GIIRA YACHTS - India's First Yacht Blog

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2008-11-24T13:26:00.004+05:30

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Weekly Update : 29th Sept ~ 5th Oct

2008-10-05T14:14:00.005+05:30

STOP PRESS !!!

The Mumbai Harbour has opened...all the energy and buzz in the air has returned. Boat-owners are out on their boats enjoying their evenings on their prized-possessions.

Charters enquiries are on the rise...with people demanding their slice of the waters.

Last week this year on GiiraYachts.com is all about -

29th September, 2008 - All you can do this season on the waters for your company...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/yacht-charters-corporate-affair.html

30th September, 2008 - A glimpse into the next level of boat-manufacturing facilities...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/factoreef-future-of-boat-making-is-here.html

1st November, 2008 - Fun when you want it to be fun and practical when you want it to be practical...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/10/my-jet-ski-seats-upto-6-people.html

3rd November, 2008 - Check out the new HOT CAT on the prowl...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/10/future-catamaran-porsche-studio-design.html

4th November, 2008 - Water-rafting, anybody?...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/10/white-water-rafting-rapid-grades.html

5th November, 2008 - Another attempt by the automobile industry towards the lifestyle of yachting...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/10/volkswagen-introduces-caddy-with-boat.html

See you on the waters soon...

Volkswagen Introduces A Caddy With A Boat Deck!

2008-10-05T02:29:00.001+05:30

Believe it or not... there's no ending when it comes to where or how one can get inspired. And if the next best car happens to be designed by a sailor, you've landed yourself the Caddy Topos Sail Design Concept of Volkswagen. Check out the car with a nautical theme...

A man and his boat can seldom be parted; you really need to own a boat to understand this phrase. Well, the thought must be right, because the likes of Volkswagen have come up with a design concept for their Caddy commercial van, which has a very nautical theme. The Topos Caddy Sail Design Concept takes inspiration from traditional yachts that transform the multi-functional roof to a sunbathing deck. Volkswagen has used the typical wooden floor deck trimmed with aluminum rails on the roof, replicating the effect of lounging on your boat deck. To access the roof one has to climb up the short flight of matching wooden and aluminum steps placed at the Caddy’s tailgate.

White-Water Rafting : Rapid Grades

2008-10-04T15:50:00.003+05:30

The weekend is here and you want to explore all your options of making that break away from the city...

If you are one of those adventurous kinds, you'd probably look into some kind of physical activity that would involve some serious and strenuous (but relieving from all the mundane weekly workload) physical activity around where you live.

And some of you might just want to head out and jump on to a raft on one of the exciting rivers around where you live.

Rafting or whitewater rafting is a challenging recreational activity utilizing a raft to navigate a river or other bodies of water. This is usually done on whitewater or different degrees of rough water, in order to thrill and excite the raft passengers. The development of this activity as a leisure sport has become popular since the mid 1970s.

A simple and fun activity it sure is...but read on to know what to expect once on your raft.

RAPIDS

A rapid is a section of a river where the river bed has a relatively steep gradient causing an increase in water flow and turbulence. A rapid is a hydrological feature between a run (a smoothly flowing part of a stream) and a cascade.

A rapid is characterised by the river becoming shallower and having some rocks exposed above the flow surface. As flowing water splashes over and around the rocks, air bubbles become mixed in with it and portions of the surface acquire a white colour, forming what is called "whitewater".

Rapids occur where the bed material is highly resistant to the erosive power of the stream in comparison with the bed downstream of the rapids. Very young streams flowing across solid rock may be rapids for much of their length.

RAPID GRADES

Grade 1

Rapids are small regular waves. The passage is clear and easy to recognise and negotiate. Care may be needed with obstacles like fallen trees and bridge piers.

Grade 2

Rapids have regular medium sized waves (less than 1 metre), low ledges or drops, easy eddies and gradual bends. The passage is easy to recognise and is generally unobstructed although there may be rocks in the main current, overhanging branches or log jams.

Grade 3

Rapids with fairly high waves (1-2 metres), broken water, stoppers and strong eddies, exposed rocks and small falls. The passage may be difficult to recognise from the river and manoeuvring to negotiate the rapid is required.

Grade 4

Difficult rapids with high, powerful, irregular waves, broken water, often boiling eddies, strong stoppers, ledges, drops and dangerous exposed rocks. The passage is often difficult to recognise and precise and sequential manoeuvring is required.

Grade 5

Very powerful rapids with very confused and broken water, large drops, violent and fast currents, abrupt turns, difficult powerful stoppers and fast boiling eddies; with numerous obstacles in the main current. Complex, precise and powerful sequential manouvering is required. A definite risk to personal safety exists.

Grade 6

All previous difficulties increased to the limit of practicability. Very confused and violent water so difficult that controlled navigation by raft is virtually impossible. Significantly life threatening if swimming and unrunable by all but a few experts.

Coming soon...we go rafting on the Kundalika (river at some place on the Mumbai-Goa Highway) and share the experience with you....

The Future CATAMARAN - PORSCHE Studio Design!

2008-10-03T09:55:00.001+05:30

"PORSCHE" ... The name defines Speed, Thrill, Luxury & Over the Edge EXPERIENCE! Porsche has a history of getting its talented fingers into everything. So when we heard that a collaboration between Porsche and the Singaporean yacht builder Royal Falcon Fleet is set to take place we were not surprised.

The German car manufacturer will be designing the exterior and the interior for the luxury RFF135 yacht. RFF135 is going to be a stunning 135ft mega high speed catamaran. Topping the speed of 35 knots, the catamaran is going to be one of the fastest yacht for its size. The catamaran looks more like a spaceship and it would surely appeal your eyes even if you are not a boat lover.

The technology will be taken care by the Singaporean yacht builder and will feature everything that a billionaire would require. The catamaran design which looks like an inspiration from the Star Wars movie will cost u few million. The collaboration between the two companies does not end with the catamaran. They plan to work and built more hi-tech boats and a mega yacht too.

European design and Asian technology, the combination is surely going to make the heads turn and wealthy spend. Its not clear when the project completes or about the date when the yacht will reach the market. But i feel many wealthy people must have pre-ordered the yacht by now.

If you're wondering how an automotive merchandise design firm could translate their competence to the entirely separate field of naval architecture, just remember that, following the Fearless speedboat series, this won't be the first time Porsche Design has tangled its toes in the water..

My Jet Ski Seats Upto 6 People!

2008-10-01T06:12:00.001+05:30

Unbelievable? You better believe it! Checkout the Dockitjet 5.6m RIB, an unsinkable Rigid Inflatable Boat, powered by a Personal Water Craft, which can lock in and out of the Dockitjet hull at any time, in minutes. The Dockitjet RIB can fit most PWC, becoming a boat that's great for group outings, safe and dry in chop, stable and spacious for fishing, diving or lunch, and still free to undock for play. The best of all worlds!

Factoreef : The future of boat-making is here...

2008-09-30T11:08:00.000+05:30

You want a trip to the future ?...Go visit CROATIA...!

Three students from Studio Lynn at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna have designed a conceptual boat factory for the island of Cres in Croatia.

Called Factoreef, it has been designed by Julcsi Futo, Bika Rebek and Stefan Ritter, students on the course run by architect Greg Lynn.

The architects describe the project as "a large scale, smoothly undulating roof held by an intricate steel truss structure".

FACTOREEF

"factoreef" is a proposal for a boat factory in the mediterranean town Cres, designed by architecture students Julcsi Futo, Bika Rebek and Stefan Ritter. They are currently enrolled at Studio Lynn, an architecture course run by American architect Greg Lynn at the University of Applied Arts in Vienna.

This project is a large scale smoothly undulating roof held by an intricate steel truss structure. It covers a single space partitioned only by structural elements. The promenade on the roof creates an attractive public ground for the touristic town Cres. Visitors get glimpses of the production happening inside and arrive to the see.

THE PROJECT'S CONSIDERATIONS

The Design Team were interested in the contrasts of the dense interior versus the vast exterior space of the boat, and the soft sail towards the rigid body. The main contrast they want to work with is the way the hard boat hull rips the mellow waves as it hits the water.

The aesthetic reference is the clean slick surface of the boat opposed to the barnacle like structure that is fine grained and intricate.

URBAN & MASSING

After analyzing various coastline typolologies we worked with the archipelago, which consist of a multitude of piers, canals, ponds and islands.

ORGANISATION

The layout of the plan is open, it facilitates efficient transportation of the boats from one machine to the other.

Tooling areas for the hull fabrication and finishing procedures that require separate spaces are detached in an enclosed stripe in the north, while the building opens up to the south, towards the sea.

The cool air circulates through the building, as it heats up it is exhausted through the upper part of the column which has then reversed openings.

THE MOOD & THE SETTING

The whole structure is visible from the inside creating a dense atmospheric view.

From the outside the monocoque roof only bursts into openings where the columns pierce through it.

The next flight to the future leaves today...

Yacht Charters : A Corporate Affair !

2008-09-29T19:48:00.005+05:30

CEO of your company !?...but you surely have not reached the pinnacle if you have not been on a yacht.

Thinking of a Corporate Team-building activity ??!..Why not take a team of colleagues onto sailboats in the harbour...teach them a few simple moves that they need to coordinate with each other...and see who reaches the other side of the harbour first - a sureshot way of knowing who picks up new things faster, and that too as a team.

Ladies & Gentlemen of the Corporate World...whether you are a CEO or a Customer Representative...welcome yourself to the next level of leisure, lifestyle and luxury in INDIA, and globally too.

Yacht Charters and Events are the most exclusive and thrilling experience one could savour...you can have private boardroom meetings on a mega-yacht or have sail your way to glory...all possible now in your nearest harbour in India or abroad.

WHY CHARTER?

Exclusive experiences on the waters broaden one's horizon...

The interiors of a mega-yacht are the most private and safest of their kind designed by the best designers in the world. Whether it is a meeting where you decide the fate of your meeting, or an evening where you want to take the whole 'C-bunch' viz. CEOs, CFOs, CXOs etc. on a multi-cuisine meal in the harbour - it is a priceless experience - all at a price affordable by any corporate standards.

Lately, some companies specialise in corporate training on the waters where they are able to generate qualities such as communication, inspiration, motivation, team-building, team-training, styles of leadership (...and the list goes on).

Training takes place on sailing yachts, where the participants work and live together. All duties concerning the sailing of the ship are carried out by everyone.
Sailing and training lessons alternate, and each trainee is constantly required to bring in his whole personality.

Have a look at a detailed write-up by clicking here.

WHAT CAN YOU DO ON YOUR CHARTERED YACHT ?

A complete and comprehensive range of all you can do is backed-up with complete on-site logistics too...

Your Charter or Corporate Event can be...

* Corporate Meetings...

* Luxury Charters to reward your Executives, Esteemed Clientele and International Guests...

* Coastal Cruises...

* Corporate Off-sites and Human Resource Development...

* Water-sports...

...and more...

BOATING - A LIFESTYLE FOR ALL

A lifestyle that at times is mistaken as very elite...in the domain of games like Golf, Formula 1 and more...boating is infact all that and more also...

This multi-faceted lifestyle allows one to look into activities such as wake-boarding, fishing, parasailing, jet-skiing and more...

At Giira Yachts we are able to provide you with the best solutions for your boating requirements.

From International Charters on Mega-Yachts to Harbour Cruises on Speed-boats, Giira Yachts caters to all your needs with fully customized lifestyle options...

We can arrange for your stay and entertainment at any beach or coastal town that you decide to stopover...and hence provide you with a complete solution for your charters - with comfort, safety and convenience as key considerations.

Call or Mail us now...Pamper your senses...

