All At Sea - May 2020

#PREMIERSINCE1994

premiermarinas.com BRIGHTON

CHICHESTER

SOUTHSEA

PORT SOLENT

*GOSPORT

*SWANWICK

N O SS O N DA RT

* F A L M O U T H * W I T H D R Y S TA C K

FR

EE

EASTBOURNE

WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK

BRITAIN’S MOST READ WATERFRONT NEWSPAPER

MAY 2020

BACK ON BOARD BRITAIN’S MOST READ WATERFRONT NEWSPAPER

The RYA has been in discussion with the government regarding access to boats in marinas – to allow owners to undertake security and essential maintenance checks. The RYA is also developing a ‘Return to Boating’ strategy aimed at getting the message over that there is a strong case for boating to be one of the first activities that could be resumed safely, within any necessary social distancing rules, once a relaxation of the current coronavirus restrictions begins. FULL STORY PAGE 3

SAVE ON RYA EBOOKS SEE PAGE 34 FOR YOUR EXCLUSIVE OFFER

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE ALL AT SEA IN YOUR INBOX

PAGE

30

JUST HOW DEEP IS DEEP? EXPLORING OUR OCEANS

PAGE

33

AMERICA’S CUP CHAT WITH SKIPPER TERRY HUTCHINSON

2

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

Birdham Pool, Chichester.

Outstanding, natural beauty.

Birdham Pool marina lies just four miles from the historic county town of Chichester, nestled in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

Although one of the oldest marinas in the country, it boasts five star customer facilities, one-hour access to the South’s best sailing on the Solent, classic marine trades boatyard, café, transport links, and of course a legendary welcome.

Castle Marinas specialises in being “large enough to cope, small enough to care” and its two coastal marinas, Birdham Pool and Royal Clarence in Portsmouth, deliver this promise in a warm, perfectly formed package.

3

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020 - FOR MORE NEWS EVERY DAY GO TO WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK

CALL FOR ACCESS TO OUR MARINAS

Image: Charlie Ross

…FROM PAGE 1. With the current COVID-19 pandemic forcing the country into lockdown, the RYA has received a considerable number of enquiries from members who are not able to gain access to their boats in marinas.

The RYA appreciates that boaters have valid concerns about the inability to undertake checks in respect of security and essential maintenance. So, it is writing to key government Ministers seeking definitive guidance that will give a clear and practical way forward to give owners immediate access to their boats whilst respecting current measures to control COVID-19.

The RYA has been in discussions with government officials making the case

YOUR THOUGHTS

for limited and controlled access to boats locked down in marinas. The RYA believes that visiting marinas and spending time working on a boat that is moored or ashore can be readily achieved within the parameters of the existing core government advice regarding hygiene and social distancing.

In a statement the RYA reported: “With representations to date not delivering a solution to what is evidently a critical issue for affected members, the RYA is taking the case to Ministers and calling for the support of Members of Parliament.”

Boat owners need access to their property to undertake essential maintenance, for example checks for water ingress, maintenance of engines

“Boat owners need access to their property to undertake essential maintenance, for example checks for water ingress, maintenance of engines and electrical installations that cannot be undertaken by marina staff. Many boat owners are also obligated by their insurers to visit their vessel regularly to avoid cover being refused in respect of maintenance related claims.” and electrical installations that cannot be undertaken by marina staff. Many boat owners are also obligated by their insurers to visit their vessel regularly to avoid cover being refused in respect of maintenance related claims.”

The RYA’s advice to members is that you should check this aspect of your insurance policy with your insurers no matter what the policy states. A lockdown insurance update has been published on the RYA website.

Sarah Treseder, RYA chief executive, said: “We acknowledge and appreciate that marina operators are working as hard as possible under difficult circumstances, and are doing their best to take care of boats during the lockdown. However, marina staff obviously cannot undertake the sort of essential maintenance that responsible owners would do.

“The significant number of approaches that the RYA has received from members demonstrates that this is a critical issue for boat owners. We believe there are measures that could be permitted immediately within the existing government guidance to allow access for essential maintenance. All are predicated on the overarching need to keep people socially distant from those outside their immediate household, to shield the elderly and those with underlying medical conditions, and prevent unnecessary travel.

“The RYA fully supports the measures that the government has put in place to tackle the spread of the virus and we understand the motivation of marina operators to support government action and safeguard their staff and customers.

We will engage with them to work collaboratively to deliver a solution for boat owner access within the parameters of existing government guidance on hygiene and social distancing.

“Concerned members should contact cruising@rya.org.uk and use the RYA Coronavirus hub, which outlines current advice and information for recreational boaters.”

With all sports starting to consider recovery, the RYA is developing a ‘Return to Boating’ strategy aimed at getting the message over that there is a very strong case for boating to be one of the first activities that could be resumed safely within any necessary parameters for social distancing, once we start to see a relaxation of the current restrictions.

“We remain committed to representing the interests of our valued members and the wider boating community and we look forward to seeing you back on the water as soon as it is safe and advisable for us to do so,” Sarah concluded. www.rya.org.uk

A story was also reported in Afloat that the Irish Marine Federation has called on its government to consider easing some restrictions on the marine sector amid the COVID-19 pandemic response. This includes allowing boat owners to access their craft at a marina or mooring “to make sure it is safe and compliant”, or to take their vessel to a marina or boat shed for repairs or servicing. Do you agree boaters should be given access to their boats in marinas? We would love to know your thoughts. Post a comment at the All at Sea Facebook page (www.facebook.com/allatseanewspaper) or send us an email at editor@allatsea.co.uk.

THE

ANCHORING SOLUTION

• Quality engineering • Innovative design

• Competitive pricing

• Guaranteed compatibility • Unrivalled warranty

t: 023 8045 8400 | e: sales@maxwellmarine.co.uk | www.maxwellmarine.com

WINDLASSES, CAPSTANS, ANCHORS, BOW ROLLERS AND ACCESSORIES

4

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020 - FOR MORE NEWS EVERY DAY GO TO WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK

ALL ABOARD

By Jane Hyde

GET ALL AT SEA DELIVERED DIRECT TO YOUR INBOX SIGN UP AT WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK IT has been a month like none we have ever known, but the good news is that we are past the peak of coronavirus infections in the UK. Now, though, people’s thoughts are, understandably, turning to when the restrictions that we have been under since March can be reduced. There is increasing pressure on government to reveal plans for lifting the lockdown.

As boaters, and many of us with boats moored or stored at marinas around the country, this includes finding out when we can get access to our boats. This is not because we want to go for a cruise – although we do!

– but to check on them and carry out any essential maintenance jobs that might be required. Marinas are doing a great job in these unprecedented days, but they cannot carry out many of the jobs that are needed.

The RYA is one of the organisations working hard to ensure the government is aware of the needs of boaters, and as we hear more we will let you know – keep an eye on the All at Sea Facebook page (www.facebook. com/allatseanewspaper) for the latest news. Fingers crossed we start to hear more positive up-dates in the coming weeks.

Looking even further ahead the RYA believes, and we agree, that boating could be one of the first activities to re-start, with the necessary social distancing of course. It is strange to think that something we all took for

granted just a few months ago is now something which we all miss and cannot wait to be able to resume. We definitely want to see your photos from your first trips back on the water.

That is going to be a lot of happy, smiley faces on the water!

Not to mention the dogs that love their boating adventures too – check out page 8 for this month’s gorgeous pooch afloat. Keep sending them in as it always puts a smile on our faces.

In this issue we have another great selection of stories for you. On page 30 David Henshall has been visiting the depths of the world’s oceans to discover an explorer who has not only became the first person to do the ‘deep five’, reaching the bottom of the deepest part of the five oceans, but has also been to the summit of Mt Everest.

During our time in lockdown our gardens have been receiving a great deal of attention, and so back on land we have been getting some garden inspiration with some great tips and ideas on page 37.

Lastly, thank you for reading this digital issue of All at Sea – we would love it if you pass on the word and share it with friends and family.

We want everyone to know that we might not be available in paper format at the moment, but we are definitely still here to bring you the latest news and features from the world of boating. Enjoy!

RNLI’S MAYDAY APPEAL THE RNLI is encouraging people around the UK and Ireland to save lives at sea by fundraising at home for its annual Mayday fundraising appeal, which runs throughout May. Although we are all being asked to stay home at the moment, the charity’s volunteer lifeboat crews are still on-call 24/7, ready to drop everything at a moment’s notice when the pager sounds, to go out into the unknown and save lives at sea.

The RNLI is launching ‘Step to it for Mayday’, which encourages people to take part in a daily step challenge, whether it be laps around the house, a hike up the stairs or a stroll through the garden.

Supporters can choose a variety of

different targets, depending on their ability.

As an alternative, the RNLI is also challenging the public to ditch their favourite tipple, cups of coffee or cans of fizzy and only drink water for 10 days – a lockdown detox. Supporters can either gain sponsorship or donate the money they would have spent on alcohol or coffee over the 10 days.

RNLI fundraising, marketing and media director, Jayne George, said: “Our Mayday fundraising campaign is a vital event in the RNLI calendar and - given the current situation - it is more important than ever.

For years, our fantastic fundraisers have given their time and energy in May to help out our lifesavers. But the welfare of our

THIS MONTH HOLIDAYS....................................... 26

Advice from the RYA to help us stop the spread of invasive life when boating.

We might not be able to holiday right now, but we can definitely spend our time planning future trips.

WHAT IS A CHART?...................... 20 The first in a three-part extract from the book Understanding a Nautical Chart.

SORT YOURSELF OUT!.................. 21 We look at the digital boat organiser from MyBoat.

VAT DO YOU MEAN?..................... 23 Exploring the VAT and Visa implications as a result of Brexit.

KIT................................................... 24 Rounding up the latest kit including buoyancy vests and an offer for you from Simrad.

SHORESTYLE................................. 25 We have more fantastic gear to keep you looking good this spring.

Visit RNLI.org/Mayday to find downloadable materials for all Mayday activities, get involved with challenges and do something amazing from the safety of your home this May.

26

SIGN UP AT WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK TO RECEIVE OUR NEWSLETTER

MASTERCLASS.............................. 20

volunteers, staff and supporters is our priority, and the usual range of activities are now impossible. So this year, Mayday will look a bit different.

“We are encouraging our supporters to take on fundraising challenges at home. That way they will be able to help protect our lifesavers, while also keeping themselves and others safe. Our charity is powered by the public’s generosity and we are so grateful for their support during this difficult time.’

PHOTO OF THE MONTH............... 29 Another round-up of your boating photos. Have a look through your photos and send us your favourites!

HOW DEEP IS DEEP?.................... 30 The story of one man’s incredible quest to explore the depths of the world’s vast oceans.

BOATING PEOPLE......................... 33 Sadly spring’s America’s Cup events have been cancelled, but the teams are still training hard, as American Magic’s Terry Hutchinson explains.

DRYSUIT CARE ............................. 35 Are you taking care of your drysuit during the enforced ‘off season’?

OCEANS OF HOPE........................ 35 We meet a charity that uses sailing to introduce new experiences to those with MS.

21

GET PLANTING!..............................37 Practical advice and artistic inspiration to improve your environment.

STAY HOME, GET TRAINED ........ 39 Discover how RYA eLearning could improve your boating.

ABERYSTWYTH MARINA.............40 This month we head to Wales’ Aberystwyth Marina.

MARINA GUIDE.............................. 42 The latest news from around the UK’s marinas, plus your regional marina guide.

IN THE DRINK................................. 48 In these days of lockdown more of us are turning to online alcohol suppliers, some offering a chance to socialise as well as drink.

To advertise here please call 07740 118928

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

#PREMIERSINCE1994

premiermarinas.com

EASTBOURNE

BRIGHTON

CHICHESTER

SOUTHSEA

PORT SOLENT

GOSPORT*

S WA N W I C K *

NOSS ON DART

FA L M O U T H *

*WITH DRY STACK

5

6

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

NEWS SNAPS BREXIT TALKS

In terms of Brexit talks, the EU and UK have further rounds of negotiations planned via video link for the weeks of 11 May and 1 June. British Marine understands discussions are likely to focus on fisheries, trade and level playing field arrangements. Before the Covid-19 outbreak, both sides had reached an impasse but agreed they would aim for eight or nine negotiating rounds before June – there will now be less than half of that. The Withdrawal Agreement allows for an extension of the transition period for up to two years if both sides agree before July 2020. However, the UK government has said it has no plans to extend this period beyond 31 December 2020. Read more about Brexit on page 23.

ARGUS PREPARES

QUESTIONS FOR AMERICA’S CUP Build timelines that were well established long before COVID19 are near impossible to change without flow-on effects to the wider campaign. Some production continues, some has been halted.

Do the teams complete the build at home, or get their boats to Auckland to finish? Do they ship them or fly them direct to Auckland? And most importantly - how

will they compare relative to each other when they eventually see the light of day?

The best team to deal with the unpredictability will probably be the team with the America’s Cup high above its head in March 2021.

Turn to page 33 for this month’s Boating People with American Magic skipper Terry Hutchinson.

BRITISH INEOS TEAM UK Image: Lloyd Images

LIKE everyone in the world, the America’s Cup is not untouched by the effects of the coronavirus. Very quickly it became apparent that the cancellations of the much-anticipated ACWS events in Cagliari and Portsmouth would have to happen.

Now, though, they have no more information on their relative performance other than what they already know via differing levels of early reconnaissance. Do they trust their initial instincts? Or do they change their approach based on certain nuggets of

information that contribute to an overall incomplete puzzle?

American Magic’s Skipper Terry Hutchinson acknowledged: “We missed the opportunity to see where we are vulnerable by not being able to race in Cagliari or Portsmouth. It is going to require us to lean that much harder on the design side of the program.”

The biggest question mark, though, is the progress on each of the teams’ highly anticipated second AC75s currently in production in their home countries.

ROUND THE ISLAND RACE

The British INEOS Team UK’s AC75, like the kiwis, has been on a ship and has returned to their home base in Portsmouth after their intended summer base in Cagliari was promptly packed up as the coronavirus began to take a hold on Europe in March. Then comes the decision to unpack and sail in the UK for the summer once lockdown passes or redirect the shipment to Auckland as soon as the opportunity arises. The build of their second AC75 has continued around the clock at Carrington Boats. Their Auckland base is the most advanced of all challengers and is already well into construction, although work has been suspended while New Zealand is in lockdown.

Sir Ben Ainslie said: “With the team now back in the UK our preparations for the America’s Cup next year continue. It certainly is a challenge but there is a tremendous amount of work still to do, not least the ongoing development and build of our second AC75. Suppliers are being affected by the crisis, as all businesses are, and we are having to re-evaluate our timelines and understand what we are up against.”

Image: Paul Wyeth

Image: Paul Wyeth

Image: UK Crown Copyright 2020

RFA Argus will be in the Caribbean in preparation to support the British Overseas Territories during the upcoming hurricane season and will be able to support the response to the Covid-19 pandemic if required. RFA Argus’ deployment to the Caribbean had been scheduled for the hurricane season, but she will now be able to play a part in ensuring the UK government is ready to support the Overseas Territories too.

STUDY WITH DEE

With the nation’s kids studying at home, we all know how hard it can be to get them to enjoy their schoolwork. Ocean Safety has teamed up with their ambassador, sailing legend Dee Caffari, to put together a fun exercise booklet - all based on the story of her first round-theworld trip. The booklet contains questions that will get youngsters engaging and learning about the oceans, nature and world geography. There are also creative colouring exercises to enjoy. The exercises are then emailed to marketing@oceansafety.com.

Download the booklet at bit.ly/ RoundTheWorldWithDee.

MARINAS OPENING

Following closures due to strict social distancing rules marinas, boatyards and marine manufacturers have been permitted to reopen in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

The areas will only be available for personal use, so chartered services and rentals will remain suspended. Nearby restaurants will still be limited to take-out or delivery service.

THE Island Sailing Club tells us it has received an incredibly positive response to the Round the Island Race change of date and are looking forward to a unique race to remember.

The revised Notice of Race incorporating the various date and timing changes is available at the race website, but in all other respects they expect to run the race exactly as planned.

Unfortunately, the Windeler Cup will now not take place within the September 2020 race weekend. However, they would like to thank everyone for their support and encouragement to launch this small keelboat race and look forward to welcoming boats from the Daring, Dragon, Etchells, Flying Fifteen, Mermaid, Redwing, Sunbeam, Swallow, Sonar, Squib, RS Elite, Victory and XOD classes next year. www.roundtheisland.org.uk

BOAT FESTIVAL

IT is hoped the Thames Traditional Boat Festival will go ahead as planned despite the coronavirus pandemic. The annual event, exhibiting vintage boats and cars, is scheduled to take place at Fawley Meadows from 17 - 19 July.

Lady McAlpine, co-chairman, explained: “Unlike the (Henley) regatta, we need only five days to set up the Trad — five days of incredibly hard work from all involved. If the government allows it, we will hold the 42nd Thames Traditional Boat Festival this year, which is why we are keeping fingers crossed.”

This year, the Dunkirk Little Ships, which are also a regular at the boat festival, will be marking the 80th anniversary of the evacuation.

Image: Thames Traditional Boat Festival

COWES REMAINS ON COURSE COWES Week 2020 is scheduled to take place from 8 August - 15 August. Despite the current restrictions, work is continuing from home on all of the organisational aspects of the week and the organisers remain committed to running the event if at all possible.

Laurence Mead, regatta director, said: “We continue to move forward with plans for the event and remain hopeful that by the time we get to midAugust the necessity to socially distance ourselves will have reduced sufficiently so that we can run some great boat racing in Cowes.

“We can react quickly to changes in the

government restrictions and guidance, switching on or off various components with the minimum of lead time, and allowing us significant leeway perhaps until the beginning of July - before we need to make any big decisions.

“The safety of participants and the hundreds of volunteers working behind the scenes is foremost in our minds, of course, but providing that we can run an event that complies with all guidance in place at the time, then we fully intend to do so. I suspect there will be a lot of sailors desperate to get boats on the water by August!” www.cowesweek.co.uk

AS things stand, the Vendée Globe remains on course with the race due to start from Les Sables-d’Olonne on 8 November.

Yves Auvinet, president of SAEM Vendée, said: “The technical and sporting preparations for participants of the single handed (solo) non-stop yacht race around the world without assistance have been severely impacted by this unprecedented crisis. We are very aware of this.

“For several weeks now, SAEM Vendée has been in very regular contact with skippers and all the key players of the Vendée Globe, to discuss these issues and propose solutions. Our aim is for the ninth edition of the race to start on the 8 November in the best possible conditions, while remaining very attentive to developments of the situation.”

The two solo transatlantic races initially planned for the Globe Series championship this spring should have allowed some skippers to qualify and others to test their monohull after winter modification work.

The IMOCA class and the department of Vendée, a major partner in the race, are working to finalise an alternative to the New York - Vendée Les Sablesd’Olonne, a dress rehearsal before the Vendée Globe and therefore an essential race allowing for the skippers to prepare. Its format will be revealed soon.

PLANS FOR VENDÉE GLOBE CONTINUE

Les Sables-d’Olonne. Image: Alexandre Lamoureux

To advertise here please call 07740 118928

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

w

sim w.

m

/c

ap

to

om

g.c tin ch ya dra

nd ith rs a tw e s. ar nd on iti ch hfi nd s Co AP /fi s& m er -M ers lT ul rf a C lott fo er off

w it Vis

ne p bi r t p m ha Co d c eu te lec av se s

Go With Confidence

£3

00

SIMPLY CRUISE

Cruising to a beach, lake or simply exploring with friends, Simrad Cruise allows you to enjoy your day on the water.

An easy to use chartplotter that lets you know where you are and what is around you, plus with key information at hand like speed and depth you’ll be able to cruise confidently. There is even a built in sonar for days when the fish are biting.

SIMRAD-YACHTING.COM/CRUISE SIM0916 Cruise FP FP ad ENG (for All At Sea) + Q2 flash 04-20.indd 1

06/04/2020 08:56

7

8

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

NEWS SNAPS WHAT VIRUS?

It is hard to believe, but for some the coronavirus is recent news!

Read the full story at the All at Sea Facebook page, but Elena Manighetti and Ryan Osborne have been sailing the world and had asked their families not to tell them bad news. This, along with limited communications, meant the couple had unexpected trouble docking in the Caribbean. Now safely moored at Saint Vincent, in the words of Elena: “We are sandwiched between the hurricane season and the virus.” www.facebook.com/ allatseanewspaper

HUGE LOSSES

The 90-day suspension of cruises will cost the UK economy £888 million and lead to the loss of 5,525 jobs and £287 million in wages, industry body Cruise Lines International Association has warned, according to The Telegraph.

Across the UK, the industry supports 40,517 direct jobs, paying £1.35 billion in wages. These are the cruise line employees, both on board and shoreside.

