All At Sea - December 2023

More than just a berth The Premier Advantage: valuable rewards and benefits for boat owners

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DECEMBER 2023

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VOLUNTEERS

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Putting the spotlight on amazing volunteers who are doing incredible work nationwide... SEE PAGE 20

THE SEA CHEST ONLINE

JOIN TOM CUNLIFFE’S CLUB

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WINTER MAINTENANCE

PLUS: “It makes me feel like anything is possible, no matter what your disabilities”

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SEASONAL BOAT CARE TIPS

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Image: Mylor Sailing School

Image: Martin Allen Photography

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SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE

RACE ACROSS THE ATLANTIC

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

SailGP to a third consecutive title, and ensuring he is still the only skipper to have won the SailGP trophy. He is also skipper of American Magic, who will seek success in the America’s Cup next year.

South African Kirsten Neuschäfer was named female 2023 Rolex World Sailor of the Year after writing her name into the history books by becoming the first woman to finish first in the Golden Globe Race. She also came to the rescue of fellow sailor, Tapio Lehtinen, during the event.

Kirsten said: “It is such an incredible honour to be a nominee among such amazing, acclaimed and iconic sailors, but to win this award, to be given this recognition by such an esteemed panel of judges and by the public means so, so much to me.”

The Magenta Project won the World Sailing 11th Hour Racing Sustainability Award. A global leader

Image: Mark Lloyd/World Sailing

TECH SOLUTIONS in female empowerment in sailing, The Magenta Project’s nine-month mentoring programme has helped 150 women accelerate their progress into their chosen sailing field over the last four years. The Magenta Project also hosts international events to raise awareness and expose successful applicants to career opportunities in the sailing industry.

The President’s Development Award went to the Andrew Simpson Foundation. The foundation was started in memory of Olympic gold medal winner and America’s Cup winner Andrew ‘Bart’ Simpson MBE who tragically passed away in 2013 aged 36.

The foundation strives to transform lives through sailing and has worked for over a decade to build a connected, accessible and inclusive community of sailors globally.

11th Hour Racing was named Team of the Year. The team, skippered by Rolex World Sailor of the Year nominee Charlie Enright, won the 2022-23 Ocean Race. The team has also supported a number of initiatives to improve ocean health.

Boat of the Year went to the AC40, a technologically advanced sailing yacht. It is designed to bring America’s Cup foiling performance to competitive racing and serves as platform for testing different foil wings, flaps, sails and masts for America’s Cup teams.

Lastly, Dick Rose received the Beppe Croce Trophy for his dedication to the Racing Rules of Sailing which has spanned more than 30 years. He is best known for his very careful attention to both the big picture of the sport as a whole, as well as fully researching and debating the consequences of any changes.

Premier Marinas has been making sustainability a priority - find out how PAGE 6

IT’S SHOW TIME

Looking ahead to February’s RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show PAGE 8

‘SIP AND PUFF’

“To be onboard the AC75 foiling at 40+ knots as a photographer is a privilege unlike any other,” said Samo. “Capturing photos at high speed and strong g-forces becomes a real challenge. On the day this photo was taken, we had strong winds and a big swell, as well as incredible speed.”

The Public Award, based on the number of public votes online, was won by Eugenia Bakunova, while the Delegates Award, based on votes from Image: Historic England METSTRADE’s visitors in Amsterdam, was won by Craig Greenhill.

Image: Samo Vidic / Alinghi Red Bull Racing

HIGHS AND LOWS It has not been plain sailing for all the teams in the Ocean Globe Race PAGE 12

CHECK OUT ALL AT SEA’S 7 PAGES OF MARINA NEWS, LISTINGS AND PROFILES STARTING ON PAGE 33!

Image: Ricardo Pinto for SailGP

Lastly, familiar faces and marine professionals will take to the BoatLife Stage, and the inland pub again provides a perfect meet-up spot to enjoy live music. With competitions, show deals, children’s activities and lots of interactive fun, the 2024 show will offer something for everyone to enjoy. BoatLife has also announced that for the 2024 show they will be supporting the Fire Fighters Charity as their chosen cause.

Richard Dove, director at BoatLife Events, concluded: “We are delighted with the interest for the third BoatLife show, which has certainly been embraced by the UK boating community.” www.boatlifeevents.com

An adapted boat, MissIsle, has been welcomed at Mylor Sailability PAGE 11 Image: OGR2023 / Galiana WithSecure

a-go sessions return too. Supporting these areas will, of course, be equipment suppliers, manufacturers and green tech businesses.

The 2024 event will also see the introduction of four themed days. Innovation Day on Thursday highlights cutting-edge technology and pioneering trends, while Friday is Wellness Day, offering a focus on relaxation and wellbeing activities. Saturday brings Discovery Day, perfect for newcomers to discover boating and, finally, Sunday champions Sustainability Day, with a spotlight on eco-friendly practices and responsible boating.

WINNING PHOTO!

A total of 144 photographers, representing 30 nationalities - a new record - took part in this year’s Mirabaud Yacht Racing Image Award.

Slovenian photographer Samo Vidic was the winner of the Mirabaud Yacht Racing Image award 2023 thanks to a photo taken during a training session onboard Alinghi Red Bull Racing in Barcelona.

A sports photographer for over 20 years, Samo Vidic has developed a passion for sailing while capturing images of the Extreme Sailing Series and the GC32 class.

SUSTAINABILITY

Image: Mylor Sailing School

It is only a couple of months to go until BoatLife - Powered by Suzuki opens its doors at the NEC in Birmingham.

Running from 15 - 18 February, and entering its third year, BoatLife kicks off the boating season with a fantastic mix of boats and products.

The line-up of powerboats and RIBs is set to be more than 100 models, catering to a wide range of budgets and lifestyles. For visitors this is a prime buying opportunity, plus offers a chance to get onboard and gain guidance from professionals. There will also be a number of UK debuts and launches announced.

A perfect companion to the powerboat sector, and following on from its successful launch last year, the dedicated boat angling zone will be back. This sector showcases vessels ideal for fishing alongside products and equipment for the angling sector. Whether you are new to the sport or a seasoned angler, this will be the place to obtain expert advice and embrace the joys of boat and kayak fishing.

Evergreen in popularity, the inland waterways zone will be busy as always. Whether visitors are looking to maximise recreational fun, explore a liveaboard lifestyle, considering a purchase or looking for a water-based break, this is the spot to find it all.

BoatLife believes that the chance to get out on the water should be accessible to all, and the watersports sector is often a place from which passion grows. The popular activity pool zone, sponsored by GJW Direct, will offer kayak and paddleboard demonstrations by Rockley Watersports professionals and the visitor have-

Image: Mantis Pro Media

COUNTDOWN TO BOATLIFE

There is a new report looking at decarbonising recreational boating PAGE 5

Image: Paul Wyeth/RYA

Some of sailing’s highest achievers have been honoured at the World Sailing Awards ceremony in Málaga.

The Magenta Project won the 11th Hour Racing Sustainability Award, the AC40 was named Boat of the Year, 11th Hour Racing won Team of the Year, Dick Rose was presented with the Beppe Croce Trophy and the Andrew Simpson Foundation won the President’s Development Award.

In addition, the 2023 Rolex World Sailor of the Year awards were presented to Tom Slingsby and Kirsten Neuschäfer, in a contest decided by an expert panel and a public vote.

In an incredibly close call, Tom Slingsby was separated from his nearest competitor by fewer than 20 votes. In the end, though, Tom was named male 2023 Rolex World Sailor of the Year for the third time after guiding his Australia

IN THE NEWS… Image: ICOMIA

WORLD SAILING AWARDS

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023 - FOR MORE NEWS EVERY DAY GO TO WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK

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ALL ABOARD

By Jane Hyde

editor@allatsea.co.uk

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www.allatsea.co.uk

Where to start this month? We might be into December but as you will see in this month’s news and features there is still plenty of boating to be done, both on and off the water!

With the RYA celebrating volunteers in November’s 2023 RYA Volunteer Awards we decided it was the perfect time to put the spotlight on the fantastic people who give their time to a huge variety of organisations nationwide. If you have been thinking about volunteering turn to page 20 to find out more about what it involves and just a few of the marine related organisations you could get involved with in 2024.

A couple of those featured are the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust and Tall Ships Youth Trust, which are both also mentioned in our news pages (pg10) this month as we hear from young people who have benefitted from these charities.

RYA Sailability is another area where volunteers are much needed and welcomed. We have included Lymington Sailability in our volunteer feature, while in our news pages you can read about the new ‘Sip and Puff’ boat which has joined Mylor Sailability. As Sophie, who has cerebral palsy and is a Sailability regular aboard a wheelchair-friendly powerboat, said: “It was the most amazing experience and it makes me feel like anything is possible, no matter what your disabilities.”

There are many fantastic marine charities and organisations working with people of all ages with disabilities and this month we caught up with The Wheelyboat Trust for another Shootin’ The Breeze

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after last talking to them back in 2018. We were also delighted to hear from Mike Wood who is raising £1.5 million to build and run a catamaran to introduce disabled children and young people to sailing. You can read more about Mike and the Disabled Sailors Association on page 18.

Back on land and if you are still finishing, or have not started, your Christmas shopping then turn to page 14 for this month’s Christmas Gift Guide including the limited edition All at Sea Calendar.

At the new All at Sea shop you can also purchase a year’s subscription to All at Sea, which makes a great gift for the boater in your life. A subscription will mean never missing an issue of the best boating read around!

Another fantastic gift idea comes from renowned sailor and author Tom Cunliffe. Over on page 16 you can find out more about Tom’s online seagoing community, The Sea Chest. Why not buy a membership for the boater in your life this Christmas?

We also have several more winter maintenance features, plus a couple of competitions. This month we have some great deck shoes plus tickets to a play about Uffa Fox to give away.

All that leaves me to say is whatever your plans over the festive season may it be full of happiness and laughter, and we will see you in 2024!

DECEMBER 2023

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CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE ......... 14

RNLI 200 present ideas, books, bags and even gifts for your pooch.

SAILAWAY ............................. 15

Cruises, Seychelles and Sunsail and The Moorings’ climate commitment.

HOW TO ............................... 29

A step-by-step guide to fitting a Wavestream bilge filter.

SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE ............ 31

With Alex Jackson, one of four men taking on the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge as part of Team Marduk.

THE SEA CHEST ...................... 16

Tom Cunliffe tells us about his online seagoing community - The Sea Chest.

THE CHILDREN’S CAT .............. 18

Mike Wood is raising £1.5 million for a catamaran to introduce disabled children and young people to sailing.

COMPETITION ...................... 32

SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE ........... 19

All at Sea has teamed up with YouBoat Marine to give away 2 pairs of Hurst Deck Shoes.

WHY VOLUNTEER? ................ 20

Neil Chapman shares some of his favourite sailing terms.

With Paul Elgood, Development Director at The Wheelyboat Trust.

This 4-page special puts the spotlight on the fantastic work of volunteers!

ONBOARD WITH BOATSHED ... 32

DOUGAL ON TOUR ................. 33

Are we getting value for money at marinas?

MARINA FOCUS .................... 34

This month we are in the north-west visiting Liverpool Marina.

Image: Martin Allen Photography

PHOTO OF THE MONTH .......... 25

The last reader photos of the year before we round-up 2023’s monthly winners next month!

BRITISH MARINE ................... 27

Elevate your maritime skills with a British Marine Training course.

HERE TO HELP…

As the winter draws upon us, weather conditions are unpredictable and existing and future berth holders start preparing for the 2024 sailing high season, the Port of Dover’s marina team has been in touch to share some of the ways they can help with maintenance and repairs to your boat.

The spring 2024 season will be the first time that both the Outer Marina and newly re-developed Wellington Dock (see page 36) are operational, providing a full set of smart and sustainable facilities for annual and visiting berth holders.

A new boatyard opened only a year ago and can lift vessels of up to 50 tonnes in weight, enabling you to undertake urgent repairs to engines and all other equipment, or use the help of external technician contractors. This service is available to port berth holders and visiting customers.

They use a closed loop pressure washer system for cleaning your boat, which captures waste, saves water and avoids cross contamination.

Dover Marina is one of the first in the industry to use HVO fuel (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) to operate boatyard machinery, reducing CO2 emissions and contributing to the Port of Dover’s carbon net zero ambitions.

The dedicated fuel berth supplies red and white diesel and petrol.

Port of Dover Marina is safe and secure; they have key coded entrances and access control to all berthing areas, plus a dedicated police force.

You can therefore stop over and take your time to maintain and restore your boat.

They have great recycling and waste facilities, ensuring that you can correctly dispose of a mix of materials and food waste. The strict environmental procedures enable a cleaner and pleasant visit.

With the re-opening of Wellington Dock, another 135 berths provide more options for shelter, on top of the 250 berths in the Outer Marina. www.portofdover.com/marina

HOT TOPIC ........................... 28

Maintenance tips from AkzoNobel to keep your boat looking good over the winter.

WINTER MAINTENANCE ......... 28

This month we are focusing on antifouling.

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

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

PUZZLE PAGE ........................ 39

Another selection of puzzles to test you.

CHANGING FACE OF MARINAS ........................ 40

Saxon Wharf – a hub for refit, repair and maintenance.

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

It is the most wine-derful time of the year…

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PROPELLING OUR FUTURE

These technologies included: Battery electric (electric-powered boats and watercraft) Hybrid electric (internal combustion engines using liquid fuel and electric) Hydrogen (internal combustion engines or fuel cell) Internal combustion engines with sustainable marine fuels (drop-in fuel that is a sustainably produced liquid substitute for conventional fossil fuel) Internal combustion engines with gasoline or diesel It reveals that due to the unique on-water environment for recreational boating, and the varied interests of boaters and the experiences they seek, a variety of solutions must be considered on our

pathway to reducing carbon emissions from recreational boats.

“It is clear from the report that a one-sizefits-all solution is not the answer and that other technologies, including sustainable liquid marine fuels, hydrogen, electric and hybrid, need to be considered as we look to the future,” Lesley Robinson said.

ICOMIA's Darren Vaux concluded: “Despite our progress over the past two decades, our industry recognises and embraces the challenges and opportunities to create a sustainable future for recreational boating. We are excited to support and encourage the latest innovations to create a better boating experience.

“Sustainable marine fuels allow boaters to act now while the industry continues innovating and investing in new technologies that push the boundaries of what is possible. Through this research and a global education campaign, we are uniting the recreational marine industry around a portfolio of solutions that creates positive change through multiple pathways and a framework to collectively move our industry forward.”

To support the report findings ICOMIA, on behalf of the global recreational marine industry, has launched Propelling Our Future, an international campaign to educate and advance the industry on research-driven technology solutions.

Image: ICOMIA

The International Council of Marine Industry Associations has released a firstof-its-kind comprehensive, peer reviewed research report outlining a portfolio of technologies to support the reduction of carbon emissions from recreational boats.

“Our love for boating is fundamentally reliant on a healthy and sustainable marine environment, and we must take care of it to ensure the experiences boating provides can be enjoyed for generations to come,” said Darren Vaux, president of ICOMIA. “For the first time, we have united the global recreational marine industry around our most comprehensive, peerreviewed research to explore opportunities that could reduce recreational boats’ carbon emissions, giving us the data we need to begin educating policy makers, our stakeholder community and boaters on the varied decarbonisation solutions unique to our industry.”

The report reveals a unique multi-path approach to decarbonising recreational boating and provides guidance for global governments and boating industry stakeholders as they work together to shape investments in technology and policy.

“As members of the ICOMIA board and through the close working relationship with our technical team, British Marine has been working alongside ICOMIA since the start on the development of this new report,” said Lesley Robinson, CEO, British Marine.

“It provides us with a clearer direction for innovative solutions that will enhance boating experiences while significantly reducing environmental impact. It is a pivotal moment for our industry, signalling the start of a journey towards a more sustainable future for boating that can be cherished by future generations.”

The research specifically looks at the real environmental impacts of different marine propulsion systems in boats under 24m, across nine common recreational types of watercrafts, comparing full lifecycle GHG emissions and Global Warming Potential, financial costs, useability, performance, range and infrastructure implications.

WINTER SAILING SERIES

The 15th edition of the Seldén SailJuice Winter Series began last month with the Fernhurst Books Draycote Dash Image: RNLI/Nigel Millard in Warwickshire.

It was the first of eight events across the winter months, culminating with the series prizegiving at the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show in February.

Back for a fifth year as title sponsor, Gosport based Seldén Mast continues its support of the popular off-season sailing series. Last season saw 77 different classes and 108 clubs represented, confirming the importance of the series to UK dinghy racers.

Andy Rice, founder and co-organiser of the series, said: “It is great to have Seldén’s continued support for the series which has become a focal point for dinghy racing in the winter. Seldén are as passionate as we

are about keeping the competitive fires burning all through the year. Year after year we see many of the same faces return, which must say something about how much they are enjoying the events.”

The remaining races are: Datchet Flyer, Datchet Water Sailing Club: 9 - 10 December Yorkshire Dales Brass Monkey, Yorkshire Dales Sailing Club: 27 December Grafham Grand Prix, Grafham Water Sailing Club: 30 December Bloody Mary, Queen Mary Sailing Club: 6 January King George Gallop, King George Sailing Club: 20 January John Merricks Tiger Trophy, Rutland Sailing Club: 3 - 4 February Oxford Blue, Oxford Sailing Club: 17 February

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023 - FOR MORE NEWS EVERY DAY GO TO WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK

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"SUSTAINABILITY IS AT THE HEART OF OUR BUSINESS"

Premier Marinas continues to make sustainability a priority, whilst creating sustainable waterside environments in which people and wildlife can thrive.

Premier Marinas recently became the first UK marina operator to be certified ISO 14064-1:2018 for the verification of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This is the result of having the carbon output across the entire business measured and independently verified - marking a significant step towards their target of zero greenhouse gas emissions from Premier occupied facilities by 2030.

Pete Bradshaw, Premier Marinas CEO, said: “We strive to ensure sustainability is at the heart of our business. This latest achievement shows how seriously we take our responsibility to the environment and our progress to become net zero.”

The certification completes a hat trick of ISO standards for Premier Marinas, having

been on the sustainability journey for many years – being certified ISO 14001:2015 Environmental Management since 2018 and ISO 45001:2018 Occupational Health and Safety since 2019.

Quantifying and reporting Premier’s GHG emissions scrutinises all sites, all operations and all business activity. All emissions are benchmarked at this point.

The carbon footprint from all electricity consumption across Premier Marinas’ 10 sites, including electricity consumption from any on-site commercial tenants plus any electricity consumed by people using their boats in the marinas is assessed.

Emissions from gas use (for heating or hot water) as well as that from onboard gas cylinders are also calculated.

Almost all Premier sites have now made the switch to using hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) in plant and machinery. This fossilfree alternative to diesel can lead to a 90 per

cent reduction in GHG emissions. Also taken into account is the carbon resulting from Premier Marinas’ employees commuting to work plus any business travel.