Weekly Update : 22 nd~28 th September, 2008

2008-09-28T23:57:00.002+05:30

Its the end of September and the Mumbai harbor is going to get filled with new Yachts & Water Crafts soon. Just cant wait to see the harbor alive and on the move again!

Monaco Yacht Show took place last week and the show was a great success as always....

22nd September, 2008 - From the Cape of Town to the Beautiful coast of Bangkok, Yachting Craze Hits Bollywood..!!

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/yachting-craze-hits-bollywood.html

23rd September, 2008 - 40 Signature Series futuristic looking yacht by Foster & Partners for YachtPlus...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/yachtplus-signatured-by-foster-partners.html

24th September, 2008 - Monaco Yacht Show featuring the Competition for the Best Designed Range Rover with the Yacht Tender Theme...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/range-rover-yacht-tender.html

25th September, 2008 - The tale of the family who took up sailing to leave their problems and sickness behind...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/sailing-their-way-out-of-sickness.html

26th September, 2008 - Pershing tops it up at The Cannes Boat Show. Wins 3 prestigious awards...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/pershing-64-cannes-super-star.html

27th September, 2008 - The lead singer and lyricist of the world wide popular band U2 will soon be seen on his very on paradise on water...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/celebrity-yachts-bono-his-blue-cyan.html

28th September, 2008 - The rough and tough, highly durable RIBs by Madera RIBs...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/madera-ribs-virtually-indestructible.html

Madera RIBs - Virtually Indestructible

2008-09-28T11:58:00.000+05:30

RIBs are our favorite...simple, practical, fast...and all that too at a price which would make that sun-burn you get without a cabin feel like a bare essential (pun intended).

Madera RIBs are another very famous brand of RIBs available in the world market.

But unlike the GoldFish, this is the bare-basic dont-give-a-damn RIB that can carry a multi-millionaire or even a miner safely to his destination.

MADERA

Madera RIBs are designed, constructed and mainly used for military purposes and heavy duty offshore use.

A company that boasts of being ambitious and fast growing - it uses the best materials, a cost-saving product-management system and working with a specialized and experienced staff. This aids in keeping costs to a minimum while still ensuring that products meet with the very highest quality standards.

Mainly specialized in designing and building large RIBs from 8 meters to 21 meters; these boats are intended for professional use, such as fast transport, military, coast guard, Search and Rescue, Fire and Police departments - some of the menial tasks these undertake are moonlighting for sea-safaris and leisure.

FEATURES

Madera RIBS are well known because of their high fuel capacity to reach long distances, their strong hull and the use of multiple powerful engines ideal for fast transport of heavy cargo or to carry large groups of people.

Madera RIBs are the first and only RIB manufacturer in the world with higher placed tubes on their Ribs which has the following advantages:-

i) A Madera RIB has a proven, better sea-going behaviour than conventional RIBs with lower tubes.

ii) A Madera RIB has a safer work platform for the crew and passengers.

iii) Higher placed tubes prevent hard-slamming of the RIB and the tubes on the water above sea state 1.

iv) Because of the reduced slamming a Madera RIB has also less vertical accelerations and has an much effect on the physics of the crew, passengers or embarked forces.

Build quality

Exhaustive quality control, suitable for professional use in very heavy offshore circumstances, RIBs are built in a certified state of the art factory under the supervision of several Certification authorities.

Construction

Made from a GRP (glass reinforced plastic) hand lay-up, below deck a special construction is built reinforced with Kevlar, the boat is divided in small waterproof compartments filled with closed cells foam.

Navigational reliability

Navigate in extreme circumstances thanks to their build design and quality and the installation of the best equipment.

Safety

Designed and built for use in extreme circumstances without having to worry about personal safety on board.

An ergonomic design

More spacious – in volume and height - thus a larger cargo capacity load.

Applied technology

Only the best equipment from the best suppliers is installed.

Innovation

This places our RIBs at the technical and technological vanguard

The range

Length range for professional use running from 8 - to 21 meters

Price-quality ratio

The most attractive option on the market when compared to similar vessels due to their quality, reliability and cost.

For more information on these strong and sturdy RIBs, click here...

Celebrity Yachts - Bono & His Blue Cyan

2008-09-27T17:47:00.000+05:30

Rumor has it that Paul David Hewson aka BONO is the newest celebrity to own a yacht. The lead singer and lyricist of the world wide popular band U2 will soon be seen on his very on paradise on water…

The acclaimed singer who is also a known for his humananitarion acts and beliefs has in the past been seen taking his holidays with his family on yachts. infact reports also claim that Bono along with his family has taken “Test Cruise” on the yacht which according to reports has been built by the respected Codecasa firm of central Italy apparently after a "test cruise" with his family last year while they were vacationing.

About Bono’s Boat –

For starters the boat is already a preowned boat and was formerly known as “Renalo”. The “Cyan” (as it is known today) was built in 1997 and went through a major refit in 1997.

The Cyan is a 140-foot yacht and has six cabins with room for 12 guests. Other features include an on-deck Jacuzzi, swim platform and a garage full of water toys. Bono also seems to have recharged the color to blue from its original white.

The interior is constructed with mahogany and limed oak, with each of the rooms fitted with plasma screen tvs, satellite TV, and dvd players.

Until recently, the Cyan had a weekly charter price of between €140,000 and €175,000. the €200million man is estimated to have spent about €15-20million euros on his new found prized possession.

And offcourse being a music lover Bono has apparently decked up his beautiful yacht with hi end music system.

Quick facts about the boat –

Length Overall (m): - 48.70
Charter guest: - 10
Cabins: - 6
Cruise speed: 12 knots
Max speed: 19 knots
Refit: 1999

If anyone interested in doing a last minute charter on the boat can click here - http://www.charterworld.com/index.html?sub=yacht-charter&charter=my-renalo-1151

We do hope that Bono does eventually buy this boat. the large traditional interiors and the mahogany finish along with its modern design and technology make the boat a must have.

Pershing : The Cannes Super-Star...

2008-09-26T03:40:00.003+05:30

The SILVER LIGHTNING of the seas is at it again...it's time to proudly parade that long Rooster-Tail once more...

...and we have a WINNER !

Pershing...the best performance yachts of all time...has up-ped its marque by winning 3 awards...and in the process created a furore when the Pershing 64 won 2 back-to-back awards at Cannes in the 'The 2008 World Yachts Trophies Gala Dinner'.

...an incredible three awards at the 31st edition of the Festival de la Plaisance!

THE CANNES PARADE

On 13th September 2008, a splendid parade of yachts crowned the 31st edition of the Festival International de la Plaisance in Cannes, one of the most elegant and eagerly awaited events in the worldwide yachting calendar.

For a while a cloudy sky threatened to spoil the atmosphere of the closing gala celebrations, but in the end the dinner and the Yacht Parade all went off perfectly, even surpassing expectations. And for the Pershing yachts the evening was a momentous triumph.

As usual, the Cannes Boat Show closed with the World Yacht Trophy awards. Organised by Yachts Magazine, these awards are presented to the craft the magazine considers to be the best in the yachting world for that particular year. And this year Pershing’s distinctive combination of class and refinement swept the table with no less that three trophies.

In the Open Yacht Under 24 Mt category the Pershing 64' carried off awards for both Best Design and Most Functional Design, raising the Italian shipyard’s enviable prize record to even greater heights.

Then the Pershing 80’ won the trophy for the Most Innovative Boat in the Open Yacht Over 24 Mt category. This trophy was awarded after an appraisal of the craft’s structural design that guarantees superior overall performance and therefore a more luxurious onboard lifestyle for the owner.

It is no coincidence either that the two Pershing models received nominations in almost all categories, including Best Design, Most Functional Design, Best Decor (best internal layout) and Most Innovative Design.

WHY A WINNER...

These yachts boast numerous elements that make them stand out in this increasingly innovative segment.

First and foremost they are constructed using advanced techniques, such as the special Scrimp System fibreglass vacuum moulding process.

They also include a series of refined features that enhance every moment of life onboard, like the slideaway glass partition designed in collaboration with Besenzoni, the extendable and retractable hard top with its twin electric drive mechanism and the Genius gangplank that doubles as a swimming ladder.

And lastly, these craft boast highly original design elements, such as the special open-view maxi window in the Master Cabin, situated in the centre of the boat, which is a remarkably light and airy feature, thanks to the openable porthole set into the glass.

ADVANCED ENGINEERING

The Pershing 80’ and the Pershing 64’ demonstrate how Pershing insists on adopting only the most advanced technology and providing owners and their guests with new ways of surprising the future. This is the spirit that matches these new yachts perfectly with the brand’s new communication campaign: only the greatest ideas come true.

POWER, SPEED, INNOVATION...

A vision that focuses on the new, the unexplored, the yet to come and the need to improve and put oneself constantly to the test. Pershing is all this. Because ideas only become great when they are transformed into concrete actions. When they prove their brilliance by facing reality.

A GALA WITH A SPECIAL CAUSE

'The 2008 World Yachts Trophies Gala Dinner' ceremony was held in the splendid setting of the Hotel Carlton Inter-Continental beach terrace and the spectacular event was attended by some of the most famous celebrities in the world of international yachting.

The Pershing President, Tilli Antonelli, yacht designer Fulvio De Simoni and CEO Fabio Fraternale collected the awards personally, in front of an audience of a thousand invited guests.

This year, the gala evening, organised once again by Michel Karsenti’s Lux Media Group team, included a major new charity initiative. This involved introducing a subscription fee for every boat taking part in the parade, a move that succeeded in raising 41,500 Euros which the Yachts Magazine Group then donated to the ELA (European Leukodystrophy Association), an institution specialised in helping children suffering from muscular dystrophy .

80 AND 64

Pershing chose to enrol its leading models, the Pershing 80’ and Pershing 64’ at Cannes, as the French Salon is a natural continuation from the success enjoyed by the two craft during the Pershing Sea Show, this summer. This highly original event, in its second edition this year, moored in a number of prestige locations including the Milan Furniture Show, Portorose and Palma de Majorca.

At each of these stopovers the spectacular design and features of these splendid yachts succeeded in attracting attention and enchanting yachting experts as well as the press and the general public. Cannes was therefore the ideal place to continue the cruise.

And once again this year the Festival proved to be a not-to-be-missed opportunity for attracting worldwide attention and sizing up sector competitors. After all, this is an event that Pershing has created a very special bond with over the years and this, combined with its unique, prestigious atmosphere makes it the natural choice for celebrating the opening of the yachting season in style.

For more of our coverage on Cannes 2008...click here.

Sailing Their Way Out Of Sickness

2008-09-25T02:42:00.000+05:30

Live while you can, and make the best of it, because you never know what will happen next.

We found an interesting tale of a 10 year old girl, Olivia, who sailed for two years with her family. Her mum was struck with breast cancer but recovered from it. All the same the family decided to take a break from the daily hussle and bussle and hopped onto a sailboat for an unforgetable adventure!

"Waves rustle against the hull of Zora. A seagull shrieks to the rising sun as I open my hatch. Beyond the deck, a white-sand beach stretches off into the distance. Light dances in the turquoise waves. Later in the day, I might go for a snorkel or collect shells in that pristine sand. No, it isn’t a happy dream. It was my life for two years.

When I was four and five, my mother had breast cancer. I was so scared for her, but she survived. That left my family with an important morale: Live while you can, and make the best of it, because you never know what will happen next. So we made a decision; we would get a sailboat and go cruising for a while. My parents found Zora, our Mariner 39, in an old boatyard, lying in a field. Feral cats had been using her as a litter box. Stuff was falling off. She was going to take a lot of work.