HAND SANITISER

Who knew that hand sanitisers would be in such demand, but in these unusual times little is surprising these days. Here is an alcohol free moisturising hand sanitiser which, because it is free of alcohol, will not dry or irritate the skin despite being as effective as an alcohol based product. It kills viruses, bacteria and fungi, which is exactly what you need! Use this tub to refill your smaller bottles. £12.95 / prop-defender.com

ALEX’S ISOLATION TIPS RECORD-breaking skipper Alex Thomson is no stranger to isolation. Sailing solo around the globe for months aboard the HUGO BOSS yacht, he has first-hand experience of making the very best of being alone.

To guide us at this difficult time, Alex shares his wisdom gained at sea: “I have learned to separate loneliness and isolation. There is a difference. When I am on my own at sea, I feel very isolated.

But how could I possibly feel lonely when I have my family, my friends, my team all at home, thinking about me? It is easier when we are able to separate those two emotions.”

Alex knows the power of injecting positivity into any situation. Always look for the benefits, he says. “Most of us today are in isolation, or social distancing with our families or friends. To help make this period more manageable, try to view it as a privilege, a chance to spend uninterrupted time with those closest to you. It is something to enjoy, not be fearful of.”

Alex Thomson shares his top tips for taking on extended time away from others.

1. Structure and routine - “It is important to introduce structure and routine. Try not to ‘bite off’ too much though. We all need to understand that

these are exceptional circumstances.

Give yourself realistic goals for the day, and work towards those. It could be as small as making breakfast, or playing a game with your children. Every time you achieve one of those goals, you will feel better.”

2. The helicopter view - “When feeling stressed, one of the methods I use, which my sports psychologist taught me, is called the helicopter view.

I visualise being above the boat, looking down at myself. This allows me to take a step back, regroup and find calm. When at home, imagine looking down at yourself from the ceiling. Then imagine looking down from the top of the house, and then above the house, and then from cloud level. From up there, you can see all of the people in the houses below, who are facing the same problems as you. It is then that you realise you are not alone.”

3. Find time to smile - “It is true that happy people perform better. But when things are going wrong, it can feel almost impossible to find any sense of happiness. My sports psychologist taught me that, in order to find that happiness, I should look happy. I should smile. ‘Happy people, look happy’ he says. ‘So smile.’ And I do. And guess what? It works.”

BOAT BUILDER SCALES BACK

Image: Alex Thomson Racing

ALL-FEMALE OCEAN PLASTIC RESEARCH MISSION BEGINS

RISING STAR

With sailing events cancelled for the foreseeable future, Barton Marine has extended the closing date for The Barton Rising Star 2020 competition until 30 June. It is easy to enter the competition for a chance to become a Barton Marine brand ambassador, using a camera to record a short video telling the Barton team about your passion for sailing and filling in the online entry form. The competition is open to all dinghy or one design keel boat sailors aged 12 - 20 and the winner will receive a package of prizes and opportunities to help when the sailing season finally begins, to boost their CV and increase their personal development.

Download an entry form at www.bartonmarine.com or email marketing@bartonmarine.com.

FAIRLINE Yachts has announced it is scaling back its operations due to the unprecedented situation arising from Covid-19.

340 of Fairline’s employees were furloughed for an initial period of three weeks, starting from 1 April. This will be reviewed and adjusted as the situation develops. All 340 furloughed employees are retained on Fairline’s payroll and remain employed.

A skeleton team comprising of boat builders and a limited number of

DOGS ON BOARD

“Molly, my rescue Paterjack, loves being on the water aboard Bojangles our Ombrine 800 sports cruiser, seen here asking when we are setting sail from East Cowes Marina.”

Paul Wells Molly is gorgeous and looks very enthusiastic about her trip in the water. Does your dog love the water too? Send us your photos! editor@allatsea.co.uk

back office support roles will continue working on current boats in build.

Peter McNulty, chief operating officer at Fairline Yachts, said: “We would like to thank our staff for their continued support during this challenging period.

“By furloughing the majority of our team now, we can weather the storm and safeguard these skilled roles for the future – ensuring we are well prepared for the inevitable bounce-back once restrictions are lifted.”

Image: eXXpedition

THE eXXpedition ocean plastic research mission has set sail in the remote South Pacific Ocean from Easter Island, one of the most remote inhabited islands, towards Tahiti, on the eighth leg of a pioneering all-female sailing voyage around the world for scientific research into ocean plastic.

The aim of eXXpedition Round the World is to study microplastics in our oceans with a focus on pinpointing solutions and innovations to ocean plastic pollution back on land.

“Easter Island is an incredibly important stop on our world mission. The South Pacific Gyre is the least

researched accumulation zone and we are looking forward to being able to share our learning and experiences once our inbound crew reaches land,” said Emily Penn, mission director for eXXpedition.

Why an all-female crew? As eXXpedition explained, women are still underrepresented in the science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) sectors. Globally, women occupy only 13 per cent of the STEM workforce (including health professionals) and are also underrepresented in sailing and in the wider sporting community.

This became a catalyst for developing the allfemale program.

VIRTUAL BOAT SHOW SUCCESS

ANCASTA’S first Virtual Boat Show, held on Ancasta. com, was created by Ancasta in response to many spring boat shows being cancelled or postponed due to the ongoing pandemic.

“While being a pleasant distraction for boaters, the event aimed to encompass as many factors of a real show as possible,” said Ashley Overton, Ancasta sales director.

“We created a destination for visitors to view boats of their choosing via 360-degree virtual tours and compare and contrast the different models. More in-depth information on specifications was available and Ancasta staff were on-hand to answer any technical questions,

just as you would expect at a normal show.”

The over-riding feedback from visitors was one of thanks for creating a positive and fun event, helping them plan new adventures.

The show has resulted in a list of customers who are now waiting to physically view specific models once the lockdown is over, so they can take ownership of their new boat.

Due to the success of the Virtual Boat Show, Ancasta has announced that it will be hosting a Virtual USED Boat Show on 21 - 25 May. Anyone keen to sell their boat this spring should get in touch with Ancasta: ancasta.com/ selling-a-boat

To advertise here please call 07740 118928

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

w

n ba w.

m .co dg

er off ap

to

m /c

t d ar an ch rs e t s. on AP ot iti nd -M pl t Co s& a C ar m er lT ch ul rf

tw

i Vis

e in

b d m te p c Co sele u ith w ve sa fo

00 ÂŁ3

Kika & Dan Sailing Uma

Sail faster...

Sail further...

Sail for fun... whatever your passion.

Vulcan System

Passionate About Sailing

Marine electronics for sailing.

BG0991 B&G Passion Sail for Fun FP Ad ENG (for All at Sea) + Q2 Flash 04-20.indd 1

www.bandg.com

27/04/2020 12:00

9

10

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

NEWS SNAPS MAKING SHIELDS

LIFEBOAT CREWS' CHANGING SERVICE

Engineers at Teignbridge Propellers have turned their hand to printing 3D face shields to help combat the coronavirus. The company has teamed up with South Devon College and is hoping to print at least 120 frames a week using its BigRep and Creality Ender3 3D printers.

For any other companies wanting to print face shields, South Devon College Hi Tech and Digital Team has released its 3D print file, adapted from an original open source file.

BARTON’S MASKS

Barton Marine is providing clear film face masks to key workers around the South East. Working in partnership with a component supplier in Taiwan, Barton has sourced an initial 500 clear film face masks. Suzanne Blaustone, Barton CEO, said: “200 will be sent to the Met Police in London, and the rest to food banks and care homes in desperate need of PPE. We salute those in every sector who take care of others and continue the effort to keep our communities stable.”

MAKING KIT

One of Typhoon International’s manufacturing plants, International Safety Products, is to make vital equipment for the NHS to help tackle the COVID-19 crisis.

Although ISP is one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of marine inflatable lifejackets it also has a background in military clothing and other accessories,so is no stranger to meeting manufacturing quality and efficiency standards.

INEOS HELPS

It was reported in the Portsmouth News that INEOS UK is using its expertise and specialist equipment to help support the fight against coronavirus. Engineers have designed a re-useable mask for NHS workers to be distributed to local surgeries.” Furthermore, The team’s official charity, the 1851 Trust, has created a free online education platform for STEM to help parents home schooling.

Crews preparing for a shift of deliveries. Left to Right: Nathan Allen, Matt Crofts, Ben Tatem. Image: GAFIRS

FROM SAILS TO SHIELDS STEVE Moatt normally spends his working hours making sails for boats, through his company Moatt Sails, but with the business currently closed he is putting his creative skills to a different use.

Steve is now making face shields for frontline workers, which are not only helping those in this country, but also people thousands of miles away in Madagascar. With the skills and materials available to him, Steve wanted to do something to help frontline workers, but is also acutely aware of the crisis that is unfolding in Africa, and in particular for Steve, Madagascar.

Having cycled around part of the country, Steve fell in love with Madagascar, but also saw the problems it faces. He has since been raising funds, largely by biking the length of America, to help the people and environment on the island (through the charity SEED Madagascar), but as Steve explains…

“Now more than ever Madagascar, noted by the World Bank as the poorest country in the world, needs our help. On the island there are few health services, many people’s immune systems are already compromised, mortality rates are among the worst in the world and communication systems, to tell people about the virus and how to avoid it, are poor. It is predicted as much as 10 per cent of the population may die from coronavirus.”

LIFEBOAT crews from Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue Service have been working to provide a Community Response Service to people in the town in need of vital supplies.

Initially prompted by the 750,000 applicants who offered their time across the country, it was publicised that the system was struggling to process the overwhelming interest. So, GAFIRS approached Gosport Borough Council who have teamed up with Gosport Voluntary Action to provide a vital delivery service of both food and medicine supplies to the vulnerable with no support.

Jake Robinson, community director for GAFIRS, said: “I am proud to hear of the positive impact my team are having.

Normally our charity’s work focuses on protecting and educating seafarers and beach goers, however contributing to the whole community during this defining moment in our generation is inspiring.

“For some of the people we have met, we have been the first face they have seen since the lockdown began; seeing how these vulnerable people are coping has been a humbling experience.”

So far, the crews from the lifeboat station based at Stokes Bay have used the Service’s response vehicle to deliver care packages to local residents. The crews have also been performing duties for the council such as collecting bulk stores of food and additional medications from Queen Alexandra Hospital.

GAFIRS is an independent lifeboat charity and receives no funding from the RNLI. The service is run and supported by the generosity of local residents through donations, legacies and their lifeboat lotto.

GAFIRS' unpaid volunteers operate two lifeboats: one based at Stokes Bay and one from Gosport Marina. www.gafirs.org.uk

CLUB-SAIL OFFERS FREE WALK ASHORE BERTHING TO OWNERS

NEW entrant to the yacht charter market, pay-as-you-go membershiponly sailing club, Club Sail aims to offer existing yacht owners the opportunity to offset their running costs by placing their yacht into the fully managed bareboat charter programme.

Club Sail members have the chance to flat-rate charter any of its fleet from just a few hours to a week or longer on a pay-as-you go basis in return for a modest monthly membership fee.

Owners choosing to place their yacht into the programme enjoy an extensive range of inclusive financial benefits. This includes a free annual walk-ashore berth in any of the South Coast marinas between Gosport to

Steve is currently making and selling face shields to those who need them here, for £3 each, and all income generated from their sale is being donated to the Masks for Madagascar appeal, which helps provide face masks to those on the island. bit.ly/3aMLh3V

Image: Wendy Davies

the east and Falmouth to the west, comprehensive marine insurance from Towergate and 50 per cent of the revenue their vessel generates.

Pay-as-you-go sailing membership with Club Sail starts from £35 per month, with anytime membership costing £99 per month. There are no restrictions on the number of days members can book and members can choose to charter any of the boats in the fleet by paying its competitive bareboat charter rate. Members can even pay extra for one of Club Sail’s RYA Yachtmaster Instructors to be on board if they are working towards a higher RYA qualification or wish to gain additional sailing experience. club-sail.com

11

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

SUPPORT FOR SPORT

SUPER POOLE! OFF-charter superyachts with only crew on board are considered commercial vessels. Poole Harbour Commissioners are maintaining their statutory open port policy by allowing these vessels to arrive at the Port of Poole and providing them with lay-by provisions during the COVID-19 crisis. At the time of writing, Poole is hosting an 83m superyacht on Town Quay, with four more vessels due to arrive at the port.

Captain Brian Murphy, harbour master, Poole Harbour Commissioners said: “By law, the captain of a visiting ship must submit a Maritime Declaration of Health if a crew member or guest on board is showing any signs of illness. But, in these unprecedented times, like many other ports across the country during this national pandemic, we are insisting that all vessels submit an MDH for every arrival, including nil returns.

Procedures are in place to deal with all scenarios including self-isolation of crew for a minimum of 14 days.”

“We want to assure members of the public that we are adhering to strict rules and guidelines. The MDH ensures that all crew members are fit and healthy before entering the harbour. Once here they will remain on board to protect the local community as well as themselves. They should have plenty of supplies on board, if not they will be provided by their normal specialist suppliers, therefore will have no impact on the availability of goods in the local area.”

Due to the COVID-19 crisis the charter market has dried up and many vessels need somewhere safe to berth until the market returns. The vessels coming into the town have been at sea for a couple of weeks, only stopping to refuel. These factors combined with the measures put in place by Port Health and Public Health England, should reassure worried members of the public that these vessels do not impose a risk to the local community.

SPORT England has announced a £195 million package to help the community sport and physical activity sector in England cope with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

This includes a £20 million Community Emergency Fund which is open for clubs and community organisations to bid for grants between £300 and £10,000.

RYA director of sport development, Alistair Dickson, said: “The RYA is delighted to hear the news that Sport England has opened up this opportunity for clubs in England.

“The Community Emergency Fund could be especially useful for clubs and Sailability groups who have closed their doors during the coronavirus outbreak and who have

ongoing financial obligations which they are struggling to meet. Those who work with underrepresented or disadvantaged groups in their community are likely to be looked upon particularly favourably by Sport England.

“As the fund is open until 31 July 2020, our advice to clubs and other organisations is not to rush an application but to carefully consider how their application can meet the criteria. Organisations can only apply once and Sport England is predicting to receive more applications than they will be able to give funding.

Organisations are are going to have to show that they have exhausted all government funding sources before applying to this fund.

Image: Marconi Sailing Club

LYMINGTON BOAT CLUB EXPANDS LYMINGTON Boat Club, launched from Lymington Yacht Haven in early 2019 to provide access to a fleet of boats for an annual fee, is expanding its fleet to offer even more availability and choice.

Arriving this spring, a brand new Axopar 28 T-Top will join the fleet, which already includes a Merry Fisher 695, Scorpion 875 RIB, Gemini 650 RIB and an Axopar 28. Listening to members’ feedback, Lymington Yacht Haven chose the Axopar 28 T-Top to offer maximum day-boat usability and the most spacious configuration for cruising, sunbathing, watersports and socialising.

The club offers members unlimited access to all five boats; the chance to enjoy all the fun of boating without the responsibility of ownership. There is something for everyone, with friends and family, and even pets, welcomed

aboard the club boats. Members can go fishing, cruising, head somewhere for lunch or just relax on the water and drop anchor, with extra toys available to members on request including Stand Up PaddleBoards, a tender and fishing equipment.

Marina director Rupert Wagstaff said: “Our aim is to offer everything you could want for a day on the water, on a boat that is fully-serviced, immaculately maintained and fuelled up ready for members to step on board and go boating.”

For those wanting to join the Lymington Boat Club, they are offering full training on each boat as well as RYA Level 2 Powerboat training and certification, if required, as part of their annual membership.

Annual memberships cost £8,000.

LymingtonBoatClub.com / 01590 677071

Image: Wendy Davies

NEWS SNAPS LICENCES EXTENDED

The Canal & River Trust is extending all boat licences by one month due to coronavirus. The situation will then be reviewed.

So, all boat licences that are due to expire at the end of April will be extended by one month until the end of May. All other current boat licences will be similarly extended by a month from their current expiry date. With the current crisis affecting the Trust’s income, it is asking those who can to donate the extra month’s licence fee back to the Trust; using the ‘donate’ button on the charity’s website. canalrivertrust.org.uk/donate

PRINCESSS PLANS

Princess Yachts tells us it is hoping to begin a phased re-start of its yacht manufacture from 27 April. Currently the business has retained critical staff with the rest furloughed, reducing overheads by up to 80 per cent. Sites were shut from the end of March in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The boatbuilder has also revised downwards the number of boats it plans to build during 2020 stating the number will be around 200 to 230, down from an initial target of more than 260.

ALEX’S LOCKDOWN

With the world in lockdown, Alex Alley has had the chance to put together and upload the on board footage from his Solo Around the World record attempt last year.

There are many videos of life on board - from sailing across Biscay, fixing all the problems he had on board to crashing through the Southern Ocean. Alex is releasing a video each day on his YouTube site; simply search for Alex Alley and you will find him!

NO WATERSPORTS

With incidents involving people persisting with watersports during the lockdown, HM Coastguard has cautioned: “The coast is clear, but do not be tempted. Keep your beach gear at home with you to protect yourself, the emergency responders and the NHS, who would have to come to your aid if it went wrong.

Stretch your legs, not our resources.”

12

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

NEWS SNAPS HISTORY PODCAST

The Maritime History Podcast by Brandon Huebner is a chronological look at maritime history and its numerous facets. Beginning with ancient history, the podcast looks at trade, exploration, boat and ship-building, economics, as well as the relationship between the ocean and the development of society and culture throughout history. maritimehistorypodcast.com

TALL SHIPS RACES 2020 MOVED TO 2021 SAIL Training International has announced that due to the COVID-19 outbreak the Tall Ships Races 2020 has been postponed until next year – the first time this has happened since the event was first held in 1956.

The Tall Ships Race is a huge pubic celebration of youth development and international friendship. During the Cold War years, it was almost alone in bringing together large numbers of young people from both sides of the Iron Curtain – an achievement that resulted in a nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007.

In 2019, more than 4,000 young people from 59 different nations took part on 87 vessels. Nearly six million visitors went to see the ships in six different ports.

The 2020 event was scheduled to start in Lisbon on 2 July and finish in Dunkerque on 9 August, visiting Cadiz and A Coruna en route.

Jonathan Cheshire, chair of Sail Training International, the UK-based charity that

From left to right, Pogoria (Poland), Sorlandet (Norway), Artemis (Netherlands), Statsraad Lehmkuhl (Norway) taking part in the Tall Ships Races. Image: Sail Training International ValeryVasilevskiy

RNLI’S FOCUS

It was reported in The Guardian that the RNLI has stopped the recruitment and training of lifeguards and is planning to furlough a third of its staff. This would impact on the charity’s ability to patrol beaches should the lockdown be lifted by the summer.

The charity has also suspended boat building and work on lifeboat stations, although the 238 bases have continued to launch during the lockdown. The RNLI’s chief executive, Mark Dowie, said that despite the lockdown, lifeboat stations continue to be busy, helping commercial fishermen, windfarm workers and others still using the water.

VIRTUAL EXHIBITION

Steven Belasco is a marine photographer and berthing master at Portland Marina who is currently on furlough, and he has just launched his first online virtual exhibition ‘Sailing away from the Lockdown’. The show features a dozen limited edition maritime artworks of yachting scenes off the Jurassic Coast, which he has photographed and digitally painted. The images are printed on art canvas which can then be mounted in any way or framed by the purchaser. The exhibition runs until 12 June 2020 at: theexhibit.io/exhibition/sailingaway-from-the-lockdown

HOME FESTIVAL

Play at Home Fest 2020 is a new virtual festival for all the family. Over 23 - 24 May, the festival will play host to themed stages streaming a range of entertainment, competitions and activities for all the family.

Participation is free and offers a chance for families to create positive memories whilst having fun together. The festival will also be raising funds for the National Emergencies Trust Coronavirus Appeal. www.PlayAtHomeFest.com

BOAT ARSON

It was reported in the Plymouth Herald that a yacht at a Plymouth boatyard was deliberately set on fire. Firefighters, along with police and coastguard, attended the scene, where a 36ft sailing boat was severely damaged.

coordinates worldwide sail training, said: “It is a great sadness to us and this year’s host ports to have to postpone the event until next year, but we all agree that a public gathering of this size is out of the question in the midst of a pandemic. We feel for all the young people who will be disappointed by the decision, but public health and safety must take priority.

The financial impact on the charity will be serious, but survivable; before the outbreak we had just commenced a search for new sponsorship to put the event on a more secure long-term footing.

“We are determined that the postponed event next year will be as rich and rewarding an experience as usual. The interaction between young people from so many nations, on board and in port, is a powerful catalyst for cross-cultural tolerance and understanding. The experience of life at sea gives young people unparalleled opportunities to learn responsibility, self-confidence, trust and teamwork.”

ROUND IRELAND RACE POSTPONED ORGANISERS at Wicklow Sailing Club have announced their decision to postpone the start of the biennial SSE Renewables Round Ireland Race by two months due to the Covid-19 epidemic.

The new start date for the 704-mile race will be 22 August 2020, subject to government guidelines.

“Even under the most optimistic scenario, our traditional start date of midJune would not be possible,” said Kyran O’Grady, race director at Wicklow Sailing Club. “However, we believe that there is a suitable late-Summer fixtures window that can still deliver a great race. We will keep updated guidelines under constant review as we plan for the new date.”