Another project which has already reduced Premier’s GHG emissions is the solar PV installation across all feasible facility buildings. The combined 522kW rooftop solar system generates approximately 550,000kWh directly from the sun each year (Europa data). Plus, any supplementary mains electricity comes from 100 per cent UK renewable sources.

Earlier this year, Premier Marinas was also awarded a Silver EcoVadis Medal, upgrading their Bronze from 2022 and placing them in the top 25 per cent of companies assessed by EcoVadis, the globally recognised assessment platform that rates businesses’ sustainability.

See page 36 for this month's marina news including more from Premier Marinas.

A VOYAGE OF DISCOVERY

A three-part documentary featuring a deep dive into the lives of the sailors and teams competing in The Ocean Race 2022-23, which started in Image: RNLI/Nigel Millard Alicante, Spain in January and finished in Genova, Italy in June, has been released on Eurosport.

A Voyage of Discovery: The Ocean Race, produced by Warner Bros.

Discovery, follows key sailors from the five IMOCA teams racing around the world, including the skipper of the 11th Hour Racing Team, the American sailor Charlie Enright.

Viewers are taken behind the scenes and given ‘all access’ to live the drama of the race, experiencing the highs and lows as some of the best sailors in the world take on this iconic offshore challenge.

Scott Young, SVP Content & Production at Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe, said: “Our objective beyond the live coverage was to create the human story within the race. We have taken fans on the journey, to meet the people who have a passion for their sport that is matched with their commitment.

"Our cameras were permitted access onboard and on shore to places they could not ordinarily reach, telling the stories of the athletes competing to capture a more authentic experience of what the crews face during their inimitable six-month challenge.”

If you missed the series, streaming of all three episodes is available on discovery+ and the Eurosport App.

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NEWS SNAPS SPEEDBOAT SANTA

A new festive experience for children has come to Cardiff - Santa will arrive at the recently opened Lisvane and Llanishen Reservoirs, not on a sleigh but on a speedboat before sharing a festive feast with his guests at the Visitor Centre Café. Children will have time with Santa to share their Christmas wishes and will go home with a gift. Speedboat Santa sessions are available on selected weekend days until 23 December. lisvane-llanishen.com/events/ santas-festive-feasts

CHRISTMAS VILLAGE

Gunwharf Quays’ festive Christmas Village is back with new activities added for 2023. For the first time, guests can enjoy cosy iglooinspired seating for a unique festive experience, and two new Bavarian curling lanes have been introduced for guests looking to experience the sport for themselves. And, of course, the Christmas Village will follow a traditional European style, with unique handpicked artisan craft and gift traders in wooden chalets. www.gunwharf-quays.com/ christmas-village-2023

RYA DINGHY & WATERSPORTS SHOW The RYA’s sailing and watersports event returns to Farnborough International from 24 - 25 February 2024 and this year welcomes a new face to the presenting team.

Olympic sailing star Eilidh McIntyre MBE (pictured) will join the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show hosting line-up for the 2024 edition, which kick-starts the season with interactive family fun, demos, live coaching sessions and many of the biggest names in marine retail.

With two of the sport’s biggest global events set to inspire in 2024, the Tokyo 2020 gold medallist Eilidh is perfectly placed to shine a spotlight on the journey from grassroots to glory, share behind the scenes stories and help inspire you in your own watersports ambitions.

“Next year is major for sailing, with the Paris 2024 Olympics coming up and the America’s Cup happening in Barcelona – including the first ever Women’s America’s Cup,” explained Eilidh, who has

also sailed as part of the Athena Pathway project campaigning for Great Britain in the Youth and Women’s America’s Cups and which is spearheaded by her former double gold medal-winning teammate Hannah Mills OBE. “It is going to be an incredible year for the sport and this Dinghy & Watersports Show is the one to come to.”

Eilidh will team up with regular presenter and Instructor Lee Timothy, plus RYA Instructor Trainer and Pathway Coach James Hardy and windsurfing legend Peter Hart to bring you all the expert sessions, advice and talks across the show’s three stages.

Whether it is dinghy racing or cruising, windsurfing, winging, foiling or paddleboarding, the event is the ideal place to help you make the most of your time on the water. From new boats, boards and tech, to holidays, must-have clothing and accessories, you will find all the latest kit and advice. And with interactive displays and demos, VR

experiences, simulators, a model boat pool and treasure hunt, you will find something to keep even the youngest members of the family entertained.

“The RYA organises this show to bring together the sailing and watersports community, and we cannot wait to welcome everyone back to Farnborough,” said RYA Director of Sport Development Rob Clark.

“Whether you are looking to discover a new water-based hobby, be inspired by a challenge or progress to the next level in your watersports journey, you will find everything you need at the show.

Tickets for the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show are on sale, and RYA Members can once again access a free ticket* for one or both days of the show. rya.org.uk/events/dinghy-show

Image: Nick Dempsey/RYAs

*Due to the capacity of the venue, there are a limited number of complimentary tickets available for RYA members. These tickets are allocated on a first come first served basis.

Image: Paul Wyeth/RYA

FESTIVE SUPPORT

This festive season, maritime charity Sailors’ Society has launched an appeal to help ease the pain of separation for seafarers across the globe. Thanks to the charity, seafarers will have the chance to talk and share this Christmas with others who know what is like to be away from family.

They will do this through the Society’s Peer-to-Peer Support Groups which allow seafarers to chat and share experiences with one another. sailors-society.org/give

QUAY'S INVESTMENT

PRELIMINARY REGATTA

As this issue of All at Sea was published the second Preliminary Regatta of the 37th America’s Cup was taking place, hosted by the Red Sea city of Jeddah in Saudi Arabia.

The teams were racing in the onedesign AC40s with the top two teams contesting a winner-takes-all Match Race to be crowned as champions.

You can read all the latest regatta news at www.allatsea.co.uk.

THIS TIME IN 2016…

As we watch the America’s Cup Preliminary Regatta in Saudi Arabia this month, this time seven years ago we were celebrating Sir Ben Ainslie and Land Rover BAR being crowned America’s Cup World Series Champions. Also big winners were Olympic champions Hannah Mills and Saskia Clark who were named female Rolex World Sailors of the Year. Now sadly a distant memory, we were also preparing for the London Boat Show to open its doors in January at London’s ExCel.

WINNING READERS

Congratulations to October’s competition winners. Paul Laidlaw and Mark Disley won a Scanstrut Flip Pro Multi Power Socket, while Debbie Skudra and Tony both won a copy of Passage Planning Companion.

MCA GUIDANCE APP A new app for seafarers, launched by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, is a chance for those working at sea to have safety advice, checklists and important resources at their fingertips.

The Official MCA Guidance app will provide seafarers with useful, practical information on how to be safe at sea, as well as how to prepare for important parts of the job like vessel surveys and inspections. The app also includes resources designed to support and maintain seafarers’ physical and mental health.

Seafarers are part of an incredible, unique industry, but this can come with periods of hardship, pressure and prolonged isolation, sometimes with limited services. It is an MCA priority to support seafarers at all times, in particular helping

with any challenges or health-related obstacles they may face.

The Official MCA Guidance app is just one way to assist seafarers – providing an easy-to-use and informative tool that can help answer questions while providing basic step-by-step guidance offline even without connection to WiFi. Virginia McVea, Maritime and Coastguard Agency chief executive, said: “It is a priority for the MCA to ensure that we do all that we can to make the experience of seafarers better.

"This app and its further development will allow a closer connection and easier access to information and assistance.”

Download the Official MCA Guidance app for free through the Google Play or Apple iOS stores.

Gosport’s Victoria Quay has been in touch to share an up-date on recent developments.

There has been further investment over the past few months including re-surfacing work, a new 55T mobile crane, more service pontoons and they also told us to “watch this space for work to finally start on the old Navy Rum Store”.

The re-surfacing of the site provides a cleaner and better working environment which will make transportation across the site much easier and safer as well as enhancing the flood defence system.

The new mobile crane, meanwhile, offers an improved level of service for lifting and launching operations and significant capability for addressing maintenance and repairs for sailing

yacht masts, along with loading and unloading heavy equipment from boats. Victoria Quay continues to expand the level of industry on-site as an additional seven employees have joined UK Docks Marine Services South Ltd, to help cope with a rapidly increasing demand for its boat repair and maintenance services.

Not forgetting, T by the Sea opened at the end of July offering freshly made breakfast, lunch and cakes alongside locally sourced tea and coffee.

There is a promotional offer running from December to March for lifting/launching and storage charges, details of which can be found on the Victoria Quay website www.victoriaquay.net or call 02392 586951.

BEN AINSLIE JOINS PODCAST

Episode 96 of the RNLI’s 200 Voices podcast sees Sir Ben Ainslie tell listeners about the time Falmouth lifeboat saved him and his family as a

child and when he and fellow Olympian Ian Percy capsized on Hayling Sandbar and had to be rescued by the local inshore lifeboat. Sir Ben

also talks about the ‘real thrill’ he experienced at Bembridge RNLI and laying the foundations for the RNLI’s College. To mark their bicentenary,

the RNLI is releasing a daily episode from 200 voices across the RNLI for 200 days, ending on 4 March, the lifesaving charity’s birthday.

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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Image: Adam Gerrard

MADDY JOINS TSYT CREW “A MORE POSITIVE OUTLOOK ON LIFE” Find out about volunteering on page 20!

Maddy (right) joined the yacht for the home stretch to Portsmouth

A group of 10 young people were given the opportunity to sail alongside British kitesurfer and Olympic trainer Maddy Anderson after working hard to develop their skills on a Voyage of Exploration with Tall Ships Youth Trust.

The crew of 12 to 15-year-olds, who were sailing as part of a partnership between TSYT and Youth Action Wiltshire, were joined by British Women’s Kite Foiling Team member Maddy for the final leg of their voyage.

Maddy described her time onboard one of TSYT’s 72ft Challenger yachts as a “really special morning”, after joining the voyage in Warsash and playing a hands-on role in the home stretch to Portsmouth.

The kitesurfer also sat down with the young people for a Q&A session about her formative experiences in sailing and the lessons she has learned on her journey to earning international acclaim and becoming part of Team GB’s training squad for the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Rachel Greig, Inspire Tutor and Splash Support Worker with YAW, said: “This voyage has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the young people to try something completely new and raise their aspirations. For some of them, this is a much-needed break from their caring roles, but for all of them this is a chance to create positive memories that will stay with them for life.”

All 10 young people earned their Start Yachting qualification from the RYA and Leadership award from the Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network, as well as successfully completing the first stage of TSYT’s three-voyage programme before moving on to longer and more challenging Voyages of Empowerment and Leadership.

Having started her sailing journey on dinghies at a young age, Maddy was one of four Brits to finish in the top 10 at the Formula Kite World Championships in The Hague, Netherlands, before

placing 5th in the Formula Kite European Championships in Portsmouth earlier this year. She is now focused on training her teammate Ellie Aldridge towards victory at Paris 2024, where kite foiling is set to make its Olympic debut.

Running for a week from 28 November, the charity participated in the Big Give’s match-funding Christmas Challenge for the fifth consecutive year. The campaign was launched by historian and TV presenter, Dan Snow, who is one of TSYT’s most loyal supporters. As a teenager, Dan sailed onboard one of TSYT’s previous schooner vessels, Malcolm Miller, and has been a supporter of the charity ever since.

Donations received during the live week are matched up to TSYT’s target of £11,250, thanks to funding pledges received from generous individuals and The Reed Educational Trust. This means that the charity has the potential to raise more than £22,500 overall. www.tallships.org

Lucie Matthews is the winner of the Musto competition to design the official 2024 t-shirt for the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust, the charity that supported her following cancer treatment.

Lucie, 24, was diagnosed with synovial sarcoma – a type of bone tumour – in her left leg in 2018, and was treated at Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre. She had been ‘incredibly sporty’ beforehand, and says the diagnosis changed her identity by ‘ripping the entire sporty side away from me’.

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust takes young people aged 8-24 on sailing and outdoor adventures to inspire them to believe in a brighter future living through and beyond cancer. Having sailed with the Trust from East Cowes in 2022, which she said gave her more resilience to try new things and helped her realise she can adapt to new situations, she returned for more sailing this summer, during which time she entered the competition.

About her winning design, Lucie said: “The idea of the words becoming the water came from the way the Trust has kept many people afloat and given them the opportunity to thrive after cancer.

“The difference the Trust has made to me as an individual is immense. Each time I return from a trip, my friends and family notice a positive change in me. I am more confident, have a more positive outlook on life and find it easier to handle the ‘harder stuff’.”

Dame Ellen MacArthur, the Trust’s founder and patron, said: “We know the impact the Trust has on the mental wellbeing of young people living through and beyond cancer. Thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery, more and more will get the support they need to believe in a brighter future” Musto have been supplying the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust with clothing since the charity was founded in 2003, and since 2019 the long-sleeved tee young people receive at the start of a trip, which has in-built protection from the sun, has been designed by a young person summing up what the Trust means to them. ellenmacarthurcancertrust.org

Lucie sailing with the Trust Image: EMCT

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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NEW ‘SIP AND PUFF’ SAIL BOAT AT MYLOR

An adapted keel-boat which opens the world of sailing to people with the most profound disabilities has joined the fleet of multi-award-winning charity Mylor Sailability, which is based at Mylor Yacht Harbour near Falmouth, Cornwall.

The new ‘Sip and Puff’ vessel was gifted to the charity arm of Mylor Sailing School by the Miss Isle School charity, on the Isle of Wight. With its specially designed gimballed seat, quadriplegic or tetraplegic people are able to sail in comfort whilst steering via a tube which they suck or blow to move the rudder. The electronic technology makes steering the boat effortless and, after a summer of tweaks and modifications by Mylor Sailability’s founder Tracey Boyne and her team, MissIsle was ready for her maiden voyage, trialled by Falmouthbased Sophie Heseltine.

“I just did not stop smiling,” said Sophie who has cerebral palsy and is a regular aboard Sailability’s wheelchair-friendly powerboat, but had never been sailing before. “It was the most amazing experience and it makes me feel like anything is possible, no matter what your disabilities. I never thought I would have this opportunity but Mylor Sailing School made it happen and I absolutely loved every minute of it. It is now my ambition to sail to the Isles of Scilly!”

Mylor Sailability has three adapted keelboats and one wheelchair friendly powerboat offering 10 sailing and powerboat sessions plus extra private sessions each week.

“The demand is huge and ever growing, and some weeks we have more than 30 people of all ages and abilities joining us,” said Tracey. “We try to remove as many barriers to participation as we can – and now to have this amazing Sip and Puff sailing boat opens up a whole new exciting world to our guests and their families.”

Mylor Sailability relies heavily on grants and donations to operate and the fee of just £10 for participants and £5 for carers and PAs has been kept the same since the charity first began.

Mylor Sailability is also running another project, now in its second year, of free private sessions for people who are terminally ill to get on the water with their loved ones. This year ‘Good Day Promise’ has run 35 sessions, mainly from links with families from The Little Harbour, part of Cornwall Children’s Hospice Southwest. mylorsailingschool.co.uk/accessible-3 You can read about another inspirational project helping to introduce disabled children and young people to sailing on page 18 and more about volunteering on page 20.

Sophie onboard MissIsle

Image: Mylor Sailing School

WIN UFFA PLAY TICKETS Uffa Fox’s life is to be performed as a play written by Malcolm Turner author of UFFA — Yachting’s Eccentric Genius. Featuring actors Ben Craze and Nicola Kelleher, Uffa will have four performances in Cowes in March followed by six performances in London in April.

Tickets can be booked at www.sunpub.info/uffa-play and you can receive a 20 per cent discount on play tickets using the code allatsea20 when checking out.

We also have two free tickets to the premiere in Cowes on 21 March worth £31.98 to give away. To enter this ticket competition either email your answer to the below question to editor@allatsea.co.uk by 2/1/24 (see T&Cs on page 42) or enter at www.allatsea.co.uk.

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Image: OGR2023 / Galiana WithSecure

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BIG HIGHS AND LOW LOWS “Everyone is having such pleasure navigating here. You almost have a feeling of exclusivity because you know it takes a lot of effort to get here, not only to participate in the OGR but you have to cross a lot of oceans to get here. It is a long trip, but really, really perfect,” said JeanChristophe Petit, skipper of White Shadow.

But things have not gone so well for everyone. The Skeleton Crew sailing onboard Godspeed announced their withdrawal from the OGR. “In the face of unexpected challenges, including a set back in our timeline with the cracked boom and crew changes in Cape Town, we find it necessary to prioritise the safety of our crew and the integrity of our vessel. Your support means the world to us, and we want to assure you that this decision was not made lightly,” said skipper Taylor Grieger.

Lastly, Sterna and Explorer are still racing but much further behind their fellow teams. South African entrant Sterna All

Alex from Galiana WithSecure well and truly getting in touch with the Southern Ocean

As the boats taking part in the Ocean Globe Race make their way towards Auckland from Cape Town, with an expected arrival in the middle of December for the first boats, we bring you an up-date on how the teams are faring. There are winners and losers in every game – and never more so than the Ocean Globe Race.

At the time of writing, the iconic French 73ft Bermudian ketch, Pen Duick VI, skippered by Marie Tablarly, is leading the dominating pack despite Translated 9, which took first in IRC ranking in Leg 1, briefly taking first. Interestingly both yachts sailed into Auckland during the 1977

Spice Yachting had to stop at Mossel Bay, South Africa for essential maintenance on their rudder.

Just a fishing harbour, the team explained: “We have boat builders from Cape Town coming to do the work and we are taking no risks with this one. We want to ensure it is perfect for when we are back in the Southern Ocean.”

Another yacht suffering the lows of the Southern Ocean was Explorer who returned to Cape Town after just three days of racing for repairs after losing their genoa and damaging their furling system and forestay. The crew were already delayed a week having arrived in Cape Town just 24 hours before the start of Leg 2.

Both Explorer and Sterna are now out of the rankings for Leg 2 as outside assistance is not allowed under the notice of race. This means they are still in the event and make their way to Auckland where they will once again be racing for Legs 3 and 4. Leg 3 is due to start on 14 January.

Image: RNLI/Nigel Millard

Whitbread race, when Translated 9 was known as ADC Accutrac.

Maiden and Spirit of Helsinki continue to push hard. Spirit of Helsinki, which took line honours in Leg 1, is sitting 3rd in line honours while Maiden is sitting in 4th.

Former Whitbread winner L’Esprit d’équipe leads the rest of the pack, with Triana, Galiana WithSecure, Evrika and Outlaw following close behind.

In a bizarre coincidence, in the same week skipper of Galiana WithSecure, Tapio Lehtinen, passed the spot where his GGR boat Asteria sank last November, his rescuer, Kirsten Neuschäfer was awarded

Female 2023 Rolex World Sailing Sailor of the Year (see page 3).

Neptune, which also sailed into Auckland in 1977, has made impressive progress after being forced to return to Port Elizabeth to investigate steering issues two days after the race start. They had to come alongside to steady the boat for inspections and work, but accepted no outside assistance and therefore remain in the race.

Meanwhile, behind Neptune, the crew of White Shadow, none of whom have previously sailed the Southern Ocean, are loving every minute of their experience.