For two years my parents fixed her up. While Dad sanded, I came and watched movies on a small TV. While Mom varnished, I drew. Every day after school, I was completely bored. During the second year, we rented out our house and moved out (I remember this so well) on Halloween night to my grandmother’s house on Great Diamond Island, in Casco Bay, Maine. Every morning, I took the ferry boat, sometimes alone (and once with actress Liv Tyler!) to school, then back in the evenings. Sometimes I didn’t see my dad for days on end because he worked all night on Zora in the boatyard. It was really hard, but then she was finished! Zora was finally finished and launched!

The first night of our two-year trip aboard Zora brought us an unexpected visitor: a baby beluga whale nicknamed Poco. We were motoring back to Zora in our little, soft-bottomed dinghy when… BUMP! “What on earth was that?” said my mom. BUMP! We looked over the side. Was it a rock? Then a friendly little white face peered up at us. Poco! He was like a dog, playing with our dinghy painter, letting us pet his rubbery skin. When we left to sail south the next day, who squirted Mom in the face but the friendly little whale! He followed us all day and night before turning around.

For my eighth birthday I got a great present -- a Siamese kitten! I named her Daisy and we spent hours and hours laughing at “Kittovision” – the new 24-hour-a-day cat-entertainment show. She was my best friend on the boat trip and helped keep me from getting bored as we motored down the ICW in cold fall weather.

“ICW” stands for IntraCoastal Waterway. The ICW was a string of locks and bridges and man-made rivers. And there we started home schooling. Although it only took one or two hours in the morning, I had just about the worst Math and English books ever. It was kind of neat, however, that my mom designed my classes and I got to study things that had to do with the trip, like Mayan civilization and sea creatures. Part of my Science class was studying my vast shell collection.

I had two encounters with wild horses on the ICW: The first, I was looking for the shaggy ponies that live on an island near Beaufort with some cruising buddies. Two paths crossed -- the one we were on, and a seemingly deserted one. Suddenly, we heard whinnying and hooves. We all flattened ourselves behind some bushes as the whole herd came thundering past. We got up after they were gone. We were a bunch of kids, no adults, in the middle of some wild island, and had almost gotten trampled by ponies! We all grinned and headed back to the beach to tell our parents.

My second encounter was just as odd: On Cumberland Island, Georgia, the whole troupe of cruising kids (again) were coming back from a beach on the other side of the island when a herd of wild horses was grazing right in front of our noses! We couldn’t resist: We mingled in with the uncaring horses and picked out “our” horse. I chose a white filly I named Snowflake, while my friend chose a mare who was obviously her mother, as they were grazing side-by-side. It was time to go, but as we were walking back to our dinghies, my friend whispered, “Turn around!” I did. Snowflake was following me, while her mother still grazed! The filly followed me to the edge of the field (it took all my will not to stroke her), whinnied, then ambled back to her mom. It was purely magical.

At last! Florida behind us, we were in the Caribbean! Our first stop was the beautiful Bahamas. On one island, I went to school there for five days. Everyone there was wearing uniforms! On the capitol island, Nassau, there were hustling, bustling streets and businesses. Most of the other islands were remote and we had lots of beaches to explore.

We then proceeded through the Turks and Caicos, Puerto Rico, and other small islands. In Dominica, someone climbed aboard our boat in the middle of the night! Dad was able to frighten the thief away, but it was quite a scare for us. We left Dominica the next morning, thoroughly shaken.

We kept sailing south until we reached Grenada, where we went on a little tour! We climbed into a bus with other people (including some of my cruising-kid friends) and set off. Our first stop was a waterfall. It was so beautiful, and we jumped off a smaller one. Then we stopped by a nutmeg factory. Now, Grenada nutmeg is very famous, but the island had just suffered a big hurricane at the time of our visit, and 95 percent of the nutmeg trees were knocked down. Grenada must have had a lot of nutmeg trees, though, because when we visited the factory the many, giant bins were overflowing! Each of the kids got a couple nutmegs, and long afterwards (we still have some) my parents grated the spice into their sundowners. Next, we visited a chocolate factory, where the chocolate was made straight from the cocoa beans in an old machine with very little else added to it. There were varying textures and grades of chocolate, from extra-light to super-dark, sweet to bitter. We got to try a few pieces -- they were all excellent.

Lastly, we visited a very old rum factory (what Caribbean island would be complete without rum?). It still used an antique rum press, and we got to see the ancient machinery work. Quite simply, it crushed the sugar cane (there was a whole field of it) and the juices went down a little tube into vats. We watched as the vats boiled the cane juice, and as it was put into oak barrels. Finally, the parents were supplied with a very small cup of rum and a very large glass of water. Apparently they really needed that water afterwards! My mom bought a tiny bottle of the rum and I believe we still have it -- nobody’s been brave enough to drink it yet.

After that we continued downwards to Trinidad and went on a “turtle tour.” We saw baby leatherback sea turtles hatching, and Mama Leatherback laying her eggs. We even got to hold the baby turtles! It was a great experience, and it went on until midnight!

After Trinidad, we went to Venezuela. From Venezuela, we tried to go to Panama. However, half way through the passage, our engine died! The situation gets worse, however -- Hurricane Wilma was forming to the north! We had of get out of there. There was no way we would make it to Panama, so we veered towards Colombia. We got into an anchorage whose entrance was guarded by two tall rocks by hitching our dinghy to Zora’s side as a tugboat! Colombia was very fun.

Soon we were in the San Blas of Panama. The string of perfect islands would have to be one of my favorite places! Some islands were inhabited by the Kuna Indians. They made beautiful cloth pictures called molas, paddled long, burnt-log canoes called ulus, and made jewelry from claws and teeth.

After the San Blas we went to go see Tikal, the great ruined Mayan civilization. There were huge temples of limestone, intricately carved, rising up out of the vast jungle. (Tikal was used in Star Wars as the rebel base.) There were parrots and monkeys, toucans and coatimundis. That was a truly amazing experience!

After Tikal we headed home. The funny thing is, I always wanted to go home on the trip, but now that I’m back in Portland, I want to go back out cruising again."

RANGE ROVER - A Yacht Tender!?!

2008-09-24T10:00:00.001+05:30

Monaco Yacht Show 08, which raises its curtain today, has lots to offer when it comes to fine luxury! You will get to see all sizes of high end luxury yachts and different makes such as Ferretti, Azimut, Benetti, Princess etc on display. And to add a spark to the Yacht Show, the visitors will get to see a sketch of megayacht-inspired versions of the Range Rover sport-utility vehicle.

So if you are buying a $60 Million 270ft luxury mega-yacht at the Monaco Yacht Show this month the next thing you probably would want is a Range Rover to go with it. So if that's the case consider yourself lucky! Edmiston the global yacht brokerage and sales company have come up with a program to have yacht designers create megayacht-inspired versions of the Range Rover sport-utility vehicle. The Range Rovers are pimped up to go with the multi million $ yachts.

Andrew Winch, Martin Francis, Terence Disdale, Ken Freivokh, Dickie Bannenberg, Tim Heywood and Redman Whitely Dixon are the Seven leading yacht designers who submitted their designs. The sketches will be on display at the Monaco Yacht Show and a winner will be chosen tomorrow, 25th of September. Customers can order an actual model, for a mere €200,000 to €800,000, or nearly $300,000 to $1.2 million! If that sounds expensive, Edmiston comments that its nothing when compared to a typical mega-yacht tender.

Amongst the design submitted, the design by Disdale and Bannenberg are the most interesting ones. Mr. Disdale created a convertible to become what he calls the “St. Tropez Al Fresco tender”. The luggage compartment is tucked beneath a teak cover and has large white waterproof seats.

The Bannenberg model has an entire rear deck, complete with a sun tent, custom-molded chaise lounge and champagne holders! Its unbelievable that a Range Rover can be modified to such an extent. Lets wait and see which designer is crowned as the winner for the ultimate Range Rover Tender!

YachtPlus - Signatured by Foster & Partners

2008-09-23T09:11:00.000+05:30

Architects Foster & Partners have designed the 40 Signature Series yacht for YachtPlus.

The 41-metre yacht is under construction at Rodriquez Cantieri Navali boat yard in Italy and will be available from this month.

'PIECE OF MODERN ARCHITECTURE'

Exclusive to YachtPlus, the Foster designed 40 "Signature Series" is a new concept private luxury super-yacht for a new generation of yacht owner. Her unique contemporary shape makes her unmistakably a piece of modern architecture.

Lord Norman Foster's work on luxury hotels and residences provided a fresh approach to achieving privacy, comfort and usage of space onboard a motor yacht.

A new emphasis was given to such issues as quality and quantity of space, outdoor terraces, light and views. As a result, the 40 "Signature Series" offers more deck space and interior comfort than any equivalent yacht of her size, offering our Owners a genuine extension to the modern spaces they life, work and holiday in around the world.

DESIGN

The yacht's design concept is the result of the work over a 15-month period by a permanent team of 7 architects at Foster and Partners in London and Italy, headed by Lord Foster himself. The result is a new concept private luxury yacht that compares very favourably to many predecessors in her type, with four genuine deck levels offering over 30% more outdoors and indoors space that any yacht in her category.

Special attention was paid to the quality of light and views, with all major areas of the yacht benefiting from forward-looking views, including the Master-Owner suite that has two private balconies forward. A lot of thought went into making the yacht user-friendly for families and children.

The result is a new yacht for a new generation of yacht owner, offered exclusively through YachtPlus for private cruising by its Owners.

SUPER HOT FEATURES

1) Unrivalled space and innovation captured in a visionary design

2) Four Genuine Decks

3) Full beam owner's cabin on main deck with forward facing windows leading to his and hers private balconies

4) Four guest / VIP cabins below, aft two cabins convertible into one large family cabin

5) Segregated crew access corridor between crew and guest cabins

6) Accommodation for up to 8 crew

7) Glass walled main saloon wth unrestricted 180 Degrees view

8) Glass walled upper saloon with aft, side and forward views

9) Extensive outer deck space, both forward and aft

10) Expandable main deck aft

11) Grand Staircase at transom

12) Unrivalled open space, both inside and out, with unobstructed view

13) Submergible beach deck

14) Separate jet ski storage from tender

15) Side launch of tender

INTERIORS

Foster and Partners' interiors for the luxurious private motor yachts have been created with an eye on beauty, function and luxury, right down to the smallest detail. They have reconfigured traditional boat interiors to create a fresh style that is contemporary, technologically advanced and timeless.

Taking advantage of the floor-to-ceiling windows and wide views. Foster and Partners has created a sense of continuity between the outside areas and interior spaces. On the main deck, solid teak wood continues indoors through the length of the spacious saloon (538 sq ft / 50 sqm) while the panoramic saloon on the upper deck has coconut husk fibre flooring, evocative of the laid-back interior style of a beach hut. On the lower decks the cabins' walls follow the rounded profile of the hull and are inset with lights, showing to best effect the unique 'eggshell'-curved living spaces.

Unusually for a motor vessel, the yacht is flooded with natural light on each of the four decks, which are in turn connected by a transparent glass spiral staircase. On the lower levels glossy, highly reflective finishes maximise the natural light available. The entire length of the owner's suite is glazed on both sides with full-length windows. Its position at the bow end of the main deck maximises the sea views and points to the course of the yacht.

State-of-the-art lighting systems have been integrated throughout the design of the interiors, with scene-setting ceilings which change the mood and atmosphere of every room, transforming the panoramic saloon from a beach hut by day to an urban lounge by night and also ensuring the right degree of privacy. At night, the windows appear opaque from the outside, while during the day, the strong outside light floods into the space, making the windows appear completely lucent and open to the seascape.

