hand to assist berth holders and visiting boats alike.

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

ACCESS

East Cowes Marina is on the east bank of the Medina River, approximately 500m south of the Floating Bridge. If you are arriving by sea, enter Cowes via the main Western Channel (inner fairway) or the small craft Eastern Channel. There are tidal depth gauges on the piles at either end of the Eastern Channel. Once you are in the Medina River, call the marina on VHF channel 80 or on the phone 01983 293 983, and you will be allocated a berth. You will almost always be allocated a berth into the tidal stream to facilitate tying up. The first set of pontoons you arrive at is the visitor area. The outer side of the first pontoon is designated A1 with the inside of that same pontoon being A2, and so on into the shore. If you would like a hand with your lines, give the marina team a call and they will pop down to help. Keep an eye out for the tidal current through

the marina. There is a two-to-three-hour stand, and then the whole of the ebb occurs in the last three hours before low water. The best time to arrive (and to leave) is between half an hour before high water and two-and-a-half hours after high water. This is obviously more critical during spring tides. If you are arriving by car, Red Funnel car ferry services from Southampton Town Quay come right into East Cowes, and is located just a three-minute drive or 10-minute walk from the terminal. If you want to leave your car in Southampton, the Red Jet high-speed passenger service comes into West Cowes. This is approximately a 20-minute walk away, taking in the Cowes Chain Ferry (or replacement ferry service), which currently costs £1 each way. During popular events, such as Cowes Week, Round the Island Race and the Isle of Wight Festival, it is essential to book well in advance to

secure a berth. To guarantee the availability of a pre-booked berth the vessel must arrive during office hours.

If you went straight ahead out of Cowes you could visit any of the marinas at the top of Southampton Water such as Hythe Marina Village, Town Quay, Ocean Village or Shamrock Quay. North of Cowes, up the Hamble River, there are at least six marinas offering a number of overnight possibilities with lots of choice of restaurants and bars. Turning right out of Cowes you have Bembridge harbour on the island side, the whole of Portsmouth Harbour opposite that and just a little further east, the whole of Chichester harbour with its numerous marinas and anchorages to enjoy. The Solent really offers an amazing amount of choice in an area that can comfortably be navigated in a weekend. Its location at the top of the island also favours longer trips across the Channel to Cherbourg and the Channel Islands and even the North Brittany coast.

CRUISING

The beauty of berthing your boat on the Medina River is that you have all the harbours and anchorages of the sheltered Solent on your doorstep, whilst also being at the centre of the yachting and boating scene. From Cowes you can day-sail to great beaches at Totland and Colwell (famous as the home of ‘The Hut at Colwell Bay’) in the west to Osborne Bay, Priory Bay and even Whitesand Bay in the east. If you choose to turn left as you leave Cowes harbour, a weekend cruise could take in one of the marinas in Lymington or Yarmouth harbour and the historic Buckler’s Hard in the upper reaches of the Beaulieu River.

The facilities building and reception

LOCAL AREA HIGHLIGHTS

Chart a course! A9

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Alfred Stree

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Jess cleaning up around the marina

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Ebb tide

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The Lifeboat

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Washrooms

Laundry Car park

1 Marina office 2 Marina garden and marquee 3 Yacht stores and Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust offices

Recycling Refuse

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Kev cleaning up around the marina

Flood tide

Trolleys SOS equipment Ladder Fire assembly point

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Britannia

Britannia Way

MINI MARKET

Adelaide Grove

East Cowes town centre and chain ferry

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With so many attractions, it is hard to know where to start. There is Osborne House, just 20-minutes’ walk away, the Monkey Haven, Robin Hill, Blackgang Chine, East Cowes Esplanade, beaches galore and a cracking bus service to get you there, or you can have a hire car delivered to the marina. The town of Cowes is fully introduced in the Cowes Harbour entry. The comparatively smaller East Cowes is situated on the east bank of the River Medina, opposite its more prominent neighbour but connected by the Cowes Floating Bridge. The ferry service, costing £1 each way for foot passengers, has run seven days a week since it commenced 1849 when it was powered by horses. Visiting vessels approaching East Cowes from the eastern Solent will have already seen two of the town’s most prominent buildings that both overlook The Solent. The first of these is the magnificent Osborne House that is covered in the Osborne Bay anchorage entry. It is situated a mile southward of Castle Point and the building is made conspicuous from seaward by its prominent tower and flagstaff. You can catch sight of a kingfisher or an oystercatcher and still be a short walk from shops and restaurants. Even better, enjoy a sundowner overlooking the marina at the Lifeboat pub. The best place to relax and watch the boats float by on the Medina River. There is room on the deck for everyone, and a great range of food and drink.