YOUR FLETCHER BOATS Following on from last month’s special feature looking at Fletcher Boats, Steve Gillingham sent in a couple of recent photos of his Fletcher.

Steve bought his 2002 Fletcher Sportscruiser 22 GTS in June, and since then she has been at Portland Boatcare for some TLC. In the top photo the boat is soon to return to the water having had, amongst other things, the hull copper coated. In the second photo the boat is back in the water at Weymouth. Thanks Steve!

Let us know at editorial@allatsea.co.uk if you would like us to put the spotlight on your favourite boat builder...

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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Discover our new Marina Shore Services Whether it’s crossing the Channel or exploring some of the most dramatic and iconic coastlines in the British Isles, Dover Marina is the ultimate base for discerning yacht crew and boaters.

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

Christmas in a Bag Celebrating 200 Years!

Gill Voyager Duffel Bag 10L, £35, www.gillmarine.com Gill Changing Mat & Wet Bag, £35, www.gillmarine.com

The RNLI 200 range is full of commemorative products that you can buy to help celebrate 200 years of saving lives at sea.

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4 Zhik 25L Dry Bag, £35.95, www.zhik.com

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❅ Zhik 45L Submersible Waterproof Duffel/ Backpack, £199.95, www.zhik.com

Red Rolltop Dry Bag 60L, £49.95, red-equipment.co.uk

Paw-fect gifts RNLI 200 Dog Bandana, £8

RNLI Stripe Dog Lead, Navy/Red, £10

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Images: RNLI/Nathan Williams

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

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A massive 94 per cent of dog owners buy a Christmas present for their dog, and so they will be expecting something extra special under the tree this Christmas!

❅ ❅ OR HOW ABOUT… ❅ 1 RNLI 200 2-pack socks, £9 2 RNLI 200 bauble, £10 3 RNLI 200 kid’s t-shirt, £8 4 RNLI 200 recycled shopper, £7 5 RNLI 200 recycled teddy bear, £12 shop.rnli.org/pages/rnli-200

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Pooch & Mutt Christmas Dog Bundle, £19.99 RNLI Dog Walking Kit, £12

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Pooch & Mutt Ski-sonal Dog Christmas Gift Box, £11.99

Kobe Eco Dental Care Kit, £11.30 Kobe Road Trip Kit, £11.30 Pooch & Mutt Cheese Fondue Dog Advent Calendar, £9.99

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1 Solent Spirit: White Rum, £38, Spiced Rum, £38, and Café Rum (a coffee Liquor), £28, www.solentspirit.co.uk 2 Garmin quatix 7 Pro marine smartwatch: purpose-built for life on the water and packed with wearable tech, £869.99, garmin.com/marine 3 Deck shoes, £64.99, www.youboatmarine.com - See pg32 for your chance to win these shoes! 4 The Bar Compass: a rotating bar accessory with 16 cocktail recipes to guide you through each drink, £15, kikkerlandeu.com 5 Koi Morph Shot Glasses: dive into an underwater world with the Kikkerland Colour Changing Koi Fish Glass Set, £20, kikkerlandeu.com 6 All at Sea 2024 Calendar, £9.99, shop.allatsea.co.uk 7 RAW Pro 2 head torch, £135, www.exposureolas.com

FESTIVE READS!

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CA Cruising Almanac, £25 for CA members, £35 for non-members Saved from the Waves: Animal Rescues of the RNLI, £14.99 Living Through the Gale by Tom Cunliffe, £16.99 Elizabeth’s Navy: Seventy Years of the Postwar Royal Navy by Paul Brown, £45 Just Add Water - Over 100 ways to recharge and relax on the UK’s rivers, lakes and canals by Sarah Henshaw, £18.99 Uffa - Yachting’s Eccentric Genius by Malcolm Turner, £15.99

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

SAIL AWAY

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

Image: Falmouth Harbour

CRUISE INTO 2024

The chance to step onto a luxury cruise liner to start and finish a holiday in Cornwall has been a draw for thousands of passengers in a record season which has reinforced Falmouth Harbour’s reputation as a world class cruise destination and brought an estimated £4-6 million into the local economy. This year there have been 44 visits - up from 29 in 2022.

“There are clear signs the cruise industry is embracing sustainability and understands it has to make big changes if it wants to continue to thrive as the world decarbonises,” said Miles Carden, Falmouth Harbour CEO. “Falmouth Harbour has already taken significant steps towards protecting and improving our precious environment and the revenue and harbour dues collected from visiting cruise ships helps make these environmental schemes affordable and allows us to do more to protect our seagrass and other environments.”

With the visits to Falmouth Harbour beginning in early April and continuing until the end of October, this cruise traffic has provided a welcome boost to tourism.

Falmouth Harbour expects 2024 to be even busier with more than 50 cruise ships already scheduled to visit.

It is no surprise that cruise holidays have become more popular in the last decade, offering a convenient way to visit multiple destinations. Cruise expert Jenni Fielding, at Cruise Mummy, has identified which cruise companies are the most popular in the UK by using online search terms.

Coming out on top is P&O Cruises with an average of 632.71 monthly searches per 100,000 residents. Being a British based company with cruises all over the world, it is no surprise that it is popular with Brits. P&O Cruises has a wide range of ships offering short trips to Europe as well as journeys spanning over a month that visit ports in Greenland or the Caribbean.

In Jenni’s list of popular UK cruise companies, P&O Cruises is followed by Royal Caribbean, Marella Cruises, MSC Cruises and Celebrity Cruises respectively.

Jennie said: “It was not until the 1960s that cruise lines started to put an emphasis on the entertainment aspect and today a cruise ship is a hotel, cinema, theatre and holiday resort all in one.

“Companies are now looking to make cruising more environmentally friendly and accessible to more passengers. Ships are getting bigger and though some ports are restricting access, cruises are still a popular choice for those who want a luxury experience.”

The Seychelles offers one of the world’s finest sailing grounds, with pictureperfect tropical islands, sandy beaches and imposing granite rocks polished by the relentless waves of the Indian Ocean.

Average temperatures in the Seychelles are warm all year-round with the best time to visit for sailing being during the season transition in April/May and October/November when the water visibility is optimal at 98ft – perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

Dream Yacht Worldwide began its first yacht charters in the Seychelles.

And for good reason, as it is one of the most beautiful places on the planet, comprising 41 of the earth’s oldest granite islands and 74 low-lying reef

islands which embody the phrase ‘tropical paradise’.

On a Seychelles yacht charter, visitors can snorkel among the treelike corals on Coco Island, or at stunning St. Pierre islet, where rugged granite rocks merge with lush tropical vegetation.

An unmissable highlight on any yacht charter in the Seychelles is a visit to the scented vanilla plantations at Union Estate on La Digue, one of the most beautiful islands in the region. While for nature lovers, there is bird watching at Aride Island and the rare Aldabra tortoises at Curieuse, a protected island where you can observe these gentle giants. www.dreamyachtcharter.com

Image: Windstar Cruises

WINTER STARS Windstar Cruises has new winter and holiday sailing itineraries from this month to April 2024, offering travellers the opportunity to discover iconic ports like Barcelona, Nice, Florence/ Livorno, Marseille and Rome aboard the awardwinning 312-guest Star Legend.

“The ship was originally scheduled to sail in the Middle East. We have postponed our launch in that region to begin in November 2024,” said Windstar Cruises President Christopher Prelog. “With a ship in the Mediterranean, we saw an opportunity to offer guests a legendary winter season in Europe. Our small ships and intimate atmosphere provide a truly unique way to explore Europe’s winter wonderlands, while enjoying the magic of the season and the comforts and casual luxury that Windstar is known for.”

While the allure of summer in the Med is undeniable, the quieter, more intimate charm of the winter months offers an exclusive perspective on these timeless destinations. The seven-night itineraries have been designed for guests to take advantage of fewer crowds and easier access to museums, cultural events and historical landmarks, as well as local cuisine and genuine engagement with locals. www.windstarcruises.com

SUPPORTING MARINE ECOSYSTEMS As part of their commitment to climate and nature action, Sunsail and The Moorings have joined other companies across the Travelopia Group to partner with Blue Marine Foundation.

Together with their fellow travel companies, Sunsail and The Moorings intend to donate at least £1 million over the next three years. Protecting coastlines and valuable marine life habitats are vital in restoring ocean health and tackling climate change, and the funds will support seven projects aiming to conserve and restore 7,000 hectares of critical marine ecosystems globally.

Marine ecosystems absorb nearly half the world’s carbon dioxide and play a pivotal role in regulating our planet’s climate.

However, this complex web of life is under threat due to overfishing, pollution and climate change. By engaging local

Image: Dream Yacht Worldwide

ENDLESS SUMMER IN THE SEYCHELLES

communities in marine conservation, it is possible to safeguard and restore these fragile ecosystems, which are so vital in keeping our planet healthy.

Dan Crockett, Oceans & Climate Director for Blue Marine Foundation, said: “It is fantastic that Sunsail and The Moorings have recognised the value of the ocean as a solution to climate change. Commitment to protect and restore these vulnerable but incredibly valuable blue carbon ecosystems is very welcome in a time of climate and biodiversity crisis.”

Customers can add an optional donation of £2 per person to their next yacht charter. Donations will go directly to Blue Marine Foundation and will be used to support the seven projects.

Image: Patrick Bennett

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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Leisure boating is a welcoming, fun community to be a part of, but did you know you can also join renowned sailor and author Tom Cunliffe’s online seagoing community, The Sea Chest? in the night. You sail the seas together, sharing the danger and the riotous parties.

Then one day, life splits you up and you might not bump into them again for 30 years or more until, in some bar in a far-off port, there they are, large as life and twice as ugly. The Sea Chest has short-circuited that arrangement. They suddenly turn up on the Zoom forum and help with questions from people who really do not know much at all, but every one of us started like that so there is no need to be shy. We are there for each other.

SEA CHEST BENEFITS

T

owards the end of every month I settle in by my webcam with a glass of rum for an hour of seamanlike Zoom-powered interaction with the members of my Sea Chest Club. We know well that boats and their little ways can present all sorts of challenges. The forum is there to help resolve some of these, and the variety of questions never ends.

Off-season I am in my study, but in summer I will be on the boat, anchored up in the far Northlands. These gettogethers are a high spot of my working life, but three years ago in the cold winter of Covid the idea had yet to register.

So, what is The Sea Chest, how did it begin and what can it do for us sailors?

In a nutshell, Sea Chest is a virtual club for all who love the sea. As well as the monthly forum, members gain free access to a huge canon of my work.

Accessed through my website, articles in the ‘chest’ range from technical instruction to cruising accounts and on through to scholarly historical papers.

You might like to download a piece about painless gybing, an explanation of the mysteries of traditional lines plans, some classic Cunliffe cruising stories or a treatise on Thames sailing barges.

It is all there, and much more.

We have a priceless video series on ropework, another on tides, a free audiobook and a private Facebook page, as well as a Q&A service dealing with subjects as far apart as the Yachtmaster exam and rigging a peak halyard purchase.

There is a monthly Zoom forum for members

HOW IT STARTED…

It all began when I found myself at a loose end during lockdown. Usually, I am out and about when not at sea, travelling around the country and northern Europe delivering lectures and speeches about sailing, seamanship and maritime history.

I enjoy this and, not to put too fine a point on it, it also helps my income. The whole itinerant speaking operation fell apart during Covid and I started to wonder how to fill the gap.

I have a close working relationship with Mike Shepherd of the Marine Advertising Agency, so I decided to ask Mike for some ideas. He came up with the concept of an online club. MAA would run the software, help by promoting it and generally let people know it is there. The question soon arose as to how much we ought to

be charging. Similar outfits in the US look for serious money, but I felt the best thing was to make the annual membership fee almost nominal. We settled on a figure that might just buy you two pints of bitter in a London pub, so nobody is being greedy and nobody needs to hold back because of the money. Working with MAA we soon put together a lively, modern website. It looked good, so we decided to ‘go live’ and see what happened.

INTERNATIONAL MEMBERS

The response was heartwarming. Sailors from all over the world signed up. We have members in Australia, New Zealand, North and South America, Europe and, of course, lots in Britain. There are professional yacht skippers, Merchant

Navy men, Royal Naval petty officers, Yachtmaster Instructors and plenty more enthusiastic sailors still working towards their first Day Skipper qualification. That is how I like it.

Some of our members have sailed around the world. Others have yet to venture outside the Solent. We even have one or two who are just dreaming about it and want some direction. They benefit from the diverse catalogue of knowledge within our club, while the old salts are more than willing to share what they know.

It is good fun for everyone because there is not a mariner born who does not rise to a good yarn.

One or two of my ex-shipmates are forum regulars. We all know what happens to shipmates. They disappear like ships

So, what comes your way when you join The Sea Chest? As well as instant access to more Cunliffe articles than you will manage to read in many a long summer’s day, you will receive a newsletter every month. The letter is really an article in itself. It might be a slice of marine philosophy, it could be an account of some outrageous event, but whatever it is the feedback is always positive.

As well as giving out the details of the next Zoom forum, the letter lists the month’s contribution to the ever-growing catalogue of articles. Typically, this will be two new ones, one technical and one that is more whimsical. It is a random choice, unlike the monthly book recommendation arranged by Roz, my wife.

She is a great student of maritime literature and loves sharing her passion, so she presents us with a book every month.

Usually they are out of print so you will have to go and scour the internet to find a copy.

You will not be sorry though. Classic yachting literature formed the bedrock of my own knowledge base and these books broaden the understanding of our shared passion.

She even shares the odd recipe that she knows will work in a North Atlantic storm.

I am pleased we started The Sea Chest.

It has introduced me to a whole crew who set out simply as members of the club, but who I now look on as my friends. Maybe you will join us. I hope so. Meanwhile, fair winds to you, wherever you are sailing.

You can sign up for The Sea Chest at www.tomcunliffe.com. Why not buy a membership for the boater in your life this Christmas?

“It is good fun for everyone because there is not a mariner born who does not rise to a good yarn” Tom Cunliffe at sea

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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THE CHILDREN’S CAT Mike Wood is raising £1.5 million to build and run a catamaran to introduce disabled children and young people to sailing.

facilities for disabled people could not, or would not, help wheelchair users; they said we were too difficult or too expensive to cater for. At first I was just sad about it, then annoyed and then quite angry and I decided to use my contacts from sport to do something about it.”

In the early 1990s Mike went on to form a charity to provide leisure and sporting facilities for wheelchair users, now known as the Disabled Sailors Association.

Mike said: “A small group of friends and I developed many sports and leisure activities over the years, but we kept coming back to sailing as it offers so much to wheelchair users - and if it is easy for a wheelchair user it is easy for anyone.”

Mike’s research demonstrated a demand for a sailing yacht that would allow a family with a disabled person to sail and live on it. He raised the half million

This is what the new children’s catamaran will look like

O

ver the last 30 years Mike, who is severely disabled himself, has raised more than £5 million to invest in sailing for disabled people, and nearly 50,000 people have used the yachts and dinghies he has designed and built.

Mike was injured in a motorcycle accident in 1978, which left him paralysed from the chest down and confined to a wheelchair. Mike was introduced to sport during rehabilitation and was pushed to excellence by his physiotherapist while at Stoke Mandeville Hospital.

Mike said: “Lone, pronounced Lorna, my Danish Physio, was a real taskmaster.

She demanded that all her patients be

the absolute best they could be, and I was proud to be one of them.”

Inspired, or pushed, by Lone, Mike became very successful at every sport he tried. Spotted by the Great Britain Disabled Athletic Team Mike represented the country at national and international events.

to design and build a yacht that a person in a wheelchair could sail by themselves, with or without the rest of the family, and HRH The Princess Royal went on to launch Verity K in 1995.

Bigger and better

Demand meant Mike had to build something to take more people at a time, and a fortunate meeting with Alistair Wood, no relation, led to a group of Vice-Patrons and the Scott Bader Resin Company building a catamaran (below) that could be sailed single-handed by a wheelchair user but could have a crew of 12 for day sailing and six for cruising.

Now Mike has worked with one of the world’s most prestigious catamaran builders, HH Catamarans, to create a new catamaran design. This will meet the needs of adventurous disabled young people, including facilities for the

most complex disability needs such as hoists for toilets and showers, a fridge for medical stores, heating and air conditioning.

The new yacht is ready to be built and Mike already has half a million pounds raised towards it.

To find out more and details on how you can support this project: www.disabledsailing.org or www.justgiving.com/campaign/DSA

Mike Wood is raising money to replace the 23-year-old Spirit of Scott Bader

All types of disability are welcome on Scott Bader, which is based at Port Solent Marina

Disabled Sailors Association Leisure activities were Mike’s next pursuits, and UK National Champion in angling, kart racing and sailing were added to his list of achievements.

All this was in the 1980s, and Mike said: “I was often refused access to facilities and became annoyed that all the organisations that said they provided

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ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

Shootin’ the Breeze... …with Paul Elgood, Development Director at The Wheelyboat Trust.

Peter Kay launching a Wheelyboat at The Anderton Centre in Lancashire last year Image: Peter Byrne/PA

AAS: Are Wheelyboats accessible to all disabled people?

PE: Yes, Wheelyboats provide wheelchair users, and those with other mobility issues, the freedom to board and operate the boat independently and safely. Every Wheelyboat has a bow door that lowers to form a ramp, which allows roll-on, roll-off boarding from a pontoon or jetty. They give everyone the opportunity to participate in outdoor water-based activities because of this step-free access to the boat. With a Wheelyboat no-one is left on the bank watching others enjoy themselves.

AAS: A Coulam Wheelyboat V17 was recently launched on Castle Semple Loch in Renfrewshire. Where else can we expect to see Wheelyboat launches soon?

PE: New Wheelyboats are due at Loch Venachar in Scotland, Debdale Outdoor Education Centre in Greater Manchester and at Chesil Sailability in the South West – as you can see the charity enjoys good UK-wide coverage! We hope these boats will be launched in spring 2024 when there is a full summer ahead to enjoy them, and we are busy fundraising for the next set of boats too.

AAS: Can you share a brief background to The Wheelyboat Trust for those who have not come across it?

AAS: How can All at Sea’s readers find out the location of their nearest Wheelyboat?

PE: Our work enables people with any disability across the UK to enjoy waterborne activities in specially designed wheelchair accessible boats, called ‘Wheelyboats’. Since the charity was founded in 1984, 228 Wheelyboats have been supplied to sailing clubs, fisheries, SEND schools and outdoor education centres across the UK and beyond, allowing thousands of people to enjoy water-based activities like never before.

AAS: We interviewed The Wheelyboat Trust’s Director Andy Beadsley in 2015. How long have you worked at the Trust and what is your role?

PE: Very easily, just go to our website, www. wheelyboats.org, where there is a list of locations.

AAS: Do you think the boating industry is doing enough for boaters with disabilities? What would you like to see?