Designer: Foster & Partners

Naval Architect: Rodriquez Cantieri Navali

Builder: Rodriquez Cantieri Navali

Delivery: September 2008 (First of series)

Length, overall: 41.0m (132 ft)

Length, waterline: 35.0m

Beam (max.): 8.40m

Draught: 2.30m

Displacement: 205 tons (half load)

Propulsion: 2 x 1044kW Caterpillar C32 diesels

Speed max: 17.5 knots, cruising 16 knots

Fuel Capacity: 21,000 litres

Range: 1,500 NM at 12 knots, 620 NM at 16 knots

Fuel Consumption Approx: 510 LTS/H at 15 knots

Generators: 2 x 86 kW

Stabilisers: 2 x active fin with at anchor feature

Watermakers: 2 x 3100 lts/day

Anchors: 2 x CRQ

Construction: Hull & Superstructure Aluminium

Classification: RINa Hull Mach, Yacht (MCA) unrestricted navigation, AUT-UMS

Certificate of conformity to MCA's Large Commercial Yacht Code (LY2)

Flag: UK Flag

YACHT ON...!!!

Yachting Craze Hits Bollywood !!

2008-09-22T06:25:00.000+05:30

Whether they are being used as an intersting prop in bollywood songs, or as the next best thing for recreation, sailing & luxury yachts are everywhere.. in bollywood that is! Tashan & Bachna Ae Haseeno had them, now we got to watch out for them in Blue...
Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt is having a whale of a time in Bangkok! He has hired a 40-foot-long luxury catamaran for his close friends while he shoots for the thriller Blue.

Sanjay, who is known for his generous ways, invited his closest friends to join him and wife Maanyata in Bangkok to party and relax while the underwater adventure Blue was being shot in the middle of the ocean.

"It's non-stop deep sea diving, music, snorkelling and barbeque in the middle of the bluest ocean god ever invented. This is the most thrilling holiday I've ever had," he added.

The glimpses of the yachting lifestyle also feature in the movie Bachna Ae Haseeno where Bipasha glams out in a villa next to a Marina! She is also seen on one of these luxury crafts along with Ranbir.

And who can miss the magnificent sail yacht in the song Chhaliya from Tashan! Well, there are certainly more exciting things to watch out for other than Kareena in a bikini- thats a promise!

Weekly Update : 15th~21st September, 2008

2008-09-21T10:26:00.002+05:30

Mid-way into September, and we all are slowly getting excited about the new season coming up...

Europe wakes up from it's siesta with the Cannes Boat Show that happens this week...and the Monaco Boat Show coming up soon....

15th September, 2008 - Feel the passion of rafting down the whitest of waters with our coverage on the Brahmaputra...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/brahmaputra-river-puts-india-on.html

16th September, 2008 - Villas on the seas? Not really...get to know what a 'Flotilla' is...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/flotillas-summer-camp-on-seas.html

17th September, 2008 - Every Riva is an ecstatic mix of passion, glamour and glory...with the 92 Duchessa it just gets more involving...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/riva-debuts-royal-member-of-family-at.html

18th September, 2008 - Here's the countdown to the BIGGEST Boat Show...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/monaco-yacht-show-2008-get-ready-for_18.html

19th September, 2008 - Not sure whether the boat he captained in the movie was his own?...NO PROBLEM...this one is surely his own!

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/celebrity-yachts-johnny-depp.html

Celebrity yachts – Johnny Depp

2008-09-19T09:19:00.001+05:30

Best known for his roles in the pirates of the Caribbean Johnny Depp also owns his own boat where he is the captain and the pirate whenever he pleases. Fear not its not the wrecked boat that was visible in the movie. It’s a beautiful 146 feet luxury mega yacht.

The boat has an old world charm to it and is not like the typical fiberglass megayachts. The traditional homely wooden finishes in the interiors truly portray the fine Turkish architecture.

About the boat –
It was built by Proteksan Turquoise was built in turkey in 2001 and is a large modern classic luxury superyacht that is about 47m (156ft) in length and has a wide beam of about 7m (23feet). Although the boat has its 2x 358kW CAT engines she also comes along with sails which gives the yacht an equal balance of tradition with modern technology.

Why Vajoliroja ??

The name Vajoliroja is a combination of Johnny’s family’s names. Va for Vanessa, Jo for Johnny, LiRo for his 9 year old daughter Lily Rose and Ja for his son Jack. It sounds like ‘The Jolly Roger’ if you say it just right.

The actor has always had fine taste for luxury products, Johnny Depp grows grapes and has a wine making facilities in his vineyard in Plan-de-la-Tour north of Saint-Tropez. Known for a fondness of French wines, among Depp's favourites are the Bordeaux wines Château Calon-Ségur, Château Cheval-Blanc and Château Pétrus, and the Burgundy wine Domaine de la Romanée-Conti.

Qucik facts of the boat –

Owner – Johny Depp
Yacht Name - Vajoliroja
Length : 156.10 ft / 47.55 m
Beam : 23.00 ft / 7.00 m
Shipyard : Proteksan-Turquoise, TUR Year : 2001
Naval Architect : Tanju Kalaycyoglu
Stylist : Tanju Kalaycyoglu
Decorator : Redman Whiteley
Engine : 2x 358kW CAT 3406C diesels
Speed (cruise) : 12Hull /
Superstr. : steel and alu / composite
Guests : 11
Fuel : 36,000
Crew : 7

We guess its safe to assume that his boat and his passion for yachting could be one of the key reasons for taking up the series of movies (pirates of the Caribbean) which has helped exhibiting his true potential in the movies.

We at Giirayachts would like to wish Johnny Depp all the best for his new voyages, be it on the ocean or in movies.

Monaco Yacht Show 2008 : Get Ready for the Hercules of the Boat Shows...

2008-09-18T03:11:00.000+05:30

The 18th Monaco Yacht Show is all about BIG !

It's meant exclusively for superyachts over 25 metres in length...it's held at a port called Port Hercules...and to top it all it has nothing smaller than a whole city to sponsor it - Abu Dhabi !

MYS annually attracts a private clientele of the world's super rich from over 40 countries, held under the high patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco. If you're anywhere near Monaco, it's visit you won't want to miss - from September 24-27.
(SOURCE)
18TH EXTRAVAGANZA

Eighteen years after its inception - since the wealthy residents and the yachting fraternity of Monaco felt it would be better to have a boat show for the rest of the world to follow - the Monaco Yacht Show sets the ball rolling for boat shows across the world, even now.

The Monaco Yacht Show brings together professionals from the international luxury yachting sector; ship-builders and designers, equipment suppliers, brokers and service providers. The MYS is renowned throughout the sector for being the show that must not be missed in the luxury yachting sector because it is the only yacht show exclusively devoted to super-yachts of at least 25 meters in length.

SOME NUMBERS...

1) 95 yachts from 82 to 300 feet and 25 tenders

2) 500 exhibitors

3) 28,000 visitors expected

4) Net stand area: 9,000 sq. mts.; on quay exhibition area: 14,000 sq. mts.

5) The yachts exhibited measure form 82 to 295 feet

6) 53% of the yachts are bigger than 40 meters

WHAT'S AT THE SHOW...

Visitors to the stand will be offered a personal presentation of drive’s modelling and visualisation processes tailored to the superyacht sector. Drive has proven that 20 years’ expertise and methodologies from automotive design, can be successfully implemented in the marine industry, as illustrated by their work on projects for such companies as Ken Freivohk, Redman Whiteley Dixon and Sunseeker.

Recent expansion means that drive’s design service for the marine industry now spans 2D concepts to physical models. A further addition to facilities is a new workshop area with the latest Dimension 1200 3D printer for rapid prototype ABS models. Clients can view a physical model of their superyacht during the digital development stages, giving them a real advantage when assessing designs, be they full size detail parts or scale models of superyachts.

H.S.H. PRINCE ALBERT II ON THE 18TH MONACO YACHT SHOW

Year after year, the Monaco Yacht Show has become the premier rendezvous for all players in luxury yachting.

The 18 th Monaco Yacht Show will mark another step forward with figures in constant progression: presence of nearly 100 yachts up to 90 meters long, above 500 leading companies participating and 28,000 visitors expected.

The Monaco Yacht Show is not just a prestige international event; it is also a team that is strongly committed to causes dear to the Principality.

Concerned with environmental protection, for the fourth year in a row this event will compensate its carbon dioxide emissions thanks to the “Carbon Neutral” programme.

Moreover, the Monaco yacht Show supports research to seek therapy for children with Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy, donating half its receipt to the Monegasque Dystrophy Association.

I would like to congratulate the organizers Luc Pettavino and his entire team who, through their ambition, determination and competence have made this Show a reference in worldwide yachting.

...AND WHY ABU DHABI?

So why exactly is Abu Dhabi sponsoring the Monaco show? - because Abu Dhabi wants to build its own superyacht credentials ahead of next year's debut of the Abu Dhabi Yacht Show (ADYS). So it almost seems as though Abu Dhabi is in competition with its sister city Dubai.

...and maybe it is - Abu Dhabi has 700 kilometres of coastline and 200 natural islands, and it is also undergoing substantial urban, inland and coastal development to transform it into an international tourism destination.

The ADYS - if you are a boat show junkie, will be held 12 - 14 March next year at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), one of the world's most modern show venues, and in its 2.4 kilometre marina.

Click here to know more on how the 18th Monaco Yacht Show is already sold-out...

Riva Debuts 'Royal Member Of The Family' At Cannes

2008-09-17T04:44:00.001+05:30

For the opening of the nautical year 2008/09, Riva presented itself at the Cannes boat show with a display of its entire range. From Aquariva Super to 115’ Athena, the 10 models currently in production at the Sarnico and La Spezia shipyards are on show in a parade to celebrate the debut of the “royal” member of the family – the Duchessa. This 92 footer flybridge, presented as a preview to Riva owners during the annual gala dinner in Porto Cervo in August, will grace the stage at the 31st Festival de la Plaisance for the very first time, in the brand new setting dedicated specifically to megayachts.

Revealed to the international press during the press conference held on September 11th, the new 92' Duchessa immediately achieved great success among the visitors come to see her, thanks to her exclusive design that marks another step forward in the history of the shipyard. Moreover, besides the eleventh pearl of the Riva collection, those visiting the boat show had the chance to admire Aquariva Super, Rivarama, Rivale, SportRiva 56’, 63’ Vertigo, 68’ Ego Super (another new model for 2008), 75’ Venere, 85’ Opera Super and 115’ Athena.

Riva’s latest full size yacht, the 92 Duchessa, takes cues from the 115 Athena Flagship as well as incorporates design cues from the legendary Aquarama. The yacht sleeps eight guests in four cabins with a separate section of the boat containing the galley and crew cabins. The entire interior has been designed so that every room and cabin receives plenty of sunlight, the yacht features a room in the bridge deck to stow a 4.2-meter tender and a jet ski. The yacht is powered by two 2200 horse power diesel MTU engines which give it a top speed of twenty nine knots.

The novelties are numerous, both in the exterior design and in the interior layout and fittings, that won't miss to match the requests of the most demanding owners!

For more exciting images of the eleventh pearl click here...

Flotillas - Summer Camp On The Seas...

2008-09-16T04:06:00.000+05:30

A flotilla (from Spanish, meaning a flota of small ships, and this from French flotte), or naval flotilla, is a formation of small warships that may be part of a larger fleet. A flotilla is usually composed of a homogeneous group of the same class of warship, such as destroyers, torpedo boats, submarines, gunboats or minesweepers. Larger warships are grouped in squadrons.

A flotilla is usually commanded by a Rear Admiral, a Commodore or a Captain, depending on the importance of the command. In modern navies, flotillas have tended to become administrative units. As warships have grown larger, the term squadron has gradually replaced the term flotilla for formations of destroyers, frigates and submarines in many navies.

Flotillas have through the years developed a brand new fun filled meaning absolutely peaceful and nothing to do with warfare!