On the marina’s side of the river there is The Taste of India, and a Prego Italian restaurant. Both are a 10-minute walk from the marina, close to the Red Funnel terminal. Pop into the office to grab a map. Whether you are a sailing fanatic or looking for some summer sun, a visit during Cowes Week and the Round the Island Race is a must. These events take place on the Solent each summer, attracting thousands of competitive sailors and even more enthusiastic spectators. Take on the full 68-mile Coastal path, or just ramble from beach to pub to hill to harbour. The island has so many great walks, the only problem is to decide which ones to do – luckily, the marina team can help you choose. Cowes High Street is positively awash with all the best yachting brands to deck yourself out in style, and after all that hard work there is a plethora of bars, cafés and restaurants to slake your thirst and satisfy your hunger. For provisioning, walk to Waitrose or nip up to Nisa (just a short trot up Alfred Street) and pick up everything you need. For the more adventurous there is locally produced garlic, Island blue cheese, Briddlesford halloumi, Adgestone wines, Goddards Beer and not forgetting Mermaid gin. For links and further information on these recommendations visit: boatfolk.co.uk/east-cowes-marina/ things-to-see-and-do/east-cowes

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

MARINA GUIDE JANUARY 2022

SOUTH WEST

PREMIER MARINAS FALMOUTH North Parade, Falmouth, Cornwall. TR11 2TD T: 01326 316620 E: falmouth@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

PORT PENDENNIS MARINA Manager: Mark Webster Challenger Quay, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 3YL T: 01326 211211 E: marina@portpendennis.com W: www.portpendennis.com MYLOR YACHT HARBOUR Manager/contact: Culum Matheson Mylor Yacht Harbour, Mylor Churchtown, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 5UF T: 01326 372 121 E: marina@mylor.com W: www.mylor.com FALMOUTH HAVEN Contact: Barry Buist 44 Arwenack Street, Falmouth TR11 3JQ T: 01326 310990 E: welcome@falmouthhaven.co.uk W: www.falmouthhaven.co.uk MAYFLOWER MARINA Manager: Charles Bush Mayflower Marina, Richmond Walk, Plymouth, Devon PL1 4LS. T: 01752 556633 E: info@mayflowermarina.co.uk W: www.mayflowermarina.co.uk PLYMOUTH YACHT HAVEN Manager: Steve Kitchen Shaw Way, Mount Batten, Devon, PL9 9XH T: 01752 404231 E: plymouth@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com YACHT HAVEN QUAY, PLYMOUTH Manager: Will Rahder Breakwater Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL9 7FE T: 01752 481190 E: boatyard@yachthavenquay.com W: www.yachthavens.com MDL QUEEN ANNE’S BATTERY Manager: Chris Price Queen Anne’s Battery, Plymouth Devon. PL4 0LP T: 01752 671142 E: qab@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.queenannesbattery.co.uk SUTTON HARBOUR MARINA Marina Manager: Mark Brimacombe The Jetty, Sutton Harbour, Plymouth PL4 0DW T: 01752 204702 E: marina@sutton-harbour.co.uk W: www.suttonharbourmarina.com KING POINT MARINA Marina Manager: Mark Brimacombe Brunel Way, Milbay, Plymouth PL1 3EF T: 01752 424297 E: marina@kingpointmarina.co.uk W: www.kingpointmarina.co.uk PREMIER MARINAS NOSS ON DART Manager: Andy Osman Bridge Road, Kingswear, Dartmouth Devon , TQ6 0EA T: 01803 839087 E: noss@premiermarinas.com MDL DARTSIDE QUAY Manager: Alex Warner Galmpton Creek, Galmpton, Brixham, Devon. TQ5 0EH T: 01803 845445 W: www.dartsidequay.co.uk

MDL BRIXHAM MARINA Manager: Martyn Sherratt Berry Head Road, Devon. TQ5 9BW T: 01803 882929 E: brixham@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.brixhammarina.co.uk MDL TORQUAY MARINA Manager: Mike Smith Torquay, Devon , TQ2 5EQ T: 01803 200210 E: torquaymarina@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.torquaymarina.co.uk WEYMOUTH MARINA Manager: Alistair Clarke Commercial Road, Weymouth Dorset. DT4 8NA T: 01305 767576 F: 01305 767575 E: berths@weymouthmarina.co.uk W: www.weymouthmarina.co.uk WEYMOUTH HARBOUR Manager/contact - Jamie Joyce 13 Custom House Quay, Weymouth T: 01305 838423 E: weymouthharbour@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk W: www.weymouth-harbour.co.uk PORTLAND MARINA Manager: Paul Swain Osprey Quay, Portland, Dorset. DT5 1DX T: 01305 866190 E: berths@portlandmarina.co.uk W: www.portlandmarina.co.uk LAKE YARD MARINA Manager/contact - Jenny Burrows Lake Yard Marina, Lake Drive, Hamworthy, Poole, Dorset. BH15 4DT T - 01202 674531 E: office@lakeyard.com W: www.lakeyard.com POOLE QUAY BOAT HAVEN Manager: Kerrie Gray Poole Quay Boat Haven, Poole Town Quay, Poole, Dorset. BH15 1HJ T/F: 01202 649488 E: info@poolequayboathaven.co.uk W: www.poolequayboathaven.co.uk PORT OF POOLE MARINA Manager: Kerrie Gray Poole Quay Boat Haven, Poole Town Quay, Poole, Dorset. BH15 1HJ T/F: 01202 649 488 E: info@poolequayboathaven.co.uk W: www.poolequayboathaven.co.uk SALTERNS MARINA LTD Manager: Robert Golden 40 Salterns Way, Lilliput, Poole, Dorset. BH14 8JR T: 01202 709971 F: 01202 700398 E: reception@salterns.co.uk W: www.salterns.co.uk