A recent launch at FS Bulwark Naval Cadets in Leicestershire, showing how easy the step– free access is for those in a wheelchair Image: Travis Eato

PE: I have worked at The Wheelyboat Trust for four years now. Earlier this year our long serving Director Andy Beadsley indicated that he wanted to start thinking about retirement, so I was really pleased to take on a joint role with Andy where he became Operations Director and I have become Development Director. My role involves raising vital funds for each boat, liaising with beneficiaries and helping plan each launch. Andy is highly respected in the sector and it is great to have the opportunity to work alongside him. Working for The Trust is more a vocation than a job - Andy rightly calls it his life’s work.

FS Bulwark cadets enjoying their new Coulam V17 Wheelyboat on the River Soar Image: Travis Eato

AAS: What is the most rewarding part of your role?

PE: Every new boat is a journey. From the first meeting with a new group, seeing each donation generously coming through, the boat taking shape at the boat builder’s factory, through to delivery and, of course, the big launch. We work in partnership with the local groups on the ground and it is highly rewarding when a boat project reaches completion and then we see the beneficiaries out on the water enjoying themselves.

PE: There is always more to be done. 40,000 lakes and reservoirs throughout the UK by and large have no accessible boating facilities, and of the 2,000 miles of waterways cared for by the Canal & River Trust, so far there are only 14 Wheelyboats which operate on these waters. We will continue working with organisations and charities across the country to ensure that as many disabled people as possible can access and enjoy the UK’s waterways.

19 AAS: It is fantastic to have the support of well known names – such as comedian Peter Kay who launched a Wheelyboat last year and patrons like Jeremy Paxman. Is there someone you would love to have involved?

PE: We are very lucky to have high profile supporters who freely give their time and support, and we are grateful to them all. They can really help bring attention to our work, which also involves raising the total funds for each Wheelyboat. It is also about finding new organisations whose beneficiaries want to get out on the water and without a Wheelyboat would not be able to. We would be delighted to hear from anyone who would like to help us provide more Wheelyboats!

AAS: The Wheelyboat Trust was originally called the Handicapped Anglers Trust. Are you an angler?

PE: I have not been angling since my school days, but the roots of the organisation are still very much in angling as that is how it all began. The C16 Wheelyboat is our flagship angling vessel found at many fisheries across the county. I really like the versatility of Wheelyboats - people can use them for fishing, whilst others use them to enjoy a day out, improve their health and wellbeing or to be out socially with friends and family.

AAS: The Wheelyboat Trust relies on donations.

How can people donate?

PE: Absolutely, and we are extremely thankful for the generous support we receive. To donate any amount, please visit www.wheelyboats.org.

AAS: Are people able to volunteer with The Wheelyboat Trust, and if so how?

PE: Please get in touch if you are interested in volunteering opportunities with us, there are also lots of voluntary roles within the many organisations that have a Wheelyboat across the country.

Wheelyboats can be found at an array of places including outdoor activity centres, cadet groups, sailing schools and fisheries. Many rely on – and welcome – dedicated volunteers, and are always looking for more help.

To discuss obtaining a Wheelyboat for public or private use or to find out more about The Wheelyboat Trust, visit www.wheelyboats.org.

Turn the page to read this month’s special feature about volunteering.

“They give everyone the opportunity to participate in outdoor water-based activities because of this step-free access to the boat.

With a Wheelyboat no-one is left on the bank watching others enjoy themselves”

WHY VOLUNTEER?

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Everyday around the UK people of all ages, from all walks of life, take the time to volunteer, each making a huge difference to our boating communities.

Image: Martin Allen Photography

P

eople choose to volunteer for various reasons, from gaining work experience and new skills to building a CV, to giving back and connecting with others in the community. Volunteering also brings improved physical and mental health and wellbeing. It can reduce stress, increase confidence and provide a sense of purpose. We shouldn’t forget that, importantly, it is enjoyable too!

Charities and non-profit organisations are always in need volunteers, and so it is a matter of finding the right fit for you. Here we have put the spotlight on a number of well-known marine organisations, but there are many others to consider too (see the contact information at the end of this feature for help finding current opportunities).

Three steps to finding the right volunteering role: 1. Think about what interests you 2. Consider the time or skills you can give 3. Start researching!

RYA Director of Sport Development Rob Clark recently paid tribute to the enormous impact that volunteers have in sailing and boating communities: “It is always so inspiring to hear of the amazing work that is happening every day, up and down the country, by volunteers right at the heart of our sport.

“Whether it is encouraging newcomers to give it a try, looking after facilities so people can get afloat safely, running

weekend racing or fundraising for equipment so more people can be introduced to the joys of being on the water – there really is a rewarding role for everyone in our communities, from teenager to octogenarian!”

So, it is possible to volunteer in a huge variety of roles, but each organisation will be slightly different in their volunteering requirements. For example, some may ask for experience and specific knowledge.

Remember, the amount of time you dedicate to voluntary work depends on you and the other commitments in your life. Whether you give a few hours a week or, say, your entire summer, make sure you do what works for you; anything you can do helps. Use the three steps already mentioned and, importantly, do your research before applying.

Before we look at a few marine organisations we will reflect on November’s 2023 RYA Volunteer Awards when the invaluable contributions of volunteers across sailing and boating communities were celebrated by HRH The Princess Royal, President of the RYA, and guests at an awards ceremony in central London.

This year 81 accolades were given in recognition of the outstanding dedication and commitment made by volunteers of all ages and from all corners of the UK. The awards were divided into five categories, highlighting the many and varied ways volunteers support participation and activity across the sailing and boating sector.

The Honor Preston Award

Community Champions Awards images: Paul Wyeth

EMCT volunteer John, left, teaching sailing skills

The RYA Community Awards recognise the exceptional commitments made by individuals at the grassroots level of the sports and activities the RYA represents.

Some 46 Lifetime Commitment Awards were celebrated at the ceremony and a further 25 recipients were honoured with Outstanding Contribution Awards. These contributions ranged from club establishment and maintenance to race officiating, training, coaching, fundraising, inspiring disadvantaged groups through sailing and much more.

Six individuals, each receiving a Young Volunteer Award, showed that it is never too soon to start supporting others in the sport.

Jack Kennedy (pictured above) was one of the Young Volunteer Award recipients, and he started his volunteering at the age of 14 at Strangford Lough Yacht Club in Northern Ireland. He progressed through various Instructor roles and became the youngest member of the Commodore’s committee at the age of 22.

Jack said: “You need to give back to the sport that has given so much to you, which is why it is so important to get involved. Sailing in particular is a sport that relies so heavily on volunteers compared to other sports, so we need to make sure we are facilitating the next generation of sailors coming through and enabling them to come up through the ranks and then they can get involved in volunteering.”

Established in 2020 The Honor Preston Award celebrates individuals who significantly increase the inclusivity of boating. This year’s recipient, Joanna Gardiner, has been a passionate sailor since childhood. Joanna (Burghfield Sailing Club and Andrew Simpson Centre, Reading) has dedicated herself to promoting sailing among the deaf community, helping set up the Deaf Sailing Club (later Deaf Sailing UK) and leading efforts to provide sailing opportunities for people with disabilities.

Being deaf herself, she has been instrumental in teaching British Sign Language to staff at ASC, enhancing communication during taster days. Her commitment to inclusivity has created a unique deaf-focused programme, making sailing more accessible.

“It is my passion to be a volunteer,” Joanna explained. “My heart is with the deaf community, and I do not want to see them isolated because I know that can be really bad; I have been in that position myself. We are like a big family, the deaf community, so that is why I have volunteered over the years.”

The Francis Elkin Award

RYA Honorary Life Membership

This award, dedicated to the memory of a former RYA Council Chair and Sailability Trustee, recognises exceptional individuals who have made significant efforts to enable people with disabilities to become involved in sailing.

This year the award went to Brian Stanley who founded Wealden Sailability in 2008, making it one of the largest Sailability organisations in the UK. Brian’s commitment and leadership have been the backbone of Wealden Sailability’s success, providing sailing opportunities to people with disabilities and positively impacting their wellbeing.

Regional Award

RYA Regional Award recipient, Peter Hadfield of the RYA North West Region, was recognised for his exceptional commitment and contributions to boating at a regional level. Peter’s leadership in organising the RYA NW Youth & Junior Traveller Series, establishment of the English Regional Forum and work with the Working Group highlight his dedication to promoting best practices and collaboration among Regional Chairs.

Honorary Life Membership stands as the highest honour, acknowledging individuals who have made an extraordinary and unique contribution to the RYA and the sport of boating.

It was awarded this year to Chris Preston, who chaired the RYA from July 2018 and concluded his tenure at the AGM, which preceded the awards.

Chris was instrumental in reinforcing the RYA’s commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity, inclusion and sustainability, ensuring accessible and safe boating without unnecessary regulations.

RYA CEO Sara Sutcliffe MBE said of the boating community’s volunteers: “Our sport relies so much on the goodwill and skills of volunteers at every level, without whom the opportunities to get involved in boating would be greatly reduced.

“They are very often the first point of contact for new participants across the nations and regions, and can help to motivate a lifetime’s interest, or inspire others to train for fulfilling careers across the marine industry.

“It is so humbling to hear of the many examples of selfless commitment our award recipients have shown – in many cases spanning decades – and they represent many thousands more who give their time to support boating in whatever way, great or small. Our grateful thanks go to them all.”

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Marine Conservation Society The Marine Conservation Society is a charity fighting for cleaner, healthier, better-protected oceans that we can all enjoy. They have a great community of volunteer ‘Sea Champions’ across the UK who help them to achieve their vision and they could not achieve the results that our oceans so desperately need without their time and support.

There are four programmes that volunteers can get involved in, and people often mix and match activities, depending on what suits their interests best.

Beachwatch volunteers organise beach cleans in their local community. As well as cleaning up our coastline, volunteers note down all the litter they find in a 100m stretch of beach.

This data helps the charity to track litter and enables them to campaign for change.

Seasearch is a community of recreational divers, snorkellers and intertidal walkers. They do their bit for the marine environment by collecting information about marine habitats,

plants and animals that they see underwater.

The Society has over 30 years of data collected by volunteers, helping to inform changes in marine environmental health around the UK. Ocean Voice volunteers represent the Marine Conservation Society in their local community, providing talks about its work. This helps to raise awareness about the charity and the ways that people can support it.

Citizen Science activities help people to get involved in marine conservation, whether they have five minutes or an hour to spare.

Activities include an easy inland litter pick and survey, reporting wildlife sightings and spotting seaweed through ‘The Big Seaweed Search’.

By registering as a ‘Sea Champion’, volunteers get access to a personal dashboard that displays all the opportunities, as well as a monthly newsletter explaining how they can take positive action to restore the health of our ocean.

To find out more visit www.mcsuk.org/volunteering.

Big Seaweed Search at Rottingdean

Tall Ships Youth Trust Tall Ships Youth Trust is a youth development and outdoor learning charity that helps young people from disadvantaged backgrounds to redefine their horizons through transformational sea-going voyages.

Volunteering offshore with TSYT is a unique and rewarding way to build your sailing knowledge and experience, with opportunities to complete professional qualifications and progress up to Volunteer Mate, while supporting young people aged 12-25 to change their lives at sea.

They also offer shoreside volunteering opportunities – from helping with essential maintenance to keep vessels shipshape, to raising awareness of the Trust’s life-changing work at events such as open days and sailing regattas.

Image: Billy Barraclough

Last year, volunteers donated more than 35,000 hours of their time, and in return for this support TSYT honours their volunteers with the annual TSYT Volunteer Awards.

Sarah Mardlin, Voyage Resourcing and Reservations Manager at TSYT, said: “Volunteers are a fundamental part of our crew and voyages. By sharing their life lessons and experiences onboard, our volunteers become positive role models for our young people, helping them to create and develop positive relationships with other young people and adults.

“Put simply, none of the work we do would be possible without the passion and commitment of our volunteers.”

To find out how you can get involved, please email info@tallships.org.

RNLI Since its founding in 1824, the RNLI has launched more than 376,000 times and saved more than 144,000 lives thanks to the dedication of its volunteers who are on call around-the-clock, 365 days a year and make up 97 per cent of the charity’s front-line lifesavers.

The lifesaving charity now boasts more than 30,000 volunteers in more than 100 roles such as water safety educators, fundraisers, press officers, shop volunteers, launch authorities, visits officers, boat house managers plus many others including those volunteers who head out to sea on lifeboats – each and every volunteer plays their part in saving lives at sea.

There are countless volunteer stories, such as that of Polly Clarke who, earlier this year, was appointed as volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager at Cromer RNLI Lifeboat Station. Polly started volunteering at Cromer RNLI as Lifeboat Administration Officer in 2019 and then trained to become part of the shore crew in 2020.

LOM is a critical role and helps the RNLI save lives at sea by carrying out the day-to-day management of the lifeboat station to ensure a permanent state of readiness for service.

Polly is responsible for authorising the launch of the lifeboats and providing leadership of the operations team. She also ensures that all operational activities are carried out to maintain the lifeboats and that all associated equipment is in a constant state of readiness.

Polly said: “I volunteered for the role of Lifeboat Operations Manager at Cromer to ensure continuity of the great work that John (Redmond) has put in place to enable Cromer Lifeboat station and our wonderful volunteers to carry on saving lives.”

Every year the RNLI makes long service awards for 20+ years, and this year there are 43

Cromer RNLI’s Lifeboat Operations Manager, Polly Clarke Image: Cromer RNLI awards for those who have completed 50 years and nine awards for 60 years’ service, having a combined total of 2,690 years between them!

Find out more about volunteering with the RNLI at rnli.org/support-us/volunteer.

You can also find out about the RNLI’s Christmas Appeal at rnli.org.

“I have never regretted one day volunteering for the RNLI – and I really believe that people can make a difference” Anna Watson, Volunteer Chair of Looe Fundraising Committee

Image: Paul Underhill

Volunteers Week takes place over 1 - 7 June every year.

It is a chance to recognise the fantastic contribution volunteers make to our communities and say thank you. ►

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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Volunteer Chat with...

Marine Conservation Society

Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust The Trust’s flagship yacht Solent Hero with its young crew Image: Martin Allen Photography

We asked the Marine Conservation Society some of their commonly asked volunteering questions…

How many hours do I have to commit to? All our volunteering activities are very flexible and there is no minimum time commitment required. You can choose where, when and how often you want to take part.

Will I get training? Yes. We have a variety of great online videos, downloads or, depending on the role, e-learning resources so volunteers can get involved from anywhere in the UK, at a time that is right for them. You can also get in touch with our team if you need further help or support.

Do I need to have skills/ qualifications/experience?

No, we provide all the training and information that you need to take part in our volunteer activities.

Is there a minimum/maximum age? Anyone over the age of 13 can volunteer with us, but certain activities, such as organising events or joining our ‘Ocean Voice’ programme is only open to those over 18. 16 and 17-year-olds will need support of a parent or guardian to take part in our citizen science activities but can come along to beach cleans unaccompanied.

Young people aged 13-25 can also get involved in our Youth Ocean Network, a community of young ocean enthusiasts.

The Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust takes young people aged 8-24 on sailing and outdoor adventures to inspire them to believe in a brighter future living through and beyond cancer.

Without volunteers, the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust simply could not run their transformational sailing adventures supporting young cancer survivors. Volunteer Mates, for example, keep the young crews safe while teaching them new skills, helping them rediscover what they are capable of after their treatment has ended and inspiring them to rebuild their independence and their confidence.

“I just love seeing the magic that happens on these trips and how it affects the young people,” said Gareth Sellors, a volunteer Mate and Medic.

“They draw strength from each other and move forward in life because of the bonds they make onboard. My favourite part is the hilarity that always ensues, I really enjoy the fun of it all.”

Volunteer Mate John Peckham said: “I get far more out of volunteering than I put in. What you gain in your soul and your spirit outweighs the time and energy you put into it. You go home tired, but amazed by the young people and their determination to overcome the adversities they have been through.”

Volunteer applications for 2024 are closed, but you can register your interest for 2025 at www.ellenmacarthurcancertrust. org/volunteer-with-us/becomea-volunteer.

Will I be interviewed for the role?

There are a few activities which include an informal chat to discuss and agree the role. Most of our volunteer activities are easy and accessible, and you can pick them up and get started when you are ready.

RYA Volunteering is the heart of RYA and club activity, providing new opportunities and supporting people across the community to enjoy the benefits of being on the water.

There are many ways you can volunteer with the RYA – such as club race coach, instructor, Sailability, race official and at clubs - and the RYA reiterates that “even a small amount of your time can make a big difference”.

The diversity of roles with the RYA is also important to appreciate: “The beauty of volunteering with the RYA network is shown in its versatility. Whether you are an experienced sailor or complete novice, you can contribute your time through a variety of volunteer roles. For example, fundraising, event organisation, training, boat maintenance and much more.”

Can I claim expenses?

Yes. We want to be inclusive, and expenses can be claimed (with prior agreement) for those who lead activities. Full details are available for our volunteers.

Can I volunteer with my family or friends? Yes. This is a great way to get involved. Many of our activities are outdoors and are great fun with others.

Image: RYA - RYA Magazine Image: Billy Barraclough

Gareth, right, with the rest of his crew

“The more you put in the more you get out. I have learnt so much through volunteering and had so many opportunities open up from it” Claire Watson, Volunteer

CASE STUDY: Claire Watson (pictured) received the RYA Young Volunteer 2022 award for her work with Cove Sailing Club. She now volunteers with the charity Autism on the Water, helping autistic people build confidence, problem-solve and learn social skills.

Why do you enjoy volunteering with Autism on the water?

My younger brother has Asperger’s. I am also a PE teacher and am interested in

learning how different people work and how I can help them. Autistic people can struggle in group settings and need access to the same opportunities as everyone else in an equitable, inclusive and adaptable way. They can struggle to ask questions in public, and in noisy locations, so we adapt tasks for them.

How do people with autism benefit from sailing with the charity?

Sailing helps build confidence and skills. I took out a group of kids from my school, some of whom I had never heard speak before. One boy was into birds and would just sit reading a bird book and give oneword responses. But when we got him out on the water, he would say, “Look, that is a cormorant, and here is how I can tell…” so then I was learning from him! Sailing helps the kids bond with similar people and enjoy new opportunities together.

What would you say to anyone who might be interested in volunteering?

Just do it – you will get so much out of it. You get out on the water experiencing different things, talking to people that you would not normally meet. It is so much fun! The more you put in the more you get out. I have learnt so much through volunteering and had so many opportunities open up from it - one activity then opens the door to another! www.rya.org.uk/about-us/volunteering

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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Lymington Sailability

Volunteer Chat with...

Tall Ships Youth Trust

We asked Tall Ships Youth Trust some of their commonly asked volunteering questions…

How many hours do I have to commit to? You can volunteer with TSYT as much or as little as you are able to. We understand that life can sometimes get in the way and as a result you may not be able to volunteer with us one year but you can the next, so there is no minimum commitment required to be a member of the TSYT Crew.

Dudley Freshwater shares his experience of volunteering with Lymington Sailability…

Walking around the harbour wall in Lymington one spring afternoon, I came across a noticeboard on the slipway where Sailability posted information about its activities. I was intrigued and thought what a wonderful opportunity it would be to get involved in supporting people with disabilities to enjoy the freedom that open water sailing brings.