More than 40 entries from around Ireland and further afield have already been received for the original start date.

Prior to the Covid-19 outbreak, indications meant that a record fleet of more than 60 boats was expected. Wicklow SC organisers will contact all the interested crews to assess their availability and requirements for the new date.

The first Round Ireland Race was sailed in 1980 and since then hundreds of crews have entered what is regarded as the ‘Kilimanjaro of Sailing’ as the course offers a range of obstacles and challenges. Simply finishing the race, which can take up to a week for some boats, is regarded as an achievement in itself.

Image: David Branigan/Oceansport

Image

LONELY ROCK RACE CHICHESTER MARINA THE first RWYC Lonely Rock Race will set off from the vicinity of Ryde in the Eastern Solent on 16 August.

The course will leave the Isles of Scilly to Port, round the Fastnet Rock to Port, pass the Isles of Scilly once again to Port and finish in Plymouth Sound.

Zhik and Crew Kit have developed a range of race clothing to celebrate this unique event (details and order form at www.rwyc.org/lrr). Boats will compete to win the Zhik Overall Line Honours Trophy, which includes a prize of kit worth more than £600. All boats entering will be given a branded laptop case to keep those all-important race documents or the navigator laptop safe on board.

Simon Payne, Zhik sales director, said: “Many sailors are inspired by the tradition of rounding the Fastnet Rock, and this wonderful event gives Corinthian club

sailors the opportunity to experience this epic offshore challenge.”

Jo Bowden, Crew Kit owner, said: “We relished the opportunity to create a contemporary graphic identity for the race which is bold and distinctive. We worked closely with Zhik to create a Race Collection: a premium race branded kit which can be proudly worn before, during and after the race.”

Chris Arscott, commodore of the Royal Western Yacht Club and race director of the Lonely Rock Race 2020, said: “Whilst we are fully aware of the difficult and worrying times ahead with COVID-19, we feel it is important to have something to look forward to and we continue to plan for the Lonely Rock Race for now or in the future should this be necessary.” www.rwyc.org/lrr / www.zhik.com / www.crewkit.co.uk

BOAT SHOW CANCELLED

PREMIER’S Chichester Marina has confirmed that its Chichester Marina Boat Show, which was due to return on 20 - 21 June 2020, is cancelled.

The decision to cancel the show comes as a result of the current coronavirus situation and its unpredictability going forward into June.

Paul Cook, Chichester’s marina manager, said: “The show was coming into its third year, having been incredibly popular with both customers and exhibitors over the past two years; so this was a difficult decision to make. But all being well, the team and I are looking forward to bringing it back with gusto in 2021.”

SHOWS AT A GLANCE

n Poole Harbour Boat Show: cancelled n Poole Regatta: cancelled n Round the Island Race: rescheduled to 26 September 2020 n RYA events & training: suspended until 31 May 2020 n RYA Youth National Championships: postponed (date to be announced) n Seawork: postponed n Southampton International Boat Show: no change at time of writing.

11 - 20 Sept 2020 n South Coast Boat Show: postponed to 3 - 5 July 2020 n Tall Ships Races: postponed until 2021 n Thames Traditional Boat Festival: no change at time of writing. 17 - 19 July 2020 n Thames Valley and London Boat Show: rescheduled to 26 - 28 June 2020 n TWOSTAR: rescheduled to May 2021 n Vendée Globe: no change at time of writing. 8 November 2020 n Western Boat Show: no change at time of writing. 18 – 19 July 2020 n West Country Boat Show: rescheduled to 19 - 20 June 2021

Here is your overview of affected (and some not!) shows, regattas and events. n ACWS Portsmouth: cancelled n All Wales Boat and Leisure Show: tbc 29 - 30 May 2020 n Anglo Welsh Open Days: postponed n British Classic Week: postponed (date to be announced) n British Motor Yacht Show: rescheduled to 11 - 14 June 2020 n Chichester Marina Boat Show: cancelled n Clipper Race: postponed. Next full race delayed to 2022. n Cowes SailGP: no change at time of writing. 14 – 15 August 2020 n Cowes Spring Classics: rescheduled to 4 – 6 September 2020 n Cowes Week: no change at time of writing. 8 – 15 August 2020 n Crick Boat Show: postponed n Maritime Festival, Harwich: postponed until 2021 n Mayflower Ocean Festival: postponed n METSTRADE: 17 - 19 November 2020 n Olympics: rescheduled to 23 July - 8 Aug 2021 n OSTAR: rescheduled to May 2021 Image: Wendy Davies

With the ever changing coronavirus situation please check event websites to get the latest information.

13

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

BUBBLEHEADS' CHALLENGE IN December, a crew of four men, The Bubbleheads, will board an ocean rowing boat and attempt to race – unaided - across the Atlantic Ocean, the second largest ocean in the world, for the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge.

The Bubbleheads are no strangers to challenging situations; all four men are North Sea saturation divers, a job considered by many as the world’s most dangerous. Living at depths of 100m+ for up to 28 days and on average five days away from the surface at any time (it is quicker to get back from the moon!), the life of a saturation diver requires peak physical condition and the mental strength of a warrior.

The crew will endure endless days and nights at sea as they row a punishing 3,000 miles from La Gomera, Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean to raise money for Wessex Cancer Trust in the UK and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in the United States.

Being fully self-sufficient while rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, daily

responsibilities will include desalinating water for cooking and hydration, preparing and eating military-style ration packs, catching fish for additional protein sources and remaining motivated and positive – despite what Mother Nature throws at them.

Chris Ayres, crew captain, said: “The initial idea came when three of us witnessed the arrival of the 2018 winning boat on a trip to Antigua. We all agreed it was a challenge worth doing but were naturally a little hesitant; it would once again take us away from our friends and families when we already spend so much time away for work.

The pivotal decision-making moment was when crew member James told us how he wanted to find a way to raise money for Wessex Cancer Trust. The charity has provided him and his family endless support over the last six years.”

The Bubbleheads have secured sponsorship from Helix Energy Solutions but are seeking additional corporate sponsorship. .thebubbleheads.co.uk

ROUND THE ISLAND ROWING RACE A new rowing race has been launched by the organisers of Round the Island Race, the Island Sailing Club and The Bubbleheads Rowing Team.

The competing rowing teams will set off on 24 September from the Royal Yacht Squadron start line in their ocean rowing boats, circumnavigating all 65nm around the Isle of Wight.

There will be five or more teams competing, including The Bubbleheads,

Minds Matter, Atlantic Titan, Team HPF and Emergensea Girls. The Bubbleheads will use the race as part of their training for their Atlantic crossing.

Andrew Taw, The Bubbleheads navigator, said: “The Ocean rowing teams feel privileged and honoured to be invited to one of the greatest yachting regattas in the world. We hope to share our passion for the sea with the yachtsmen and women

NOW YOU CAN #SAIL FROM HOME

Image: SailingEnergy/ WorldSailing

WHATEVER your boating passion, everyone can now #SailFromHome online with the RYA and the British Sailing Team.

Following the success of British Youth Sailing #SailFromHome YouTube webinars and tutorials for young racing sailors, #SailFromHome has now been extended so everyone can get their sailing fix while we cannot get out on the water.

Whether you are looking for fun stuff to inspire the youngsters, advice on how to keep club members engaged or ways to put your own race tactics to the test, every day is an online sailing school day.

Gareth Brookes, the RYA’s regional development officers manager, explained: “#SailFromHome is our online engagement programme for clubs, centres and participants of all ages. It continues to be an extremely unsettling and frustrating time for everybody who loves being on the water but through #SailFromHome we hope you can get the next best thing.”

To find out what’s on offer visit www. rya.org.uk/go/sailfromhome where you will find out all you need to know about the #SailFromHome project.

Image: Dymond

participating in the Round the Island Race.”

Dave Atkinson, Round the Island race director, said: “The Round the Island Race and the ISC welcome the rowers to our event this year. It has been clear to us during our conversations that they share our enthusiasm for our iconic event. It will be interesting to see how quickly they can complete the course and try to set a record for it.”

Did you know?

GJW Direct insure you based on the agreed value of your vessel, not just the market value.

Get a quote today 0151 473 8000

www.gjwdirect.com

* 0% Interest

available

*Excludes Personal Watercraft & Jet Ski GJW Direct is a trading name of Groves, John and Westrup Limited.

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, firm reference number 310496.

Image: Wendy Davies

14

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

FREE ELECTRIC MEMBERSHIP AN initiative to support boat owners in the move to electric propulsion has been launched by the Electric Boat Association.

Effective immediately, free annual EBA membership will be granted to all UK owners of new electric boats.

Joining up provides a range of benefits including: technical information; full details of the range of electric boats and equipment available worldwide; the opportunity to participate in rallies, cruises and social events; free information sheets on a wide range of technical and practical issues; electric boat insurance premiums at a lower rate compared to standard marine insurance and a further 10 per cent premium discount to EBA members as well as a friendly source of help and advice from other members.

EBA chairman Stuart James said: “We are constantly looking for ways to champion the adoption of electric power generation technologies for UK boat owners. The free membership offer is a really useful benefit for new electric boat owners

following their commitment to a more sustainable method of propulsion. During the past few years, the interest in the adoption of renewable energy and new technologies continues to grow. I am excited to support the uptake of hybrid and electric boats and encourage anyone considering the move to contact the EBA for more information.”

Proving particularly popular for inland waterway vessels but also suitable for a range of boats, electric power can provide all the power and manoeuvrability needed for cruising.

Electric propulsion systems dramatically reduce annual maintenance costs over standard petrol or diesel engines. Fuel costs plummet with the systems providing very quiet, environmentallyfriendly operation.

The EBA looks after the interests of electric boat owners, helping with issues such as waterway access, charging points, slipway facilities, reduced licence fees and the Boat Safety Scheme. www.electricboatassociation.org

Image: Dale Canfield

Image: Roger Mant

BURNHAM WEEK 2020 STILL ON BURNHAM Week Ltd, the event organisers, say plans are still in place to run Burnham Week 2020 at the end of August (29 August - 5 September).

However, the committee does stress that as a result of the ongoing national and global measures being taken to contain the COVID-19 pandemic, it will continue to monitor the situation and make a final decision on whether Burnham Week should go ahead later in the year.

Now, however, with several months before the start of the event, this could be a good time to enjoy planning a return to sailing. As well as the competitive nature of this iconic family regatta, Burnham Week also has a fun social reputation, which, hopefully this year in particular, will offer the perfect opportunity to kick start new beginnings after the hugely challenging year.

Commenting on forthcoming plans, Edwin

Buckley, PRO, said whilst he is under no illusions about the seriousness of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it might have, he is keen to keep Burnham Week 2020 plans moving forward as much as possible: “If we do find ourselves in the situation where there is a possibility of the 2020 event going ahead, we already have plans in place to make it happen.

“Burnham Week Ltd has regular virtual meetings, and all our volunteers have years of experience in the running of the event, so it is business as usual for us. Given the current situation we are opening the website for entries on 18 July, so my message to anyone looking for a late season fun time on the water with family and friends, is to keep an eye on the website. In the event of having to cancel the regatta, I can confirm all entry fees will be refunded.” www.burnhamweek.com

RYA WEBINARS THE RYA will be hosting a series of free webinars for racing sailors and aspiring race officials to introduce and explain the racing rules of sailing.

Whether you are your club’s rules expert, a squad sailor or just want to know a bit more, the six-week series will guide you through the racing rules to give you the best advantage on the race course.

The sessions will be delivered by some of the top names in the world of racing rules including British Sailing Team coach and strategist Mark Rushall, World Sailing governance and rules consultant Jon Napier and Tokyo 2020 video

Whuermeodoor yo urs... yo

umpire Chris Lindsay. The webinars, which will be screened at 8pm every Wednesday starting from 29 April, will help you understand the right of way rules, how to deal with marks, obstructions and more.

Each webinar will aim to be interactive, giving you the opportunity to get your questions answered, and will also be recorded for those who cannot make the initial screening.

If you tune in live there will be the opportunity to ask the presenter your questions.

To sign up to attend the webinars register at bit.ly/2Y0R96Q.

Moisturising Hand Sanitiser ALCOHOL FREE Bactericidal/Virucidal/Fungicidal.

Conforms to European Efficacy Standard EN1500.

Matches the performance of an alcohol gel but it will NOT dry or irritate the skin. Proven at the Hospital Infection Research Laboratory, Birmingham to be equally as effective as an alcohol based product.

Large size – 250ml use straight from jar or ideal to refill your small bottles as it is a pourable gel.

Kills viruses, bacteria, and fungi.

Hospital Grade – Meets the standard EN1500 suitable where disinfection is medically required.

Alcohol-Free, it will not dry or irritate your hands.

Moisturises and protects.

Safe to use around children and animals.

WHY CHOOSE AN ALCOHOL-FREE HAND SANITISER/GEL? Alcohol-based hand sanitisers are highly flammable and storage and use of these in commercial facilities needs to be included in fire risk-assessments.

Alcohol-based hand sanitisers cause dryness of skin and irritation.

THE DERMA HAIR AND BODY SHOP LTD Do you know where this is? Turn to page 16 to see if you got it right!

T: +44 (0) 20 34756754 W: salicin.co.uk - BUY ON LINE PRICE INCLUDES VAT AND DELIVERY Image: Wendy Davies

ONLY

95 .

2 1 £ d

an VAT inc. elivery d

15

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

NO CHANGE FOR OLYMPIC LINE-UP THE 15 sailors already named to represent Team GB at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games will remain the same for the rescheduled Games in 2021, the British Olympic Association and the Royal Yachting Association has confirmed.

The announcement follows the decision by the International Olympic Committee to postpone the Olympic Games by 12 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A meeting held by the RYA Olympic Selection Committee unanimously agreed that the selections previously agreed should stand for the rearranged Tokyo Olympic Games, which will take place from 23 July – 8 August next year.

It was the OSC’s view that the sailors

selected in all 10 Olympic classes remain the best choices to maximise Team GB’s medal-winning potential in Enoshima, the sailing competition venue.

Team GB’s sailors were the first to be announced back in October 2019, with an initial 12 sailors selected including Olympic champions Hannah Mills (470 Women) and Giles Scott (Finn).

Partnering Hannah Mills will be her world championship-winning crew Eilidh McIntyre, while in the men’s 470 Luke Patience and Chris Grube were selected. In the men’s 49er class Stuart Bithell teams up with Dylan Fletcher, while Charlotte Dobson returns in the 49erFX alongside Saskia Tidey. Alison Young will make her third Olympic appearance in the Laser

Radial discipline. Both representatives in the RS:X windsurfer class are newcomers to the Olympic Games: Tom Squires and Emma Wilson.

The 12 selections were followed by a further three in February. John Gimson and Anna Burnet were selected for the Nacra 17 class, while Elliot Hanson (Laser) completed the 15-strong line-up in the Laser. All three will be making their Olympic debuts at the re-arranged Games.

Mark Robinson, RYA Olympic performance manager and Team GB Sailing team leader, said: “I am delighted to re-confirm the 15 athletes already selected for Team GB will stay the same for the rescheduled Games.

“Over the past eight months

we have nominated an incredibly talented group of sailors to the British Olympic Association and we strongly believe they remain the right athletes to represent the nation in 2021.

“The global pandemic has caused much uncertainty but, combined with release of the new dates for the Olympic Games, this decision will give our sailors the confidence, clarity and motivation to charge towards Tokyo 2020 and the goal of bringing home medals for Team GB.”

Team GB’s Tokyo 2020 sailors: n Giles Scott: Finn (Men’s One Person Dinghy Heavy) n Hannah Mills and Eilidh McIntyre: 470 Women (Women’s Two Person Dinghy)

n Luke Patience and Chris Grube: 470 Men (Men’s Two Person Dinghy) n Charlotte Dobson and Saskia Tidey: 49erFX (Women’s Skiff) n Dylan Fletcher and Stuart Bithell: 49er (Men’s Skiff) n Alison Young: Laser Radial (Women’s One Person Dinghy) n Emma Wilson: RS:X Women (Women’s Windsurfer) n Tom Squires: RS:X Men (Men’s Windsurfer) n John Gimson and Anna Burnet: Nacra 17 (Mixed Multihull) n Elliot Hanson: Laser (Men’s One Person Dinghy)

LEARNING AT HOME

KEEP your sailing dream alive with online theory courses such as those with Sail Boat Project. Although they have suspended their on-the-water activities in the short term, they continue to operate three RYA online navigational theory courses at reduced prices. Then, when you are able to return to the water, you will be ready to put your learning into practice.

RYA Essential Navigation & Seamanship: was £110, now £90 (16 hours of study) RYA Day Skipper Theory: was £300, now £250 (40 hours of study) plus two assessment papers RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Theory: was £300, now £250 (40 hours of study plus three assessment papers) sailboatproject.org

For everyone at home waiting for the tide to turn...

Time to do all those jobs put off for a rainy day Discover the full Barton Range with advice, videos and useful tips at Bartonmarine.com Image: Wendy Davies

16

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

#THANKSHEALTHHEROES GET YOUR WETSUIT OUT Professional championship winning surfer Alan Stokes provides top tips for wetsuit maintenance.

Now is the time to dig out that damp suit and get it smelling great and feeling super soft again.

LONDON creative agency Perq Studio and A.M. Custom Clothing have a joint initiative to raise funds for the NHS Charities COVID-19 Urgent Appeal. Together, they are encouraging the British public to ‘wear and share’ the designer t-shirts and tote now available to purchase at www.perqmeup.com, with 100 per cent of proceeds going to charity.

The royal blue tees - available in men’s, ladies’ and unisex kids’ sizes – are emblazoned with a heart on the front and a dual message of #ThanksHealthHeroes and ‘Stay Home’ on the back. For those socially distanced trips to the shops, a canvas tote expresses ‘Thanks Health Heroes’ on one side, and a heart on the other.

Founder of Perq Studio Laura Giffard said: “Just as #clapforourcarers raised spirits, and positive media outreach smashed the NHS Volunteer numbers, we are hopeful that our ‘Wear and Share’ initiative will earn valuable funds for the NHS Charities COVID-19 Urgent Appeal. Plus, by sharing images and videos of ourselves wearing the items on social media, we can all contribute to a sense of community in what can feel like a very disconnected world at the moment.”

Find more cool gear to wear on page 25.

Step 1 - Pick your suit up off the garage floor.

Step 2 - Fill a large bucket with warm water and add a small amount of soap and disinfectant, swish around and leave to soak.

Step 3 - Hang your suit to dry, out of direct sunlight. If you are using a hanger see how Alan hangs his suit. This stops the shoulders wearing out and the neck of the suit from stretching.

Step 4 - Once the suit is dry leave it on the hanger and store in a dry ventilated space.

Step 5 - You have had a busy day, grab yourself a beer and kick back, you earned it!

Turn to page 35 for drysuit maintenance tips.

VIRTUAL REGATTA LAUNCHED

REGATTAS around the globe have been cancelled or postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, but eSailors can compete at some of the world’s bestknown sailing events online.

World Sailing and Virtual Regatta have launched several iconic Olympic class regattas in the eSailing world including Kiel Week, which takes place from 20 – 28 June. More are expected to be announced too. At each regatta, the 49er and the Nacra 17 will be available for players to race at virtual replications of these real-life sailing venues.

The first few days of each event launch will consist of challenges. Ranked Medal Races will take place over the final two days, open to all players – no qualification for these races is necessary, but results will count towards World and National rankings for eSailors.

Making these world-famous Olympic class events accessible to everyone online allows sailors of all ages and backgrounds to continue to share their passion for the sport. www.virtualregatta.com

HYTHE MARINA VILLAGE

Family celebrations at UKSA

RECORD NUMBER OF CADETS GRADUATE IT has been double celebrations at UKSA, the nonprofit maritime training charity, as the largest ever number of cadets have graduated from their flagship course - the Superyacht Cadetship.

A total of 34 graduates, aged 18 - 25, have completed the first phase of the five-phase programme. A third have already secured roles, with the other graduates seeking employment in the superyacht industry. The number of cadets graduating is the highest in UKSA’s history and meant two graduation ceremonies were held (before lockdown).

UKSA’s CEO Ben Willows said: “Once again we are celebrating the achievements of our Cadetship students as they go on to forge exciting and rewarding careers in the superyacht industry. The

Cadetship continues to attract growing numbers of young people year-on-year and I am delighted with the achievements of our graduates.”

The course is a credible alternative to university and for many, the opportunity to earn while they learn is an appealing choice. Cadet Harry Stubbs shares his experience: “I did not feel as though university was for me. Due to my background in sailing and love of the outdoors, I wanted to do something in that field of work. I knew instantly that the Cadetship was for me: the career prospects, the qualifications and the opportunity to work whilst travelling. I am extremely grateful to everyone at UKSA and to Trinity House for kindly giving me a bursary; providing me with this amazing opportunity.”