One popular way of cruising on a holiday is in a flotilla - which is a group of boats sailing together under the supervision of a lead boat operated by the charter company. Flotillas are arranged so that singles, couples and small groups who don’t know each other can join together and form a flotilla of about 6 boats. The staff assists in itinerary planning and helping the participants learn the local conditions, translate, find the best restaurants - in other words - they help you make the most of the experience.

It is a great way to make new friends, kind of the grown-up version of summer camp. These are not small boats. These are nice boats between 30-60 feet. Although you will have a skipper experienced with sailing in the waters, at least one person on each boat is required to have an internationally recognized sailing certificate. There are also special interest flotillas for example archaeology, or culinary and even flotillas for naturalists. (In other words you sail around naked!)

You can sail from your overnight anchorage following the other yachts to your destination, having a fun race along the way, stopping along the way for lunch and a swim.

You may choose to just amble along at your own pace, or sail off on your own exploring the many villages and towns or stop at a bay to have a swim before you arrive at your overnight destination.

If you would like to overnight at a different port, you can. This is your holiday, and you choose to combine any of the above options to suit.

One, two, or more weeks sailing holidays are available - the choice is yours.

Brahmaputra River Puts India On The International White Water Map

2008-09-15T14:08:00.002+05:30

The Brahmaputra enters India in the far eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh after traveling hundreds of miles across Tibet as the Tsangpo from its birthplace near the holy lake of Mansarovar. It is one of the world's largest, on a scale with the Indus, Mississippi, and the Nile.

One of the great rivers of Asia, the Brahmaputra commences its 3,000-km journey to the Bay of Bengal from the slopes of Kailash in western Tibet. As Tibet's great river, the Tsangpo, transverses east across the high-altitude Tibetan plateau north of the Great Himalayan Range, carving out myriad channels and sandbanks on its way. As it tumbles from the Himalayan heights towards the plains of the subcontinent it twists back on itself, cutting a deep and still unnavigated gorge, until finally turning south it emerges in Arunachal Pradesh as the Dihong. Just beyond Pasighat, it meets the Dibang and Lohit where it finally becomes the Brahmaputra.

It runs through dense forests and tribal settlements. Rafting trips starts in a place called Tuting, so remote that we have to reach there via helicopter ride! A seldom-run river, the Brahmputra offers beautiful scenery, excellent big white water and great wild life in a less-visited corner of the sub-continent. After having big fun and adventure, you finish our rafting at Passighat. The Brahamputra has its source at holy Mount Kailash Mansarover in Tibet, traverses the entire Tibetan plateau, and then makes its great bend into India, cutting into the Himalaya the deepest gorge in the world, a canyon which has as yet eluded all attempts at exploration.

The various adventurous sports held in the Bharmaputra river has helped the India's poor high-end adventure reputation to be changed. The experienced crew of rafters and kayakers have put together a rafting expedition down the mighty Brahmaputra. Aimed at putting India on the international white water map, 180-km stretch of the Brahmaputra will mark the first non-military expedition on the river and the first commercial foray in the politically sensitive region.

Making My First Model Yacht !

2008-09-14T15:41:00.000+05:30

Almost any kid can spend an afternoon fishing with a homemade pole on the banks of a river, or building dams, bridges and pools. It only takes a little bit of imagination to create a small raft to float in your backyard streams.
With some parental guidance and a chunk of balsa wood you can create a genuine craft to navigate that brook that will last for years to come. Follow this step-by-step guide and build your own floating masterpiece.

DIRECTIONS

The Keel and Hull:

1. Draw an outline for your boat on the 7-inch balsa block. Mark the boat's top edge on the 2-inch-wide surface.

2. For the hull, carve away the wood around the outline. Continue downward, tapering the sides of the boat so they meet to form a rounded ridge along its bottom.

3. Use a scoop blade (adults only) to hollow out the hull. Leave a 1/4-inch thickness around the sides and 3/4-inch along the bottom.

4. Carve a lengthwise groove (1/4 inch deep, 1/8 inch wide, and 3 3/4 inches long) along the middle of the boat's bottom.

5. For the keel, cut a 1 3/4- by 3 3/4-inch rectangle from the sheet of balsa.

6. Make a diagonal cut along one short side of the rectangle; the resulting tip should face forward when you join the keel to the boat.

7. Affix fishing weights with Krazy Glue along the bottom of the keel. Coat the groove with glue before sliding the keel in place.

8. Inside the hull, drill a 3/16-inch-diameter hole, 1/4 inch deep and 2 1/2 inches from the bow. Cut a 7 1/4-inch mast from the dowel.

TIP: Since the thinness of balsa wood can be challenging to work with, use a gentle hand when cutting and shaping.

The Boom and Sail:

Your child can personalize his boat by choosing the material for the sail, or by painting the canvas with fabric paint.

1. For the boom, cut a 1/4- by 5 1/2-inch strip from the sheet of balsa.

2. Glue on the boom at a right angle, 1 inch up from the bottom of the mast.

3. For a sail, cut a right triangle from the cloth that measures 5 1/2 inches wide and 6 1/2 inches tall.

4. Sand and paint the boat parts before affixing the sail. Put a few drops of glue in the drill hole, then insert the mast.

5. Spray the finished boat with a silicone sealant.

Voila!...

Weekly Update - 8th - 13th Sept 08

2008-09-14T04:56:00.000+05:30

Bellow are last weeks articles -

8th
Beautiful Sailing / Water-Sports Destinations : Yachting In The Stockholm Archipelago - A Midsummer Night's Dream ! –
With almost 24hrs of daylight with magic like sightings and surroundings find out why Stockholm is our this weeks charter destination.

9th
From Handbags to Super-Yachts...LVMH buys Feadship ! –
its just recently that LVMH bought over the UK based Princess yachts and now they have acquired 'Fedship' one of the worlds largest super yacht builders. want to know why?? read on...

10th
All About the Russian Boat Market –
did you know Russia contributes to more that 30% of yacht sales worldwide and yachting seems to have caught up big time. Read the article to know more about the Russian boat market.

11th
Match Racing : Meet your Match... –
one of the worlds most exciting sailing events and even a part of the Olympics. Read more to know more about this adrenaline pumping race and its Indian presence

12th
Cannes International Boat Show 2008 : 31derful –
the title speaks for itself. Giirayachts has covered this years 31st Cannes boat show giving you an insight of the show with highlights and history of this one of kind boat show.

13th
New York’s Dining Cruise – Will Mumbai Have One Too? -
Charter a private yacht, reserve a deck privately for your group, arrange for a section of the ship, or enjoy a romantic dinner for two at your private table. New York’s World Yacht Dinner Cruises aboard luxurious yachts is a fabulous package of dining, dancing, entertainment and sightseeing all wrapped up in a 3 hour escapade on the New York harbor... Read more to know what this fabulous city has to offer to its guests.

Hope you have a great week ahead.

New York’s Dining Cruise – Will Mumbai Have One Too?

2008-09-13T11:32:00.003+05:30

Charter a private yacht, reserve a deck privately for your group, arrange for a section of the ship, or enjoy a romantic dinner for two at your private table.
New York’s World Yacht Dinner Cruises aboard luxurious yachts is a fabulous package of dining, dancing, entertainment and sightseeing all wrapped up in a 3 hour escapade on the New York harbor...

Step aboard World Yacht, The New York Dining Cruise, and discover New York and the island of Manhattan the way Henry Hudson did centuries ago. Cruise down the Hudson River as you enjoy fine American cuisine in a setting of elegant service and modern design, accompanied by the most exceptional views of Manhattan.
World Yacht is a true American Experience, celebrating the history and culture of a city that continues to inspire people from all corners of the world. The cruise is a must for any New Yorker or visitor alike looking to pay tribute to this great city while catching the first glimpse of the cityscape at sunset.

The luxury yachts are the perfect place for any special occasion that demands an elegant and unique setting and the best food and service New York has to offer.
World Yacht provides the perfect ambience to accommodate a wide range of events, including a romantic dinner for two, a small dinner party or a formal corporate event.

With a two-level dining room, a spacious outdoor sundeck, music, dancing, and dazzling views of the most famous skyline in the world, World Yacht is a great success.

Speaking of the question – will Mumbai have a dinner cruise too? Well, its not too far off from having one - is all we can say as of yet. Watch this space for more info on similar cruising possibilities in the Mumbai Harbour!

Cannes International Boat Show 2008 : 31derful

2008-09-12T10:04:00.004+05:30

Three days into the one of the world's favourite boat shows...and things seem to be getting only better in France.

With the Mediterranean brimming buzz and activity after waking up from its Summer Slumber...the Cannes Boat Show sets the ball rolling for the yachtsmen and yachting in this region...

CANNES 2008

In what can be considered another epitome of a festival following the Cannes Film Festival...the Cannes Boat Show is able to draw in people from all over the world who feel it is the perfect venue (the scenic French coast) for viewing the most spectacular yachts from all over the world.

Visitors will be flying in from countries near and far to delight in discovering the latest models and outstanding second-hand yachts all aglow in the magical atmosphere that reigns in these two warm and sunny ports.

Situated on the French Riviera the Cannes show offers an enchanting panorama of luxury. In it's 31st year, more than 750 of the world’s finest yachts are expected to be displayed in water this year, with 250 of them being unveiled here for the first time ever.

In fact, when it comes to the number of boats exhibited in water Cannes is one of the three largest shows in the world.

MAGNATE-MAGNET

The Cannes International Boat and Yacht Show is an exceptional business event that brings together exhibitors (boatbuilders, service providers, equipment manufacturers, interior designers, marinas, the press...) and visitors from around the planet. Among the event’s many advantages, exhibitors and visitors alike quickly learn to appreciate the opportunity to try the boats out on the open sea.

This year’s event will see further improvements as the organisers expand the show yet again in their never-ending quest to bring onboard new exhibitors both on land and in the water.

For the first time, the Quai Croisière is being called into service to accommodate more than fifteen lovely huge yachts each stretching over thirty metres, such luxurious maidens as Wesport 130, Broward 120, Riva 115 and 90, Pershing 115...and their will be exhibitor tents to visit on the quay as well. Located just 100 metres from the extension for Super Yachts, a sea shuttle will ferry you there with ease.

Quai Pantiero will be even larger this year thanks to a new pontoon for boats 11 to 17 metres long. Twenty new boats have already registered to exhibit here.

Last but not least, the brokerage section located at Port Pierre Canto is to welcome twenty additional yachts over 25 metres next to the main entrance, on a new quay 72 metres long. A total of 80 yachts, 25 to 60 m will be displayed there.

HIGHLIGHTS 2008

The highlights of the Cannes International Boat & Yacht Show will be updated till the opening of show the next 10th September :-

Wednesday, 10th September

10h00: Opening of the 31st Cannes International Boat & Yacht Show.

Thursday, 11th September

15h00 : Inauguration of the 31st Cannes International Boat and Yacht Show.

Friday, 12th September

20h00 - 22h00: The Cannes International Boat and Yacht Show late evening opening (exhibitors reception opened this year for the visitors with a ticket or an invitation).

Saturday, 13th September

20h00: For the fourth year, the World Yachts Trophies organised with Yachts Magazine will take place on Saturday 13 September at the Carlton Beach and will propose a show of the most beautiful yachts in the world.

The yachts will go out from the Old Port from 9:30 pm and will sail alon the Cannes Croisette : an authentic presentation of the 2008 most beautiful yachts from the greatest shipyards in the world...

60 boats will be nominated in each one of the 15 categories, production and custom, with a classification of the best yachts out from July 2007 to July 2008, by style and by size.

Three special awards will also be given to:

- Interior Decoration
- Design & Innovation
- Jury Special Award

The Jury will be made of 5 journalists from various yachts international newspapers so as from professionnals of the marine industry.

Monday, 15th September

18h00: Closing of the 2008 Cannes International Boat & Yacht Show.