MDL COBB’S QUAY MARINA Manager: Daniel Lewis Hamworthy, Poole, Dorset. BH15 4EL T: 01202 674299 E: cobbsquay@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.cobbsquaymarina.co.uk LYMINGTON YACHT HAVEN Manager: Rupert Wagstaff Kings Saltern Road Lymington, Hampshire SO41 3QD T: 01590 677071 E: lymington@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com BUCKLER’S HARD YACHT HARBOUR Harbour Master: Wendy Stowe Harbour Master’s Office Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour Beaulieu Hampshire SO42 7XB T: 01590 616200 E: harbour.office@beaulieu.co.uk W: www.beaulieuriver.co.uk HAVEN QUAY, LYMINGTON Haven Quay Dry Stack Mill Lane, Lymington Hampshire SO41 9AZ T: 01590 677072 E: havenquay@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com DEACONS MARINA Manager/Contact name: Rachael Foster Bursledon Bridge, Southampton SO31 8AZ T 023 80 402253 E:berths@deaconsmarina.co.uk W: www.deaconsmarina.co.uk MDL HYTHE MARINA VILLAGE Manager: Richard Godwin The Lock Building, Shamrock Way Hythe, Southampton, Hampshire. SO45 6DY T: 023 8020 7073 E: hythe@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.hythemarinavillage.co.uk MDL OCEAN VILLAGE MARINA Manager: Paul Atkins Marina Office, 2 Channel Way Southampton, Hampshire. SO14 3TG T: 023 8022 9385 E: oceanvillage@mdlmarinas.co.u W: www.oceanvillagemarina.co.uk

Cornwall’s first Seabin Cornish rower Bella Collins, whose UK team smashed a Pacific Record to raise more than £30,000 for the global Seabin Project, joined Falmouth Harbour, Plastic Free Falmouth and Paddle Logger to launch Cornwall’s first Seabin. Bella and Plastic Free Falmouth’s Cllr Kirstie Edwards unveiled the £4,000 Seabin in an area of the Falmouth Haven pontoons where flotsam and jetsam is known to accumulate. The new Seabin, which skims plastics and other debris from the water, is part of the harbour team’s 150th anniversary pledge to create an environmental legacy and be at the forefront of green innovation to protect the harbour and its unique natural environment and habitats. It is the first device of its type installed in Cornwall – there are currently 860 Seabins located in marinas around the globe collecting almost 4000kg of plastic and debris each day. One Seabin has the capacity to catch

90,000 plastic bags each year or 16,500 plastic bottles – which means Falmouth Harbour staff are emptying their unit twice a day, alongside cleaning and maintaining it and monitoring the plastics captured – with data collected and communicated on the Falmouth Harbour website. www.falmouthharbour.co.uk Watch out for a Shootin’ The Breeze with Bella Collins coming soon!

MDL SHAMROCK QUAY Manager: Barry Radband William Street, Northam, Southampton Hampshire. SO14 5QL T: 023 8022 9461 E: shamrockquay@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.shamrockquay.co.uk

PREMIER MARINAS SWANWICK Manager: Graham Bristowe Swanwick (on the Hamble) Southampton, Hants. SO31 1ZL T: 01489 884081 E: swanwick@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

MDL SAXON WHARF Manager: David Walters Lower York Street, Northam, Southampton. SO14 5QF T: 023 8033 9490 E: saxonwharf@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.saxonwharf.co.uk

HAMBLE YACHT SERVICES Port Hamble, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 4NN T: 02380 201501 E: info@hysgroup.co.uk www.hysgroup.co.uk

MDL HAMBLE POINT MARINA Manager: Debbie Burns School Lane, Hamble, Southampton Hampshire. SO31 4NB T: 023 8045 2464 E: hamblepoint@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.hamblepointmarina.co.uk

UNIVERSAL MARINA Crableck Lane, Sarisbury Green Southampton, SO31 7ZN T: 01489 574272 W: www.universalmarina.co.uk

MDL PORT HAMBLE MARINA Manager: Bertie Marsh Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton Hampshire. SO31 4QD T: 023 8045 274,1 E: porthamble@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.porthamblemarina.co.uk MDL MERCURY YACHT HARBOUR Manager: Dominic Brown Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire. SO31 4HQ T: 023 8045 5994 E: mercury@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.mercuryyachtharbour.co.uk

Kirstie and Bella unveiling the Seabin banner. Image: Falmouth Harbour

HASLAR MARINA Manager: Ben Lippiett Haslar Road, Gosport, Hampshire. PO12 1NU T: 023 9260 1201 F: 023 9260 2201 E: berths@haslarmarina.co.uk W: www.haslarmarina.co.uk PREMIER MARINAS GOSPORT Manager: Jonathan Walcroft Mumby Road , Gosport, Hampshire. PO12 1AH T: 023 9252 4811 F: 023 9258 9541 E: gosport@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

Friends of Chichester Harbour Friends of Chichester Harbour have provided a mobile pump-out facility to Emsworth Yacht Harbour for use by berth holders and visitors. This is the second pump-out unit provided to Chichester Harbour by the Friends of Chichester Harbour, the first being on the Itchenor Pontoon. This latest unit is mobile, allowing marina staff to wheel it to individual boats, pump out their holding tanks and then empty safely into the appropriate drains. This prevents the need for any boats to discharge their holding tanks direct into the marina or harbour.