STAYING CONNECTED IN THIS PICTURE POSTCARD LITTLE SPOT OF OURS WE OFFER YOU THE VERY BEST OF: 

ACCOMMODATION



RESTAURANT MEALS



CAFÉ STYLE DAY MEALS



FULL BAR FACILITIES



SPECIAL EVENTS (watch for our in house boards and facebook) Just phone us for booking any of the above or if you require a copy of our menu. We can email this or you can view it on our web site and also on our facebook page. COME ALONG AND JOIN US.

CASUAL DINING AND A NICE PLACE TO BE BOAT ON IN AND ENJOY THE DAY BREAKFAST UNTIL 11.00AM, LUNCH UNTIL 3.00PM THEN THE FAMOUS RESTAURANT FROM 6.30PM info@boathousehythe.co.uk

BOAT builders are coming up with inventive ways to keep their businesses afloat during the coronavirus pandemic. Dufour Yachts has designed a virtual marina allowing customers to visit its yachts from their own homes.

“In this springtime period when everyone should be able to sail and go to boat shows, the priority today is to stay at home,” said the company. “We have designed this virtual marina to visit all the Dufour yachts while staying at home. It is the best way for us to continue to

Whuermeodoor yo urs... yo ...answer

inspire you, to make you dream and to share our common passion.”

X-Yachts has developed an online webconfigurator for its Pure X models enabling customers to design their own bespoke version, while Pearl Yachts has a virtual boat show with online tours of its Pearl 62, 80 and 95 models.

Hardy Marine is even encouraging budding boat builders of the future by making line drawings of its most popular designs available on its Twitter page for colouring in.

Did you get it right – it is Gillingham Marina in Kent.

Image: Wendy Davies

17

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

STORY OF GRP SOLENT SUNBEAMS ROGER Wickens, owner of Solent Sunbeam V26 Danny, who is a keen enthusiast of this historic yacht as well a highly successful helm, has published an illustrated account of the story behind the GRP Solent Sunbeams.

The book details the origins, 10 years ago, of the GRP addition to this nearly 100-yearold classic fleet, when some of the class members realised that the fleet number at Itchenor was in danger of declining below the critical mass needed to run a successful class.

Local Sunbeam owners Alan Stannah and Roger Wickens wondered if a GRP version of the boat would attract new entrants to the fleet with the lower build and maintenance costs.

The story of how Alan and Roger went about producing the first GRP Sunbeam, with the assistance of the late acclaimed Naval Architect Theo Rye and boatbuilder Mark Downer, makes interesting reading.

There were many obstacles to overcome, including Class Association rules, design analysis and approval, EU Recreational Craft Directive concerns, build and fit-out and

WITH the centenary of the Sunbeam coming up in 2023, the association of this Itchenor based fleet is keen to update the history and ownership of each of these classic boats with a view to some form of publication for the 100th celebrations.

Back in 2005, Sunbeam owner of V1, Dainty, Peter Nicholson published the book, The Brilliance of Sunbeams, with a comprehensive boat index as an

appendix. This gave a potted history of this handsome, historic fleet.

In advance of the Sunbeam’s centenary, the class association is asking anyone who has owned a Sunbeam, past and present, to update their history in order to update the story of this popular and enduring keel-boat.

The class association is looking for images (past and present), anecdotes,

rigging alterations. In order to preserve the integrity of the fleet’s racing, much time and effort was spent to ensure that the GRP Sunbeams would sail exactly the same as the original wooden boats. This was an essential criterion; if the new GRP boats sailed faster it would be unfair and if they sailed slower no one would buy one.

The philosophy behind the introduction of GRP construction to the fleet was to reduce necessary annual maintenance, lower the build cost of new boats and to include watertight bulkheads in order to make the yacht unsinkable.

To date 11 new GRP Sunbeams have been built, including two which will be launched in 2020. The introduction of the GRP boats to the historic Solent Sunbeam fleet has encouraged the owners of the existing wooden boats to bring them up to tip top racing condition, and the fleet has grown to more than 30 boats in commission and racing regularly.

For information on how to obtain a copy of The Story of the GRP Solent Sunbeams email info@solentsunbeam.co.uk. www.solentsunbeam.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

It is bad luck to change the name of your boat.

Some people believed that boats develop a life and mind of their own once named and christened. If you do feel the need to rename your boat, a de-naming ceremony is common practice. Start by writing the name of the boat on a piece of paper, folding it up and placing it in a wooden box. Then burn the box, scoop up the ashes and scatter them into the sea.

stories, restorations, regatta wins as well as details of the current owners.

Contact Simon O’Hea at info@ solentsunbeam.co.uk.

If you are interested in owning a piece of yachting heritage that also has a very active racing fleet, then the class has a number of boats available for sale or part ownership, with more details available on the Solent Sunbeam website. www.solentsunbeam.co.uk

MARINE BREAKDOWN SERVICE

JOIN TODAY: 0800 885500 membership@seastart.co.uk . www.seastart.co.uk Image: Wendy Davies

18

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

P IVE w s A TAT o n EN le il 0% RES Ce aB eta EP n R a il D n va r Fi a Fo k

as

R

SALES & SERVICE CENTRE

endeavour Quay, gosport tel. +44 (0)2392 808717

SAILMAkINg CENTRE

wareham, Dorset tel. +44 (0)1929 554308

Quality Cruising & raCing sails spinnakers & Cruising Chutes sail Covers | Mainsail ‘paCkaways’ DoDgers & sprayhooDs | sail serviCing & valeting

ALL AT THE MOST COMPETITIVE PRICES! Local sail collections & returns are available by arrangement – contact us for details

Email: info@kempsails.com

www.kempsails.com

19

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

CALENDAR WINNERS Image: Dorothy Wilson

Image: Jonathan Howe

NEWS SNAPS COASTAL SCOTLAND

Published last month, Coastal Scotland celebrates the history, heritage and wildlife of Scottish Shores. With detailed maps and evocative photography, as well as vignettes of book covers, stamps and local artefacts that help convey the character of each area, Coastal Scotland presents the array of facets that make each stretch of the coastline so special for boat lovers. Author: Stuart Fisher

VOLUNTEER CALL

MOORING LINES GONE

EVERY day more than 16 million plastic bottles end up in landfill in the UK alone.

Reusing, repurposing and recycling are all key areas of Marlow’s environmental policy and aim to highlight the importance of these actions to help reduce marine plastic pollution.

As a manufacturing company within the marine industry, Marlow knows only too well about the impact that plastic materials can have on the environment and ensures that their impact is kept to a minimum.

In their continued efforts to maintain this achievement, Marlow has removed a selection of mooring lines from their range as of January 2020. This development comes from the release of the industry’s first rPET product, Blue Ocean Dockline in 2018.

The 100 per cent recycled plastic bottle rope was intended to focus the industry

on plastic use and to allow a sustainable choice to the public. It has since won global recognition for the product’s sustainable attributes.

Paul Honess, Marlow’s leisure marine director, commented on the change: “We have removed several of our mooring ropes from our range as we want to encourage people to make a conscious decision when it comes to purchasing their ropes. As a world-leading brand, we feel it is important to raise awareness of plastic pollution and the effects it has on our planet.

"With the positive response from the industry after releasing our Blue Ocean Dockline, this was an obvious choice for us to make. We have plans to extend our Blue Ocean (rPET) product range further in 2020 so watch this space.” www.marlowropes.com

THE first two winners in the 2020 ilovesailing calendar competition have been revealed as Dorothy Wilson from Linlithgow, West Lothian and Jonathan Howe from Farnham, Surrey.

Picked from a selection of photos covering all aspects of sailing submitted throughout March, Dorothy and Jonathan’s images really caught the judge’s eyes, clinching them the first two spots on the 2021 calendar.

Commenting on her win, Dorothy, whose winning shot is entitled ‘Early morning Tobermory Bay’ said: “I am so surprised! I have no photographic training. I just point and press when I see something I like, then chop to suit.

“This particular photo was taken on our holiday last year, cruising in company with our friends on Gecko. We, on ‘Jack of Hearts’, headed off from our home at Largs Yacht Haven, through the Kyles, and Crinan canal, pushing north to Kerrera and Tobermory before sailing on reaching our destination at Skye.

RATS AND RED DIESEL Image: Shutterstock.com

THE Cruising Association’s Regulations and Technical Services group (RATS) has been in communication with HMRC and confirmed, as a result of the March Budget, that it is their intention to legislate that red diesel in the UK can only be used in agricultural equipment, on the railways and for noncommercial heating from 1 April 2022.

Since the propulsion of waterborne craft does not fit into these categories, it is HMRC’s intention that they will have to use white diesel for this purpose. The duty on white diesel for boats will be the same as the full rate paid on white road diesel in the UK.

This means that the present so called ‘60/40’ fuel duty split will disappear but commercial vessels, such as fishing boats, will still be able to claim a rebate on the full rate through their ‘Marine Voyages Relief’ scheme.

HMRC are exploring the issues involved in introducing a scheme that allows private pleasure craft to pay only the current lower rate for red diesel non-propulsion uses.

RATS welcomes the clarification on the use of white diesel which should make it more conveniently available throughout the UK from marinas and ports as they will have to supply all marine vessels with one colour of diesel. The bonus will be that sailors can

continue to fulfil the SOLAS V regulations for sea voyages and no longer have the concern of the presence of red diesel in their tanks when visiting EU Maritime States.

HMRC continue to say there will be a forthcoming consultation from them which will deal with the full range of issues involved. Unfortunately, there is no indication as to when this will be published due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A spokesperson for RATS points out that private pleasure craft should continue to legally use red diesel as they currently do, since it is still the only easily available diesel fuel throughout the UK. At the moment, it is far from clear if boat owners will be able to sail to EU State waters in the remainder of the 2020 season, but if they can do so, they might wish to continue to follow the CA’s advice on using red diesel when visiting the EU which can be found on their publicly accessible page here: www.theca.org.uk/rats/red_diesel_use_ in_EU www.theca.org.uk

NEW APPRENTICESHIPS THE Marine Society is to join the government’s register of apprenticeship training providers.

The successful application to the Department for Education means that the Marine Society will become more accessible to younger audiences such as Sea Cadets under the age of 18. This broadens the wide

range of programmes offered to seafarers through the charity, and takes it one step closer towards its own ‘life-long learning delivery’. In addition, plans to develop career pathways and promotion with Sea Cadets and young people in general will be more closely aligned.

Planning and development is now

underway to assess which apprenticeships can be most effectively delivered, to fit with both the Marine Society’s expertise and the needs of employers in the marine and outdoor markets.

The Marine Society also has a new course teaching budding seafarers about the buoyancy and stability of vessels at sea. It

"Everything was so still and peaceful with amazing reflections. Just had to capture that moment!”

Jonathan, whose photo is entitled ‘Sky High’, said: “It was one of the first times I took my drone out on the powerboat so it was quite a new experience chasing the yachts whilst in the powerboat keeping the drone speeding along in frame.

“The University of Portsmouth were training for the University Yacht Nationals. They sailed out of Port Solent and headed towards Hayling Island. The photo was taken when passing Ryde on the Isle of Wight.”

To enter the competition post your favourite sailing photo(s) on to the ilovesailing Facebook page www. facebook.com/ryailovesailing or email your entry to emma.slater@rya.org.uk.

The 2021 calendars will go on sale at the 2020 Southampton International Boat Show, where the first 50 people to purchase a copy will also receive a FREE 2020 gold ilovesailing rubber duck.

Your thoughts answered…

Last month we asked: “In the Spring Budget, Chancellor Rishi Sunak shared plans to review the current use of red diesel. The government is set to consult with red diesel users to determine whether continued access to the fuel is justifiable. The consultation will be conducted with a view to remove the entitlement to red diesel use, except for agricultural, rail and non-commercial heating purposes, by April 2022.”

Here is a comment from All at Sea’s Facebook page.

Gary Ledger: “Apart from the costs to marinas and fuel outlets and the considerable expense to have extra fuel tanks installed (some may not have the capacity for this and may not sell white diesel). Also, it may well damage the marine industry, boat sales, livelihoods of small charter businesses.

Regarding boaters though, it may restrict longer trips if the fuel is not available. Failing that we will have to take the hit. Boat on friends.”

The National Archives is seeking volunteers to help transcribe First World War Royal Navy service records for a free online database, Royal Navy: First World War - Lives at Sea. Service records for the First World War can provide information about individuals and their lives.

However, as crew lists for ships and submarines during this period rarely survive, it is difficult for researchers to determine who was on a ship or in a certain battle together. Volunteers on the project are tasked with inputting information from service records into a database. All you need to is a computer, internet connection and a willingness to learn. Contact: crewlists@ nationalarchives.gov.uk

VIDEOS FOR YOU

MarineMax has compiled all the Raymarine Edition videos into one convenient place for you. If you are new to the world of boating and want a crash course in life on the water, or an experienced boater looking to learn something new, this Boating Tips video series will help you learn the ins and outs of Raymarine electronics over the coming weeks. www.marinemax.com/connect/ lifestyles/boating-tips

DAVID’S JOURNEY

While in lockdown, why not take an interactive journey with David Attenborough’s Great Barrier Reef! attenboroughsreef.com

WINDBOATS MARINE In part due to the impact of Brexit and ultimately the Covid-19 pandemic, Norfolk's Windboats Marine Limited has entered administration.

Now administrators Mark Upton and David Scrivener of Ensors Chartered Accountants are searching for a buyer for the business. Most of the staff are currently furloughed under the government's job retention scheme.

CLOSED FOR NOW is bringing its new Stability@Sea course to its award-winning distance Learn@ Sea platform, aimed at students who are new to the maritime sector and are keen to pursue qualifications while offshore.

Stability@Sea is designed to cover all aspects of the buoyancy and stability of vessels and its content is presented in bitesize topics to provide a necessary building block towards more advanced maritime qualifications. info@ms-sc.org Image: Wendy Davies

Shakespeare® Marine has announced the temporary closure of its UK manufacturing facility, due to Covid-19. The staff will take furlough leave for three weeks.

The decision has been made after monitoring the advice of the World Health Organisation, Public Health England and the UK government. The company will top up the government’s 80 per cent contribution with the outstanding 20 per cent of their salary.

20

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

WHAT IS A CHART?

In this extract from Understanding A Nautical Chart, Paul Boissier explains the importance of charts. becomes dangerously rocky? Or that, if you threaded your way through the rocks and beacons just off to the right, you could work your way into an inlet behind the headland? Or, indeed, that just one mile to the south there is an explosives dumping ground where you would be ill-advised to anchor?

That is what a chart does for you. It gives you a clear visual representation of your surroundings; it tells you how to get from A to B and, properly used and understood, it helps you to keep out of trouble.

STAYING UP-TO-DATE A chart is a very different beast from a land map. A huge amount of effort goes into the recovery of hydrographic information, but the sea is nothing like as well surveyed as the land. And sometimes data is deliberately left out.

So you do not have precise little contour

ONE bit of the sea is just like another: whichever way you look, it is flat and wet, leading to an inaccessible horizon, with no clear indication of depth and, without a compass or the sun, no sense of direction.

You can only admire the early explorers, for whom seafaring was a constant battle against the elements, the

unknown world and, for all they knew, sirens, sea monsters and mermaids.

But the courage and determination of these early mariners and their work, coupled with advancing technology and developments in the science of hydrography, has made it much easier for the mariner of today. We really should no longer worry about getting lost. But even

if you know where you are, your safety still relies heavily on your ability to read a chart and to interpret the data which the chart and its associated publications give you.

Without a high-quality chart, how else would you know that just two miles to the south-south-east of your position the depth reduces rapidly and

lines around every last feature on the seabed. And, of course, on most charts the scale changes from the top of the chart to the bottom – so even reading linear distance needs a little bit of thought.

There are many people who use the seas responsibly – but a fair number, too, who do not. Our knowledge of the seabed is at best incomplete, and in any case the bottom topography is changing the whole time, through seismic activity, the movement of sediment, human activity and erosion. The least you and I can do is keep up-to-date with the bits that the hydrographer does know about.

You quite simply cannot stay safe, and look after the safety of people who come to sea with you, unless you have (and are using) a good, accurate and up-to-date chart. And even then there are risks.

Good charts may be expensive but they are a lot cheaper than the vessel that you are going to sea in and the expense is far less important than the safety of your crew. So charts really are not optional.

Digital or paper charts, preferably both. n Next month: A chart is never 100 per cent accurate.

About The Author: Paul Boissier was formerly a senior Admiral in the Royal Navy, and has spent much of his career at sea in a wide variety of vessels, commanding two submarines and a warship. He is also a very experienced yachtsman and has cruised extensively. In 2019, he retired after 10 years as chief executive of the RNLI, the charity that saves lives at sea, and operates over 340 lifeboats around the UK and the Republic of Ireland. www.fernhurstbooks.com

STOP THE SPREAD To help stop the spread of invasive life, follow three simple actions.

N

on-native invasive plants and animals are beginning to have a visible impact on our waterways. Not only are the new species affecting the habitats of the local marine life, but also boaters’ ability to access and enjoy these areas.

Non-native species are defined as wild species that have become established outside of their normal

THE Masterclass

Image: Paul Wyeth

habitat. Some non-native species are completely harmless but others, known as invasive or alien species, have the ability to cause damage to the environment, the economy, our health and the way we live.

Biosecurity is essential to minimise risks associated with invasive species in order to protect our waters and native wildlife.

THREE ACTIONS

There are three simple actions which you should take when boating to counteract the spread of invasive life – ‘Check, Clean, Dry’. Although these steps are basic in principle, how many of us can claim to actually action them regularly? If we are to mitigate the spread of invasive species then it is essential practice that we all pay closer

Floating Pennywort can affect native species and clog waterways. Image: GB Non-native species secretariat

attention to the maintenance and cleaning of our boats and equipment.

Firstly, ‘Check’ your boat, equipment and clothing for debris, plants or any small creatures which may have accidently become attached or entangled – remember, even mud on your boots can contain tiny species.

Ensure that when checking your boat you move objects around and look in the hard to reach places, such as under the propeller and trailer tyres. Remove all visible plant and animal material and put it in a bin.

After identifying all possible hiding places, the second step is to ‘Clean’.

Thoroughly clean all areas, where possible with hot water, including boat trailers, ropes and bilges. Often places that may seem difficult for you to access is where small plants can become embedded and where marine life may try to burrow.

The last action is ensuring that your equipment and boat is ‘Dry’. Drain all the water from every part of your boat, trailer and dinghy, personal watercraft or RIB for as long as possible. Many invasive species enjoy cool, damp places

and can easily live there undisturbed for up to two weeks.

REDUCE THE THREAT

If left unchallenged invasive species such as the Floating Pennywort can cause severe negative impacts by outcompeting native species and clogging waterways. Another example of a problematic invasive species is the fast growing Quagga Mussel.

Invasions of the freshwater molluscs have been recorded as altering whole ecosystems and causing economic problems when thick encrustations grow on boats, water treatment plants and electric power stations.

It is vital that to minimise the threat of invasive species to our waterways that all water users follow good practice, especially when returning from abroad. ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ is the best and easiest way to protect your local waterway.

For more information on ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ and to learn further ways of how to lower the risk posed by invasive species, visit The Green Blue website: www.thegreenblue.org.uk.

21

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

YOUR ONE STOP SHOP FOR MANAGING YOUR BOATS IS HERE! We take a look at the free digital boat organiser from MyBoat CREATING AN ACCOUNT IS A STRAIGHTFORWARD THREE-STEP PROCESS:

STEP 1 Image: Paul Wyeth

Create your free account Just enter your email address and create a password and you’re good to go!

To create your FREE account CLICK HERE

M

yBoat, powered by GJW Direct is the powerful, easy-to-use digital organiser for your vessels. It’s a place to store all your boat’s documentation together electronically - no searching through endless paper files or wasting valuable hours that could be used out on the water!

You can add equipment and set alerts to remind you when equipment, such as lifejackets, require servicing, check the weather or read helpful blogs in the news

area. These are some of the things you can do in your FREE MyBoat account.

MyBoat is the trusted, free-to-use, platform for almost 10,000 boaters across the UK to manage their boats, keep up to date with their equipment’s servicing requirements and calculate the running costs of their vessels.

With their MyBoat account, members can also benefit from keeping up to date with the latest news, views & more - all tailored to them; use our national 5 day weather & tide forecast to help plan their trips.

MyBoat members who are also GJW Direct customers have access to a wide range of exclusive discounts with partners such as The Rope People, Gul Apparel, the Sailing Chandlery and many more!

MyBoat is the only one stop shop for managing your boats - it saves you from the hassle of organising your equipment, documents & vessels across multiple systems. MyBoat’s intuitive and easy to use website allows you to simply manage your vessels, renew your policies & arrange services all in one place.

STEP 2

Set up your boat profiles Quickly & easily add important documentation, customise your servicing & policy reminders, and check out the latest boating news.

BECOME A FREE MYBOAT MEMBER 1 1. Sign up to MyBoat today Start utilising all the benefits MyBoat has to offer. It’s quick, easy & free to do!

Create your FREE account

2 2. Join the GJW Direct community To access all the exclusive MyBoat discounts you need to insure your vessel with us - it only takes a few minutes to get a quote and you can do it all through our easy to use website. We have competitive prices & comprehensive cover to match!