BOATS GALLORE

The number of boats is the best way to measure the credibility of the show...and can you guess the number of boats expected in these 5 days at Cannes...?

757...that's 150 boats a day that you would need to check out incase you want to have a look at every beauty of a boat there...

Enjoy our coverage of last year's show by clicking here.

And to get to know more about this year's FESTIVAL click here.

See you at Cannes today...

Match Racing : Meet your Match...

2008-09-11T00:56:00.008+05:30

Known as the Formula 1 of Sailing, Match Racing is perhaps the oldest and most common sort of sailing races ever...and as it's name suggests, requires only 2 sail-boats that match each other's class.

In simplest of words, a match race can be described as a duel between two identically-matched boats with a winner - and a loser.

THE TRUE CHARACTER...

Match racing has its own set of rules, which are slightly different from the regular racing rules that create very close, aggressive competition in which collisions are certainly not rare.

Match racing also has on-the-water judging, with umpires doling out "instant justice" on the water.

Match racing is tremendously exciting to participate in. And, unlike watching other sailing competitions, match racing can be thrilling to watch. Before the start, the boats vie for control, circling each other and trying to wipe each other off on spectator boats in an elaborate game of cat and mouse.

COURSE & RACES

1) The match racing course resembles an oval shape with the Start/Finish line close to shore.

2) The course consists of a starting line, between two marks, laid at right angles to the wind's direction.

3) The boats begin from the starting line and sail upwind to the first mark to be rounded to the starboard (right side). The spinnakers are set, and the duel continues downwind to the second mark that is laid in close proximity to the starting line 100-meters further up the course.

4) The boats round the marks 2-3 times before the winner crosses the Finish line.

5) Series of Short and Quick races - The race spans only 15 – 20 minutes. Several such races are run with the overall winners on points graduating to the next round, and eventually to the quarter finals, semi finals and finals as per the event format.

Also, in order to viewership, lately match-races have a provision for on-board cameras and spectators.

BOATS & RULES

During the World Match Racing Tour, which is held at many cities of the world, upto 8 or 6 identically equipped and prepared one-design boats are supplied by each event. Boats range from 30 - 40 feet in length with 3 - 6 total crew members. Each day of racing crews draw for a new boat to race that day. This helps to control costs and focuses the racing on the skill and strategy of the skipper and crew.

Some of the main rules include (World Match Racing Tour) :-

1) When the wind comes across the sides of the boats in opposite direction, the boat with the wind on the left (port) side gives way to the boat with the wind on the right (starboard) side.

2) When the wind comes across the same side of the boats and there is no overlapping, the boat behind (astern) must keep clear.

3) When the wind comes across the same side of the boats and there is overlapping, the boat on the leeward (downwind) side of the other has the right-of-way.

4) Umpires follow each race and make instant penalty decisions. A boat (colour flag on back) with a penalty (colored ball on umpire boat) must do a 360-degree penalty turn before the finish.

For more information on the same visit the website of World Match Racing Tour.

STRATEGY

1) The start is critical: A 5-minute gun signals the beginning of an intricate, furious pre-match duel, with the two boats engaging in a furious one-on-one battle to gain the leading position on the race course.

2) Windward Leg: On the course the boats commence an upwind battle; the lead boat spilling turbulent air off its sails to slow the boat behind. Furious tacking is likely to ensue with the latter trying to force a crew error to rob their aggressor of the advantage.

3) The end of the first windward leg provides an opportunity for the trailing boat to seize the edge by creating an inside overlap within two lengths of the mark, forcing the lead to allow room which usually means relinquishing its place.]

4) Downwind Run: On the downwind run the trailing boat has a chance to attack from behind, positioning itself so it's spinnaker casts a wind shadow over the leader. To escape, the boat may gibe away, creating heart-pounding onboard action - and spectacular sailing - as each crew furiously swings spinnakers from side to side.

5) Dropping the Spinnaker: At the bottom mark the same overlap rules apply and the action intensifies as crews drop the spinnaker and prepare the boat for the next leg while the skipper jostles for position.

6) To the Finish: Once more around the course and the battle is over. Often the winner is not determined until the final few boat lengths.

WORLD MATCH RACING TOUR

The World Match Racing Tour is the world’s leading professional sailing series.

The 10 event series is the only global series of sailing events in the world touching 5 continents.

Featuring America’s Cup teams, skippers and world’s top sailors in the ultimate "race of truth".

Sanctioned by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) and one of three properties with "Special Event" status alongside the America’s Cup and Volvo Ocean Race.

The WMRT uses the same one-on-one, match race format (course, rules, umpires) as the America's Cup. However, races take place in identical, event-supplied racing yachts for a true test of skill and teamwork. Boats range from 30-40 feet with 4-6 crew on each yacht.

Each event lasts 5 days with racing held as close to shore as possible for a unique spectator and hospitality experience.

WMRT television coverage reaches over 600 million households in 75 countries through 34 broadcasters.

THE MUMBAI INTERNATIONAL MATCH RACE

The Mumbai International Match Race organized by the Match Racing Association of India, is India's effort to take the sport of sailing to the people...

Through regular Match Racing 'Clinics' held at the Naval Sailing Club in Mumbai, there is a healthy participation continuously ringing-in.

Held successfully last year at the H2O complex off the Marine Drive promenade in Mumbai, the event is bound to be a sure-shot success this year when heats start from October, and the finals held in between 30th November to 6th December, 2008.

The event promises to be a star-studded event of both kinds - the best match-racing sailors in the world...and the who's who of the glam world.

The excitement of Formula 1...

The compact format of T-20...

The strategy of chess...

...Match Racing has it all!

All About the Russian Boat Market

2008-09-10T05:04:00.000+05:30

Today lets take a look at some of the other international countries that seem to be giving India a run for their money where yachting is concerned. No! We are not talking about China… The India China comparison has been done endlessly by many. We are talking about ‘Russia’ which boasts of one of the biggest billionaires in the world (Roman Ambrovich) and is also home to over 100 billionaires according to the Forbes.

Roman Ambrovich has always been recognized worldwide for his passion and collection of super yachts. Its not just him anymore, Russians have taken to yachting in a big way by contributing to almost 30% of the luxury yachts produced worldwide which means that 1 out of 3 megayachts are bought by a Russian. The 30% mark did not take long to reach and was achieved within 3 yrs flat wherein in 2005 Russians contributed to only 6% of all the luxury yachts worldwide. The current global credit crunch does not seem to have affected the Russian yacht buyers as the industry is increasing about 50-60% YOY.

To mention some concerns, the custom duties in Russia are much higher than India wherein the import duties can be upto 40-41% of the cost of the boat. The boating infrastructure which includes dock space and fueling stations is not in place yet and is still very nascent much like India. "Russia has many beautiful places to take a yacht to, but there is nowhere to moor the boats and no easy access to fuel," said Alexei Gorsky, director of Premium Yachts, a Russian company that has been selling luxury Italian yachts for five years.

We feel that Roman Ambrovich could be a key factor in propelling the yachting culture in Russia considering he has a collection of 3 amazing yachts. it could be mere imitation of the rich tycoon due to which exportation of Italian yachts to Russia amounted to 11.8 million euros, a growth of 143% over the previous year.

"Certainly, such duties essentially reduce the opportunity for Russians to buy boats, especially yachts," said Andrey Boyko, director of Bure vestnik, the largest importer of yachts in Russia.

The 12th Moscow International Boat Show (MIBS 2006) enjoyed a 21% increase over the previous year. More than 250 exhibitors, 10% of them first time participants. 80% were foreign companies from 15 countries including the UK, Poland, Finland and Turkey.

"This marina is a good example of the business' growth," said Moscow boat show director Tamara Lukyanenko. "It's only a year old, but all of the 100 berths have been sold out already," she said. The country's yacht business is growing by 30 to 40 percent every year, she added. Foreign firms are also beginning to target Russians as they believe they will make up a significant part of the market in the near future.

Although Russians seem to be buying yachts rapidly it still remains a privilege to a few unlike the USA where a yacht can be fond in galore. The boat clubs have started popping up in Russia and it is only recently that a yachting culture is starting to cultivate among the yacht owners. For some, yachts are more than a status symbol. Some spend the summer season living in them or even conducting business on the water.

Many Russians have now started buying waterfront properties and in the process are looking to purchase boats to the tune of 200,000 euros. This is one similarity with India where one has observed increase of boats in water front areas. Alibaugh (near Mumbai) is one such example. To conclude we would like to mention that although Russia seems to be a big prospective market, the recent war with Georgia could cause distress and discomfort among international companies exporting to Russia.

From Handbags to Super-Yachts...LVMH buys Feadship !

2008-09-09T06:46:00.000+05:30

In a case of the Hunter becoming the Hunted...LVMH seems to be doing all the hunting in the world yachting industry.

Only last time we reported that LVMH had bought over the acclaimed Princess yachts of UK, and now to top that - the handbag has gone shopping alone - and has bought off one of the best super-yacht builders of its time - FEADSHIP !

The widening gulf between the haves and the have-yachts has prompted LVMH, the world’s biggest luxury goods group, headed by Bernard Arnault, to enter an exclusive agreement to buy Royal van Lent, the Dutch builder of Feadship customised motoryachts, which measure 50m or more.

ROYAL VAN LENT

Founded 160 years ago, Royal van Lent enjoys a leading market position. It designs and builds custom mega-yachts under the Feadship brand, one of the most exclusive and prestigious brands in the world.

The custom-built ultra-luxury mega-yacht sector offers strong global growth prospects. By targeting exclusively ultra-high net worth individuals, Royal van Lent offers an outstanding growth opportunity that is resistant to economic cycles. Since 2000, the worldwide order book for custom-built luxury yachts measuring over 50 meters has grown by more than 20% per annum.

All yachts are manufactured in the Netherlands, and over 800 yachts have been manufactured since the Company's inception.

LVMH & YACHTS...

In June, an investment arm of LVMH acquired Princess Yachts International, maker of the boat that starred in the James Bond flick 'The World Is Not Enough.'

Whether LVMH intends to start selling boats clad in brown leather with little tan 'LVs' festooning the deck is unclear. Another perfect synergy: christening the boats with bottles of Moet. The move extends LVMH’s luxury expertise and brand awareness into the ultimate luxe category.

LVMH’s acquisition follows the purchase of British yacht maker Oyster Marine by Balmoral Capital, a private-equity firm. And in July, Rolls-Royce Marine–the boat guys, not the car guys–teamed up with a consortium of American shipbuilders led by Atlanta Yachts to build boats 300 feet to 500-feet long. The team said the weak dollar gives it a huge cost advantage over its European competitors.

THE SUPER-YACHTING TREND

The deals might end up looking brilliant in five years. But given the sputtering global economy and softer commodity prices, it is unlikely that the world will keep cranking out as many boat-loving billionaires.

What is more, as Thyssen-Krupp Marine and others have learned, building custom megayachts is one of the most complex businesses in the world. The industry is full of tales of shipyards posting losses on yachts costing $100 million or more because of delays, miscalculations and cost overruns. And that’s in good times.

QUOTES

Antonio Belloni, Group Managing Director of LVMH, commented: "This acquisition is an outstanding opportunity for LVMH to welcome to the group as prestigious a business as Royal van Lent, which is well-established in the ultra-luxury market. We are confident about its growth potential in the exclusive mega-yacht sector, a market with sustainable growth prospects."

Dick van Lent, Chief Executive Officer of Royal van Lent, added: "I am delighted that Royal van Lent will become part of the LVMH family, which has a proven track record in preserving the heritage of prestigious brands, with high quality products, while positioning them for successful global growth. We look forward to benefiting from the support and strategic leadership of the world's leading luxury goods company. I am pleased to be involved in the continued development of Royal van Lent, a company with 160 years of history in yacht construction, as part of the LVMH family."