Millions invested by MDL Every year MDL Marinas invests millions of pounds to ensure that its 19 UK marinas and boatyards offer excellent facilities, on and off the water. Last year was no different, with £5m spent on infrastructural maintenance and development. This included £1.2m on replacing and re-decking of pontoons, providing marina users with modern, stable and anti-slip access to their boats throughout the year. All tides access to MDL’s marinas is also guaranteed for another 12-months following more than £750K of expenditure in dredging, with a further £500K devoted to refurbishing the on-site toilet and shower facilities, and £400K being allocated to new plant, including forklifts, hoists and boat movers. However, MDL knows that it is people who are key to offering an exceptional customer experience and the company goes to great lengths to choose the right people to join the team. MDL’s investment in people does not stop once someone comes on board. It

is a continual process, across all levels of the business. In 2021, £119K was spent on staff training, from safety training and plant specific training to First Aid at Work and VHF courses, ensuring that each member of MDL’s team has the skills to provide a great service to berth holders. Always keen to support staff in their career choices, MDL offers bespoke leadership and management training courses, as well as globally recognised marina management qualifications for those wishing to progress within the company. Demonstrating the effectiveness of this investment, five out of the six new marina managers in the last year were from internal promotions. In addition, MDL is investing £350K in IT systems, including upgrading the WiFi to WiFi 6 across all its marinas, providing berth holders and visitors with a faster internet connection to their boats. ww.mdlmarinas.co.uk

Around the marinas... Gillingham Marina, on the south bank of the River Medway, has been sold for an undisclosed sum to a private buyer. The marina offers fully serviced berthing in two basins, one locked and one tidal, for up to 490 boats, along with extensive facilities. The sale also included the Waterfront Leisure Centre. Although the official opening will be in March, ahead of the inaugural Saudi Arabia Formula 1 Grand Prix the Jeddah Yacht Club and Marina opened. It can accommodate more than 100 yachts and superyachts up to 120m. Premier’s Noss on Dart is taking bookings for its dry stack facility which will open in March 2022. The facility will accommodate boats up to 9m and is expected to be popular amongst RIB and motorboat owners wishing to maximise time out on the water on the beautiful River Dart. Aquavista has announced the strategic acquisition of Castle Marina. As a result, Aquavista has expanded its portfolio to 29 marinas and more than 5,000 marina berths around the UK, at both inland and coastal locations including Crick Marina and Birdham Pool Marina at Chichester Harbour.

Australia’s Birkenhead Point Marina has again been recognised as the best marina facility on Sydney Harbour when it was reaccredited by the Marina Industries Association as a 5 Gold Anchor Platinum Marina. Karpaz Gate Marina has announced the opening of reservations for its new on-site boutique hotel. The hotel is designed to assimilate with the marina setting, featuring a nautical theme. Soon offering treatment rooms, saunas and traditional hamam, the resort’s new spa will allow hotel guests, marina clients and other visitors to embrace the spirit and culture of North Cyprus. The eco gym at MDL Marinas’ Queen Anne’s Battery marina in Plymouth is waiving its joining fee until 31 January 2022, offering the perfect opportunity to fulfil 2022 New Year’s resolutions and health and fitness goals. New members also receive a free 30-minute personal training session. To find out more and join MDL Fitness for free during the promotional period visit www.mdlfitness.co.uk and use the code JOIN4FREE. Catch up with the latest marina news at www.allatsea.co.uk.

ROYAL CLARENCE MARINA The Bridgehead, Weevil Lane, Gosport, Hampshire. PO12 1AX T: 023 9252 3523 F: 023 9252 3523 E: info@royalclarencemarina.org W: www.royalclarencemarina.org PREMIER MARINAS PORT SOLENT Manager: Mark Phillp South Lockside, Port Solent, Portsmouth, Hampshire. PO6 4TJ T: 023 9221 0765 F: 023 9232 4241 E: portsolent@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com PREMIER MARINAS SOUTHSEA Manager: Peter Pring Fort Cumberland Road Portsmouth, Hampshire. PO4 9RJ T: 023 9282 2719 F: 023 9282 2220 E: southsea@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com GUNWHARF QUAYS MARINA Manager: Carl Jarmaine Gunwharf Quays, Marina Office Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3TZ T: 02392 836732 E: gwqmarina@incentive-fm.com W: www.gunwharf-quays.com/marina

ISLE OF WIGHT

COWES YACHT HAVEN Manager: Katy Ednay Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes, PO31 7BD T: 01983 299975 F: 01983 200332 E: berthing@cowesyachthaven.com W: www.cowesyachthaven.com VHF: Channel 80 EAST COWES MARINA Manager: Mike Townshend Britannia Way, East Cowes Isle of Wight. PO32 6UB T: 01983 293983 F: 01983 299276 E: berths@eastcowesmarina.co.uk W: www.eastcowesmarina.co.uk

Presenting the unit to Emsworth Yacht Harbour, Heather Baker, chairman of Friends of Chichester Harbour, said:“The Friends are delighted to be able to put a second unit into Chichester Harbour. Pollution of Chichester Harbour waters remains a growing problem and this is a fantastic way for boat owners to reduce pollution for the benefit of all harbour users and wildlife generally.” If you would like to join the Friends of Chichester Harbour and contribute to the work being done to preserve and enhance this harbour visit their website. www.friendsch.org

COWES HARBOUR SHEPARDS MARINA Manager: Jock Rafferty Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7HT T: 01983 297821 E: shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk W: cowesharbourshepardsmarina.co.uk ISLAND HARBOUR MARINA Manager: Danie Erasmus Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA T: 01983 539994 E: info@island-harbour.co.uk W:www.island-harbour.co.uk BEMBRIDGE HARBOUR Manager/Contact - Gordon Wight The Duver, St Helens, PO33 1YB T: 01983 872828 E : mail@bembridgeharbour.co.uk W: www.bembridgeharbour.co.uk YARMOUTH HARBOUR Harbour Office, The Quay, Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO41 0NT T: 01983 760321 E: info@yarmouth-harbour.co.uk W: www.yarmouth-harbour.co.uk VHF: Ch 68 (harbour), Ch 15 (water taxi)