3 3. Enjoy the discounts!

Once you’re a GJW Direct customer, you can start enjoying all of the exclusive benefits that come from a MyBoat account. The website will automatically show you the offers & discounts you’re entitled to. All that’s left for you to do is decide which discounts you want!

STEP 3

When they’re due, MyBoat will send you email reminders, in plenty of time, to renew your policies and arrange services.

22

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

Only LeeSan truly specialise in toilets Toilets, Tanks, Hoses, Clips, Gauges, Deck Fittings, Vent Filters and everything you need plus Advice & Guidance The most dependable heads on the water.

Supported by our Worldwide Spares Delivery Service

sales@leesan.com T: 01295 770000

23

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

VAT DO YOU MEAN? The Cruising Association summarises VAT and Visa implications as a result of Brexit.

HMRC guidance. This requires that “the person responsible has evidence that the VAT was paid on the purchase of the boat in either the UK or the EU”.

There does not appear to be any time limit on the availability of this relief as long as the yacht is used for private purposes.

For yachts that are purchased post-Brexit “VAT accounted for in the UK would need to be shown in respect of vessels purchased after the date of the EU exit”.

Extended visits to the Schengen area

by Individuals - Visa implications

F

ollowing Brexit, yacht cruisers in Europe will need to be much more aware of the VAT implications of their cruising activities.

Once Brexit occurs – either on a ‘no-deal’ Brexit or at the end of a transition period - there will be separation of the UK and EU VAT regimes. Yacht cruisers sailing between the UK and the EU will then need to be aware of and take account of these new VAT issues.

In addition, cruising sailors will need to be aware that Visa-free stays in the Schengen Area will be limited to 90 days in ANY 180 day period and that if either a single trip or a combination of trips will be more than 90 days, then an extended visa may be required BEFORE leaving home.

third-country boat when arriving in the territorial waters of the Union, i.e. it will be treated as nonUnion goods. Following Brexit, Customs controls for such UK boats will be the same as for boats coming from any other non-EU country.

Following Brexit, yachts without EU VATpaid status will be able to visit the EU under a ‘Temporary Importation’ scheme without paying VAT. In general, this allows non-EU yachts to sail in EU waters for up to 18 months (extendable up to 24 months if the yacht is laid up and not used), for private purposes, as long as the yacht is owned by a non-EU resident. The Temporary Importation scheme can be re-started by leaving EU waters (even for a few days).

VAT ON VESSELS

The UK Approach

The EU Approach

The EU Commission has stated that customs status of a UK boat will depend on its location on the Brexit day. If on the Brexit day a boat is located in an EU port or sails in EU territorial waters, it will keep its Union status and continue to be regarded as having VAT-paid status. If the boat is located in the UK on the Brexit day, its status will be that of a

HMRC has stated that “UK owned boats will retain their UK VAT paid status whatever their location on the day the UK exits the EU”.

HMRC has also said Returned Goods Relief (RGR) will be available to allow those resident in the UK to return with their belongings (including pleasure boats) to the UK without paying customs duty or VAT as long as the items have not been changed since their departure and the importer follows

As has been widely publicised, the EU has agreed in principle to grant UK citizens Visa free travel to the EU Schengen zone for trips which total no more than 90 days in any rolling 180 day period.

Those cruising in yachts need to look at their plans very carefully and recognise that trips for winter maintenance or skiing etc… may well have an impact on the time they can spend on their boats in the summer.

There are various online Schengen calculators available but the simplest approach is to consider the last day of any proposed trip, look back 180 days and check the number of days spent in the Schengen Zone. This must not exceed 90 days in total.

For cruisers wishing to stay more than 90 days in any 180 days who do not have either an EU passport or residency rights in an EU country, then an Extended visa must be applied for well before leaving the UK / entering the Schengen Zone. Two months is suggested.

Extended visas are only valid for a single country and hence multiple visas might be needed.

However, time spent in a country covered by an Extended visa does not count as part of the 90-day Schengen allowance.

Applications for Extended visas must be made directly to the UK Embassy of the country(ies) to be visited and the application process may differ from country to country; however, in most cases the application requires a declaration and possibly proof of an accommodation address.

Marinas and harbour masters appear to be willing to support yacht cruisers by confirming that a yacht moored in their facility is a valid accommodation address for the purposes of visa applications.

Practicalities

Yacht owners who cruise in the EU need to think carefully about the location of their yachts on Brexit day. If retaining EU VAT-paid status is important then they should consider locating their yacht in the EU on Brexit day. If they do this, it will be important to obtain evidence that the yacht is in the EU at that time. There are no official requirements for this. A variety of items of evidence have been discussed, such as mooring invoices and receipts, confirmatory letters from marinas and time stamped photos and AIS track records.

“Following Brexit, yachts without EU VATpaid status will be able to visit the EU under a ‘Temporary Importation’ scheme without paying VAT.” In addition, they need to carefully consider the time they are going to spend in the Schengen zone after Brexit day and, if necessary, make applications for an extended visa in good time.

Having confirmation of an accommodation address may well help this process go smoothly.

To tap into the full array of specialist and expert knowledge available through the Cruising Association and RATS (Regulations and Technical Services), you need to join and reap the full benefits of CA membership. www.theca.org.uk Disclaimer - These articles are published by the Cruising Association for the benefit of its members. They have been prepared voluntarily by members and others and they and it have tried to ensure that the contents are accurate. However, the Cruising Association, its employees, contributors and relevant members shall not be liable for any loss, damage or inconvenience of any kind howsoever arising in connection with the use of, or the inability to use, these articles, save to the extent required by applicable law.

Image: Luis Costinhaa / Shutterstock.com

24

NEW KIT

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

Lots more kit tried and tested on our website: www.allatsea.co.uk

Got something you want us to check out? editor@allatsea.co.uk

SIMRAD’S OFFER

PERSPECTIVE MODE

BUOYANCY VEST

Practical for dinghies, sports boats and watersports Zhik’s P3 PFD is a versatile addition to your kit bag.

This light, ‘race-cut’ buoyancy vest is designed with smooth lines and cut-away neck and shoulders to allow maximum freedom of movement. Comfortable neoprene shoulder straps allow for stretch as you move and provide cushioning when worn under trapeze harness straps. Inside the vest non-slip grips prevent it riding up in action, especially if you have taken a swim. Plus, a generous front pocket allows you to stow those essential accessories.

Unisex sizes XS – XL Black, Red, Blue and Grey £85 www.zhik.com

Garmin has added a Perspective Mode feature and transducer positioning accessory for its award-winning Panoptix LiveScope™ sonar. As the first real-time scanning sonar for recreational fishing, LiveScope gives live images of structure, bait and fish swimming around and below the boat, even while stationary. In addition to the existing LiveScope Forward and Down Modes, anglers can use Perspective Mode for great overhead visibility that is ideal for shallow water.

With the Perspective Mode mount, the LiveScope LVS32 transducer can be easily adjusted to fit an angler’s fishing techniques and preferences.

LiveScope Perspective Mode mount: £86.99 Garmin.com/panoptix

Simrad Yachting has launched a campaign which offers up to £300 discount on selected chartplotters, when purchased with a C-MAP MAX N+ chart. The latest version of the C-MAP MAX N+ chart features a variety of updates and improvements including detailed port plans, as well as additional detail to existing ports, Easy Routing and more detailed information at all zoom levels.

Products included in this offer are the Cruise 5”, 7” and 9”, and buying one of these alongside a C-MAP MAX N+ chart will save you £100. The Simrad GO 7”, 9” and 12” chartplotters are also included in this promotion, and can save you £200. Finally the NSS evo3 range is included too; available in 7”, 9”, 12” and 16” this range is ideal

for smaller consoles right up to larger powerboats. Purchasing a model from this range alongside a C-MAP MAX N + chart will save buyers £300. This offer is running until 31 May through participating retailers. www.simrad-yachting.com/engb/cmapoffer You can read more about charts on page 20.

GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

If your sailing plans include overnight trips on board, here are a couple of ideas to help you get a good night’s sleep. The Forclaz Trek 700 Air L Trekking Mattress offers a comfortable sleeping base after a long day on the water.

The ultra-compact mattress weighs just 510g when folded, while the thick foam bedding surface adds thermal insulation. Meanwhile the Quechua 2 in 1 Sleeping Bag comes with a mattress attached. Simply unroll and release the ‘in’ valve allowing the mattress and sleeping bag to self-inflate. It saves valuable packing space too, as it folds into one compact carry bag.

Trekking Mattress: £34.99 Quechua 2 in 1 Sleeping Bag: £59.99 www.decathlon.co.uk

25

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

SHORE STYLE PROTEST ANWICK FLEECE

As a tech fleece, this stylish top is warm, highly breathable and quick drying so that you can make the best of your time on the water. Made from a fabric mix, there is soft flexible fabric at the arms and side panels while the body is quilted for extra warmth this spring. The Anwick also has a high collar to keep the elements at bay and the chest and side pockets are zippered. £74.99 www.protest.eu

CAPSULE COLLECTION

Universal Works return for spring-summer 2020 with a new capsule collection in partnership with Sebago® featuring three contemporary boating shoes as well as two canvas pieces. The Portland boat shoes come in a vibrant straw yellow as well as white/grey and brown. The shoes are made in suede leather, featuring fringes at the base of the tongue as well as thick visible stitching. The two new canvas shoes, one a version of the Jack slip-ons and the other, the John boating sneakers, are also from the Sebago® Docksides collection. The first include vibrant colours in homage to the weaves and patterns of blankets made by natives in New Mexico; the other produced with the ‘Ikat’ technique - a dyeing process inherited from the pre-Columbian population of Peru. universalworks.co.uk

call the hotline 01491 845550 or order on line visit www.cleantogleam.com

WEIRD BIRDS

In honour of their RSPB charity partnership, Weird Fish has created this Weird Birds Artist t-shirt - packed with typical Weird Fish chuckles. They have raised more than £100,000 for the RSPB since they began their charity partnership in 2015, and this latest t-shirt design, which is available in Blue Indigo or Dark Olive, sends a minimum of £5 direct to the charity for every sale. £20 www.weirdfish.co.uk

RIGGING JACKET

The Race Rigging Jacket from Gill is a popular item with SailGP racers on and off the water, providing guaranteed warmth even when wet.

The versatile 3mm Neoprene jacket is the perfect outer layer to wear over anything, including a PFD. The loosefitting jacket, which comes in Dark Blue with a signature Tango finish offers four-way stretch, self-draining pockets and a YKK vislon zipper with inner storm guard. £125 www.gillmarine.com

26

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

BOATING HOLIDAYS

EVERY MONTH WE BRING YOU HOLIDAY NEWS AND A SELECTION OF OFFERS Image: BVI Tourism/Asher Hung

NEW BASE IN TENERIFE STAR Clippers’ winter 2020/21 sailing itineraries include two new port calls in the BVI and a new sailing route through Sir Francis Drake Channel in the Caribbean Treasure Islands.

The tall ship sailing specialist includes sailings in South East Asia on board the four masted Star Clipper, in the Caribbean on her sister ship Star Flyer and sailings through the Panama Canal, the Grenadine and Windward islands on board the flagship Royal Clipper.

New port calls include Spanish Town (Virgin Gorda, BVI), Long Bay (Beef Island BVI) and sailings through Sir Francis Drake Channel as part of Star Flyer’s Treasure Islands itinerary.

Fay McCormack, GM for Star Clippers UK, said: “The new sailings optimise life aboard these unique, historically styled ships, making the most of the tranquil ports and spectacular beaches in the Caribbean and the exotic, magical islands and landfalls in Malaysia and Thailand.

Due to their size, the ships are able to enter ports and harbours inaccessible by large cruise ships, offering our guests a unique and memorable experience.”

Star Clippers sails Mediterranean and Asian waters during the summer months, and offers sailing itineraries in the Caribbean and Asia between December and March. www.starclippers.co.uk

IMAGE-CONSCIOUS MILLENNIALS

IT seems that nearly a quarter of British millennials avoid getting in the water while on holiday because they do not feel confident wearing swimwear, according to research.

Despite two in five millennials (40 per cent) saying they cannot swim, 28 per cent of this age group go out on the water several times a day whilst on holiday. For some, though, keeping up appearances is their main reason for doing so, with 16 per cent saying this is the best way to get a tan and more than a fifth (22 per cent) saying they can take photos for social media. Nevertheless, many millennials are aware of the benefits they can get from being out on the water; more than a third say they think it improves their mental wellbeing, while almost half do so to spend time with friends and family.

Top five reasons millennials enjoy about being out on the water: n They find it relaxing (69 per cent) n It allows them to spend time with friends and family (46 per cent) n It improves their mental wellbeing (38 per cent) n It improves their physical fitness (35 per cent) n They have fond memories of being out on the water from their childhood (33 per cent)

SPRING CANCELLATIONS THE Jubilee Sailing Trust tells us that they have cancelled voyages up to 21 June. In a statement Patrick Fleming, Chief Executive and the Trustees of the JST, said: “With current restrictions in place in both Greece and Cyprus, along with global uncertainty on how the situation will develop from here, it

PLANNING AHEAD

BVI Yacht Charters has some great advice for making the most of our time in lockdown.

You are probably craving an adventure, a social interaction or that inexplicable feeling when the wind fills the sails, the boat heels and gains speed and the gurgle of water streaming by. Planning a sailing trip to the BVI is the perfect way

to take your mind off the day-to-day, and escape into a dream get-away. Choosing the perfect yacht for you and your crew, checking yacht reviews, comparing features and layouts and making sure you choose the best charter company can all be done from home. Plus, planning your perfect itinerary of white sandy beaches, sheltered

anchorages, laid-back beach bars and finding the perfect spot to hang up your hammock will give you something to look forward to when this is all over.

With so many charters postponed for this season, next season is already filling up fast, according to BVI Yacht Charters. www.bviyachtcharters.com

Image: Dimitrios Vlassis

SUMMER MED CHARTERS

Lesley Robinson, CEO at British Marine, organisers of Southampton Boat Show, said: “Whether you are swimming, on a boat or simply cooling off in the sun, we want everyone to enjoy the experiences that come with being in or around the water. It makes it untenable for us to operate our early Mediterranean programme. We will, of course, continue to monitor the situation regarding voyages beyond 21 June.”

They will, though, launch their 2021 UK voyage programme shortly, so even if you do not intend to sail this year you can begin planning next year’s trips. jst.org.uk

is our mission to debunk the boating myths and jargon and educate as many people as possible on the benefits getting out on the water can bring.”

Research was conducted for Southampton Boat Show by Research Without Barriers.

Image: JST

LET’S be positive that we will be able to holiday in the Med later in the summer. August and September are the perfect months to charter a yacht in the Mediterranean, and here are six reasons why from Sunseeker Charters...

1. The Warm Water - After a few months of sunshine, the Mediterranean sea has had plenty of time to warm up, meaning water temperatures at this time of year are perfect.

2. The Balmy Weather - As the peak of summer passes, the weather is in a quieter mood and offers long, peaceful days with a wonderful quality of light.

FURTHER INFORMATION

3. The Relaxing Atmosphere - As the main bulk of the holidaymakers start heading home, the overall atmosphere is far more tranquil.

This time of year in the Med can give you a wonderful sense of peace and calm.

4. Quiet Anchorages - Anchorages are far quieter as the season starts to slow down, meaning a much more relaxing stay for you and your guests.

5. More Berthing Availability Berths in high season are notoriously hard to find, at this time of year they are much more available, with a wider choice of locations.

6. Restaurant Bookings - Trying to get a booking in one of the top restaurants in the Mediterranean during peak summer season can be quite challenging. At the end of August onward the availability starts to open up, meaning you have the choice of the finest restaurants. info@sunseekercharters.com / 01202 682 890

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

To advertise here please call 07740 118928 27

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

Who'd like FREE berthing?

Yacht owners we offer you: Free walk ashore berthing 50% of the charter revenue Free Insurance 40 days exclusive use Free 24/7 management

Non-owner Skippers & Crew Flat rate bareboat rates / 365 Unbeatable prices No restrictions on usage 35-78ft RYAÂ 1:1 training & Mile Building

Set course to:Â www.club-sail.com

28

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

Specialists in the supply of ‘Mooring Equipment’ and associated products.

“Moor for less” To order on-line, please visit our website for full range of mooring products.

www.boatgeardirect.co.uk

Heavy Duty Titan Boat Stands 250mm Threaded Bar for finer adjustment

Small 600 - 900mm

£79.00

Channel Anchor 6kg £29.95 10kg £49.50 15kg £75.75 20kg £99.90 25kg £129.00 33kg £169.00

New Ball Joint Pads with easy to replace rubber pads

Double Fixing Points for Storm Chains & Straps

Medium 900 - 1400mm

£99.00

each

Trefoil Anchor (Bruce Pattern) 2kg £12.50 5kg £24.50 7.5kg £34.95 10kg £49.20 15kg £69.50 20kg £89.75 30kg £129.00

each

Sturdy Tripod Open Base for Stability and Easy Storage

Large 1200 - 1900mm

£129.00

each

Doublebraid Docklines Polyester Black mooring lines with spliced soft eye & whipped ends ready to use.

Packed in pairs in a netted bag for storage convenience.

NB… ** = Single Line Only !

Voyager Anchor

£9.95 £14.95 £24.50 £29.75 £44.95 £64.75

316 Stainless Voyager Anchor (Delta Type)

6kg 10kg 16kg 20kg

£26.00 £32.00 £63.50 £79.50

Mushroom (Mooring Anchor) 11kg £29.00 22kg £49.00 33kg £75.00 45kg £99.00 Admiralty Pattern Mooring Anchors

30kg to 250kg From

£99.00 Used Chain available from 25mm to 50mm.

Ideal for use as ground tackle.

Please call for details

5kg 10kg 16kg 20kg

£99.00 £199.00 £309.00 £399.00

316 Stainless Trefoil Anchor (Bruce Pattern)

5kg 7.5kg 10kg 15kg 20kg

4kg 6kg 10kg 15kg 20kg 25kg 33kg

£99.95 £149.00 £199.00 £309.00 £399.00

£150.00 £200.00 £275.00 £365.00 £459.00 £595.00 £785.00

Mail Order Tel: 01473 939393 Email: sales@boatgeardirect.co.uk

16mm 16mm 16mm 18mm 18mm 18mm 20mm 20mm 20mm

Diam Diam Diam Diam Diam Diam Diam Diam Diam

x 8mtr £29.78 x 10mts £35.71 x 15mts £50.47 x 8mts £33.41 x 10mts £40.13 x 15mts £56.93 x 8mts £42.65 x 10mts £51.50 x 15mts £37.80*

3 STRAND NYLON

TITAN GRADE 40

Calibrated Galvanised Chain Suitable for use with Windlass

Cruising Anchor 2.5kg 4.5kg 7kg 10kg 14kg 20kg

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.

10mm £0.90 mtr 12mm £1.20 14mm £1.50 mtr 16mm £1.95 18mm £2.45 mtr 20mm £3.20 24mm £3.95 mtr 28mm £4.75 Mooring/Anchor Rope

mtr mtr mtr mtr

6x18.5x20 DIN766 £2.95 mtr 7x22x23 DIN766 £3.95 mtr 8x24x26 DIN766 £5.75 mtr 10x28x34 DIN766 £7.80 mtr 10x30x35 EN813-3 £7.95 mtr 12x36x40 EN813-3 £11.90mtr 13x36x44 DIN766 £12.90 mtr

316 Stainless Chain 6x18.5mm £7.95 mtr 8x24mm £13.50 mtr 10x28mm £19.95 mtr 12x36mm £27.50 mtr

Dock Bumpers Straight Bumper

110cm x 25cm

NYLON 8 PLAIT ROPE

12mm £1.40 mtr 14mm £1.80 mtr 16mm £2.25 mtr 18mm £2.90 mtr 20mm £3.50 mtr 24mm £4.25 mtr Mooring/Anchor Rope

POLYESTER 3 STRAND BLACK or NAVY

8mm £0.50 mtr 10mm £0.75 12mm £1.00 mtr 14mm £1.40 16mm £1.75 mtr 20mm £2.75 24mm £3.50 mtr 28mm £4.90 Mooring/Anchor Rope

mtr mtr mtr mtr

£39.95 Flexible Corner Bumper

£29.50

Set Offer

£99.95

2 x Straight 1 x Flexible

Carriage = £9.95 up to 10kg & £12.95 up to 25kg

Carriage charge is to most UK mainland destinations only. Please email or call for Scottish Highlands & Isles, English Islands, N Ireland & Eire, Plus European destinations.

All prices include vat at 20% and correct at time of print.

29

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020 Reflections of a sailing lesson at Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy. Thanks to Sarah Colwell.

SEE MORE ONLINE OR ENTER YOUR PHOTOS VISIT WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK

PHOTO OF THE MONTH BRITAIN’S MOST READ WATERFRONT NEWSPAPER

Send in your photos too and you could be in the next edition of All At Sea. Send to: editor@allatsea.co.uk “A seagull following our yacht in Poole Bay.” Thanks to Carolyn Hallatt.