I signed up and have been a volunteer for the last three seasons and have spent time getting involved in a variety of roles – both on the water and on shore. As well as supporting the charity with marketing, recruitment and

fundraising, and I have also learnt new boating skills.

Lymington Sailability can offer extensive sailing experiences to any sailor with any visible or invisible disabilities based in Lymington. We mainly sail trimarans which have great stability and speed and can provide a thrilling experience for our sailors. We also have a drop bow Wheelyboat (see page 19), which is fully equipped to take wheelchair users and walk on passengers out on the sea to explore the local Solent coastline.

Volunteers give their time twice a week to support Sailability’s operations.

This is a fun and rewarding experience supervised by an ‘Officer of the Day’ who ensures that the RIB safety boats

are prepared and equipped ready for the water. Sailors are supported by us in rigging the vessels and trained assistance is given to aid them, if necessary, to get into and out of their boats.

The launching tractor is at the heart of everything and is always busy! Driven by trained volunteers, its function is to launch and retrieve in the most efficient way - it can be quite a challenge to expertly perform that task on the very busy public slipway in Lymington.

Once the boats are at sea, there is much to do for the ground ‘Shore Support’ crew, who prepare for the sailors’ return and the inevitable packing away of all the equipment. In between there is the general maintenance

carried out by volunteer working parties and considerable work done by the administrative team in the background.

This has been a compelling and invigorating experience for me over the past three years, giving me a great sense of accomplishment and deep satisfaction in doing what I can to enrich the lives of our sailors.

Come and volunteer! Whatever your skill set, if you can sail or not, we would love to hear from you. The local Lymington group has operated for over 25 years, and they are reliant on donations by supporters who contribute funds, equipment and time. Without that support, no one would get out on the water! www.lymingtonsailability.com

“I was intrigued and thought what a wonderful opportunity it would be to get involved in supporting people with disabilities to enjoy the freedom that open water sailing brings”

Do I need to have skills/qualifications/ experience? You do not require any formal qualifications to become one of our Volunteer Watch Assistants or Watch Leaders, but you will need to go on a voyage of three nights or more and get a recommendation from the skipper first. If you would like to become one of our Youth Mentors you will need to have some prior youth work experience and/or formal qualifications. Volunteer Mates must have a ML5 or ENG1 medical certificate, as well as a recommendation from the skipper. Because of the nature of our work, all volunteers aged 16 and above will have an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, which will be renewed every three years.

Will I get a qualification? You will have the opportunity to gain a range of qualifications on our voyages, including RYA Start Yachting, RYA Competent Crew and RYA Watch Leader.

Will I be provided with equipment/ clothing? We provide waterproofs and lifejackets as standard onboard our voyages. We also provide our volunteers with a TSYT t-shirt, so you can stand out amongst the crowd as a proud member of our crew.

Can I choose my hours? Absolutely!

All of our voyages for individuals are listed on our website but we also host voyages for groups, so there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer throughout the year. We are also always looking for Onshore Volunteers to help us with the maintenance of our fleet, so we can keep our ships in the best possible condition.

Is there a minimum/maximum age?

You must be at least 12-years-old to sail with TSYT, and at the end of your voyage you could be recommended by the skipper to come back and volunteer as a Volunteer Watch Assistant. You must be at least 16-years-old to qualify as one of our Volunteer Watch Leaders.

The maximum age to volunteer on our voyages is usually 70-years-old but we review suitability on a case-by-case basis, so please get in touch if you are over 70 and eager to get involved!

Start your volunteering journey Remember, dedicating even a small amount of your time can create a significant impact. You can find out about your volunteering rights, expenses and opportunities at www.gov.uk/volunteering. There are also organisations and websites which connect people and good causes, such as Do-it (doit.life/ volunteer), Reach Volunteering (reachvolunteering.org.uk) and NCVO (The National Council for Voluntary Organisations) - www.ncvo.org.uk. At the NCVO website you can also find your local Volunteer Centre.

Can I volunteer with family or friends?

Of course, as long as they have also been recommended by the skipper to volunteer with us. Alternatively, you can sail as a volunteer and your family or friends can sail as Voyage Crew, enabling you to enjoy the TSYT experience at sea together.

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

24

GET YOUR 2024 CALENDER CALENDAR 2024

There is still time to buy your limited edition 2024 All at Sea calendar featuring 12 fabulous reader photos and your pets afloat. Treat yourself or gift it to the boater in your life this Christmas!

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Image: markwalkerphotography 2021

Photos of the Month

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

Send in your photos and you could be in All at Sea, on our Facebook page or in our weekly newsletter (sign up at www.allatsea.co.uk).

Send entries, with a caption, to editor@allatsea.co.uk. Each month’s winning photo will be included in the Photo of the Year reader vote the best of 2023 is coming next month!

Limited Edition! The 2024 All at Sea calendar features your fantastic photos. Making a great Christmas present, or treat yourself, head over to the new All at Sea shop to pick up yours. Don’t hang around - once they’re gone they’re gone!

‘Bon voyage’. A yacht leaving the sea lock on a dreary morning in Suffolk. Thanks to Peter Bott.

Thank you to Stephen Jenner for this photo taken at Port Solent.

ORDER YOURS TODAY AT SHOP.ALLATSEA.CO .UK PLUS BROWSE OUR OTHER GREAT PRODUCTS

‘Reflections in the Marina’ – this was taken from Liz Hill’s berth in Torquay Marina. It was taken on one of this year’s really hot days, when everything was so calm and peaceful.

A lone shipwreck at low tide, taken on the River Medway at Riverside Country Park.

Sent in by Daniel Foster.

An evening lesson on the water at Penarth Marina. Thanks to Delia Annear.

25

THIS MONTH’S WINNING PHOTO

Beauty at Brixham Breakwater – thanks to Jennifer Newland for sending us this lovely photo.

T&Cs: By submitting a photo you agree that it might be used in All at Sea, All at Sea’s Facebook page, newsletter and All at Sea calendar. By submitting images, each entrant confirms they have the permission of anyone pictured in the image. The photo must be an original creation - no copyrighted images may be used. If you are under the age of 18 you must have permission to enter from your parent or guardian. By submitting an entry, your parent/carer/guardian is deemed to have given such consent and to agree to the use of the entry as described in these terms and conditions. Monthly winners will go forward to a final reader vote.

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

26 Want to advertise with us? email: advertising@allatsea.co.uk

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“

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www.boatgeardirect.co.uk

With over 400 Tonnes of chain in stock, as well as a huge selection of rope, shackles, swivels, buoys and other mooring products, BGD are able to help you with most of your mooring & anchoring requirements.

Ever Popular! ‘Titan’ Heavy Duty Boat Stands’ Our ever popular heavy duty Titan boat stands are on the shelf again. This time we’ve increased our stock so that everyone who needs them can take advantage of our great prices.

Used by boat yards and individuals alike, these heavy duty stands offer the following features: Sturdy Tripod Open Base for Stability and Easy Storage

Heavy Duty Boat Stands

Small 600 - 900mm

Double Fixing Points for Storm Chains & Straps

*Test Certificate supplied with chain on request.

TITAN GRADE 40

Tested, Stamped & Certificated, Hot Dip Galvanised, Calibrated Chain ….

Suitable for use on windlasses Titan Chain is BGD’s own brand. Sourced in China and made specifically for BGD, Titan chain is a high quality, Grade 40 chain that performs well on windlasses. Titan chain can be supplied c/w a test certificate on request.

£3.45 per mtr £4.56 per mtr £6.48 per mtr £9.36 per mtr £9.36 per mtr £12.24 per mtr £13.80 per mtr

Polyester Mooring Lines Ready spliced, braided black polyester with 15” soft eye & whipped end.

Packed in pairs in a netted stowage bag.

* 1 Line Only

Trefoil Anchor (Bruce Pattern)

2kg £14.50 5kg £34.50 7.5kg £49.95 10kg £64.90 15kg £99.36 20kg £149.00 30kg £209.00

316 Stainless Trefoil Anchor

£4.25 per mtr £5.30 per mtr £7.70 per mtr £11.15 per m £10.85 per m £15.30 per m £16.80 per m

2k £69.00 5kg £124.95 7.5kg £182.40 10kg £299.00 15kg £399.00 20kg £496.80 25kg £649.00

45cm x 12cm

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110cm x 25cm

£39.95 Boarding Fender Mail Order Tel: 01473 939393 Email: sales@boatgeardirect.co.uk

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£169.20 each

SOLID ZINC grade 40, calibrated chain is manufactured in Italy and is coated with an increased layer of galvanising, giving it increased longevity. It’s smooth finish & calibration makes it perfect for use on windlasses.

SOLID ZINC is tested, stamped & certified.

Certificates available on request.

MF Solid Zinc 6x18.5 DIN766 MF Solid Zinc 7x22 DIN766 MF Solid Zinc 8x24 DIN766 MF Solid Zinc 10x28 DIN766 MF Solid Zinc 10x30 ISO MF Solid Zinc 12x36 ISO MF Solid Zinc 13x36 DIN766

Ratchet Strap

Large 1200 - 1900mm

£139.20 each

Calibrated Chain suitable for Windlasses

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New Ball Joint assembly with easy to replace rubber pads

Medium 900 - 1400mm

£99.90 each

Titan HDG 6x18.5 Titan HDG 7x22 Titan HDG 8x24 Titan HDG 10x28 Titan HDG 10x30 Titan HDG 12x36 Titan HDG 13x36

250mm Threaded Bar for finer pad adjustment

(Bruce Pattern)

16mm Diam x 8mtr £29.78 16mm Diam x 10mts £35.71 16mm Diam x 15mts £50.47 18mm Diam x 8mts £33.41 18mm Diam x 10mts £40.13 18mm Diam x 15mts £56.93 20mm Diam x 8mts £42.65 20mm Diam x 10mts £51.50 20mm Diam x 15mts £37.80*

Channel Anchor 6kg 10kg 15kg 20kg 25kg 33kg

READY MADE

£49.95 £69.50 £119.75 £177.62 £237.84 £299.00

Voyager Anchor

(Delta Type)

6kg £34.08 10kg £64.20 16kg £96.75 20kg £109.50

Cruising Anchor

316 Stainless Voyager Anchor

(Danforth Style)

£69.20 £139.00 £240.00 £384.00 £480.00

2.5kg £14.95 4.5kg £22.65 7kg £40.29 10kg £49.75 14kg £69.60 20kg £99.75

(DeltaType)

2kg 5kg 10kg 16kg 20kg

Titan 316 Stainless Steel Chain 6x18.5mmDIN766 £9.96 per mtr 8x24 mm DIN766 £17.50 per mtr 10x28 mm DIN766 £26.50 per mtr 10x30 mm ISO £26.50 per mtr 12x36 mm ISO £35.90 per mtr

All prices include vat Carriage = £12.50 up to 10kg & £15.00 up to 25kg at 20% and correct Carriage charge is to most UK mainland destinations only. Please email or call for at time of print.

Scottish Highlands & Isles, English Islands, N Ireland & Eire, Plus European destinations.

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

27

The latest news, information and up-dates from British Marine, the trade association for the UK leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry.

SET YOUR COURSE Elevate your maritime skills with a British Marine Training course.

BMET is a two-day course based around the British Marine Electrics and Electronics Association (BMEEA) Code of Practice. The course gives candidates a general overview of the knowledge and skills required for a BMEEA-certified Marine Electrical Technician.

MEI is a one-day certified course, and it is an indication of a working knowledge of National Marine Electronics Association’s (NMEA) Installation Standard, which clarifies and defines competent installation practices.

IBB is also a one-day course, providing a basic understanding of both AC and DC electrical systems. So that with time and completing other training courses the Inland Boatbuilding industry takes a more professional approach to electrical system design and installation.

An apprenticeship can be an ideal first step for those looking to join the marine industry

Hire Boat Code Course - Designed to support the industry’s implementation of the Hire Boat code of best working practices for the design, construction and operation of Hire Boats. Attendees will get an overview on the content of the code and how to apply it on their hire boat business. It includes understanding their responsibilities as a hire boat operator, Safety Management Systems and their management and the new stability requirements and how to meet them.

W

ith a rich maritime heritage dating back centuries, the UK has consistently produced skilled seafarers, marine engineers and maritime leaders, and when it comes to marine education and training, British Marine, the trade association for the UK leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry, stands out as a global leader.

With over 100 years’ experience, British Marine Training offers a wide range of courses which have been specifically developed for the marine industry by a specialist team of marine professionals. So, whether you are interested in becoming a deck officer, marine engineer, naval architect or pursuing a career in any other maritime field, British Marine can help you find a course to meet your needs.

With more than 90 courses on offer, including both face-to-face and online learning opportunities, in the UK and overseas, these courses cater to various interests and career goals, ensuring that there is a path for everyone in the maritime industry.

British Marine Courses

Whether you are starting out in your career, seeking professional development, looking to enhance your existing skills and taking the next step, or seeking a brand-new career path in the maritime sector, when choosing a course, it is essential to consider the accreditation of the programme and how well it aligns with your career goals or personal interests.

British Marine courses include specialist marine courses, Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) and Level 3 (A-Level equivalent), on-the-job learning, apprenticeships and low cost Continuing Professional Development (CPD) accredited courses. Here we take a closer look at some of those on offer.

Olivia Richards-Smith, Apprentice Marine Engineer at Sunseeker Image: Richard Tarr The two-day, in-person course is delivered by a number of industry experts, and delegates will take part in in-depth discussions on the key subjects of law, insurance, VAT and RCD; alongside exciting new topics to give you that competitive edge, such as selling techniques, conflict management and how to use social media and digital marketing to maximise sales. The course also includes an evening meal which incorporates a Q&A session with an experienced broker who will share their decades of experience and answer any burning questions.

Whilst online, specialist courses include: HR Toolkit - Working in partnership with We Do HR, the suite of four two-hour webinars has been designed to provide an in-depth insight into how human resources can work for you and learn how to manage your people within your business.

Modules cover: HR for the non-HR manager Learning & Development Recruitment & Selection Retention

The Law Relating to Brokerage & Boat Retailers – This course is designed to increase your knowledge and awareness of the legal framework and industry standards relating to the sale and purchase of craft.

The in-person course provides you with practical, industry-specific advice and guidance on key areas of the sale and purchase process and help minimise your commercial risk and help to avoid disputes and the rejection of craft by purchasers.

Social Media Training - The inspiring and highly informative Social Media workshops will teach you how to boost your business through the power of social media. With sessions focused on: Social Media Content Workshop Maximising the power of Facebook for Business The power of Social Media LinkedIn for Business Instagram for Business

Specialist marine courses are fully accredited by British Marine and provide you with the qualifications you need to progress in your role.

Other in-person courses included the Intermediate Marina Management (IMM) and Advanced Marine Management (AMM) courses – these four and five-day courses respectively are designed to provide marina managers, supervisors and foremen with fast-track training in the critical issues in marinas. Course criteria for the IMM is one year’s management experience and the AMM requires at least three years’ management experience.

Practical Yacht Brokers Course (NEW COURSE) In partnership with ABYA Academy this brandnew two-day Practical Yacht Brokers course is an essential step in the yacht broker journey and is aimed at Yacht Brokers who have a degree of industry experience in listing and selling boats.

British Marine also offers a range of in-person electrical courses including British Marine Electrical Technician (BMET), Marine Electronics Installer (MEI) and Inland Boat Building (IBB) Electrical Awareness to help boost knowledge and skills.

Specialist Marine Courses

Recreational Craft Regulations (RCR) Awareness – This course is designed to increase and expand your knowledge of how to meet the requirements of the post Brexit Recreational Craft Regulations, and assist your ability to manufacture, import and sell legally compliant products.

at the end of the course through a multiple-choice examination. If eligible, Level 2 courses will be free to you, funded by the UK government. Some of the courses on offer are Business Administration, Event Planning, IT skills, Equality and Diversity and Retail Operations.

Low Cost Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Accredited Courses

Starting from just £20, CPD courses are fully accredited, delivered online and can be completed in your own time. From Conflict Management, Stress Management and Mental Health Awareness to First Aid, GDPR and Fire Safety, CPD courses provide the perfect opportunity to brush up on key skills and upskill a company’s workforce.

On the Job Learning

You can also learn while you earn with the Marina Operative Manual. The Marina Operatives Course is a modular programme, specifically designed with the requirements of a modern marina in mind. It enables staff to train in all areas of the business whilst onthe-job. Modules cover: Customer Care, Marina and Plant Maintenance, Berthing Administration, Boat Handling and Safety. The modular format of the course means that it can be undertaken at any pace – fitting in with both work commitments and staff ability and experience.

Apprenticeships

Combining paid on-the-job training with Image: time Paul in Wyeth the classroom, apprenticeships offer an ideal first step for those looking to join the marine industry.

Whether you are preparing to leave school or looking to change careers, the marine industry offers a range of exciting apprenticeship opportunities, a variety of challenges and a spirit of teamwork. British Marine supports employer groups in developing new marine apprenticeship standards. Some of the marine apprenticeships currently available include Boat Builder, Marine Engineer, Marina & Boatyard Operative, Marine Electrician, Outdoor Activity Instructor, Textile Manufacturing and Engineering Technician.

And it does not end there, look out for even more new courses being launched in 2024! Choosing to undertake a training course with British Marine is a decision that can set you on course for a rewarding and fulfilling career in the maritime industry and British Marine can help provide you with a solid foundation for success in the maritime world. To find out more about all of British Marine’s Training courses and apprenticeship standards visit: mymembership. britishmarine.co.uk/training-courses.

If you are unsure as to which courses would be most appropriate or would like to discuss your training needs in person, then please contact a member of the training team on 07923 250650 or email training@britishmarine.co.uk.

Level 2 and Level 3 Courses

Covering an extensive range of business disciplines, British Marine’s Level 2 (equivalent to a GCSE) and Level 3 (equivalent to an A-Level) courses are perfect for those looking to develop their careers or keep abreast of the latest industry best practices.

These courses are delivered online and are assessed

Some courses are in-person and some are online

British Marine is the trade association for the UK leisure, superyacht and small commercial marine industry. It has over 1,500 members from both seagoing and inland sectors and represents an industry which employs more than 38,700 people in the UK. British Marine also owns and operates the Southampton International Boat Show. For more information about the work of British Marine and how to join, please visit the website: www.britishmarine.co.uk or follow British Marine on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

28

Winter Maintenance

WITH MDL MARINAS

This month our winter maintenance series focuses on antifouling – a crucial job when maintaining your boat to prevent the growth of marine life on your hull.

S

peaking to Stuart Blake at Hamble Yacht Care, based at MDL’s Mercury Yacht Harbour, we find out why antifouling Is so important and how to get the most effective finish.

“There is no denying a clean and well-maintained hull looks better, but aesthetic appeal is only a very small part of why it is important to antifoul your boat,” says Stuart.

“Antifouling is a critical aspect of boat maintenance because it can impact both performance and overall lifespan of your vessel.”