SOUTH EAST MDL NORTHNEY MARINA Manager: Claire Kennedy Northney Road, Hayling Island, PO11 0NH T: 023 9246 6321 E: northney@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.northneymarina.co.uk MDL SPARKES MARINA Manager: Claire Kennedy 38 Wittering Road, Hayling Island Hampshire. PO11 9SR T: 023 9246 3572 E: sparkes@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.sparkesmarina.co.uk BIRDHAM POOL MARINA Birdham, Chichester, W Sussex. PO20 7BG T: 01243 512310 E: info@birdhampool.co.uk W: www.birdhampool.co.uk

Heather Baker (left) presenting the unit to Alison Wakelin (right)

PREMIER MARINAS CHICHESTER Manager: Paul Cook Birdham (Chichester Harbour) West Sussex. PO20 7EJ T: 01243 512731 E: chichester@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com SMALL BOATS WELCOME LITTLEHAMPTON MARINA Berthing Manager: Darren Humphries Ferry Road, Littlehampton, West Sussex, BN17 5DS T: 01903 713553 F: 01903 732264 E: sales@littlehamptonmarina.co.uk W: www.littlehamptonmarina.co.uk LITTLEHAMPTON YACHT CLUB (LYC) Rope House, Rope Walk Littlehampton, West Sussex BN17 5DH Office: Fiona Boyce: 01903 713 996 Berthing Master: Bill Kellett T: 01903 732 926 F: 01903 725 911 E: fiona@littlehamptonyachtclub.co.uk W: www.littlehamptonyachtclub.co.uk PREMIER MARINAS BRIGHTON Manager: Mike Hatch West Jetty, Brighton, East Sussex. BN2 5UP T: 01273 819919 F: 01273 675082 E: brighton@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com PREMIER MARINAS EASTBOURNE Manager: Dan Heckford Sovereign Harbour, North Lockside, Pacific Drive, Eastbourne. BN23 5BJ T: 01323 470099 F: 01323 470077 sovereignharbour@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com SMALL BOATS WELCOME NEWHAVEN MARINA Manager/Contact: Russell Levett Address: Newhaven Marina, The Yacht Harbour, Fort Road, Newhaven, BN9 9BY T: +44 (0)1273 513 881 E: info@newhavenmarina.co.uk W: www.newhavenmarina.co.uk

TO BE INCLUDED IN OUR MARINA GUIDE CONTACT O

ALLATSEA CO UK

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

MARINA GUIDE JANUARY 2022

GILLINGHAM MARINA 173 Pier Road, Gillingham, Kent. ME7 1UB T: 01634 280022 E: berthing@gillingham-marina.co.uk W: www.gillingham-marina.co.uk MDL CHATHAM MARITIME MARINA Manager: Emma Crompton The Lock Building, Leviathan Way Chatham Maritime, Kent. ME4 4LP T: 01634 899200 E: chatham@mdlmarinas.co.uk www.chathammaritimemarina.co.uk MEDWAY YACHT CLUB Contact: Sue Bannister Lower Upnor, Rochester, ME2 4XB T: 01634 718399 W: www.medwayyachtclub.com PORT OF DOVER MARINA Manager: Chris Windsor Address - Dover Marina, Crosswall Quay, Union Street, Dover, Kent, CT179BN T +44 (0) 1304 241 663 E marina@doverport.co.uk W www.doverport.co.uk/marina

SURREY

MDL PENTON HOOK MARINA Manager: Andrew Smith Staines Road, Chertsey, Surrey. KT16 8PY T: 01932 568681 E: pentonhook@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.pentonhookmarina.co.uk

BERKSHIRE

MDL WINDSOR MARINA Manager: John Harris Maidenhead Road, Windsor, Berkshire. SL4 5TZ T: 01753 853911 E: windsor@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.windsormarina.co.uk

SUFFOLK

MDL WOOLVERSTONE MARINA Manager: Kelly Sharman Woolverstone, Ipswich, Suffolk. IP9 1AS T: 01473 780206 E: woolverstone@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.woolverstonemarina.co.uk LOWESTOFT HAVEN MARINA Manager: Bob Beare Lowestoft Haven Marina (twin site), School Road and Hamilton Dock, Marina Office, School Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk. NR33 9NB T: 01502 580300 F: 01502 581851 E: lowerstofthaven@abports.co.uk W: lowestofthavenmarina.co.uk FOX’S MARINA & BOATYARD Marina Manager: Lee Gilson Fox’s Marina, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8SA T: +44 1473 689111 E: foxs@foxsmarina.com W: www.foxsmarina.com

ESSEX

FAMBRIDGE YACHT HAVEN Manager: Danyal Adams Chelmsford, CM3 6LU T: 01621 740370 E: fambridge@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com

WALES

ABERYSTWYTH MARINA Manager: Jon Booth Y Lanfa Aberystwyth, Trefechan SY23 1AS T: 01970 611422 E: aber@themarinegroup.co.uk W: www.themarinegroup.co.uk

MDL BRAY MARINA Manager: John Harris Monkey Island Lane, Bray, Berkshire. SL6 2EB T: 01628 623654 E: bray@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.braymarina.co.uk

CARDIFF MARINA Manager: Andy Coles OBE Watkiss Way, Cardiff. CF11 0SY T: 02920 396078 F: 02920 345116 E: info@themarinegroup.co.uk W: www.themarinegroup.co.uk