PHOTO OF TH E MONTH

“Reflecting on a day on the water at Lake Windermere. Sailing alongside our friend on Windfall as she was taking her boat to the marina for winter from her swinging mooring.” Photo taken by Kevin Wilkinson.

Dawn at Hythe Marina Village. Sent in by Timo Galeon.

Calm on the way to Ramsgate photographed by Andy Cook.

Here is a photo of the Newhaven ferry to Dieppejill sent in by Jill Hazel.

Thanks To Steve Viney for this photo of Newtown Creek, Isle of Wight.

30

DOUGAL

on tour

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

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.

HOW DEEP IS DEEP? While we often hear about adventurers reaching the summits of the highest mountains, it is incredibly rare to come across a story about people exploring the depths of the world’s oceans.

been thrown overboard in the area, rather than taking them further offshore.

As you head westwards, there is a similar area off Start Point, but if you really want to give your echo sounder a work out then you have to carry on south and west towards the area known as ‘the Canyons’.

Set in the far South West of the UK’s reach of the continental shelf, the area consists of two deep-sided canyons that each put Arizona’s Grand Canyon to shame, for at our underwater versions the depth drops precipitously away from just 100m to more than 2,000m.

An amazing environment is to be found in the two sites. The Explorer and Dangaard Canyons are home to some species not found anywhere else in UK waters, such as cold water coral, and are now the subject of an MPA, a Marine Protected Area.

To achieve the record breaking five deep dives would take a voyage of some 47,000 miles and a total of 39 descents, with each adding to our understanding of the hadal zone which exists at depths below 6,000m. Image: Fivedeeps.com

B

e it “in over your head” or “in too deep” we have lots of expressions that all refer to those times when we leave the shallow waters of the harbours and estuaries around our coast and head out into the more open sea. There is then the thrill as the depth sounder takes on a new persona, as the number on the screen grows bigger, telling you that you are now out on the ‘ocean deep’.

This is all very exciting, except for the fact that in depth terms, 99 per cent of us never actually get into what could really be described as deep water, for the UK is sat on a platform that provides a reasonably shallow shelf around our coast.

There are deeper areas, some of which feature in popular coastal locations, with one of the most accessible being just to the south and west of St. Catherine’s Point off the southern tip of the Isle of Wight.

There is a fairly narrow slash in the seabed, with very deep water there, making it a prime location for getting rid of things that are best not recovered.

SUNKEN SECRETS In 1936, after the death of King George V, his racing yacht, the Britannia, was sunk was sunk in this deep water. Old munition stocks were dumped in the area, with some rumours holding that WW1 gas shells had

DEEP FIVE Even deeper water can be found far out to the north and west of Scotland in the Rockall Trough, where depths of nearly 3,000m can be found. However, even these are mere shallows when compared with the deepest waters that are found around the globe, with the Challenger Deep, situated in the Mariana Trench, holding the record at 10,994m… that is a mile deeper than Mount Everest is high.

No one would claim that reaching the summit of Everest is easy, but it is reached by groups every year. In contrast, reaching into the depths is extraordinarily difficult, with it still being the case that more people have made it to the surface of the moon

The incredible ‘Limiting Factor’ suspended at the stern of the mothership. Previous deep dive vessels had done just a single trip, yet Limiting Factor would dive again and again, at locations all around the globe. Image: Fivedeeps.com

than have made it to the bottom of the Challenger Deep.

That number has now gone up by one, as explorer Victor Vescovo became the first person to do the ‘deep five’, when he reached the bottom of the deepest part of the five oceans.

To reach all of these depths in the same submersible would require a complete rethink of the technology required, as the previous deep dive vessels would complete a single dive before sailing into retirement.

To achieve the deep five, Victor needed a submarine that could be reused multiple times, with only a short turn around period once back on the surface.

LIMITING FACTOR The result of extensive planning resulted in the ‘Limiting Factor’, a strange, teardrop shaped vessel with the main pressure hull being formed of a 90mm thick titanium shell. Built by Triton Submarines from their base in Sebastian, Florida, Limiting Factor was the brainchild of an English designer, John Ramsay, who graduated from Glasgow’s School of Art with a degree in Product Design Engineering. Other

Rare, fragile yet just as beautiful as the tropical corals, those found in cold water are just as much a foundation of the marine eco-systems as their more exotic relatives. Image: JNCC/Gov.uk

31

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020 vessels that he has created can be seen on TV taking Sir David Attenborough into the deep.

Limiting Factor would pose John many new technical challenges, such as the thick acrylic windows that would nestle more deeply into the hull as the pressure increased and the need to provide sufficient power for extended periods at depth, for the intention was to not just reach the sea-bed but to do important scientific research once there.

Once construction and final testing was completed, it would be time for Victor to make his first dive, when in December 2018 he headed off to the deepest part of the Atlantic, at the Puerto Rico Trench, where he finally reached the bottom at a depth of 8,376m.

Next up would be the Southern Ocean, with the South Sandwich Trench, which was shallower at 7,433m, but is located in an area famous for the violence of the stormy weather.

POP DOWN TO TITANIC With successful expeditions completed, plus a bonus dive when they stopped for a quick trip 3,800m down to visit the remains of Titanic, the team headed east to the Indian Ocean, where Victor reached the bottom of the Java Trench at just 7,192m.

The stage was now set for the big one, the Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench in the Pacific Ocean where at its deepest the water pressure is an incredible 1,086bar, or 15,750 pounds on every square inch of the vessel.

In May 2019 Victor took his craft down into the hadal depths (named after Hades, this is the hadopelagic zone, which is taken to start at 6,000m depth) and, by reaching the sea bed at a depth of 10,928m, set a host of new records in the world of deep diving.

He still needed one more dive, though, which he completed during August 2019, when he became the first person to ever reach the bottom of the Molloy Hole, 170 miles west of Svalbard, in the Arctic Ocean.

Close to the edge of the Arctic ice pack, this was potentially the most dangerous of the dives, but once completed Victor’s unique place in the history books was assured.

Moreover, our understanding of this super deep environment and the amazing wildlife that lives in the pressure and pitch dark has been greatly enhanced.

There was one dark moment, though, when Victor reached the bottom of the Challenger Deep, more than seven miles below the surface, he found the remains of a plastic bag on the seabed…

Collecting records and scientific data in equal measure, explorer Victor Vescovo standing alongside his submersible Limiting Factor. Victor had already been to the summit of Mt Everest, another record he now holds is that of the only man to get to the top - and the bottom of the world.

Image: Fivedeeps.com / Tamara Stubbs

When we think of coral we think of tropical seas and bright colours, yet in the waters around our shores we have sites were cold-water coral can be found.... jncc.gov.uk/our-work/the-canyons-mpa/#video

“There was one dark moment, though, when Victor reached the bottom of the Challenger Deep, more than seven miles below the surface, he found the remains of a plastic bag on the seabed…”

32

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

Bic Sport present 2 boats for use as Tenders, for fishing or for just mucking about on the water. Safety has been a key aspect in the design of these craft and with more than 35 years of R&D every little detail has been taken into consideration.

Sport Yak 245

Sport Yak 213

• • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

Exceptionally Light and Tough Easy glide for rowing Super Stability and Safety (unsinkable) Integrated Wheels (245) Oars, Rowlocks, Seat and Rope included Outboard capability Safe, Functional, Fun Max 3 Adults L: 2.45m W: 1.20m Weight: 39K

£629.99 (+ Delivery* £80)

Exceptionally Light and Tough Easy glide when rowing Safe and Unsinkable Optional wheels available Oars, Rowlocks and Rope included Outboard capability (with optional bracket) Safe, Functional, Fun Max 2 Adults L:2.13m W:1.15m Weight: 19K

£369.99 (+ Delivery* £80)

*Delivery to UK Mainland only excluding Higlands and Islands. For other areas call or email for a quote

ULTRASPORTEU.COM 01332 813 150 info@ultrasporteu.com

TRADE ENQUIRIES

WELCOME

33

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

BOATING PEOPLE

Q&A WITH TERRY HUTCHINSON, ROLEX YACHTSMAN OF THE YEAR, WORLD CHAMPION SAILOR AND SKIPPER OF AMERICA’S CUP TEAM AMERICAN MAGIC. The AC75 Defiant sailing in Newport, Rhode Island. Image: Amory Ross / NYYC American Magic

gennaker up, a full staysail and were just sending it. The evening was warm, wet and an incredible amount of fun.

You are something of an expert when it comes to the America’s Cup having been part of five campaigns. How has it changed over the years?

Not sure I have reached expert status yet as I have not won the Cup! The game has been consistent during my campaigns. The fastest boat wins; full stop. From that basic fact, whether we are sailing in a catamaran, trimaran or a foiling monohull, the same principle will always apply.

How did you come to be involved with American Magic in the latest America’s Cup?

When did you get into sailing?

I started sailing at a very young age with my parents on their cruising boat, a 41ft wooden Concordia Yawl. My dad is a huge wooden boat fan.

Out of your many wins, is there one World Championship title that stands out?

The first one, our J-24 World Championship in 1998.

We were nine points off the lead going into the last race, nailed the start at the pin while the main competitors were tied up on the pin end boat. It

was not the best regatta we sailed all year, but we did what we had to do, hung tough and waited for the competition to make a mistake.

I have been fortunate to work for our team principals, Doug Devos and Hap Fauth, over the last decade. When it became apparent that there was going to be a shift away from catamarans after the 2017 AC, Doug and Hap, along with Roger Penske and the New York Yacht Club, felt the time was right to have a crack at it.

What is it like to sail on the AC75?

Incredible.

Having been winning awards and championships from a young age you know what it takes to win. Is American Magic going to be the one to beat?

It would be disrespectful to our competition to say that we are the team to beat. From my perspective, the Defender of the America’s Cup, Emirates Team New Zealand, has the trophy and so they are the team to beat. We will continue to keep our heads down and work hard. That is the only way we can control our own destiny.

Tell us about the Helly Hansen clothing the American Magic team will be wearing.

The HH gear has exceeded our expectations.

We all knew that the gear was good, but more importantly the HH team has accommodated our specific needs. HH is also bringing a higher level of technical apparel expertise to our team. That expertise and trust is what we need to win on such extreme boats, and having this partnership is awesome.

With such an incredible career to date, what other sailing challenges would you like to take on?

Winning the America’s Cup! Good luck from All at Sea!

You took part in the Volvo Ocean Race almost 20 years ago. What is your favorite memory?

I did one leg from Cape Town to Sydney. It is hard to name just one memory, as the sailing was incredible. We had one evening in particular, coming across the Australian bite with a full moon 28 - 32 knots of TWS. We had a masthead

Image: Amory Ross

Image: Amory Ross

34

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

SPOTLIGHT ON RYA EBOOKS Helping you grow your knowledge in lockdown

SPECIAL OFFER FOR !

AAS READERS

Image: Paul Wyeth

15% OFF EBOOKS

D

ue to the current situation many of us may find ourselves with additional time on our hands. If you are looking for a way to put it to good use, why not check out the RYA’s selection of accessible eBooks?

Did you know that as well as books that directly support the RYA’s worldfamous training courses, there are also plenty of titles that will help support your boating more generally by improving your knowledge.

“The demand for eBooks has sky rocketed over the last few years and of course in recent weeks we have really seen this format come into its own,” says Steen Ingerslev, RYA publications manager.

Many RYA eBooks are enhanced with embedded animations, videos and interactive tools to help illustrate

key points. You can also bookmark your reading material, search content and write and save notes. As well as handy interactive features, many titles also adhere to the highest accessibility standards.

Steen continued: “Lots of our books have been released on Apple Books and Google Play Books, offering enhanced accessibility to our readers, from the ability to change font, text size and background colours.

“This makes the reading experience much easier for readers who are partially sighted; have specific learning difficulties such as dyslexia; have non-specific learning disabilities or are physically disabled and read with a switch device.”

Here are a few of our top picks to brush up on your knowledge and get you ready to head back out on the water…

NAVIGATION

COLREGS

TACTICS

The eBook edition of the RYA Navigation Handbook (E-G6) has been designed to provide the reader with a sound understanding of the principles of navigation as well as providing insight into the ways in which electronic navigation can be used to best effect. Content includes extended chapter summaries and additional animations including how to plot a GPS position and the light characteristics of different buoys and beacons.

RYA International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (E-G2) is written with pleasure craft skippers in mind, providing a clear and authoritative explanation of each regulation by rule order. Chapters include Assessing the Risk, Who Gives Way and Sound and Light Signals. The popular eBook edition also includes an interactive 360° tool allowing readers to gain a more realistic view of how vessels will actually present in a variety of contexts, both by day and by night.

Brush up on your tactics with the recently launched, third edition, of the best-selling RYA Tactics (E-G40). Written by world-renowned strategist, Mark Rushall, readers will find cutting-edge advice for all abilities. New material includes expert advice on analysing weather conditions and positioning as strategy. It also discusses strategy building and looks at all parts of the race in detail.

The eBook is enhanced with interactive tools, animations and a series of ‘top tips’ videos.

MARINE RADIO If you have a VHF radio on board your boat, or carry a handheld VHF whilst out on the water, you need to hold an operator’s licence. The RYA VHF Handbook (E-G31) is the official title to support the RYA VHF Operator’s Short Range Certificate examination, detailing everything sailors need to know about using VHF radios.

Content includes how radio works, which channels to use for each type of communication and rules and regulations. It also details the procedures that must be followed for both routine operation and situations where distress, emergency and medical assistance communications are required. The eBook is enhanced with a number of interactive features including examples of various types of call.

A copy of the book is included for anyone taking the RYA Marine Radio Short Range Certificate course, but it is also perfect reading for anyone looking to refresh their knowledge before heading back out on the water.

All RYA eBooks are available to download in the way that works best for you, including the RYA Books App, Online or via Apple Books and Google Play Books.

Find out more at www.rya.org.uk/go/ebooks.

HOW TO CLAIM YOUR OFFER

All at Sea readers can enjoy 15% off all RYA eBooks purchased from the RYA shop between 1-31 May 2020 with our ‘May Madness’ offer

SIMPLY ENTER THE CODE AASMM20 AT CHECKOUT

CLICK HERE OR VISIT WWW.RYA.ORG.UK/SHOP

35

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

DRYSUIT CARE

n Once rinsed off, hang your drysuit where it can completely dry out before you put it away somewhere safe, dry and not exposed to direct sunlight. n Whether your suit has latex or neoprene neck and cuffs, the general mantra of fresh water and keeping the garment dry and salt free still applies. n Latex seals are vulnerable to salt water and sun damage and can eventually crack through wear and tear.

As well as the steps above it is worth applying a small amount of lubricant and rubbing it in. Use a sprinkling of talcum powder to absorb any excess lubricant. n Pay plenty of attention to the zips - a small amount of lubricant can help here too, once you have ensured that all salt has been cleaned off. Keep the zip open during storage so it cannot jam up. At the same time this allows any remaining moisture to escape from inside the suit.

Are you taking care of your drysuit during the enforced ‘off season’?

THE improved spring weather is no doubt giving you the itch to get out on the water but unable to get afloat during the lockdown. Staying at home is not easy, but it is important, and at the same time it is a good time to catch up with those little jobs like sorting through your gear.

Typhoon International, manufacturer of drysuits along with other protective gear and accessories, has tips for looking after your drysuit while it is not being used for a while.

To get the very best out of your drysuit for as long as possible, there are some important steps to follow in order to take care of it. Make sure you refer to the label inside the drysuit and follow the washing instructions exactly. Use only liquid soap, and do not use any fabric softeners or biological washing powders .

Let us hope it is not too long before we all get out sailing again. At least when you get your drysuit back out of the cupboard it will be looking its best!

“It is a good time to catch up with those little jobs like sorting through your gear.” n Your kit is likely to be covered in salt water each time you are out on the boat so it should be rinsed off in fresh water. Preventing the build-up of dried salt stops the ‘pores’ of your breathable kit clogging up, making it feel cold and clammy, while at the same time attracting more unwanted moisture.

OCEANS OF HOPE Oceans of Hope is a charity that uses sailing to introduce new opportunities and experiences to those with MS.

W

e have all been sick in our lives, or we have had an accident that has perhaps incapacitated us for a while. Usually we get better or recover.

To be in that position long term is different. To know that you are going to be in pain indefinitely, or knowing that inexplicable fatigue is going to keep hitting you or the fact that you are not going to be able to walk for the rest of your life is difficult.

That is what multiple sclerosis is like. At the moment, MS does not have a cure. It is a chronic neurological condition where the body attacks its own nervous systems, affecting the person in so many ways, mostly random and mostly for life.

In the long term, this condition robs people of hope.

Hope of ever being useful again.

Hope of ever being the person they once were.

Whatever the physical manifestation of MS, depression and isolation walk hand in hand with it. Dimming the lights every time you walk into a room as it were.

BENEFITS OF SAILING

Oceans of Hope UK is a registered charity that aims to bring new opportunities and experiences to people with this debilitating disease through sailing.

Their goal is to bring people with MS together in an environment that is out of their comfort zone. People not only learn new skills and develop their own social

network, but overcome their challenges together in a team environment.

As we all know, sailing is a great leveller.

With Oceans of Hope, participants work together as a team and drive a boat forwards towards a common destination, and enabling everyone to contribute towards this.

Since 2016, the charity has taken more than 400 people sailing and in the years to come, hope to take even more.

LOOKING AHEAD This year, they have become members of the RYA Sailability program and are taking people dinghy sailing and also to have a taste of Cowes Week in August.

Their main events are usually flotilla sailing for a week, and this autumn there are three in Turkey. This week long event gives people a chance to forge close friendships and support networks with their crew, who usually go on to be close allies long after the flotilla has finished.

“Since 2016, the charity has taken more than 400 people sailing.”

After an event, people go home different. They go home with a renewed sense of worth and perspective of their own life with this disease.

In short, this charity brings people with this disease together, enabling opportunities for growth and realisation that hope is not completely lost.

Oceans of Hope is always looking for people with MS to sail with them. If you know anyone with this disease, let them know about Oceans of Hope UK and help them start to open a new chapter. A chapter that they did not think possible. www.oceansofhope.co.uk

36

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

37

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

Get Planting to Improve Your Environment During the COVID-19 upheaval we thought it would be a good idea to give you some practical advice and artistic inspiration to improve your environment. beloved by bees and with a wonderful scent. Teucrium fruticans comes in a variety of deciduous, evergreen and perennials with aromatic leaves. Azureum has an attractive blue flower. Dwarf buddleia is wonderful for butterflies. Smaller indigenous plants include cowslips, foxgloves, honeysuckle, primroses, ox-eyed daisies for example.

Note: For more ideas about which plants to use check out the list kindly shared by Dave Hill at www.abya.co.uk.

Image: Paul Wyeth

SOIL CONSIDERATIONS

It is not recommended that you buy compost, especially one containing peat.

Instead, why not make your own? To have a go, just follow the steps below: 1. Locate two medium or large sized bins (one will be used for ‘breaking down’ material and

S

ome of you will be unable to get into the office or marina at the moment, but there is a free planting guide which can help you plan what needs to be done and perhaps you can get started on some of the ideas whilst you are cooped-up at home.

The guide will walk you through the best plants for various places and give some top tips on improving the environment in your office and around your marina, encouraging flora and fauna that can help with both the appearance and function of your surroundings.

Look around for your local plant nurseries who will be struggling at this time and have plants they do not want to put on the compost heap. Generally, they will be able to deliver.

THE LOCATION

Coastal locations need to emulate the plants’ natural surroundings whereas inland locations do not have the sea, air and winds to contend with and so are less restricted and can take a wider variety of plants.

If planting on a gradient, follow the three simple steps below: 1. Give it a good weed 2. Cover with coconut matting 3. Plant through the matting The biodegradable matting will help stabilise the bank while the plants take root. Over time the mat will rot away leaving a stable community of established plants. Alternatively, you can use wildlife seed mixes which can be bought as wildflower turf or pre-seeded mats. This will help prevent the seeds from being blown or washed away.

Try to plan your bed and think about which direction it will be facing. This is important because many south-facing (into the sun) plants will be fine, but not all. Planting in shaded areas will require a more tolerant type of plant. It is also good to think about height, colour, leaf

shapes and how to incorporate any special features such as driftwood.

REMEMBER

n Plenty of drainage using stones or crocks in the bottom of planters is vital n Ensure you have good ground coverage as you do not want to weed or mow n If using hanging baskets, be sure visitors will not hit their heads.

the other you are ‘adding’ material).

2. Once full, leave nature to take its course over the next 12 months (an occasional stir helps).

3. Bingo... free compost!

FERTILISER

Liquid fertiliser can be made from nettles or borage, an attractive plant also known as ‘starflower’ with blue flowers growing up to 1m tall, and again loved by bees. If you have space, why not plant sunflowers which provide an excellent source of nutrition for birds at the end of the year, especially goldfinches.

This guidance has been put together by representatives from: AQASS, Dean Reddyhoff Marinas, Yacht Brokers, Designers and Surveyors Association and Anableps Ecology.