Performance

Stuart explains the impact on your boat’s performance: “Performance wise, marine life build-up on a boat’s hull creates drag, which reduces the vessel’s overall performance and can increase fuel consumption – keeping the hull clean and smooth with a good antifoul helps maintain a boat’s speed and fuel efficiency.”

Corrosion and lifespan

Further issues are corrosion and lifespan, as Stuart explains: “Marine growth can also contribute to corrosion, especially for boats with metal hulls. By forming a protective barrier, antifouls not only reduce unwanted growth but can also

prevent corrosive agents in the water coming into contact with the hull.

“Reduced drag and the lower risk of corrosion means a boat’s structural integrity is preserved over time, increasing its lifespan and resale value.”

Invasive species

In terms of invasive species Stuart says: “From an environmental perspective, some species which cling to the hulls of boats are classed as invasive and could be harmful if transported from local waters – antifouling helps stem the unintentional spread of these species.”

Antifouling can be back breaking work if you do not have the right materials and tools, so Stuart suggests leaving it to the professionals, but if you are going to do it yourself, he has put together this quick step-by-step guide on how to apply antifouling to your boat: 1. Prepare the boat (and yourself) Ensure the hull is clean and free of any existing paint or marine life, and put on safety gear, including gloves, googles and a mask.

2. Surface preparation Sand the hull’s surface to create a smooth surface for the new antifoul. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper (80-100 grit) and progress to finer grits (120-220 grit),

HOT TOPIC KEEPING YOUR BOAT LOOKING GOOD THIS WINTER

AkzoNobel’s technical manager, Richard Jennings, shares maintenance tips boat owners can follow to help their boat look amazing for the next season.

I

n this feature Richard highlights the importance of fresh water washes and fixing paint cracks before ‘putting boats to bed’ for the winter.

He also pinpoints potential pitfalls in a seven-step guide for boat owners to follow before storing away their craft.

Firstly, you should pressure wash the boat to remove growth and dirt, but make sure it is not powerful enough to damage the surface.

Follow up with a gentle detergent cleaner, such as Awlwash 2.0 by AkzoNobel. Regular usage will help to prevent dirt and grease build-up. It is important that you rinse the area again with fresh water using a hose or a less intense pressure wash.

Dry off and remove any standing water using a rubber blade and microfibre cloth to prevent osmosis.

The next stage is to remove any stubborn stains or growth on the coating or substrate

before wiping down with a damp cloth to remove any dust. Allow the hull to dry completely.

3. Masking and protection Cover areas you do not want to paint (through-hull fittings and propellers) using masking tape and sheeting.

4. Mix antifouling paint Next, mix the antifouling paint thoroughly, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you are opting to do your own winter maintenance this year, there are 10 fully serviced boatyards at MDL marinas stretching from Devon to Kent. With lifting, storage ashore facilities and expert boatyard teams, you will find everything you need to get your boat ship shape for 2024. To find out more visit www.mdlboatyards.co.uk.

5. Application Pour a small amount of antifoul into a paint tray and apply an even coat to the hull with a roller or brush. Start at the top and work your way down, applying a second (and third) coat when dry.

6. Clean-up Clean your equipment and dispose of any waste in the correct manner, remove the masking tape and sheeting, and let the paint dry.

“A properly applied antifoul will help protect your boat’s hull for longer.

Specific instructions for applying antifouling may vary from paint to paint, so it is essential to read the manufacturer’s guidelines carefully,” concludes Stuart.

Image: Barry Mann

With over 500 tenants across its marina network supported by MDL’s boatyard teams, there’s a marine business at an MDL marina near you that can assist you with any winter maintenance issues you may have. To find out more visit www.mdlmarinas.co.uk.

We discuss important topics with marine industry experts who share their opinions and top tips to help you get the most from your boating. using brushes with soft bristles, and avoid abrasion pads at all costs.

Check for any cracks to the paintwork or metal substrate and then apply a protective polymer sealer, such as Awlcare, that polishes to a gleaming shine while containing no harsh abrasives. It will help to stop any moisture seeping in over the winter months.

Aim to use cleaning products that are PH neutral as anything too acidic or alkali can have detrimental effects.

Products containing bleach may leave permanent stains, even from splashes, so take extra care if these are being used anywhere. Metal polish, too, will damage painted surfaces, so if one is used, ensure it is fully rinsed off before proceeding with further cleaning.

“The more maintenance and care you give your boat before putting it to bed, the better it will look when you unwrap it for the new season” The final stage is to throw on a cover, but be careful in areas with high-winds because the material can become like a ‘piece of sandpaper’ and damage the surface it is laid over.

Richard concluded: “The more maintenance and care you give your boat before putting it to bed, the better it will look when you unwrap it for the new season.

It is vital to fix any cracks for the ultimate protection as moisture will find a way in and cause corrosion during the winter months.”

SEVEN-STEP GUIDE TO KEEPING THE WINTER WOW FACTOR 1. Pressure wash with fresh water to remove growth and dirt 2. Use Awlwash 2.0 detergent to prevent dirt and grease build-up 3. Rinse again with fresh water using a hose or a less intense pressure wash 4. Dry off and remove standing water using a rubber blade and microfibre cloth 5. Check any cracks to the paintwork or metal substrate 6. Apply Awlcare to stop any moisture seeping in over the winter months 7. Place the winter cover on the boat, but make sure it is breathable

HOW TO...

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

29

Providing handy practical advice to boaters from projects to maintenance tasks.

INSTALL A WAVESTREAM FILTER

A step-by-step guide to fitting a Wavestream bilge filter.

B

oaters are increasingly aware of pollution in the seas and waterways, and most are keen to help prevent this. But just one drop of oil or fuel getting into the water creates a visible blue water sheen which can spread for up to six metres.

And if you can see oil in the water, this equates to around 25ppm of oil to water. Consider that MARPOL’s legal limit is set at 15ppm, reducing to just 5ppm in specially protected areas, and it is easy to understand the extent of pollution created all the time in marinas, at docking stations and even out at sea when dirty bilge water is automatically pumped overboard.

In addition to pollution you can see, there are also microfibres and microplastics from our clothes, ropes and even the onboard bedding, all getting washed down into the bilges.

To avoid pumping pollutants overboard boaters can easily fit a compact, low cost Wavestream bilge filter.

Here is how to do it on a Colvic Victor 34 (it took less than an hour to fit) owned by marine biologist and TV presenter Monty Halls. Passionate about protecting and preserving the natural environment, Monty has set up Generation Sea Change (generationseachange. co.uk) which highlights and promotes the inspiring stories of coastal communities, companies and individuals that are tackling challenges around marine conservation.

Fitting a Wavestream bilge filter: The Wavestream needs to be fitted vertically, inline between the bilge pump and the bilge outlet. Before you buy, decide where you will fit it and note your pump output. The smaller Wavestream System 1 measuring 315 x 130mm copes with a flow rate of 1-40 litres per minute (lpm) and costs £144, and the larger System 2 (350 x 180mm) will take up to 265lpm and costs £280.

Measure the diameter of your bilge pipe. The Wavestream 1 has connections measuring ¾”BSP / 19mm or 1½”BSP / 38mm for the System 2. Purchase the correct size and shaped connectors considering how the bilge pipe will run in and out of the Wavestream, ideally with the least number of bends. In this case, we needed one vertical connector and one horizontal. Also ensure you have two jubilee clips and thread tape or thread sealing compound.

Monty Halls with his boat Sobek

All the equipment you need

best location for it to fit vertically, allowing space below to unscrew the filter housing. Note, as water may spill when you change the filter check what is underneath.

Remove the Wavestream from the bracket. Mark the position for the bracket screw holes with a pencil and drill the holes. Screw the bracket securely in place.

Noting the direction arrows on top of the Wavestream, which indicate the in and out flow of water, screw in the connectors. Use sealing compound or thread tape, and gently turn with a spanner to ensure these are secure and watertight. Using screws fix the top of the Wavestream onto the fitting bracket.

Mark where to cut the bilge pipe ensuring both ends of the bilge pipe

STEP BY STEP GUIDE

can be easily connected onto the Wavestream. Cut to length and then slide over the connectors and secure with the jubilee clips.

The Wavestream is now fitted and connected. To bleed out the air, operate the bilge pump and you will see the water level rising in the Wavestream. Press the green button on the top and when no more air comes out from the button, it has all been removed.

To check that the filter is working, look at the outlet from the boat to see filtered clean water being emitted overboard.

Finally, check around the engine, clean and replace any drip trays, and make a note of engine hours – it is suggested you change the Wavestream filter every time you do an oil change, engine service or annually.

1. Attaching the mounting bracket

2. Checking the Wavestream fits in the space

3. Remove the Wavestream from the bracket

4. Mark the position for the bracket

5. Marking holes to fit the bracket

6. Drilling holes for mounting the bracket

7. Fitting the bracket

8. Showing the pipe from the bilge

9. Using sealing compound

10. Fitting the connectors

11. Ensure a tight fit for the connectors using a spanner

12. The Wavestream with connectors fitted

13. Cutting the bilge pipe to length

14. Fitting the outlet pipe

15. Fitting the o ring

16. Placing the Wavestream into position

17. Bleeding air from the Wavestream

18. The Wavestream fitted

19. Clean water over the side!

The Wavestream comes complete with mounting bracket and screws.

Additional tools needed include a screwdriver, drill, spanner, hacksaw or sharp knife. It is also handy to have a torch, pencil, cable ties, kitchen towel, tape measure and silicone grease/Vaseline.

To start, screw the fitting bracket onto the top of the Wavestream (you will take this off again in a minute) so you can double check and mark the

Contents of the box, plus connectors and jubilee clips

to connect into the Wavestream

30 Want to advertise with us? email: advertising@allatsea.co.uk

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

Shootin’ the Breeze...

… with Alex Jackson, one of four men taking on the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge as part of Team Marduk, raising money for Bowel Cancer UK and Head Up. The company I work for, Chubb Insurance, kindly agreed to sponsor us for the race costs and paid for our boat ‘Amphitrite’ (named after a goddess of the sea!) and we have been out on the water about eight times across the last year-and-a-half, getting out for long weekends. In the autumn we did a four day, three night row in the English Channel which was when the UK had really stormy weather – not the best timing but good practice for our Atlantic crossing. We experienced some 8ft swells, sideways rain, two of us had seasickness and we used the toilet bucket for the first time…

(Left to right): George Dagnall, Adam Carrier, Jack Chapman and Alex Jackson AAS: Can you explain what The Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge is?

AJ: The challenge, which starts in December, is a 3,000 mile unsupported race across the Atlantic from La Gomera in the Canary Islands, over to Antigua in the Caribbean. We have to take all our own food with us and have a desalination machine onboard to convert seawater into drinking water.

Normal shifts are two hours rowing and two hours resting, which we will be doing continually, day and night!

AAS: Tell us about Team Marduk. Did you know one another before you decided to row the Atlantic?

AJ: George, Adam and Jack all served in the Army, completing tours of Afghanistan together, but I am a civilian working in London. Luckily, I got on really well with them and two years later we are all firm friends – being stuck on a boat with someone for that long means the team dynamic is incredibly important as every decision (and argument!) is magnified in intensity.

AAS: You have been training for two years to row the Atlantic – what has this entailed?

AJ: Lots and lots of rowing on a rowing machine!

We are now comfortable rowing for two hours at a time, which is a bit boring… but has to be done.

(Left to right): Adam Carrier, Alex Jackson, George Dagnall and Jack Chapman

AAS: Can you describe the rowing boat you will be using?

AJ: It is a Rannoch RX45 – a rowing boat designed for crossing oceans as opposed to the river rowing boats you see in the Olympics, for example. Our boat has three rowing positions and small cabins at either end where we will be living for the duration of the crossing. The boat is about nine metres long and about one-and-a-half metres wide – there is not much room for four big blokes!

AAS: What do you expect the biggest challenges to be?

AJ: Seasickness and sleep deprivation are the two that I am worried about. Seasickness was horrible when I had it recently - we are hoping to deal with it by taking tablets to ensure it does not get us, as if you are sick you cannot contribute to rowing the boat. The lack of sleep you cannot really prepare for unfortunately. Aside from that, we are going to have to potentially deal with aching body parts, bum sores, ripped hands, big storms, capsizes, equipment failures, marlin strikes… it is a long list!!

AAS: How long are you expecting the Challenge to take?

AJ: It really depends on the weather conditions, but we think it will take roughly 35 days for us to cross and we will be racing against 41 other boats which will be carrying teams of various sizes.

AAS: The race starts in December, so will you be celebrating Christmas and the New Year in any way at sea?

AJ: We have not planned out exactly what we are going to take yet, but I think we might have a bottle of beer each stowed for Christmas Day and New Year, and there might be some Christmas hats that find their way into our mandatory supplies…

AAS: Can you tell us why you chose Bowel Cancer UK and Head Up as your charities, and how much you are hoping to raise?

AJ: We are raising money for two charities; firstly Bowel Cancer UK as it is a cause close to my heart.

My uncle died of the disease when I was nine and I remember it being a really sad time for the family.

The charity does great work on the research side but also a lot of the work they do is about education on the symptoms of the disease – things like blood in your poo or changes in bowel habit – as it is very treatable. So, do not just brush them aside – go and see your doctor. Although bowel cancer is more common in the over 50s, it can affect people of all ages.

Head Up is a new charity founded by four British Army Veterans (including two of the team) to tackle the rising rates of mental ill-health and suicide in the forces community. While psychological treatment for veterans is already available, much of this is offered within military settings which can trigger further distress. Head Up’s unique solution is a free, self-referred, positive-mindset programme for both current and former Forces personnel, delivered via a non-militarised seven day retreat. We want this challenge to raise the profile of Head Up and give the charity a wider platform to discuss mental health and the high suicide rates within the veteran community.

AAS: How can people donate?

AJ: If you head to our GoFundMe page you can donate – all of our raised donations go to our two charities as my employer, Chubb Insurance, has, as

“I think we might have a bottle of beer each stowed for Christmas Day and New Year, and there might be some Christmas hats that find their way into our mandatory supplies…”

31 mentioned, funded the cost of the boat and the kit we need. The GoFundMe page is www.gofundme. com/f/marduk-atlantic-challenge and people can access it via the QR code below as well.

People can also follow our journey on Instagram: #marduk_atlantic_challenge AAS: What will you miss most about life at home whilst at sea?

AJ: I am sure I will miss a few things that at the moment I take for granted. I think I will be wishing I had a proper bed that was not cramped and damp, and I will be missing roast dinners and full English breakfasts.

AAS: Rowers burn in excess of 5,000 calories per day. What will you be eating onboard?

AJ: We will be eating four 1,000 calorie dehydrated meals – just add hot water and 10 minutes later you have a bolognaise or chicken tikka curry. They are quite tasty but it is going to be tough eating so much food, especially if it is hot weather. The rest of the calories (we need about 7,000 each) will be made up of fun things – chocolate, sweets, crisps, cakes, roasted nuts – anything that has a high calorie content… we have found that some savoury is essential!

AAS: Staying with the food theme, if you could have dinner with any two people from history, dead or alive, who would you choose?

AJ: Ooh good question. Cliché but I think I would go with Jesus. I would have lots of questions for him.

And probably Genghis Khan, he would have a few good stories to tell.

FURTHER INFORMATION Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge: www.worldstoughestrow.com/talisker-whiskyatlantic-challenge Bowel Cancer UK: www.bowelcanceruk.org.uk Head Up (promoting mental health awareness for UK Armed Forces): www.head-up.org.uk

Race Facts…

Each team will row in excess of 1.5 million oar strokes during a race.

The average rower loses around 8kg during a crossing.

The fastest row across the Atlantic was a four man team, The Four Oarsmen, who finished in 29 days, 14 hours and 34 minutes.

In the 2018 race, solo rower Kelda Wood (Row 2 Raise) was kept company by a whale for nearly seven days.

TO DONATE:

The team’s GoFundMe page: www.gofundme.com/f/ marduk-atlantic-challenge

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WIN A PAIR OF HURST DECK SHOES FROM YOUBOAT MARINE

All at Sea has teamed up with YouBoat Marine to give away 2 pairs of Hurst Deck Shoes.

Onboard with

BOATSHED Every month Neil Chapman, founder of Boatshed.com, discusses important topics in the marine industry and offers advice for buying and owning boats.

WORTH

£65 e ach

To celebrate the launch of the new Hurst deck shoe from Sea Front, All at Sea has teamed up with YouBoat Marine to give away not one, but two pairs of these deck shoes!

Lightweight and ultra comfortable, the Hurst deck shoe is a modern shoe; ideal for life afloat or ashore. The leather upper features fabric panels and coordinating laces. Triple eyelet lacing, a padded ankle collar and tongue, fabric lining and removeable insole all add comfort for day-long wearability. The dual density non-slip sole is nonmarking and suitable for teak or GRP decks.

Sea Front launched the Hurst deck shoe, which takes its name from the iconic west Solent location,

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

Jargon, as we all know, is everywhere. While there are guides explaining the many sailing terms, we asked Neil to share some of his favourites.

at this year’s Southampton International Boat Show with their local stockist YouBoat Marine, which has three stores in the Solent region: Gosport and Swanwick within the respective Premier Marinas and Lymington Yacht Haven (Nick Cox Chandlery).

“We are super excited about the new Hurst deck shoe from Sea Front. The style and design are both exceptional; features like the dual density sole and fabric in-sock really deliver all day comfort.

Combine this with a quality leather shoe at a competitive price and we have a great new shoe in the market,” said Matt Bryant, sales manager at YouBoat Marine.

A bumpkin is a beam or spar projecting outward from the hull A bowspirit is a spar projecting from the bow of a craft

Available in unisex sizes from 3 - 12 in navy or brown.

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with the chance of winning this great prize enter below, at www.allatsea.co.uk or by email to editor@allatsea.co.uk with the subject header Hurst Deck Shoe Competition. You can also enter via the All at Sea newsletter (sign up at www.allatsea.co.uk/aasnewsletter).

Q: The new deck shoe from Sea Front takes its name from an iconic Solent location. Is ‘Hurst’ in the eastern or western part of the Solent?

A: NAME: ADDRESS:

EMAIL:

Terms and conditions: Closing date is 2/1/24. Post entries to 13a Thornwood, Colchester, Essex CO45LR, enter online at www.allatsea.co.uk or email editor@allatsea.co.uk using the subject header ‘Hurst Deck Shoe Competition’. Winners will be notified by email/phone. The winners will be the first correct entry drawn at random after the competition closing date. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Open to residents of the UK aged over 18. No cash or alternatives will be offered. If any prize is lost or damaged during the course of delivery, All at Sea will provide reasonable assistance in seeking to resolve the problem, but it will not always be possible to obtain replacements for lost or damaged goods, and in that event no financial compensation would be payable by All at Sea or their affiliates. By entering you agree to be bound by all the rules and agree that your name and county may be published in the paper if you win. Please indicate on your entry if you do not wish to receive information about other products and services from All at Sea and YouBoat Marine, by post or email.

ABAFT: Towards the rear (stern) of a ship. If something is located abaft, it is behind a certain point on the boat.