So...how much money was in the LV handbag that was handed over to Egeria, the Amsterdam private-equity that sold Feadship ?

Don't know precisely...but we hear it's a cool Euro 200-400 Million....

Beautiful Sailing / Water-Sports Destinations : Yachting In The Stockholm Archipelago - A Midsummer Night's Dream !

2008-09-08T09:36:00.001+05:30

The Baltic might not be the first place that comes to mind when considering a luxury yacht charter vacation, but during the short Scandinavian summer, it's a magical place with warm breezes and almost 24 hours of daylight. Even as far south as Stockholm, summer nights never get completely dark, the sky just takes on a deep blue tint for a few hours before the sun comes back up again.

The best time to visit is June to September, and like everywhere else in Europe, July and August are the most crowded. For a totally Swedish experience, visit during Midsummer (usually around June 20), the longest day of the year and one of the most celebrated holidays in Sweden. To avoid the crowds, visit in September (or even at the end of August) when the warmth of the summer still lingers and you will have more space to yourself.

Begin your trip by spending a few days exploring Stockholm, the beautiful capital of Sweden, before heading out on your yacht. The Stockholm Archipelago is about 150 miles long by 50 miles wide and contains around 30,000 islands and islets, some verdant with luxury hotels, shops and restaurants, others just a bare rock. You don't have to go far to get to Fjaderholmarna (the Feather Islands). These 4 islands lie 25 minutes from Stockholm, and you might be tempted to keep cruising since you only just started, but they are well worth a stop. Fjaderholmarna is home to several restaurants, cafes, a seafood smokehouse (with a restaurant and take-out shop), shops, local artisans, an outdoor theatre, and Mackmyra whiskey distillery, where you can tour the facilities and try their products.

Vaxholm, about an hour by boat from Stockholm, was founded in 1647 and has been an archipelago hub since the late 1800s when it was discovered by wealthy Stockholmers who built vacation homes on the island and started spending their summers here. Today, Vaxholm has about 10,000 year-round inhabitants and many visitors, especially during the summer. The harbor is right in the center of this very walkable town, so you can easily stroll around and take in the sights. There are several shops, restaurants, cafes, a few grocery stores, a liquor store and a pharmacy. Notable sights include Bogesund Castle (built in the 1640s) and the Vaxholm Citadel (built 1833-1863) which is no longer used for military purposes but instead houses a museum, shop, bistro and B&B.

Grinda lies about 2 hours from Stockholm and its several sandy beaches and rocky outcrops make it a popular swimming destination for Stockholmers. The island is small, only a 15-minute walk across, and has a pub, grocery store, and a well-known hotel and restaurant, Grinda Wardshus, housed in an Art Noveau building from 1908. There are kayaks available for rent from the hotel, and they can also arrange activities such as rock climbing or archery.

Sandhamn (Sand Harbor) on the island Sandon (Sand Island) is the "yachting capital" of Stockholm's archipelago. The Royal Swedish Yacht Club (KSSS) built their club house here in 1897 (still in use) and their many annual races attract sailors from around the world. The most well known is perhaps the 2-day race "Gotland Runt" (Round Gotland). This particular event is also famous for the many parties taking place in Sandhamn both before and after the race. The town has many restaurants, bars and shops, as well as a few hotels and museums. There are also several sandy beaches on the island, and the largest, Trouville, is only a 20-minute walk from downtown.

With more than 60 guest harbors in Stockholm's archipelago, there are many more places to visit and sights to see, but these are a few places to get you started in your planning.

Cattie Coyle writes about luxury yacht charters and how to choose the right one for you!

Weekly Update : 1st~7th September, 2008

2008-09-07T19:28:00.005+05:30

September's kick-started with a bunch of posts on topics from all over the globe! Right from budget boating on the opposite ends of the world to the boats described in the superlatives! Here's a weekly update on the range of topics with their specific links to show you at a glance all the action that was covered, just incase you missed out on the daily updates.

1st September, 2008 -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/budget-boating-usa-going-india-way.html

2nd September, 2008 -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/worlds-largest-maxi-trimaran-launched.html

3rd September, 2008 -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/couach-yachts-metre-by-metre-of.html

4th September, 2008 -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/darwin-lions-beer-can-regatta.html

5th September, 2008 -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/virgins-daredevil-branson-to-attempt.html

6th September, 2008 -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/fort-lauderdale-venice-of-america.html

7th September, 2008 -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/09/smooth-sailing-in-times-of-global.html

Smooth Sailing in times of Global Depression

2008-09-07T02:37:00.010+05:30

Maybe the adage 'the rich keep getting richer...the poor keep getting poorer...' is truly a fact.

While the global economy may be on a slump or even sliding due to a slippery surface filled with oil...yachts are hot!

GLOBAL ISSUES

The oil barrel keeps getting more and more expensive by the passing moment, and the financial markets have their mood-swings...most of the markets for consumer goods seem to be having a real bad time.

Ironically, the super-rich are still lining up to pay tens of millions of dollars for mega yachts.

THE NEW RICH

The well-heeled buyers of the floating mansions are increasingly coming from emerging economies - in the Middle East, Russia and South America. The source of their wealth runs the gamut - technology, venture capitalism, new industries. And, yes, oil.

"There are a lot of people with new wealth looking for relaxation and enjoyment," said John Dane III, president of privately owned Trinity Yachts, the largest U.S. builder. (Source)

The biggest problem at Trinity's shipbuilding yards is having enough workers to handle the 24 custom contracts the company currently is working for the luxury vessels.

Nobody is buying these yachts because they need them, they're buying them because they want them.

There have been builders who have had to double their productions compared to last year...and at the same time this has led to doubling of their profits too.

INDUSTRY TALK

According to Camper & Nicholsons International, a broker of yacht sales and charter contracts, there are about 3,800 yachts over 80 feet in service around the world now. About 1,800 of those have been built since 2000. The study predicts that that by 2010, there will be 5,000 such yachts on the water.

"There's not enough supply," said Ed Slack, editor of International Boat Industry. "It takes two years to build some of these yachts and the demand hasn't slowed down."

So far, Trinity's largest vessel has been a 192-foot yacht that would carry a replacement price of $60 million to $65 million. The company is working a 242-footer that will have a price tag in excess of $90 million.

In the Netherlands, the First Export Association of Dutch Shipbuilding, or Feadship, can put together a 128-footer for about $40 million. On the upper end of an already high scale, a 300-foot monster yacht typically will run around $150 million.

Francois van Well, chief executive of Feadship America, said about 50 percent of his company's business comes from the United States, but more buyers are coming the rest of the world. And it's not old family money.

"Most of our clients have earned their wealth in one generation," van Well said.

CHARTERS AND MORE...

Enter the charter business, especially in the Mediterranean where, according to Dane, a 164-foot yacht can easily bring $350,000 a week. By chartering a boat 10 weeks a year, the owners can pay operating expenses for a full year, he said.

"The charter market has allowed people to buy boats a little larger than they would have wanted to invest in had they not seen it as a source of revenue to help defray their operating costs," Dane said.

And these vessels don't depreciate in price.

Dane said the first owner of every Trinity-built yacht who decided later to sell got more for it than the purchase price. Three were sold by the original buyer even before they were delivered.

"We have one owner and this is his fourth boat and he's never taken delivery," Dane said. "Rich people don't want to wait on a boat and they'll pay a premium. This owner has taken that premium and moved to the back of the line."

Hence...not only the size of the super-yachts are getting bigger and bigger day-by-day...but also...there are more of these beauties to feast our eyes on expected in all our harbours soon...

Fort Lauderdale - Venice Of America

2008-09-06T04:22:00.002+05:30

Today we cover one of the worlds most popular yachting regions. Fort Lauderdale also known as the Venice of America for its numerous canals in the area. Fort Lauderdale is home to some of the biggest yachting companies in the world, Fraser yachts to name one.

Based in Florida (USA) Fort Lauderdale is home to over 42,000 boats and comprises of more than 100 marinas which makes one of the most popular yachting points and most popular tourist destinations of the world. It attracts over 10 million visitors annually.

About Fort Lauderdale -
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 36.0 square miles (93.2 km2), 31.7 square miles (82.1 km2) of which is land and 4.3 square miles (11.1 km2) of which is water (11.91%). Fort Lauderdale is known for its extensive network of canals; there are 165 miles (266 km) of waterways within the city limits.[26]
The city of Fort Lauderdale is adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean, includes 7 miles (11 km) of beaches

Fort Lauderdale is named after a series of forts built by the United States during the Second Seminole War. The Fort Lauderdale area was known as the "New River Settlement" before the 20th century. In the 1830s there were approximately 70 settlers living along the New River and now is home to over 5,413,212 people.

From yacht dealers to manufacturers to placement agencies to yacht maintenance Fort Lauderdale has it all. Every year Fort Lauderdale hosts the world’s largest in-water boat show. According to this article, “it is said that 80% of the world’s mega-yachts are sold through Fort Lauderdale.”

One of the many advantages of having numerous canal systems is that tourists can have a explore Downtown Fort Lauderdale can be toured from the New River, as can many of the city’s neighborhoods.

The Fort Lauderdale boat show is said to host some of the biggest boat shows in the world and will be hosting ‘the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show” which will feature more than 3 billion dollars worth of boats, yachts, superyachts, electronics, engines and thousands of accessories from every major marine manufacturer and builder worldwide. The Boat Show encompasses more than 3 million square feet of space, both on land and in water, at six sites, all connected by the Show’s Transportation Network of water taxis, riverboats and bus shuttles. The boat show will be hosted between 30th Oct – 3rd Nov 2008. Click here to go onto the official website.

For cruises it is best for one to have both a nautical chart and a Fort Lauderdale city road map. Because Fort Lauderdale has so many inland canals and bridges, sometimes it’s actually easier to refer to the wide area road map!

To view the rate card for berthing and other marina facilities click here.

Below are some of the marine directories of Fort Lauderdale which are very informative.
http://www.fort-lauderdale-marine-directory.com/
http://www.ftlauderdaleboating.com

Virgin's DareDevil Richard Branson to attempt Sailing Record...

2008-09-05T09:40:00.001+05:30

The most daredevil CEO is at it again...

Sir Richard Branson, the 'Virgin Guy' has set records in balloons, powerboats and even climbing mountains...and now he is aiming to make the fastest crossing of the Atlantic in a mono-hull sailing yacht.

But this time the business of chasing speed records involves his family too...

On this trip, he'll be accompanied by his 26-year-old daughter, Holly, a physician who will serve as the team's medic, and 23-year-old son, Sam.

MAKING AND BREAKING RECORDS...

On one end, while Virgin makes some of the most popular music records internationally...Sir Richard Branson has a affinity to break some of the best speed records.

The chairman of the Virgin Group announced Thursday that he's preparing to break the record for a trans-Atlantic crossing in a single-hulled sailboat, which currently stands at six days, 17 hours, 52 minutes and 39 seconds.

He called the record "the greatest sailing record of all" and said that when he got a call a few weeks ago to participate in the adventure, "I realized I couldn't resist."

It will be attempt made when the weather is fine - and shall start from the Ambrose Lighthouse, just south of New York City, to Lizard Point in Britain.

'VIRGIN MONEY'

Branson, who set his last record in 2004 by making the fastest crossing of the English Channel in an amphibious vehicle, said he will partner with the sailing squad from Britain's America's Cup challenger TeamOrigin. Three members of TeamOrigin recently won gold medals at Beijing Olympics.

The sailing yacht is called 'Virgin Money'...

PAST ATTEMPTS

The airline and music entrepreneur made news in 1986 when he powered a speedboat across the Atlantic Ocean in record time, breaking a mark that had stood for 34 years.