ST OLAVES MARINA Contact: Tamsin Bromley/Mary Hall Beccles Road, St Olaves, Gt. Yarmouth NR31 9HX T: 01493 488500 E: enquiries@stolavesmarina.co.uk W: www.stolavesmarina.co.uk

MILFORD MARINA Manager or contact: Melanie Durney Milford Marina, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire SA73 3AF Tel: 01646 796518 E: enquiries@milfordmarina.com W: www.milfordmarina.com

NORFOLK

Image: Shutterstock/ Avigator Fortuner

PENARTH MARINA Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, F64 1TQ T: 02920 705021 E: penarthoffice@quaymarinas.com W: www.quaymarinas.com NEYLAND YACHT HAVEN Manager: James Cotton Brunel Quay, Pembrokeshire, SA73 1PY T: 01646 601601 E: neyland@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com

from £255 per month* Call 01489 884 060 or visit premiermarinas.com

BURRY PORT MARINA Harbour Master: Robert Hockey The Harbour Office Burry Port Carmarthenshire T:01554 835 691 E: burryport@themarinegroup.co.uk W: www.themarinegroup.co.uk

N. IRELAND BANGOR MARINA Manager: Kevin Baird Bangor, Co. Down T: 02891 45329 W: www.quaymarinas.com

CARRICKFERGUS MARINA Harbour Master: Nigel Thompson 3 Quayside, CARRICKFERGUS BT38 8BJ T: 028 9336 6666 W: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk

BRISTOL

PORTISHEAD MARINA Portishead, Bristol BS20 7DF T: 01275 841941 E: portisheadquays@quaymarinas.com W: www.quaymarinas.com

NEWCASTLE ROYAL QUAYS MARINA North Shields, Tyneside NE29 6DU T: 0191 2728282 W: www.quaymarinas.com

*Based on a 10 metre boat in Sovereign Harbour (Eastbourne)

IT’S A BOATLIFE!

Win a Coast Torch worth £64.95 courtesy of Nauticalia

JANUARY 2022

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BRITAIN’S MOST READ WATERFRONT NEWSPAPER

Coming to the Midlands next month is an exciting new boat show, BoatLife, which is set to get the year off to a fantastic start! Visitors to the show will be able to see a huge range of boats, as well as holiday and equipment companies. Guest speakers will include inspirational teenage yachtswoman Katie McCabe along with the Atlantic Flyers team who will be sharing stories from their Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. The show promises to be a great shop window to all things boating and a great day out for the whole family. FULL STORY PAGE 3

SEE PAGE 40

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STAR SAILORS RETIRING OLYMPIANS MOVING ON

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ANNIE O’SULLIVAN Q&A

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holiday special - WHERE WILL YOU BE SAILING IN 2022? SEE page 26

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RHU MARINA Contact: Suzanne Bell Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LH T: 01436 820238 E: rhumarina@quaymarinas.com W: www.quaymarinas.com

LARGS YACHT HAVEN Manager: Carolyn Elder Irvine Road, Largs, Ayrshire, KA30 8EZ T: 01475 675333 E: largs@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com TROON YACHT HAVEN Manager: Stephen Bennie The Harbour, Troon, Ayrshire, KA10 6DJ T: 01292 315553 E: troon@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com

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MDL SANT CARLES MARINA Manager: Nicolas Gonzalez Ctra Poble Nou s/n, Apartat de Correus 192, 43540, Sant Carles de la Ràpita, Spain T: (0034) 9777 45153 T (UK): 023 8045 0227 enquiries@santcarlesmarina.com W: www.santcarlesmarina.com

JACHTHAVEN BIESBOSCH Manager: Renate Ilmer Nieuwe Jachthaven 54924 BA, Drimmelen, NL T: +31 (0)162 682249 E: info@jachthavenbiesbosch.nl W: www.jachthavenbiesbosch.nl

KARPAZ GATE MARINA Customer Service: Emel Suerdem PO Box 12 Yenierenkoy, Iskele TRNC Via Mersin 10 / Turkey T: +90 533 833 7878 E: info@karpazbay.com W: www.karpazbay.com

MARINARA Front Desk: Federica Civilla Via Marinara 11, Marina di Ravenna, 48122 Italy T: (0039) 0544 531644 E: info@marinara.it W: www.marinara.it

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

THE CHANGING FACE OF MARINAS As an organisation Premier Marinas takes a long-term approach to its investments and is making its marinas future-ready, prioritising sustainability and the environment to ensure they remain a leading industry player.

Premier Marinas received the Exhibitor Sustainability Award at the 2021 Southampton International Boat Show

remier Marinas is on an exciting journey. Its portfolio has recently expanded and now includes 10 prominent and distinctive marina locations along the South Coast, totalling more than 5,000 berths. The marina operator’s long-term commitment to sustainability has led to external recognition. In 2018 Premier Marinas was the first marina operator to receive ISO 14001:2015 certification; an internationally recognised standard for operating effective environmental management systems, and they have just been recertified for a further three years. They were also awarded ISO 45001:2018 certification in 2019; an internationally recognised standard for running effective occupational health and safety management systems. “We have always undertaken our environmental obligations seriously and this recertification shows our dedication to deliver consistently safe and highquality marina operations, and in a manner that, importantly, protects the environment,” said Premier’s new EHS manager, Peter Wortley. “This recertification is affirmation of our hard work to maintain operating procedures that promote environmental sustainability, and that we continue to invest in initiatives that positively impact the environment.” Just last year, at the 2021 Southampton International Boat Show, Premier Marinas received the Exhibitor Sustainability Award.