CHOICE OF PLANTS

General use: plants such as sea holly, thrift, crocosmia lucifer and grasses of various heights are simple and effective, with some small and large stones to set them off and avoid weed issues. Houseleeks are ideal for tucking into corners or around a piece of driftwood. Inland areas can use verbenas, crocosmias, native fuchsias, hellebores and more. Try to use single flowers which are easier for pollinating insects to access.

Choose plants with hips, seed heads and twig shapes for winter interest. You can also pop in some bulbs in the autumn for early colour in the spring (Note: local schools are often keen to get involved, especially if you are doing a big bulb plant on a bank or lawn).

Shaded areas: use hellebores, ferns, ivies, Solomon’s Seal, foxgloves, snowdrops, cyclamen and primroses. Variegated leaves also help to create interest.

Grasses: come in a huge range of colours, sizes and designs with waving plumes or shaking seeds for instance. In a large swathe they look stunning moving in the wind or can be just as effective as a single plant in a pot.

Hedges: can act to protect the marina or divide up car parking – remember to be creative! Sea buckthorn helps to inhibit soil erosion and is used in land reclamation for its nitrogen fixing properties, wildlife habitat and soil enrichment as well as for its beneficial berries. Use lavender for a lower hedge,

PLANTING SUGGESTIONS - PLANTERS The most satisfying results often come from creating something out of nothing. Where possible, always try to recycle with the best planters being created from discarded materials from around the marina or washed upon a beach. These may include: n Driftwood to give height and structure n Stones of various shapes and sizes n Old railway sleepers for edging n Tyres that may be painted and filled with earth n Fenders that have been cut in half These offer inexpensive solutions that give that attractive ‘weathered’ look you cannot buy from any shop. By adopting the recycling approach, you are not only helping the environment but it may also deter vandalism thus safeguarding your planter.

MAINTENANCE

Do not make planters unnecessarily hard work to maintain. Often all you need to do is remove the occasional dead flower or leaf and water well during extended dry spells. Do not be tempted to use chemicals, slug pellets or chemical sprays. Instead, a good rinse with washing-up liquid bubbles will be enough to prevent black/green fly. Some plants, especially shrubs like buddleia, will need pruning to keep them compact.

Download the full guide at bit.ly/2YchpLI. If you would like to print it out for reference, it has been laid out to make a small leaflet. Simply print it double-sided, landscape on A4, then fold it in half.

Stay safe and look out for each other. Remember, ‘Social Distancing’ is a bit of an oxymoron, what we need now, more than ever before, is ‘social closeness’ and ‘physical distancing’.

38

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

39

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

STAY HOME, GET TRAINED Find out how RYA eLearning could improve your boating.

Recommended Reading - RYA An Introduction to Navigation (G77) is essential reading for beginners and anyone interested in finding out more about the basic steps of navigation. For a complete guide and further reading for competent navigators, check out the RYA Navigation Handbook (G6).

Alternatively, RYA Navigation Exercises (G7) comes complete with almanac extracts and RYA Training charts for those who want to test their knowledge or sharpen their skills.

MARINE RADIO

If you have a VHF radio on board your boat, or carry a handheld VHF whilst kayaking or paddleboarding, you need to hold an operator’s licence.

The RYA Marine Radio Short Range Certificate course is a one-day course (10 hours online) aimed at anyone who wants to operate a marine VHF radio, with or without Digital Selective Calling (DSC).

Vital for days out boating, it covers radio functionality, how to relay information clearly and swiftly in an emergency situation, as well as hands-on practice of operating and talking over the radio.

There is even a short taster of the online course on the RYA website so you can preview and try before you sign up with an RYA recognised training centre.

Image: Paul Wyeth

W

hilst we might not be able to get out on the water at the moment, the COVID-19 pandemic does mean that many of us have some extra time on our hands. Although we cannot complete any practical training, it does not mean you cannot brush up on old skills or learn something new.

RYA eLearning Manager, Jane Hall says: “There are a number of RYA courses that have options for online and distance

learning; all you need is access to the Internet. So why not get stuck in and broaden your skillset?”

Here we take a look at some of the RYA’s most popular online training courses and share some top tips for making the most of your eLearning experience.

There are a number of online courses available, but which one(s) will you choose?

Recommended Reading - A copy of the RYA VHF Handbook (G31) is included with the course, but is also available in both print and eBook formats for those who just want to refresh their knowledge. The popular title is also one of the first RYA publications to be released in the new audiobook format, as a further aid to your learning experience.

TOP TIPS

NAVIGATION

Top tips for getting the most out of your eLearning experience:

Whether you want to explore new areas or revisit your favourite destination, you need to plan ahead. How far is the destination and how long will it take to get there?

Be disciplined with your time Allocate set times each day for study time. With many of us still working full time and now also juggling home-schooling our kids and other commitments, this could be once the children are in bed, after work or on the weekends. Setting a regular time aside each day, or week, will help you achieve your course within the timeframe you have set.

Have an end goal You could use your time at home to do an online training course in navigation

When will the tidal stream assist the journey and provide enough height of tide to enter and to leave? Are there any hazards on route?

Anybody planning a passage needs to know where – and how – to find the answers to these questions, as well as understanding what impact this will have when out on the water.

The RYA Essential Navigation and Seamanship course is one of the RYA’s most popular online course for recreational boaters. Two days, or eight hours online, the course gives an introduction to navigation, tides, charts and safety awareness.

If you are looking for something that goes into a little more detail, why not think about the RYA Day Skipper shorebased course which covers chartwork, electronic navigation, meteorology and the basics of seamanship.

More experienced navigators can also enhance their knowledge with the RYA Coastal Skipper/Yachtmaster Offshore or RYA Yachtmaster™ Ocean shorebased courses, all of which are available online.

There is nothing more motivating than having an end goal in mind. Maybe you are looking to explore further afield, or you are hoping to do one of the RYA’s practical courses in the future? Whatever your reason, keep it at the front of your mind and it will help you to succeed. We are all looking forward to getting back out on the water and just think how much better prepared you will be with your newfound knowledge.

Do your homework There are lots of RYA books designed to help you pass your course or exam; be sure to check the RYA website for recommendations. RYA publications explain things simply and help to reinforce the information you will be learning on your course. eBooks have additional functionality enabling you to bookmark your reading material, write and save notes and search content. Some material also includes animations, for example watching a lit buoy flash white three times within a period of five or 10 seconds. Seeing this, rather than reading it, makes it much easier to understand.

Read all the instructions thoroughly The instructions are really clear, but allow yourself the time to read carefully through the material to avoid wasting time and making mistakes.

Do not be afraid to ask for help You will receive a student pack with all the equipment you need to complete your learning, but there will be times when you may need a steer. If you are struggling, your instructor is there to help and would always rather know and be able to give you the assistance you need to get the end result you are looking for. Instructors are available via email, or you can call or chat remotely too.

So what are you waiting for? Find the online course for you at www.rya.org.uk/go/whichcourse or to browse the full selection of RYA books and eBooks visit www.rya.org.uk/shop.

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

40

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

MARINA FOCUS ABERYSTWYTH MARINA

Marina Manager: Jon Booth VHF Channel 80 Tel: 01970 611 422 W: www.themarinegroup.co.uk E: aber@themarinegroup.co.uk Aberystwyth Marina, Harbour House, Y Lanfa, Trefechan, Aberystwyth, SY23 1AS

This month we head over to Wales and the popular Aberystwyth Marina.

ABERYSTWYTH Marina offers 165 first class berths providing safe, secure and sheltered moorings for motorboats and yachts. The marina is at the heart of the fishing port on the 23 acre harbour site.

The location of Aberystwyth Marina, in a historic university town, ensures

there are a range of cultural, active and educational activities within close proximity to the marina for berth holders to benefit from.

Aberystwyth also has a wide range of cafes, restaurants, pubs and bars, many a short walk from the marina.

FACILITIES & BERTHING

Purchased by the current owners, The Marine & Property Group Ltd, in September 2015, the marina has undergone significant upgrade works over the past few years. The marina has been extensively dredged and a regular on going maintenance dredging schedule is provided by the company’s own dredger.

New berth holders are welcomed

all year round. In addition to annual berths and visitor berthing, the marina offers a range of summer and winter berthing options.

The marina offers fully serviced pontoons with electric points and water. A new pontoon configuration was installed by Walcon Marine to improve the layout and create a number of larger berths allowing the marina to accommodate boats up to 16m.

The marina also operates the impressive Harbour House building, home to the marina office and chandlery as well as a number of local businesses, with plans recently submitted to create a bar and restaurant on the ground floor overlooking the marina.

A programme of on going upgrades continues to improve infrastructure and security across the marina.

41

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

ACCESS

The harbour is located by Pendinas, a conspicuous hill 120m high, with the Wellington monument at its crest.

The head of the north breakwater, the Wooden Jetty, on the Wellington monument leads 140o(c), which clears you south of the Castle Rocks.

The approach should be treated with caution in strong onshore winds; beware of cross-tides and boulders around head of the South Pier, the Stone Pier and the Trap (an area of rough ground), which is to the north of the Wooden Jetty. The leading

lights, both fixed red and the white day marks on the Ystwyth Bridge, lead 133o(c). The Wooden Jetty is marked with Q WR 9m; Red Sector (141175), which covers the Castle Rocks. The south Pier F1.(2)WG 10s 12m 10m. There are four FR (vertical) on a radio tower 2.8 miles to the south.

The entrance is narrow with a 90o port turn inside the Wooden Jetty head. The bar is immediately outside the head of the Stone Pier; at low water springs there is about 0.7m on the bar when on the leading line.

Boats drawing 1.8m are advised to

enter up to 3.0 hours before and 3.5 hours after H.W in calm conditions.

The marina basin is dredged to a depth of 2.0m at low water springs.

There is a speed limit within the harbour and the marina. All vessels leaving or entering the harbour should not exceed the speed of 5 knots. It is also advisable to check your stern wash. On approach to the marina, visiting yachts should call the marina on VHF Channel 80 or by phone on 01970 611422.

Access to the pontoons is via a secure key fob system; fobs are issued

at the Marina Office, situated in Harbour House. The marina is only a short walk from the town centre with shops, cafes, restaurants and other services.

Aberystwyth Marina offers easy access from Birmingham, the Midlands and the surrounding areas.

If visiting by road, the marina is accessed via the A487 and for Sat Nav use SY23 1AS. For those wishing to use public transport, there is a railway station and bus stations about 10 minutes’ walk from the marina.

BOATYARD SERVICES

CRUISING

There are a number of lovely destinations along the beautiful West Wales coastline for berth holders to visit. The harbours of Fishguard, Cardigan, New Quay, Aberaeron, Barmouth, Porthmadog, Aberdyfi and Abersoch are within easy reach, as are the marinas at Pwllheli, Conwy, Milford Haven and Neyland. Meanwhile for the those looking for a slightly longer trip, the marinas and harbours of Ireland’s East Coast are within a day’s sailing.

Fishguard and New Quay are adversely affected by strong northerly winds as both are open to the north. We would always recommend referring to your pilot books and charts for passage planning.

Boat owners should be aware of the Ramsey and Jack Sounds on any voyages to Milford Haven - check charts for navigation hazards. Passages should be planned to arrive at the start of Ramsey Sound at slack water so that the ebb tide will assist you through the Sound and enable you to pass through Jack Sound on the same tide.

Also for trips to the north for Holyhead and the Menai Straits check the tides for passage through Bardsey Sound, preferably at slack water or the beginning of the flood. There are a few shallows in Cardigan Bay whilst in passage so always refer to your charts.

THINGS TO DO

Approaching Aberystwyth from the sea, Pendinas Hill, with its monument, will be visible for many miles. The ruins of Aberystwyth Castle can be seen on Castle Point, with the yellow sandstone Old University College building, established in 1872, nearby. The University and the Aberystwyth Arts Centre is sited on Penglais Hill, behind the National Library of Wales, which is one of the five Copyright Libraries in the British Isles and Ireland.

To the north along the Promenade is Constitution Hill with the longest electric funicular railway in the UK, offering spectacular views from the top of the Hill. Aberystwyth is also the home of the Devil’s Bridge narrow-gauge railway running 12 miles up the Rheidol Valley climbing from sea level to over 600 feet.

The Marina Office is home to a chandlery, and a selection of drinks and ice-creams are available to purchase. There is a small supermarket less than 10 minutes’ walk away and further supermarkets within easy reach. The Fire Station, adjacent to the marina, has a popular welcoming café offering a selection of hot and cold dishes.

Future plans for the marina will see a large bar

and restaurant on the ground floor alongside the Marina Office, with an extensive terrace offering views over the marina.

A short walk away, the town of Aberystwyth offers a range of restaurants, bars, pubs, cafes and seaside fish and chip shops for berth holders to enjoy. The town offers a good local bus service and a plentiful supply of taxis and local trains.

Aberystwyth has a promenade which is just over a mile in length running from the Wooden Jetty, in the south near the Harbour entrance to Constitution Hill in the north. On your walk you pass the castle ruins, the War Memorial and the Old College Building before coming to the Royal Pier. The seafront, Promenade and pier is a great location for a walk and to look out over the Irish Sea. There are many walks and cycle tracks in and around the town and the 52 mile Ceredigion Coastal Path passes through the marina. In addition, the 21 mile Ystwyth Trail offers some fantastic panoramic views of the Ceredigion countryside whilst connecting Aberystwyth with Tregaron in the northern Teifi Valley. www.tourism.ceredigion.gov.uk

As part of The Marine & Property Group Ltd, a fully integrated marine company, Aberystwyth Marina offers berth holders the peace of mind of having expert advice on hand in a friendly atmosphere. The company has extensive boatyard services at its headquarters in Cardiff, which provides training, support and expertise to the staff onsite at Aberystwyth.

Boat owners looking for engine servicing, antifouling, rigging and a wide range of other boatyard services should enquire at the marina office. On site there is a slipway for day launching or an annual slipway pass, a 10t boat hoist, hard standing storage and a chandlery.

VISITOR NETWORK

Aberystwyth Marina sits at the heart of the company’s visitor exchange network with free visitor berthing available at the company’s other marinas in Cardiff, Burry Port and Port Dinorwic and discounted visitor berthing at member marinas including locations in Ireland and North Wales.

42

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

MARINA GUIDE MAY 2020

SOUTH WEST

PREMIER MARINAS FALMOUTH North Parade, Falmouth, Cornwall. TR11 2TD T: 01326 316620 E: falmouth@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com PORT PENDENNIS MARINA Manager: Mark Webster Challenger Quay, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 3YL T: 01326 211211 E: marina@portpendennis.com W: www.portpendennis.com MYLOR YACHT HARBOUR Manager/contact: Culum Matheson Mylor Yacht Harbour, Mylor Churchtown, Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 5UF T: 01326 372 121 E: marina@mylor.com W: www.mylor.com FALMOUTH HAVEN Contact: Mark Evans 44 Arwenack Street, Falmouth TR11 3JQ T: 01326 310990 E: welcome@falmouthhaven.co.uk W: www.falmouthhaven.co.uk MAYFLOWER MARINA Manager: Charles Bush Mayflower Marina, Richmond Walk, Plymouth, Devon PL1 4LS. T: 01752 556633 E: info@mayflowermarina.co.uk W: www.mayflowermarina.co.uk PLYMOUTH YACHT HAVEN Manager: Steve Kitchen Shaw Way, Mount Batten, Devon, PL9 9XH T: 01752 404231 E: plymouth@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com YACHT HAVEN QUAY, PLYMOUTH Manager: Will Rahder Breakwater Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL9 7FE T: 01752 481190 E: boatyard@yachthavenquay.com W: www.yachthavens.com MDL QUEEN ANNE’S BATTERY Manager: Chris Price Queen Anne’s Battery, Plymouth Devon. PL4 0LP T: 01752 671142 E: qab@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.queenannesbattery.co.uk SUTTON HARBOUR MARINA Marina Manager: Mark Brimacombe The Jetty, Sutton Harbour, Plymouth, PL4 0DW T: 01752 204702 E: marina@sutton-harbour.co.uk W:www.suttonharbourmarina.com KING POINT MARINA Marina Manager: Mark Brimacombe Brunel Way, Millbay, Plymouth, PL1 3EF T: 01752 424297 E: marina@kingpointmarina.co.uk W: www.kingpointmarina.co.uk PREMIER MARINAS NOSS ON DART Manager: Andy Osman Bridge Road, Kingswear, Dartmouth Devon , TQ6 0EA T: 01803 839087 E: noss@premiermarinas.com MDL DARTSIDE QUAY Manager: Andrew Millar Galmpton Creek, Galmpton, Brixham, Devon. TQ5 0EH T: 01803 845445 W: www.dartsidequay.co.uk

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

MDL COBB’S QUAY MARINA Manager: Frank Gelder Hamworthy, Poole, Dorset.

BH15 4EL T: 01202 674299 E: cobbsquay@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.cobbsquaymarina.co.uk LYMINGTON YACHT HAVEN Manager: Rupert Wagstaff Kings Saltern Road Lymington, Hampshire SO41 3QD T: 01590 677071 E: lymington@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com BUCKLER’S HARD YACHT HARBOUR Harbour Master: Wendy Stowe Harbour Master’s Office Buckler’s Hard Yacht Harbour Beaulieu Hampshire SO42 7XB T: 01590 616200 E: harbour.office@beaulieu.co.uk W: www.beaulieuriver.co.uk HAVEN QUAY, LYMINGTON Manager: Ali Neal Mill Lane, Lymington Hampshire, SO41 9AZ T: 01590 677072 E: havenquay@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com DEACONS MARINA Manager/Contact name: Rachael Foster Bursledon Bridge, Southampton SO31 8AZ T 023 80 402253 E:berths@deaconsmarina.co.uk W: www.deaconsmarina.co.uk MDL HYTHE MARINA VILLAGE Manager: David Lewis The Lock Building, Shamrock Way Hythe, Southampton, Hampshire.

SO45 6DY T: 023 8020 7073 E: hythe@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.hythemarinavillage.co.uk MDL OCEAN VILLAGE MARINA Manager: Scott Farquharson Marina Office, 2 Channel Way Southampton, Hampshire.

SO14 3TG T: 023 8022 9385 E: oceanvillage@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.oceanvillagemarina.co.uk

TURKISH DELIGHT AWARD-winning Cesme Marina in Turkey is offering a three-year long-term berthing lease for yachts from 10 - 60m, for a limited time only. The lease will give customers a 15 per cent discount.

Can Akaltan CMM, marina manager at Cesme Marina, told us: “The main ethos at Cesme Marina is to look after our customers, and during these unprecedented times, we hope that our offer of a long-lease with a price freeze will be attractive in ensuring our loyal customers are incentivised to stay with us.

We are grateful for our loyal customer base and berth holders, and hope this privilege will offer something back.”

Cesme Marina, a chic and vibrant port village set in a natural harbour, is within the traditional maritime city of picturesque Cesme, rich in history and atmosphere.

This ancient harbour is an ideal base from which to cruise in Turkey or sail the Aegean – with the idyllic isles of Chios and Lesbos just a short sail away. en.cnmarinas.com/cesme-marina/

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: Joe Walton Lower York Street, Northam, Southampton.

SO14 5QF T: 023 8033 9490 E: saxonwharf@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.saxonwharf.co.uk MDL HAMBLE POINT MARINA Manager: Andrew Coles 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: Andrew Coles Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton Hampshire. SO31 4QD T: 023 8045 274,1 E: porthamble@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.porthamblemarina.co.uk MDL MERCURY YACHT HARBOUR Manager: Andrew Coles Satchell Lane, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire.

SO31 4HQ T: 023 8045 5994 E: mercury@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.mercuryyachtharbour.co.uk

TOWN QUAY MARINA Manager: Brian Akerman Management Office Town Quay, Southampton, SO14 2AQ T: 02380 234397 E: bakerman@abports.co.uk W: www.townquay.com HAMBLE YACHT SERVICES Port Hamble, Hamble, Southampton, Hampshire,SO31 4NN T: 02380 201501 E: info@hysgroup.co.uk www.hysgroup.co.uk UNIVERSAL MARINA Crableck Lane, Sarisbury Green Southampton, SO31 7ZN T: 01489 574272 W: www.universalmarina.co.uk HASLAR MARINA Manager: Ben Lippiett Haslar Road, Gosport, Hampshire. PO12 1NU T: 023 9260 1201 F: 023 9260 2201 E: berths@haslarmarina.co.uk W: www.haslarmarina.co.uk PREMIER MARINAS GOSPORT Manager: Jonathan Walcroft Mumby Road , Gosport, Hampshire. PO12 1AH T: 023 9252 4811 F: 023 9258 9541 E: gosport@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com

43

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

AWARDS FOR GOSPORT AND FALMOUTH FOLLOWING an assessment of the Premier marinas and their facilities, both Gosport and Falmouth marinas have retained their prestigious 5 Gold Anchors Award.

This award, made by The Yacht Harbour Association, is the highest level attainable and is indicative of the superior quality of customer service and range of facilities provided at both marinas.