BELAY: To secure a rope by winding it around a pin or cleat.

BOWSPRIT: A spar projecting from the bow of a vessel, used as an anchor for the forestay and other rigging.

BUMPKIN: A beam or spar projecting outward from the hull.

COXSWAIN: A person who steers a boat, especially a ship’s boat or a racing crew’s boat.

CUDDY: An enclosed room or compartment.

DAVIT: A small crane onboard a ship used to hoist, lower and support equipment, such as lifeboats and anchors.

DROGUE: A device used to slow a boat’s drift, especially in a storm. It looks like a parachute and is towed behind the boat.

EARING: A line used to fasten the corners of a sail to its support.

FOIL: An aerodynamic tool, this underwater fin has a flat or curved winglike surface and is designed to lift much of the surface hull out of the water when sailing at speed, helping you go faster.

FUTTOCK: One of the curved timbers that forms a rib in a ship’s frame.

GANGPLANK: A movable plank used as a ramp to board or disembark from a ship or boat.

HAWSEPIPE: The hole in the ship’s bow through which the anchor chain runs.

IN IRONS: Refers to a sailing vessel that has lost its forward momentum and is unable to steer.

JIBBOOM: A spar that is an extension of a ship’s bowsprit (the spar extending from the ship’s bow).

KEDGE: A small anchor used to keep a ship steady, or to move a ship by hauling in on the anchor’s line.

LAZARETTE: A storage area in the rear (stern) part of a ship.

LUFFING: Sailing the boat into the wind.

MARLINSPIKE: A pointed tool used for separating strands of rope or wire for splicing.

ORLOP: The lowest deck in a ship, especially in a ship-of-the-line.

PAY: To fill the seams of a wooden ship with pitch or tar to prevent leakage.

PULPIT: A protective metal rail fitted at the bow (front) of a boat.

PUSHPIT: A protective metal rail fitted at the stern (rear) of a boat.

QUARTERMASTER: An officer responsible for steering the ship and for signals.

RATLINES: Small ropes tied horizontally between shrouds (supporting ropes) to form a ladder for climbing the ship’s mast.

SCUTTLEBUTT: Originally, a cask of drinking water on a ship. Today, it refers to gossip or rumours.

THWART: A crosspiece in a boat’s frame, usually used for seating.

I also have a number of favourite nautical sayings. These include: “A storm at sea is, I am sure, a noble spectacle. The beating of the sea upon one’s face, the dashing of the waves across the deck, the spray turned into a rainbow by the sun, the quivering of the ship as trough after trough is breasted; it is all, I am very certain, very fine. But it is rather differently that I have seen it.

Ignobly prostrate in my cabin, I have watched through half-seeing eyes my possessions heap themselves into chaos on the floor.”

Alec Waugh “No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land or opened a new doorway for the human spirit.”

Helen Keller

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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.

FEEL THE DIFFERENCE A visit to Gosport’s Haslar Marina confirms just how far marinas have come and what they can offer today’s boaters.

Image: boatfolk

planning and organisation. Here, though, is where the whole issue of leisure boating can fall flat onto its anti-fouled bottom as, with maybe the exception of hot air ballooning, getting afloat has to be the sport most inextricably linked to what the weather is doing.

The season just past has been a classic in this respect, as it was not that the forecasts were wrong, it was just that when they said ‘changeable’ that was what they meant. Families headed down to the coast, fought their way through the traffic, only to find that the expected champagne day afloat was actually windy with horizontal rain.

Image: US National Archives

I

t is almost an article of faith that when writing for All at Sea, we stick to our own real experiences of places and products, and so avoid the perils of writing ‘ad copy’. Now for me, speaking personally, this chimes in with my other job (if you can say that going sailing in dinghies and then writing about them is a ‘job’) which is as one of the leading commentators on the sailing dinghy scene here in the UK. Now it is through this second job that I have been given an insight into a wider trend that I can see becoming a new model for how yachting, be that under sail or by power, will progress forward in the future. This key factor in the small boat/dinghy scene has to be the way in which the SMODs, or to give them their correct title, the Single Manufacturer One Designs, have swept away so much of the old cottage industry that had underpinned the golden years of expansion in all forms of water based activity.

Before the SMODs, when an owner wanted a new boat he bought a hull from one supplier, then a mast somewhere else, before deciding which of the many sailmakers that had sprung up he would go to for his sails. This was highly individualistic and offered the chance for sailors to innovate, but at the same time the approach was expensive, time consuming and could easily go wrong, with the result being a boat that was intended to be fast ended up SLOW! Enter onto the scene the SMODs, who offered a turnkey package of boat, gear and sails, and as they were all nominally the same, your skills in the boat were more important than the depth of your wallet. The idea of the ‘one stop shop’ took a while to get established, but now has become so deeply rooted into the dinghy scene that the majority of new boats come from this route.

Probably the cheapest form of boat storage, the peace and tranquillity of a swinging mooring mid-river sounds idyllic but is a far from easy option as you need a tender to get to and from the boat. With our busy, time constrained lives, being able to turn up and go might be worthy of the price premium

MARINA DEVELOPMENT

In the same time frame, our domestic yachting scene has happily jogged along, with above inflation rises in the cost of being a boat owner, but at the same time, have been offering little else in return. It is one of the harsh truths in yachting, that whatever their cost model, the single most dominant trend over the last 50 plus years has been the development and expansion of the marina.

Before then boats tended to nestle in a mud berth or on a swinging mooring (and where they are available, many still do) but the current generation of boat owners who make up the vast expansion of the sport want something else. They are not interested in waiting for the tide, instead access has to be immediate

Luckily for boat owners, the UK marina scene remains wonderfully diverse, with ‘something for everyone’ - and every budget, but it may mean waiting for the tide

and accessible 24/7 so you can forget rowing out in a tender to an exposed mooring! These issues are not unique to yachting as these days people are more likely to be ‘cash rich/time poor’ (even in the financially tight times of today) with the result that owners will want to make the most of what time they have to spend on their boat.

The other factor is that today many owners live at least an hour, often more, from their boats, so going to the marina involves a fair degree of advance

Just across the harbour from the attractions at Portsmouth, boatfolk has created a large marina where all aspects of boat ownership are catered for

MOVING ON UP

It is at this point that the ‘new’ approach being offered by the boatfolk people at Haslar really becomes apparent, as they have clearly moved their operation ‘up the value chain’, so that the marina becomes more than just a place where you keep your boat.

Instead, they have developed a way of hand-holding the boat owners, offering them all the advantages of that easy to access ‘one stop shop’. Be it buying or selling a boat, having one valeted or the ever-present demands of maintenance, this can all be handled in-house, but there is so much more.

From talking to a number of berth holders during a recent visit, it was clear that the on-site staff have also been working to create a strong sense of a community identity that will no doubt help them deal with the perennial issue of ‘churn and retention’ of berth holders.

Part of this ‘Haslar identity’ has been driven by the near continuous upgrades that have lifted the customer experience from the good up to what is now special.

Now in the spirit of openness I must admit to having prior knowledge of this site when, some 20 years ago, I worked for what was then the Dean & Reddyhoff collection of three marinas: Haslar, East Cowes and Weymouth.

They were already smart and heading up market back then thanks to an unerring attention to detail, but the same could be said of all the major marina operators around our coasts, who have been working to offer a high quality experience to the berth holder and visitor alike.

Where Haslar has raised the bar even higher is in the way that the whole experience, from the car park to the pontoons, has that shiny veneer of class about it.

GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR

Of course, all this comes at a cost and already there have been grumbles on social media that the annual charges to keep a boat at boatfolk’s equally classy Portland Marina are more than the value of the boat, which suggests that maybe a swinging mooring would be a better option for this individual.

But, having done a careful walk around at not just Haslar, but three other large marinas that encompass the range of operators, my observations are that the majority of boats have got bigger and smarter over the last two decades, so as a factor in the overall cost of boat ownership, the answer really is that you get what you pay for, but for just a little bit more on the bottom line, you really can feel the difference!

A forest of masts (with the Spinnaker Tower as a backdrop) are testament to the approach being taken at Haslar, which is far more of a community than just somewhere to keep the boat

MARINA FOCUS

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

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LIVERPOOL MARINA

Liverpool Marina Coburg Wharf L34BP 53.3907° N, 2.9851° W CH37 or M1 0151 707 6777 reception@liverpoomarina.com www.liverpoolmarina.com

This month we are in the north-west visiting Liverpool Marina which, although just 10 minutes from the bustling city centre, is far enough away to enjoy peace and tranquillity.

Liverpool Marina was built in the mid1980s by the Merseyside Development Corporation as part of a major regeneration initiative for the south docks and now forms part of the world famous Liverpool Waterfront which, attracting more than six million visitors a year, is the third most popular visitor destination in the UK. The marina is a destination location, just minutes away from the city

centre famous for its maritime heritage, iconic buildings and music, namely The Beatles – who have been in the news recently with their new single – and earlier this year the Eurovision Song Contest!

In addition, ferries cruise the waterfront, where the iconic mercantile buildings known as the ‘Three Graces’ – Royal Liver Building, Cunard Building and Port of Liverpool Building – stand.

FACILITIES & BERTHING

The marina has more than 300 highly secure berths, in two adjoining docks, for vessels of up to 30m with a maximum beam of 7.75m and draft of 3m. Access from the River Mersey is via Brunswick lock which has a tidal window of approximately four hours.

Originally designed as a coastal marina for leisure craft, it became the Leeds and Liverpool Canal terminus when the Link opened

in 2009 and is now a popular long stay destination for canal boats, the majority of which are wide beams and river craft.

But its customer base is unusually varied and, apart from inland waterway and coastal sailing and motor vessels, includes wind farm service vessels, commercial fishing boats, tripper boats and a significant number of themed and other craft offering visitor accommodation on line.

The latest additions to the fleet are floating lodges which are attracting interest as a funky floating alternative to park homes from down-sizers, investors, holiday retreats and home working.

The marina offers a range of services including mobile pump outs and fuel, which are available to pre-book online seven days a week.

The lock is operated in line with tide times between 5am - 10pm. Out of hours locks can be booked online.

There is also a full service chandlery and boatyard with 60 tonne hoist (Bluepoint Marine) as well as marine engineers Outboard Marine. Other facilities and services include: Free, newly installed super-fast WiFi Digital laundrette Lively sports bar and grill with panoramic views of Brunswick dock Newly refurbished private showers and WCs Household recycling, battery and oil disposal facilities and an Elsan disposal unit Secure post room 24 hour concierge and security service Electronic gate access only pontoons Secure bike storage More than 200 car parking spaces Facilities in progress include an on-site mini-market and artisan coffee and cake shop as well as a dedicated training/hot desk room for berth holders.

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

ACCESS

Access by road, rail or air to the marina could not be easier with the motorway network from north, south and east terminating less than five miles away, and Liverpool Airport is 25 minutes by car or taxi. Even the Isle of Man Ferry docks only a stone’s throw away.

There are two train station options. James Street will bring you out by Albert Dock; walk along the seafront away from the city centre and you will see the masts as you approach. Brunswick train station is just opposite the marina; cross over the road and take a left at Sefton Street.

Approaches to Liverpool by motorboat or yacht are made down the Queen’s Channel, the Crosby Channel and the River Mersey following the same route as the heavy shipping.

The channels are all well marked by numbered and lit buoyage to cope with the strong tides. This buoyage MUST be followed. On approach, use Ch37 or M1 to reach the lock

35

keeper. Locks operate in accordance with tide times, and you can download the tide times via the website.

Approaches via canal or narrowboat are via the Leeds and Liverpool canal link managed by Canal & River Trust. You will need to contact them directly to book a lock, which is £10.

CRUISING

Liverpool Marina is ideally placed for those wishing to cruise the Irish Sea, offering a huge choice of destinations for the cruising yachtsman including the beautiful coasts of North Wales, the Isle of Man, Ireland, Cumbria and Scotland.

For the racing yachtsman the Liverpool Yacht Club racing series has become some of the best-attended events on the west coast of England. With racing throughout the year, and fleets in excess of 30 boats, you can be assured of keen competition whatever you sail.

BUSINESSES AT THE MARINA The Yacht Club Bar & Grill Located on-site offering fresh food, hot drinks and a wide range of alcoholic beverages from 10am – late, seven days a week. They also have five large HD screens showing major sporting fixtures as well as a Sunday carvery and live music.

Blue Point Marine – full service boatyard with 60 tonne hoist and chandlery.

Outboard & Marine – marine engineers based on the grounds of Blue Point Marine’s yard.

Prima Laundrette – digital laundrette open 24/7 on Coburg yard.

OUT AND ABOUT

Liverpool itself is a fascinating base with all the attractions that you would expect of a modern, cosmopolitan city akin to London with museums, art galleries, a first class shopping centre and enough clubs, bars and restaurants to please even the most critical.

The Royal Albert Dock is, of course, a popular visitor attraction as is the Maritime Museum, The Beatles Story museum and Tate Art Gallery to name a few.

To tour Liverpool by water, you can take several boat trips such as taking a ferry across the Mersey or dine on the water on the Floating Grace. By land you can take the hop-on hop-off bus tour or hire a bike from Liverpool Bike Tours, who are conveniently berth holders of Liverpool Marina.

“It was my plan for the 2023 sailing season to sail up the Mersey and to visit Liverpool. I phoned the guys at Liverpool Marina in advance and they could not have been more helpful, even when my plans changed and I had to arrive a day earlier. The lock in and out was efficient, and I was given a prime visitor berth very close to all amenities. There was live acoustic music in the friendly bar and a very pleasant 15 minute walk into the heart of this fantastic city. Great value for money at just over £30 per night for our 11m yacht (it is over three times that to stay in the centre of London). Sailing up and down the Mersey was fantastic, a big thank you to all the guys at Liverpool Marina for their terrific hospitality.”

Tony and Mandy, Good Rum

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MARINA GUIDE

Your guide to finding the perfect marina

LONDON ST KATHARINE DOCKS Manager: Paul Atkins 50 St. Katharine’s Way, London E1W 1LA T: 0207 264 5312 E: marina.reception@skdocks.co.uk W: ww.skdocks.co.uk

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

SOUTH WEST

PREMIER MARINAS NOSS ON DART Manager: Mike Smith Bridge Road, Kingswear, Dartmouth Devon, TQ6 0EA T: 01803 839087 E: noss@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

PREMIER MARINAS FALMOUTH Manager: Mark Evans 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, 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: Alex Warner 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

DOLPHIN BOATYARD Galmpton Creek, Brixham, Devon T: 01803 842424 E: info@dolphinhaven.co.uk W: www.dolphin-haven.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: Martyn Sherratt Torquay, Devon , TQ2 5EQ T: 01803 200210 E: torquaymarina@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.torquaymarina.co.uk WATCHET MARINA Manager: Matt Driscoll 10 The Esplanade, Watchet, Somerset, TA23 0AJ T: 01984 322230 E: Info@themarinegroup.co.uk W: www.themarinegroup.co.uk WEYMOUTH MARINA Manager: Neil Bedwell Commercial Road,Weymouth Dorset. DT4 8NA T: 01305 767576 E: weymouth@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.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: portland@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.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: Kelly Trewern 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,, 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 Contact name: Julie Spensley-Corfield Bursledon Bridge, Southampton SO31 8AZ T 023 80 402253 E:deacons@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.co.uk MDL HYTHE MARINA VILLAGE Manager: TBC The Lock Building, Shamrock Way Hythe, Southampton, Hampshire.

SO45 6DY T: 023 8020 7073 E: hythe@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.hythemarinavillage.co.uk

Wellington Dock Work is underway in Dover on the re-configuration of the current marina in Wellington Dock and its replacement with a modern facility, as part of a wider regeneration programme.

Walcon has been contracted by the Port of Dover to undertake the project, which includes the demolition, disposal and recycling of the existing marina followed by the building and installation of a new 135-berth facility.

With Dover’s long history English Heritage is involved, and challenges include the possibility of encountering obstacles such as unexploded ordnance on the seabed.

Walcon will be manufacturing and installing new walkways and piers and they will also build and install three new access bridges plus bridgeheads.

The new pontoons will be delivered by the end of the year and the final piles will in by the end of February. The marina is due to be fully operational in April, with the new marina capable of taking boats up to 16m in length.

When Wellington Dock is completed, it will complement the Outer Marina providing a mix of tidal and non-tidal berths. All set against the backdrop of the iconic White Cliffs and the historic Dover Castle.

MDL OCEAN VILLAGE MARINA Manager: Lauren McCann Marina Office, 2 Channel Way, Southampton, Hampshire. SO14 3TG T: 023 8022 9385 E: oceanvillage@mdlmarinas.co.u W: www.oceanvillagemarina.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

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 W: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 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 TOWN QUAY MARINA Associated British Ports, Town Quay, Southampton, SO14 2AQ T: 023 8023 4397 E: info@townquay.com W: www.townquay.com

PREMIER MARINAS UNIVERSAL Manager: Graham Bristowe Crableck Lane, Sarisbury Green, Southampton, Hampshire, SO31 7ZN T: 01489574272 E: universal@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com HASLAR MARINA Manager: Ben Lippiett Haslar Road, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 1NU T: 023 9260 1201 F: 023 9260 2201 E: haslar@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.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

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Trafalgar Wharf sold to Premier The Trafalgar Group has completed the sale of the Trafalgar Wharf site in Portsmouth Harbour, including the dry stack boat storage and Trafalgar Shipyard, to Premier Marinas.

The Trafalgar Group has developed the site to now encompass Europe’s largest indoor dry stack boat storage facility and a significant commercial shipyard providing bespoke maintenance programmes for commercial vessels and private yachts.

The wider Trafalgar Wharf site has become a hub for a wide range of marine and non-marine businesses and will now

Investment by MDL Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, MDL Marinas continues to invest significantly across its network of marinas and products.

This year alone it will be investing £7m across its 18 UK marinas, with another £30m planned over the next five years.

For example, Torquay Marina will see over £1.3m invested in upgrading two of its largest pontoons, as well as installing a new visitors’ pontoon to support the popularity of the marina as a holiday destination for visiting boat owners.

“It is essential for us to continue to invest in our infrastructure: dredging, pontoons, quay walls and berth holder facilities, because the quality of customers’ experience is important to us,” said Michael Glanville, managing director of MDL Marinas.

Ocean Village Marina saw an upgrade to its south side toilet and showers

earlier this year, and it is planned that Penton Hook Marina’s west harbour facilities block will be updated this winter.

Michael continued: “We also try and give back to our customers with our Otium Rewards Loyalty Programme, offering berth holders and visitors the chance to make real savings. Our customers are encouraged to check their points balance in preparation for their winter lift out and upcoming renewal, as Otium offers great direct savings for berth holders on all of MDL’s products.

“Whether visible or not, large or small, in money or time, all our investment is made with our customers in mind, so they can enjoy the best experience possible. This has been our ethos over the last 50 years and will help continue to drive our success for the next 50.” www.mdlmarinas.co.uk

AROUND THE MARINAS Amble Marina, in Northumberland, is carrying out major infrastructure works. The marina is making a £1million privately funded investment, employing three new team members as well as multiple regional contractors. Work includes a maintenance dredge of the marina basin and replacing and upgrading all 32 steel piles.