Organised by British Marine and supported by The Green Blue, it was awarded in recognition of their longterm commitment to environmentally responsible behaviour, as well as going above and beyond in terms of sustainable work practices across their marinas and at the show itself.

Long-term goals

At the same time as maintaining efficient management systems, Premier is also committed to creating sustainable marinas, recognising the decisions they make now can have a positive impact for the future. With the exception of Universal, its newest marina, which is currently

being assessed for the suitability of solar panels, solar power generation is used across their portfolio, helping to maximise the use of renewable energy at its sites. Marina shower facilities include water-saving features, and boat pumpout facilities provide for the safe and environmentally responsible disposal of ‘black water’ from boat holding tanks. Premier also works closely with its suppliers and contractors to provide high-quality marine fuels and manage full waste recycling facilities at all of its sites. They work with a single fuel supplier so they know the provenance of their fuels and add Soltron to preserve the quality and efficiency of their diesel fuel.

Supporting future research

Marina development

Following the acquisition of Universal Marina in July, Premier is now focused on bringing it up to par with the company’s other marinas while also maintaining and enhancing the beautiful natural surroundings. A tree management plan is in place to improve the ecological management on site and they also have plans to invest in the real estate to improve its EPC ratings. The £75m redevelopment of Noss on Dart marina is also providing Premier the opportunity to invest in the latest environmentally-friendly equipment and further develop sustainability best practices. Central to the new boatyard facilities is a new boat wash-down water recycling system. It is a closed loop system meaning all debris and water run-off is collected, filtered through a three stage filtration system and recycled when a boat is lifted out for a highpressure wash. This water is then stored in a holding tank ready to be recycled Here is a Seabin installed on River Soar and used again for the next wash down.

Playing a small part in a much bigger vision of creating a sustainable future, Premier is supporting the ‘In Our Element’ Talisker Atlantic Challenge rowing team, made up of four staff members as they make their bid to row the Atlantic in December 2022. They are seeking to raise awareness and support pioneering work to recycle plastics being conducted by the Centre for Enzyme Innovation at The University of Portsmouth. Spearheaded by Director and Professor John McGeehan, the research team there are working to deliver transformative enzyme-enabled solutions for the recycling of plastics and thereby help to solve the global challenge of plastic ocean pollution. Premier has been owned by the Wellcome Trust since 2015, a charitable foundation supporting discovery research into life, health and wellbeing. All of Premier’s residual profits are transferred annually to Wellcome, supporting their vital work in these important areas. In turn Wellcome are driving to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and Premier is already engaging partners that will help it ascertain its carbon footprint. Whilst the next phase of investment and sustainability initiatives will have it challenges, Premier has already demonstrated its commitment to remain a leader within the marine industry. Visit www.premiermarinas.com to find out more.

WIN A COAST TORCH!

ALL AT SEA JANUARY 2022

Nauticalia has teamed up with All At Sea to give away a fantastic waterproof Coast PolySteel 1000 Torch to one lucky reader! Coast’s PolySteel range combines a tough stainless-steel core with a lightweight textured polyresin coating. The result - a light and super-tough torch which will withstand crushing, impacts (tested with a 3m drop onto concrete), water (waterproof to 3m), heat and dust. The PolySteel 1000 offers a pure white LED beam, which can be focused, and three power levels: · High (1000 lumen, 351m beam for 11hrs) · Medium (345 lumen, 202m beam for 24hrs) · Low (98 lumen, 109m beam for 85hrs) The PolySteel 1000 torch is storm proof, crush proof, drop proof and dust resistant, so that your light can go anywhere you go.

WORTH £64.95! Crush Proof - The Crush Proof feature combines a super-tough stainless steel core with a grip-textured poly-nylon exterior to build unimaginable strength into highly a functional light; Drop Proof - Drop Proof for use in rugged, high-impact environments; High|Medium|Low - Control your light power with the push of a button. Cycle between full light, medium light and low light options. www.nauticalia.com

For a chance to win this torch enter below, online at www.allatsea.co.uk or by email to editor@allatsea. co.uk with the subject header Torch Competition.

Q: How many power levels does the PolySteel 1000 torch have? A: NAME: ADDRESS:

EMAIL: Closing date: 4 February 2022. Send by post: 13a Thornwood, Colchester, Essex, CO4 5LR, online at www.allatsea.co.uk or email editor@allatsea.co.uk with the subject header ‘Torch Competition’. Winners will be notified by email/phone. The winners will be the first correct entry drawn at random after the competition closing date. No cash or alternatives will be offered. Please indicate on your entry if you do not wish to receive information about other products and services from All at Sea by phone, post, email or by SMS.

TOWAGE AND SALVAGE The RYA share their ad ice should ou e er nd ourself in need of towage or sal age. Agreements

Make sure you know what to do should you require towage

A template Salvage Agreement is available from the RYA or from Lloyd’s (Lloyd’s Open or Standard Form) where the salvage fee can be fixed by negotiation or arbitration after the event. They are useful to have on board. If you are in a stressful situation where communication is difficult, ensure that any verbal agreement is witnessed by the crew and entered in the log. If no agreement has been made, once ashore, again try to settle a fee for towage and get a receipt.

Control

Try to show that you still have some control of the situation by doing the following, if you can: Use your own line Help where you can in the operation If being towed, establish communication with the tug en-route Gather and record forecasts Keep an accurate log This information can be used in your defence if the case goes to court or arbitration and can influence the outcome and salvage fee payable.