The Gold Anchor Award Scheme is a voluntary assessment programme, which offers a trustworthy measure of excellence.

Internationally recognised, The Gold Anchor Award Scheme ratings can vary from 1 to 5 gold anchors and involve a three stage process: an independent assessment, a Mystery Shopper visit and a berth holder’s online questionnaire.

This winter, Premier Marinas invested significantly in a new ticketless car parking

system at both Falmouth and Gosport. Jonathan Walcroft, marina manager CMM at Gosport, said:“My aim is to make sure that when customers arrive at the marina they have a safe and secure parking space. This new system enables the team to have full awareness of who is parking on site at all hours.”

Mark Evans, marina manager at Falmouth Marina, said:“It was fantastic to receive the news that Falmouth Marina has retained 5 Gold Anchor status following our recent assessment. This award reflects the effort made by all members of our small team in maintaining Premier standards across the board.”

PORTO MONTENEGRO GOES PLATINUM PORTO Montenegro is the world’s first marina to receive the Platinum accreditation from The Yacht Harbour and Marina Industries Associations, thanks to its environmental consciousness and commitment towards building a culture of eco-consciousness.

Porto Montenegro is situated in the heart of the UNESCO-protected Boka Bay, an area of outstanding natural beauty. It has introduced new environmentally friendly initiatives in a bid to impact positively on the natural environment.

“Climate change and rising sea levels are problems faced by this generation,” said marina manager Roddy Blair.“Porto Montenegro, as the leading superyacht marina in the Mediterranean area, does its best to help the case and is ideally positioned to promote environmental best practices.”

The marina uses solar panels to heat water across a number of service blocks, and electric vehicles throughout the marina keeping emissions to a minimum.

Porto Montenegro’s ongoing cooperation with the Institute for Marine Biology supports scientific research and preservation of fish and seashell species, as well as monitoring the cleanliness of the local seas.

“The data suggests that the marina waters are completely safe, clean and even suitable for swimming, with no negative side-effects from the boats

entering the marina,” said Roddy Blair.

Porto Montenegro joined forces with the Seabin project in 2016 to become a pilot partner in its testing and promotion. While the Seabin has been incredibly effective in removing floating rubbish from the marina waters, one of the key aims of this project has in fact been increasing awareness.

“We have built-in infrastructure for that,” said Roddy.“A grey and black water pump-out system is available on all berths over 20m and is free of charge. There is also a paper press on site for paper and cardboard, ensuring its efficient transportation to recycling plants. Hazardous waste is collected from the yachts and disposed of through government-approved methods.”

As an additional measure, Porto Montenegro, purchases drinking water in large sustainable quantities which are used to fill reusable glass bottles as opposed to plastic bottles.“It looks much better than plastic and, most importantly, does no harm to the environment,” concluded Roddy Blair.

NEW PAVILLION FOR SWANWICK PREMIER Swanwick has told us that a planning application for a Pavilion building to house boat sales and marine businesses, along with a new food, beverage and facilities building, overlooking the water, has been approved

by Fareham Borough Council.

The approved planning also includes a new bridgehead entrance structure, additional car parking and trolley storage at the marina.

These new landside developments follow the recent completion of Swanwick’s new floating marina - a £4m

ROYAL CLARENCE MARINA The Bridgehead, Weevil Lane, Gosport, Hampshire.

PO12 1AX T: 023 9252 3523 F: 023 9252 3523 E: info@royalclarencemarina.org W: www.royalclarencemarina.org PREMIER MARINAS PORT SOLENT Manager: Mark Phillp South Lockside, Port Solent, Portsmouth, Hampshire. PO6 4TJ T: 023 9221 0765 F: 023 9232 4241 E: portsolent@premiermarinas.com W: www.premiermarinas.com PREMIER MARINAS SOUTHSEA 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 Marina Manager Gunwharf Quays Marina office.

Gunwharf Quays.

Portsmouth.

Hampshire PO1 3TZ T: 02392 836732 E: marina@gunwharf-quays.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

investment by Premier Marinas. The new floating marina offers 333 berths (6 - 40m); an overall increase of 59 on the old configuration.

Alongside this, all Swanwick berth holders now benefit from a berth measuring at least the length of their boat. This feature, coupled with fairway and pontoon specifications that exceed industry standards, make berthing easier and safer - particularly for powerboat owners who can now step directly on to their pontoon from the back of their boat.

But one of the most innovative aspects

EAST COWES MARINA Manager: Mike Townshend Britannia Way, East Cowes Isle of Wight. PO32 6UB T: 01983 293983 F: 01983 299276 E: berths@eastcowesmarina.co.uk W: www.eastcowesmarina.co.uk COWES HARBOUR SHEPARDS MARINA Manager: Jock Rafferty Medina Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7HT T: 01983 297821 E: shepards.chc@cowes.co.uk W: cowesharbourshepardsmarina.co.uk ISLAND HARBOUR MARINA Manager: Darren Cooke Mill Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2LA T: 01983 539994 E: info@island-harbour.co.uk W:www.island-harbour.co.uk BEMBRIDGE HARBOUR Manager/Contact - Gordon Wight The Duver, St Helens, PO33 1YB T: 01983 872828 E : mail@bembridgeharbour.co.uk W: www.bembridgeharbour.co.uk

SOUTH EAST

MDL NORTHNEY MARINA Manager: Debbie Burns Northney Road, Hayling Island, PO11 0NH T: 023 9246 6321 E: northney@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.northneymarina.co.uk MDL SPARKES MARINA Manager: Debbie Burns 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

of Premier’s new marina lies at the centre section, where berths are set 700mm above the water (200mm above standard industry height) to reduce sailing boat customers’ deck to pontoon ‘jump down’ when berthing their vessel.

General manager at Swanwick Marina, Graham Bristowe is pleased to receive the go ahead to continue with development of Swanwick Marina:“In these most testing times, this is great news. We know that our tenants and berth holders alike will be happy to see the continued investment on their site.”

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

44

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

MARINA GUIDE MAY 2020

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

SURREY

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

BERKSHIRE

MDL WINDSOR MARINA Manager: Lee Gibbons Maidenhead Road, Windsor, Berkshire. SL4 5TZ T: 01753 853911 E: windsor@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.windsormarina.co.uk MDL BRAY MARINA Manager: Lee Gibbons Monkey Island Lane, Bray, Berkshire. SL6 2EB T: 01628 623654 E: bray@mdlmarinas.co.uk W: www.braymarina.co.uk

NORFOLK

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

SUFFOLK

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

ESSEX

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

LONDON

CHELSEA HARBOUR MARINA Harbour Master: Colin Bullock Chelsea Harbour, London, SW10 0XF T: 07770 542783 E: harbourmaster@chelsea-harbour.co.uk W: chelseaharbourmarina.com

WALES

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

MILFORD MARINA Manager or contact: Melanie Durney Milford Marina, Milford Haven, Pembrokeshire SA73 3AF Tel: 01646 796518 E: enquiries@milfordmarina.com W: www.milfordmarina.com PENARTH MARINA Penarth, Vale of Glamorgan, F64 1TQ T: 02920 705021 E: penarthoffice@quaymarinas.com W: www.quaymarinas.com NEYLAND YACHT HAVEN Manager: James Cotton Brunel Quay, Pembrokeshire, SA73 1PY T: 01646 601601 E: neyland@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com PORT DINORWIC MARINA Marina Manager: Ged Tyrer Y Felinheli Gwynedd, LL56 4JN T:01248671500/01248 670176 E: portdinorwic@themarinegroup.co.uk W: www.themarinegroup.co.uk BURRY PORT MARINA Harbour Master: Robert Hockey The Harbour Office Burry Port Carmarthenshire T:01554 835 691 E: burryport@themarinegroup.co.uk W: www.themarinegroup.co.uk

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

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

BRISTOL

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

NEWCASTLE

SCOTLAND

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

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

Swanwick Marina - with new floating marina

S 10M BERTH

FROM

5 ,73UM £3 PER ANN

s.com premiermarina

BEFORE YOU RENEW TAKE A LOOK AT PREMIER FOR QUALITY BERTHS, SUPERB YARDS & VALUE FOR MONEY

EASTBOURNE BRIGHTON CHICHESTER SOUTHSEA PORT SOLENT GOSPORT

(WITH DRY STACK)

SWANWICK

(WITH DRY STACK)

NOSS ON DART FALMOUTH

(WITH DRY STACK)

#PREMIERSINCE1994

EE

KENT

FR

UK AND IRELAND

WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK

BRITAIN’S MOST READ WATERFRONT NEWSPAPER

FEBRUARY 2020

UP TO SPEED BRITAIN’S MOST READ WATERFRONT NEWSPAPER It is the start of a new year which means new launches and models are coming thick and fast, and we have news of a number of craft that are going to be creating waves in 2020. Not forgetting the move towards electric power where there are some intriguing craft too… SEE PAGE 3

PAGE

25

GOING ON HOLIDAY?

2020’s BEST SAILING SPOTS

PAGE

27

ACWS PORTSMOUTH

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW

Read FREE online PAGE

29

RYA DINGHY SHOW

www.allatsea.co.uk/paper DREAM YACHT

Image: RNLI/Nigel Millard

PREVIEW GUIDE INSIDE!

OWNERSHIP

DO IT YOUR WAY Individual • Intelligent • Attainable

LARGS YACHT HAVEN Manager: Carolyn Elder Irvine Road, Largs, Ayrshire, KA30 8EZ T: 01475 675333 E: largs@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com

www.dreamyachtsales.co.uk • sales@dreamyachtsales.co.uk • +44 (0) 2380 455527

TROON YACHT HAVEN Manager: Stephen Bennie The Harbour, Troon, Ayrshire, KA10 6DJ T: 01292 315553 E: troon@yachthavens.com W: www.yachthavens.com

SPAIN

ITALY

HOLLAND

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

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

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

MDL MARINA DI STABIA Customer Service: Marika Somma Via Alcide de Gasperi 313, Castellammare di Stabia, Bay of Naples, 80053 Italy T: (0039) 0818 716871 E: marinadistabia@mdlmarinas. co.uk W: www.marinadistabia.com

N CYPRUS

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

TO BE INCLUDED IN OUR GUIDE CONTACT JOHN JOHN@ALLATSEA.CO.UK - 07740 118 928

45

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

OUTSTANDING MARINE SERVICES IN WARSASH... ...AT STONE PIER BOAT YARD Conveniently located at the mouth of the River Hamble, Stone Pier offers extensive boat yard facilities for sailing yacht and motor boat owners. We provide complete engine and drive maintenance for vessels with Volvo Penta power units.

• Yacht lifting at Swanwick for up to 35ft / 15 tons

So call us and tell us what service you’re interested in.

• Dedicated, fully trained & certified Volvo Penta engineers

01489 564914 Unit 6, Stone Pier Boat Yard , Warsash , SO31 9FR

www.rkmarine.co.uk

• Hard standing & under cover storage • Volvo Penta Servicing • Volvo Penta Engines

spby@rkmarine.co.uk AUTHORISED

46

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

ALL AT SEA - CLASSIFIEDS

s t s i al i c pe S The

ONISON T !

NO PAR ITES M S CO WEB

Did you know?

GJW Direct insure you based on the agreed value of your vessel, not just the market value.

Top Quality Boat Insurance for complete peace of mind

Get a quote today 0151 473 8000

www.gjwdirect.com

GJW Direct is a trading name of Groves, John and Westrup Limited.

Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, firm reference number 310496.

The UK's first online boat insurance provider Created by boat people, for boat people! ● ● ● ● ●

Quick and easy online quotations and cover 24 hour claims help line and online tracking Multi-boat insurance discounts - insure two or more boats for less Monthly payments available for premium over £100 at NO EXTRA COST! Underwritten by Navigators & General a trading name of Zurich Insurance plc

www.craftinsure.com

or call: 03452 607888 Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Quality Low Cost Marine Insurance Quotation in 5 Clicks and 30 Seconds

Our name says it all!

For quick, instant quotations and cover for all type of marine craft contact us on:

www.insurance-4-boats.co.uk

Telephone: 01656 784866

Fax: 01656 784872

quotes@insurance-4-boats.co.uk

Insurance-4-boats.co.uk is a trading style of Porthcawl Insurance Consultants (UK) Ltd. PIC is authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. All telephone calls are recorded.

To advertise here please call 07740 118928 47

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

ALL AT SEA - CLASSIFIEDS

Professional Boat Valeting • Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning • Engine Room and Bilge Cleaning • Cover Cleaning and Re-proofing

• Full Exterior Valets • Full Interior Valets • Compound and Waxing • New and Used Boat Handover Valets • Contract Valets • Teak Cleaning • Anti-Fouling • GRP Repairs

www.marinecleanvaleting.co.uk

Synonymous with Valeting Excellence

Tel: 01489 570757

sales@marinecleanvaleting.co.uk

Chelsea Harbour Marina A tranquil, 50-berth marina with a friendly atmosphere, close by all the attractions of the heart of London.

Gillingham Marina

Our facilities include:

 Heated showers  Washing machine & dryer  Laundry service  24hr security patrols & CCTV  Underground parking  Pump-out facility  Overnight river pontoon VISITORS ALWAYS WELCOME T +44 (0)20 7225 9108 M +44 (0)7770 542783 harbourmaster@chelsea-harbour.co.uk www.chelseaharbourmarina.com/marina/

• • • •

Annual Marina Berths Swinging Moorings Boatyard 45 Ton Hoist

The One Stop Boating Experience

24 Hour Security Locked & Tidal Berthing Large Workshop Facilities with both a 65t & 20t Boat Hoist Largest Chandlery in Kent & on-site Yacht Broker On Site Restaurant & Bar Hosting Active Marina Events Excellent Rail Links - Only 50 mins to London Gillingham Marina, 173 Pier Road, Gillingham, Kent ME71UB Tel: 01634 280022 Email: Berthing@gillingham-marina.co.uk WWW.GILLINGHAM-MARIN A .CO.UK

• • • •

POOLE HARBOUR

Chandlery and Fuel Hotel, Restaurant, Bar Visitors Welcome Near Harbour Entrance

More than a Marina +44 (0) 1202 709971

www.salterns.co.uk

20104 Salterns 'More than a Marina' Advert 80x132mm_ 'All at Sea'.indd 1

reception@salterns.co.uk 12/11/2018 11:12

BE THE FIRST TO FIND OUT WHEN WE PUBLISH THE NEXT ISSUE

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE OUR FREE NEWSLETTER

WWW.ALLATSEA.CO.UK

48

IN THE DRINK

ALL AT SEA CREW

BRITAIN’S MOST READ WATERFRONT NEWSPAPER

KEEPING THE CHEER COMING

BY PAUL ANTROBUS

Editor

Jane Hyde 079 402 403 90 editor@allatsea.co.uk

Art Editor

Mark Hyde design@allatsea.co.uk

Contributors David Henshall Simon Everett Paul Antrobus

With Paul Antrobus

What extraordinary times we are living in. Enjoying a beer or a glass of wine at home has become the habit, rather than going out to meet friends in a pub or a restaurant.

Advertising and Distribution Director John Baggaley 07740 118 928 john@allatsea.co.uk

Consultant

Chris Satchwell chris@allatsea.co.uk

Publisher

Sue Baggaley 07949 203 424 sue@allatsea.co.uk

Subscriptions 01442 820580

Accounts accounts@allatsea.co.uk

General Inquiries john@allatsea.co.uk

Office

01954 583617 Published by

ALL AT SEA P U B L IC AT IO N S

L I M I T E D

Office / Registered address Holystone Barn, 56 Park Lane Fen Drayton, Cambridgeshire, CB24 4SW 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. We welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs, but accept no responsibility for their loss, damage or total disappearance. Recycled content of paper in UK newspapers is 78.9 per cent.

COMPETITION TERMS AND CONDITIONS Winners will be notified by email/phone. The winners will be the first correct entry drawn at random after the competition closing date.

No cash or alternatives will be offered. Please indicate on your entry if you do not wish to receive information about other products and services from All at Sea, by phone, post, email or by SMS.

A

t the time of writing, drink stocks are still available on supermarket shelves and, if you were lucky enough to get a slot, to order online for a home delivery along with the rest of your groceries. Off-licenses were also considered essential and allowed to stay open but, with the strict limitations on movement, the demand has grown for supplies from drinks specialists whose main business was already home-delivery based.

One such is Laithwaite’s Wine whose direct-tohome service has been the mainstay of its business for years. The process is by direct-mail leaflets which always offer a great selection, mainly sourced direct from vineyards around the world and endorsed by the company founder Tony Laithwaite.

The norm is mixed 12 bottle cases containing two bottles each of six pre-selected wines by type or season which, if you like surfing the world of wines, saves a lot of time. One set in last March’s offer that caught my attention was the so called Black Reds, deep red colour and texture, which included Cabalié from France, Camino de Seda from Spain and Black Stump from Australia.

The plethora of vouchers can be slightly confusing but the bottom line is generally about £7 to £10 per bottle. To get on the distribution list go to www.laithwaites.co.uk.

On the fizz front, I can report the good news that Thomson & Scott, the people behind ‘skinny’ Prosecco and Champagne, are offering a free delivery service in what they call “these strange days” on six-bottle cases of their Vegan Prosecco and alco-free Noughty to “lubricate your lockdown”.

PUBS CLOSED

In the meantime, the closure of pubs in March left brewers with the headache of unused barrels of draught beers with an extremely short use-by date.

One such was the Black Sheep Brewery of Masham, Yorkshire, which was quick to announce that no new keg beer would be brewed until the shutdown was over.

On its website, Black Sheep said: “We are knee-deep in mail orders and home deliveries and working with off trade customers to ensure we can get our beer on to the shelves as quickly as possible.”

In addition to its many different beers in bottles and cans, Black Sheep distils and sells Sheep Dip Whisky and four different gins including the new Black Sheep Yorkshire Dry Gin, introduced to the market just last September.

JOINING BEERBODS

For a bit of fun, a quirky operation called BeerBods only home delivers and offers a way to keep socialising remotely via a mass video link up; it could be called a nationwide beer tasting panel.

BeerBods has developed as an online beer club and subscription service over the past eight years in which you buy a mixed box of 12 beers selected

by BeerBods which arrive by post. They are typically craft beers from small operations in different parts of the world including, in my box, some nice fresh American IPAs and an interesting dark malty Red Beer, 4.3 per cent from Skye Brewery.

Then once a week, on Thursdays, you get an email saying which beer is to be drunk each week

and the story behind the beer. Do not drink it yet!

Later, at 9pm on Thursdays, you can join in a live tasting led by the BeerBods founders to discuss the merits of the selected beer – everyone drinks the same beer and can join in as much or as little as they like.

A 12-week subscription is £36. So, yes, quite pricey at £3 per bottle but they have some interesting beers you might not have come across, and taking part could bring some extra cheer into your life just now. Check it out at beerbods.co.uk.

I wanted to reveal a bit of drinks history this month by congratulating Salcombe Gin on establishing the first ever working distillery on board a ship. The new P&O Cruises flagship Iona was due to depart on her maiden voyage to Norway on 24 May with the distillery as one of the passenger attractions. But the departure of any cruise in the near future is looking unlikely, so I will save that news for another time…

NEED SOMETHING TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN ACTIVE? CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD OUR QUIZ PAGE

ALL AT SEA MAY 2020

To advertise here please call 07740 118928 49

PO

LE

BO

The next page in your adventure

HARB

O

UR

Poole...

O

AT SHOW

HOME OF THE

POOLE HARBOUR

BOAT SHOW

LE

AT

HARB

O

1

6

PO B

O

O

UR

• The Jurassic Coast • Brownsea Island • Dining out • Entertainment • Fireworks Plus much more!

0 SHO W 2

POOLE HARBOUR

BOAT SHOW

XXth - XXnd MAY 2017

OUR FACILITIES: PERMANENT BERTHS

Enjoy all the attractions of Poole, It’s in a private position that makes the most Bournemouth and beautiful Dorset.

A warm welcome always awaits! of the views and gorgeous sunsets, yet it’s still close to Poole’s historic quay, old town • 125 visitor berths all year for vessels and vibrant shopping centre. up to 70m in length and up to 4.5m draft • 75 permanent berths • Swinging moorings • Superyacht berths • Floating docks for jet skis and SWINGING MOORINGS RIBs up to 6.1m Relax with a glass of wine, on a • 24 hour security sunny afternoon, on your own • Deep water: 2.5 - 6m swinging mooring in Poole • Water taxi service, parking Harbour overlooking Brownsea Island. Away from the madding VISITOR MARINA crowd, these offer you ultimate Use your boat as a holiday home; entertain privacy, peace & tranquillity. family, friends, colleagues or customers onboard; sail the stunning Jurassic Coast.

POOLE QUAY Boat Haven

PORT OF POOLE Marina

POOLE QUAY Boat Haven

Poole Town Quay, Poole, PORT OF POOLE Marina Dorset BH15 1HJ t: 01202 649488

poolequayboathaven.co.uk VHF Channel 80 call sign “Poole Quay Boat Haven”