As an Official Supporter of the ‘Winds of Change’ project in Cyprus, Karpaz Gate Marina provided access to its facilities. The project, initiated with a vision to build peace, connection and transformation through sport, brought together young Greek and Turkish Cypriots in a bi-communal sailing endeavour to circumnavigate the divided island of Cyprus.

Allspars, yacht rigging and spar fabrication experts, is the first boating and marine-related business to relocate to Falmouth Harbour’s new Marine Hub adding workshops and office units.

Four years ago, in 2019, Yacht Club de Monaco was the first marina in the world to equip its dock with Aqua superPower’s DC marine fast

chargers. Now YCM has become the first marina to install two Aqua 200 HPC (High Power) marine chargers.

At last month’s METSTRADE Inland and Coastal Marina Systems, as well as showcasing products, highlighted its partnership with Living Seawalls, displaying a selection of three-dimensional tile-like concrete habitat panels which offer marinas and harbours a new way to support the marine environment, help revive foreshore and intertidal habitats and breathe life back into the oceans.

D-Marin, which operates 23 marinas across the Med and Gulf regions, has donated €39,500 to good causes in Croatia to preserve and celebrate the country’s heritage and traditions, encourage growth in youth sports and engage within local communities.

Australia and the broader Asia Pacific region’s growing superyacht movement will be celebrated when the 4th edition of the Australian Superyacht Rendezvous is staged in May 2024 at Australia’s most awarded marina, Gold Coast City Marina and Shipyard in Queensland.

be known as Premier Trafalgar Wharf.

All of the existing operations team at Trafalgar Wharf will be retained and transferred to Premier Marinas as part of the sale agreement.

Other Trafalgar Group businesses are not included in the transaction and those located at Trafalgar Wharf will continue to operate as usual.

Premier Marinas CEO, Pete Bradshaw said: “We are delighted to add the Trafalgar Wharf site to the Premier portfolio and welcome new team members into our family. The acquisition marks yet another milestone for

Premier as we continue to invest and grow our business. Trafalgar Wharf adds new capabilities to our group and we are confident that we will be able to combine the knowledge of the existing team and our wider operational experience to further enhance the site and operations.”

ROYAL CLARENCE MARINA The Bridgehead, Weevil Lane, Gosport, Hampshire. PO12 1AX T: 023 9252 3523 E: info@royalclarencemarina.org W: www.royalclarencemarina.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

AQUAVISTA BIRDHAM POOL WATERSIDE & MARINA Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 7BG T: 01243 512310 E: birdhampool@aquavista.com W: www.aquavista.com

AQUAVISTA ROYAL CLARENCE WATERSIDE & MARINA Weevil Lane, Gosport, Hampshire, PO12 1AX T: 023 9252 3523 E: royalclarence@aquavista.com W: www.aquavista.com

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

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

BEMBRIDGE HARBOUR Harbour Master - Alan Mackay The Duver, St Helens, PO33 1YB T: 01983 872828 E : mail@bembridgeharbour.co.uk W: www.bembridgeharbour.co.uk

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

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: eastcowes@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.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: Tom Ward Northney Road, Hayling Island, PO11 0NH T: 023 9246 6321 E: northney@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.northneymarina.co.uk MDL SPARKES MARINA Manager: James Rizzi 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 PREMIER MARINAS CHICHESTER Manager: Andrew Collumbell Birdham (Chichester Harbour) West Sussex. PO20 7EJ T: 01243 512731 E: chichester@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

LITLEHAMPTON 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 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 LADY BEE MARINA, SHOREHAM PORT Manager: Julian Goldie Lady Bee Marina and Chandlery, 138-140 Albion Street, Southwick. BN42 4EG. T: 01273 591705 E: LBChandlery@shoreham-port.co.uk W:www.shoreham-port.co.uk/chandlery

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38

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 Dover Marina Office Esplanade DOVER Kent, CT17 9FS T : +44 (0) 1304 241663 E: marina@portofdover.com W: portofdover.com/marina

SURREY MDL PENTON HOOK MARINA Manager: Dean 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 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

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:Adam Knowles Y Lanfa Aberystwyth, Trefechan SY23 1AS T: 01970 611422 E: aber@themarinegroup.co.uk W: www.themarinegroup.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 CONWY MARINA Manager – Jon Roberts Conwy Marina Ellis Way, LL32 8GU T: 01492 593000 E: conwy@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

LANCASHIRE

MILFORD MARINA Manager or contact: Melanie Durney Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire, SA73 3AF Tel: 01646 696312 E: enquiries@milfordmarina.com W: www.milfordmarina.com

AQUAVISTA GLASSON WATERSIDE & MARINA School Lane, Glasson Dock, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA2 0AW T: 01524 751491 E: glasson@aquavista.com W: www.aquavista.com

PENARTH MARINA Manager: Stuart Jones Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, F64 1TQ T: 02920 705021 E: penarth@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

Image: Shutterstock/ Avigator Fortuner

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

N. IRELAND

BANGOR MARINA Manager: Kevin Baird Bangor, Co. Down T: 02891 45329 E: bangor@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

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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RHU MARINA Contact: Suzanne Bell Rhu, Helensburgh G84 8LH T: 01436 820238 E: rhu@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

KERRERA MARINA Contact : Tim Vollum Ardentrive Bay, Kerrera, Oban, Scotland, PA34 4SX T: 01631 565333 W: office@kerreramarina.com W: www.kerreramarina.com PAGE 32

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SPAIN

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CARRICKFERGUS MARINA Harbour Master: Ryan Hack Marina Manager: Karen Steelen 3 Quayside, Carrickfergus , BT38 8BJ T: 028 9336 6666 E: harbour.master@midandeastantrim.gov.uk W: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk

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

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

PORTISHEAD MARINA

HOLLAND

ITALY

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

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

BRISTOL

Manager: Simon Davis Portishead, Bristol BS20 7DF T: 01275 841941 E: portishead@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

NEWCASTLE ROYAL QUAYS MARINA

Manager: Matt Simms North Shields, Tyneside NE29 6DU T: 0191 2728282 E: royalquays@boatfolk.co.uk W: www.boatfolk.co.uk

YORKSHIRE AQUAVISTA HULL WATERSIDE & MARINA Warehouse 13, Kingston Street, Hull, Yorkshire, HU1 2DQ T: 01482 609960 E: hull@aquavista.com W: www.aquavista.com

LIVERPOOL LIVERPOOL MARINA

Manager:Daniel O’Dea Liverpool Marina, Coburg Wharf, L34BP T: 0151 707 6777 E: reception@liverpoolmarina.com E: manager@liverpoolmarina.com W: www.liverpoolmarina.com

Image: Martin Allen / PWpictures.com

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

PORT DINORWIC MARINA Marina Manager: Charlotte Dawson Y Felinheli, Gwynedd LL56 4JN T:01248671500/01248 670176 E: Info@themarinegroup.co.uk W: www.themarinegroup.co.uk

SCOTLAND

Image: Juice Dash/Shutterstock

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 W: chathammaritimemarina.co.uk

MDL WOOLVERSTONE MARINA Manager: Shane Cheshire Woolverstone, Ipswich, Suffolk. IP9 1AS T: 01473 780206 E: woolverstone@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.woolverstonemarina.co.uk

NEYLAND YACHT HAVEN Manager: James Cotton Brunel Quay, Pembrokeshire, SA73 1PY T: 01646 601601 E: neyland@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com

FR

GILLINGHAM MARINA Manager: Chris Aldous 173 Pier Road, Gillingham, Kent. ME7 1UB T: 01634 280022 E: berthing@gillingham-marina.co.uk W: www.gillingham-marina.co.uk

SUFFOLK

Image: Martin Allen Photography

KENT

Image: Mylor Sailing School

UK AND IRELAND

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OFF WATCH SUDOKU

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2

9 7

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9

1 1 6

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7 7

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8 3 1 4 9 7 2 6 3

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1

1 9 5

2 1 5

6 8 8

6 4 4 3

8

3 5 8

7 7 5

2 2 6

1

1 3 4

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3

6 9 2 5

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7 8 9 4

11

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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): _________________________________________________________

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Check-box

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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.

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CODEWORD

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16 Travelling on horseback (6)

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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 DECEMBER 2023

40

THE CHANGING FACE OF MARINAS It is not all fun and relaxation at marinas, Saxon Wharf is also a hub for refit, repair and maintenance.

A

marine leisure hub, a lifestyle destination and a gateway to the sea are just a few phrases used to describe modern marinas. A marina is all these things, but many also have so much more to offer. Think refit, repair and maintenance.

We spoke to David Walters, marina manager at MDL Marinas’ Saxon Wharf in Southampton, about his marina’s comprehensive refit and repair facilities.

“Marinas play a crucial role in keeping boats, both leisure and commercial, in a smart and seaworthy condition,” says David.

“As a hub for refit and repair, many marinas now offer a range of facilities, services and expertise to ensure motorboats and yachts are wellmaintained and upgraded to meet an owner’s needs and preferences.

“It might not be as exciting and glamorous from a boating lifestyle point of view, but it is just as important when it comes to making the most of your free time out on the water.”

BOATYARD SERVICES

Situated on Southampton’s Itchen River, Saxon Wharf is a marine services centre, offering boatyard facilities for both businesses and boat owners.

“With a 200-ton hoist (which is one of the largest in the UK) and heavy duty, fully serviced pontoons, we can accommodate vessels up to 80m,” adds David. “It is an ideal location for large craft and superyachts in need of secure, quick turnaround lift-outs, repair work or full-scale refits.

ON-SITE EXPERTISE

But it is not just the marina’s facilities which make it an attractive destination for maintenance work - the on-site tenants also add to its appeal.

Being at a marina means dry stack customers have access to the maintenance and repair services on-site, as well as the other marina facilities such as showers, toilets, car parking and WiFi access. Plus, the marina’s location means there is fantastic cruising on the doorstep.

David says: “With our online booking system, it is now easier than ever for our dry stack customers to book one of their unlimited launches either to work on the boat, or get out on the water for their next adventure.”

“Whether it is just the usual winter maintenance or a more substantial upgrade, we have a wide variety of tenants at Saxon Wharf with expertise across a broad-spectrum of marine trades,” comments David.

“For example, there is Passmore of Southampton which specialises in the manufacture of high-quality soft furnishings for yachts, offering everything from running repairs to a complete fit-out.

“Rigging checks and re-rigs can be undertaken by The Rig Shop, and when you are ready to hit the water and start cruising, marine safety specialist Ocean Safety is on hand to service liferafts, lifejackets and man overboard equipment.

And for tools, chandlery, waterproofs or wellies, there is Force 4 at our sister marina, Shamrock Quay, which is just a five-minute walk away.”

DRY STACK

In addition to big boat lifting, Saxon Wharf boasts a large dry stack facility for owners of motorboats and RIBs up to 13m who require quick and easy access to their boat but want to reap the rewards and many benefits of storing their boat out of the water.

ALL ABOUT LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Location wise, Saxon Wharf appears to have it all. It is a stone’s throw away from Southampton’s vibrant city centre with its position giving it easy access to the motorway network for ease of travel, as well as all the associated shops and attractions.

“Whether it is just the usual winter maintenance or a more substantial upgrade, we have a wide variety of tenants at Saxon Wharf”

“We are also just down the road from our Ocean Village Marina too, with its bustling waterfront bars and restaurants, 5* hotel and deep-water berths ideal for superyachts, making it an excellent spot to stay prior to visiting Saxon Wharf for any planned maintenance work,” says David.

“Being so close to Southampton Water means that you do not have to go far to conduct sea trails following any repair work or a refit, and with the Hamble River and the Solent just beyond that, the cruising grounds are endless.

“To the west there is the picturesque Beaulieu River, the lively town of Lymington and the surrounding New Forest, and to the east you have got Portsmouth Harbour and its large fleet of modern and historic warships. And for the more confident boater, the Channel Islands make a perfect weekend away.

Really, you are spoilt for choice.”

OTIUM REWARDS

As well as having so much to offer, Saxon Wharf also adds incredible value to both berth holders and visitors with Otium Rewards. MDL’s unique loyalty programme enables customers to generate points from purchasing MDL services.

David explains: “Otium points can be ‘spent’ on any MDL products, including berthing or lifting, as well as the services of participating tenants.

“Customers can make some fantastic savings, which can help them to offset some of the costs of any repair or maintenance work they are doing while staying with us.”

Saxon Wharf and its refit and repair facilities is just one of 10 fully serviced boatyards operated at MDL marinas along the coast, from Kent to Devon. To find out more about Saxon Wharf visit: www.saxonwharf.co.uk.

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

To advertise here please call 07596 269681 41

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All at Sea - Classified advert - 132x80mm - v6.indd 1

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In the drink

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

42

With Paul Antrobus

BY PAUL ANTROBUS

THE MOST WINE-DERFUL TIME OF YEAR It is the holiday season, so why not treat your elf (sorry!) and add some extra cheer to your festive cooking.

ANSWERS TO PUZZLES

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C W D Y E K H A F R I C A B O R A G E M R A S N R G O P A L P I T A T E T H E L L D R Y E Y E D R O W A N S I G N V X R E P T I L E H E A P S A A D A I D I E Z R A P O U N D N I I K D I N O T I O N S H A V E R G S G U Y Y D

The supporting cast

Here is a skeleton drinks list for a seasonal festive dinner; most were covered in All at Sea over the last year. You can build on it with your stocks at home.

For pre-lunch drinks: Sainsbury’s (new) Winter Warmer, 5 per cent abv Salcombe gin and tonic, Angioletti Italian cider, Adnams Ghost Ship nonalcoholic ale, non-alcoholic Thomson and Scott sparkling Chardonnay or a Cava, which will have stronger taste notes than Prosecco.

For fish, the back-in-favour Viognier is white, aromatic and peachy or Vinho Verde, gently around 9 fizzy and generally 5 10 per cent abv.

2 For 4the main9course,1El Bombero Spanish red will cook well and drink 3 6 5 8well too with any roast turkey, chicken, beef 1 At814.5 4 per cent 7 abv, 3 it6is spicy or lamb. with raspberry and damson flavours. Or, if you prefer white, a full-bodied Chenin 5 7 2 6 8 9 Blanc, Sémillon or oaked Chardonnay 2 5 4 6 should do the trick.

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Art Editor

Mark Hyde design@allatsea.co.uk

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All puzzles © Puzzle Press Ltd (www.puzzlepress.co.uk)

Contributors

Published by

EE

WIN! PAGE 32

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WIN A PAIR OF HURST DECK SHOES FROM YOUBOAT MARINE

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DECEMBER 2023

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N E B U L A R M E A S L E S E O I G L I L L A M A G L A M O R O U S U C F E O B N H D R A W L I N G T A X I E D A W I L C L J I N G O I S M D I S C U S V K L T H U S E N I L I T Y A B O M B P K N Q M M U Z Z L E J O I N T I N G N I E M I I L U A V O I D A N C E R I G H T H R T G O O H A L C Y O N R E G R E S S

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More than just a berth

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16

Putting the spotlight on amazing volunteers who are doing incredible work nationwide... SEE PAGE 20

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28

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1

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Happy holly-days from the All at Sea crew!

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Editor

9

Sudoku: Moderate

Image: Mylor Sailing School

Answer: WHERRY

For vegetarians, TikTok star Eitan Bernath proposes a mash-up of risotto and pasta alla vodka. Vodka adds acid to the mix and helps emulsify the liquid, resulting in a creamy, luxurious sauce.

8

Sudoku: Easy

Crossword

Puzzle Page 74.indd 3

When wines are presented in shows like the BBC’s Saturday Kitchen, or on websites, there are always suggestions of food to pair with the wine. The simple rule of thumb is: if it is good to pair with a particular food then it is good to cook with.

Professional chefs are often seen extravagantly splashing in alcoholic drinks to make exotic dishes. At home there is always a slight reticence to liberally pour wine into a cooking pan and not into a glass to drink. Maybe at Christmas we are more willing to add it to create something a bit special.

There are recipes for using all the common drinks in the locker: red wine for beef, white wine for baked fish, brandy in the Christmas pudding, sherry with trifle, vodka with risotto, even whisky with turkey or chicken.

You wine. It 8 2 can use non-alcoholic 9 7 3 needs to be a good one that has retained 7 characteristics 1 8 through 2 its flavour the8de-alcoholising process, one like 7 9 1 6 Thomson & Scott’s Naughty Rouge 5 3 (red Syrah). 6 4 What you should not do is use 4 5 9 2up old, 1 not quite finished bottles which, once 3 2 6 8 opened, develop a ‘corked’ taste that is 4 9 3 not7good in any dish.2

PAGE

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Image: Martin Allen / PWpictures.com

T

he aim of cooking with wine, or any other alcohol, is enhancing flavour in a special dish. The majority of alcohol in wine (and any other drink you choose) burns off during the cooking process. There is no way to get tipsy from alcohol-assisted food, no matter how much is added during the cooking.

You need to be generous with the brandy to ‘flambé’ the Christmas pudding as it gets to the table. As above, when the flame goes out the alcohol goes with it.

And it is time to bring out the Lyme Bay English Winery’s Christmas Pudding wine, 10 per cent abv. This is a proper winter warmer, with the spices and fruit notes you would expect to find in a Christmas pudding. There is even a sprig of holly on the label.

SHOOTIN’ THE BREEZE

RACE ACROSS THE ATLANTIC

Marianne Rickard

COMPETITION TERMS AND CONDITIONS - The winner will be notified by email. The winner(s) will be the first correct entry drawn at random after the competition closing date. The draw is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Open to residents of the UK aged over 18. No cash or alternatives will be offered. If any prize is lost or damaged during the course of delivery, All at Sea will provide reasonable assistance in seeking to resolve the problem, but it will not always be possible to obtain replacements for lost or damaged goods, and in that event no financial compensation would be payable by All at Sea or their affiliates. By entering you agree to be bound by all the rules and agree that your name and county may be published in the paper if you win. Please indicate on your entry if you do not wish to receive information about other products and services from All at Sea and competition provider, by phone, post, email or by SMS.

Registered address: Blue Barns Business Park, Old Ipswich Road, Ardleigh, Colchester CO7 7FX The views and opinions of the contributors to this publication are not necessarily those of the Publishers. Accordingly, the Publishers disclaim any responsibility for such views and opinions. Printed in Cambridge by Iliffe Print. All at Sea is copyright and can not be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the Publisher. Every care is taken in compiling the contents, but the proprietors assume no responsibility for any effect rising therefrom. Articles submitted for consideration must be the original work of the author and not previously published. Where photographs are included, which are not the property of the contributor, permission to reproduce them must have been obtained from the owner of the copyright. The editor cannot guarantee a personal response to all letters and emails received. All at Sea accepts no liability for products and services offered by third parties. Recycled content of paper in UK newspapers is 78.9 per cent.

ALL AT SEA DECEMBER 2023

To advertise here please call 07596 269681 43

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