The Fee

f your boat is in real danger then a vessel or person coming to your aid to tow, pilot, navigate, advise or stand-by can be termed as a salvageable act. Often the RNLI come to your aid, but because life-saving is their main function they make no claim for salvage. The amount a salvor is paid is determined by the risk they take and what life or property they save. Proving that real danger existed is down to the salvor. Danger is often proved by the

state of the salvaged boat and the lack of ability of the skipper and crew and the conditions and the circumstances of the event.

Towage

If a boat is in difficulties and requires assistance from another vessel, the skipper should initially try to arrange a towage contract with the person coming to help. Towage is officially defined as a contract for assisting the voyage of a

vessel when nothing more is required than ‘accelerating her progress’. There is very little chance of a tug claiming salvage if it is contracted to tow another unless the towing situation seriously deteriorates through conditions.

No Cure, No Pay

Try to agree a towage fee first, if not state ‘No Cure, No Pay’ because the overarching principle of salvage is that the property or part of it must be saved for a salvage fee or claim to be made.

To decide how much a salvor is rewarded, a court will consider: Dangers exposed to the salvor and assisted vessel Expertise displayed by the salvor What was salvaged and its value Damage caused by negligence of the salvors The state of the assisted craft and its crew More in-depth information on this subject is available on the RYA website – Salvage and Towage and in RYA Commercial Regulations for Small Vessels. rya.org.uk Maintain control by establishing communication with the tug. Image: Rich Page/RYA

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In the drink With Paul Antrobus

BY PAUL ANTROBUS

Cheer up anuar Image: Maps Expert/Shutterstock

Do you still have some of your Christmas drinks supplies? Let’s welcome in the new year by using them to make delicious cocktails…

Beer cocktails

am not in favour of ‘dry’ January - that simply adds to the gloom once the New Year’s Eve parties are over. Better to have some fun trying something different, so why not have a go at mixing your own cocktails? The BBC Good Food programme reported that the main shift in the drinks market under Covid conditions was cocktails - up 30 per cent – with ales and stouts down 30 per cent driven, they suggested, by the younger generation. You can find plenty of recipes online or even create your own using stock leftover from your Christmas bar. One

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Contributors David Henshall Simon Everett Paul Antrobus

that springs to mind is Baileys Original Irish Cream, made with Irish whiskey and dairy cream. Normally drunk neat over ice or drizzled over ice-cream, you can combine it with vodka, tequila, whiskey or rum for a variety of classic cocktails. One I thought would be good for fighting January blues is called a Flat White Espresso Martini. For two people you need: 50ml Baileys, 25ml vodka, 25ml espresso coffee and a few ice cubes. Put them in a cocktail shaker and shake until everything is blended and the liquid is smooth. Strain into cocktail glasses and decorate each with three coffee beans if available.

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We tend to think of cocktails being mostly wine or spirit based rather than beer, but Adnams Triple Knot Tripel has all the hallmarks of a cocktail, with extra botanicals added to the basic Pilsner type beer. Here is how Adnams describes it: “Triple Knot has been inspired by the strong Tripel ales brewed in Belgium. Our take on this traditional recipe adds a few botanicals and enjoys six months’

maturation, allowing the beer to pick up a slight bready character often associated with a sparkling wine.” All this squeezed into a 330ml bottle with a fancy flip top (like Grolsch) so you can drink it in small measures, keeping it fresh in the meantime. At £6.99 and 10 per cent abv, it is just right for a January special. Although probably not in main supermarkets, it is available online from Adnams or www.beersofeurope.co.uk.

Secret ingredients

Classic Amaro Montenegro Italian liqueur follows the same philosophy basic pure alcohol with dozens of ‘secret’ herbs, botanicals and spices added including vanilla and orange peel. It has been distilled in Bologna since 1885 and, according to Montenegro, has “a curiously fragrant aroma, with notes of citrus peels, juicy cherry, bitter tea and even hints of cucumber”. Drink it as a double measure in a tumbler, fill with ice then top up with tonic or turn it into a more exotic cocktail

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(diffordsguide.com has 20 recipes). A 70cl bottle, 23 per cent, costs from £18.99. If you had winter Pimm’s for your Christmas bar (Pimm’s No.3, made with brandy and 25 per cent) you should use it up before the summer when Pimm’s No.1 (made with gin) comes in. Try adding an extra splash of brandy to any leftover stock and top off with ginger ale.

Bar Buoy

Or, if you would really like to splash out, Bar Buoy Cocktails, mixed “just a stone’s throw from the sea” in Devon, do everything for you - ready to serve at home or to send as gifts. In January 2020 founder Tim Ball set out to make the perfect Margarita. Then when the world went into lockdown he and his wife Ria dreamt up Bar Buoys cocktails, creating a range of hand-crafted, bar-standard, awardwinning cocktails. There are 16 popular varieties available, many with a Devon twist, and come in either 20cl or 1l bottles at various strengths. They are quite extravagant with prices starting at £22 for two 20cl bottles (free standard delivery), decreasing in price per bottle the more you buy. Available on www.barbuoy.com. Happy New Year!

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All At Sea January 2022

Articles inside

IN THE DRINK

MARINA GUIDE

LIFE’S A BEACH

SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE

HOT TOPIC

VALUE OF TRAINING

DIRTY WATER

HOT TOPIC

POWER TALK

SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE

NAUGHTY CAT