He went on to set records while piloting hot air balloons across the Atlantic and Pacific, and tried for years to become one of the first balloonists to circumnavigate the globe.

The daredevil tycoon also has jumped out of planes and climbed astride elephants to promote his Virgin Atlantic Airways.

All the Best, Richard Branson...

Darwin Lions BEER Can Regatta

2008-09-04T10:48:00.001+05:30

Yes you read it right, from the land known for its beers comes an annual regatta which is held in Mindil Beach, Darwin (Australia).

What makes this regatta special is that the boats are made form beer cans. The “Darwin Lions Can Regatta” is one of the most sought after sailing events in Australia. Other than the unusual boats, it’s the festivity during the event that keeps people coming again and again for the past 33 years.

This particular regatta was also on the list of Dave Freeman the person who wrote the book '100 Things To Do Before You Die'. He passed away last month, having worked his way through half the list.

Let the Festivities begin –

Other than the beer boat race there are several other on water and on ground events that take place which make the crowd a big participating part of the event. Infact in their rules and regulations they have mentioned that ‘the most important rule of all… Be in it and have fun, fun, fun...’

Some of the events and competitions include -
Best Soft Drink Can Boat
Best Beer Can Boat
Kids Sand Castle Competition
Tug of War for ladies, kids, men
Ladies Thong Throwing
Click here to read more about the events.

One of the more popular events in the regatta is the ‘Battle of Mindil’
“Battle of the Mindil” is a boat race where anything goes; flour bombs, water sprays etc. The boats sail around the course and have to find an object that has been hidden under water somewhere in the course. The winner is the finder of the object.

Below is a video which covers the event and its festivities -

History –

The Beer Can Regatta originally started when Cyclone Tracy hit the then town on Christmas Eve, 1974. the cyclone caused a lot of damage on huge quantities of materials and manpower.

As many of the rebuilding work force personnel were from the southern states, and were not used to the humidity, the consumption of canned beer increased dramatically which further led to a big problem of large quantities of beer can put all over the streets.

A Darwin citizen, Lutz Frankenfeld, came up with the suggestion that Darwin should hold a boat race, with all the boats fabricated out of beer cans. The theory was that this would give the local population and workers alike, an incentive to clear up some of the empty beer cans, and at the same time have a day of fun. And thus began the first ever beer can regatta in 1975.

Years ago the Lions club of Darwin took up the responsibility to setup this event annually and is now known as the “Darwin Lions Can Regatta”
Quite an interesting history isn’t it.

All the money generated during this event is given away to local charity institutions by the association. The 2009 Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta will be held on Sunday 19th July 2009, and the 2008 Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta was held on Sunday 13th July 2008 at Mindil Beach. The date changes annually due to the tides.

Official website - http://www.beercanregatta.org.au/

Couach Yachts : Metre-by-Metre of Customized Luxury...

2008-09-03T01:43:00.003+05:30

One look at them, and you would be screaming - "Where have you been all my life ?".

Probably one of the least-known but extremely beautiful yacht makers in the world, Couach Yachts has a fabulously well-designed line-up of luxury yachts.

Couach Yachts, another French manufacturer of the finest luxury yachts has a flair to make customised ultra-luxurious yachts to match the style and comfort demanded by its exclusive clientele.

HISTORY

Couach Yachts specializes in high-end luxury cruising yachts. A company whose roots are in four generations of the Couach family, Couach has been in business since 1897.

Today, the company is no longer family-owned, but the research and high technology of its motor yachts continues. Guy Couach yachts are constructed of composite materials and arrive in three styles: flybridge, open, and yachts. Some yachts are created as long-range, and tri-decks.

The sizes of Guy Couach yachts range from 54 feet to 165 feet in overall length. Couach prides itself on a wide variety of in-house training available to employees, such as courses in security, language acquisition, and new materials. The Guy Couach manufacturing facility, including research, workshops, and trades, is located in Gujan-Mestras, France.

Couach yachts are custom and each is developed in conjunction with the client owner’s individual specifications and tastes. The yachts are essentially exclusively manufactured to order. Other models and types can be developed on special request. Being flexible to make yachts to order is part of the essence of the company’s philosophy.

Couach enters into a close relationship with its clientele; and hence can therefore handle the resale of a yacht when the owner wants to change it.

COUACH YACHTS 3700 FLY

Couach Yachts launched it’s first 3700 Fly last year. It only took 12 months, including studies, for Couach to deliver this new model: a record!

With this contemporary style 37 metre yacht, the French brand confirms its entry into a new era. Couach has created a yacht of elegant beauty, with lines that perfectly mirror its performances.

For the development of this new model, Couach’s design department has imagined everything that the new businessman expects from his boat; a resource for both work and pleasure. The state-of-the-art equipement which is usually reserved for yachts of 40 metres has been concentrated into this 37 metre vessel.

The 3700 Fly features 2 outstanding leisure innovations:-

1) Home automation management for lighting, blinds and videos which create a personalised atmosphere on the uppder deck combining sound, image and light.

2) Music on demand: an entertaining and user-friendly system which with a simple remote control, allows you to compile play-lists chosen from a central electronic music library, creating different musical ambiances in each area of the boat.

With it’s 2 x 2735 HP engines, the 3700 Fly offers a top speed at half load of 30 knots, two 60 HP hydraulic propellers for an excellente manoeuvrability.

MORE COUACH...

The entire range of Couach includes the Flying bridge and Open yachts...

The Flying Bridge versions include models of 22 meters, 26 meters, 30 meters, 33 meters, 37 meters and 50 meters. The Open yachts versions include models of 21 and 28 meters of length.

Get Couach-ed..!

World's largest Maxi-Trimaran Launched!

2008-09-02T10:00:00.000+05:30

On Wednesday, 27th of August 08 the world's largest G-Class maxi-trimaran, Banque Populaire V was launched in Lorient, France. Measuring at 131ft (40 meters)long, the maxi-trimaran is the largest racing multihull ever built..

The trimaran was built at CDK Technologies shed and it took almost two years to be completed. It was a great feeling for the Team Banque Populaire to see their beautiful vessel land safe in water.

"The launching today pays tribute to a coordinated and committed team, and the reunion of the biggest French know-how in the field of marine construction." said Pascal Bidégorry, the team skipper.

Ronan Lucas, Director of Team Banque Populaire is very happy to see the boat finally on the water. He is sure that in time to come this boat is going to break many records. He adds "The Banque Populaire team, under Pascal, will test the trimaran ahead of its record breaking campaign".

Budget Boating : USA Going the India-way ?

2008-09-01T08:18:00.001+05:30

The yachting lifestyle has been alive in the USA since time immemorial...with some of the finest brands coming from Uncle Sam.

But only lately with recession and fuel prices hikes has led the yachting fraternity to try new concepts and ideas in ensuring that their marinas and quays remain bustling as ever.

The concept of 'Boat Clubs' has been one of such successful concepts in ensuring that Americans do not have to forego the passion for boating due to stubborn fuel prices and more.

DIME-A-DOZEN

Boat Club Memberships let people get out on the water without the expense and responsibilities of boat ownership. These boat clubs have an array of boats that they own, and rent these out on various plans or charter them on a daily basis. The level of customization for charters depends on the customers liking.

Mike Saunders brought the trend to Massachusetts, when he opened a Freedom Boat Club franchise at Marina Bay in Quincy. He now owns similar franchises in Plymouth and Beverly, and there also are locations in Newburyport, West Dennis, Falmouth, and Rhode Island. The Navigator Club in Charlestown, owned by Edward Mancini, offers similar memberships.

Saunders compares it with a country club membership. Just as golf club members call to reserve tee times, boat club members call to request any of the seven boats the club keeps on the Beverly dock. The boats include bow riders, cruisers, fish ing boats, and a sailboat.

For Dean Rubin, there's nothing better than taking off on a pleasure cruise from Beverly Harbor on a boat he doesn't own.

"You go down, and the boat is waiting for you," Rubin said. "You enjoy the harbor, come back, get your stuff, and walk away. There are no hassles at the dock. You just get out of the boat and go home."

He and his wife, Tracy, of Beverly, are part of a new trend: Membership clubs that let people get out on the water without the expense and responsibilities of boat ownership.

FACILTIES AND RATES

The Navigator Club at Constitution Marina in Charlestown is the newest among the on-demand boating clubs, opening this year.

"I was in boat sales and yacht brokering, and saw that a lot of people just didn't have the time to maintain a boat or to deal with some of the traditional boat ownership tasks," said Mr. Mancini, who considered opening in Newburyport, where he once docked his boat, before deciding on his current location. "I didn't want to be a franchise guy, and felt I could do a better job. I also have a passion for water, so if I can show prospective members that, it brings new people into boating."

Membership in the clubs provides the same privileges that come with docking a boat at the marina - which can include use of clubhouses, pools, restaurants, or whatever other facilities are available at the marina.

There are different fee structures, including a onetime joining fee of $4,500 for a weekday membership and $5,900 for a seven-day membership, plus fees that come to $2,500/$3,500 annually for the Freedom Boat Clubs in Beverly, Quincy, and Plymouth. Navigator Club fees run from $5,595 for a weekday membership to $7,495 for a seven-day membership.(SOURCE)

That's less than the cost of boat ownership, which beyond the purchase price can include insurance, slip rental, harbor fees, maintenance, and winter storage.

"It costs substantially less" than boat ownership on average, "less than half," Saunders said. "Many of our members are previous boat owners who choose this because it's a no-hassle alternative. They don't have to worry about maintaining the boat."

GOING THE INDIA WAY?

The concept of Boat Clubs has been around since couple of years in India, and has been well-received too.

Companies such as West Coast Marine which has been giving these services since its inception, and Privada - which is purely a membership-based services company with 3 boats in their kitty for the benefit of members enrolled.

Annual membership programs with point-based reward system that gives an added advantage to use boats in Dubai and other international cities has been Privada's ace up their sleeves.

Services such as these have helped in pushing the trend of boating to a wider group of people than possible...allowing many a clients with limited budgets to get on to boats that were out of their reach.

Weekly Update : 26th~31st August, 2008

2008-08-31T16:17:00.006+05:30

International Yacht Paint's seminar in association with West Coast Marine was definitely the best highlight of the week.

Alan Koh took away the crowd with his particulars on painting...and rest assured all the Indian users of International Yacht Paint are in safe hands.

In other articles - get to know about taking your passion of sailing to the land, or get to know about another fabulous American brand of yachts - Hatteras Yachts...and more...

26th August, 2008 - Time for another BIG Boat Show...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/40th-southampton-boat-show-from-12th.html

27th August, 2008 - See another kind of Volvo speeding up to its destination...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/volvo-ocean-race-more-than-32.html

28th August, 2008 - Alan Koh of International Yacht Paint...doing what he does best viz., giving his best to the Indian yacht paint market...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/international-yacht-paint-seminar.html

29th August, 2008 - We all love American yachts for their comfort, convenience and their GUNG-HO attitude...try Hatteras this week...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/hatteras-yachts-americam-beauty.html

30th August, 2008 - Imagine how much fun it would be to take your passion of sailing on the ground...

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/land-sailing.html

Sail well this September...

Land Sailing : Take your Passion to the Ground

2008-08-30T11:34:00.007+05:30

What is 'Land Sailing'? –

As the name suggests its simply sailing on land preferably in open areas which would have stronger winds in order to move forward. The concept is to make the land yacht move on the ground with air and wind being the propelling factors.

The ‘land yacht’ a wind powered boat is usually made up of a wooden frame with a seat, a mast with sails and 3 wheels to support it and make it move on the ground. The front wheel is attached to a certain system of controlling. All land yachts use 'lift' generated on the wing shaped sail to travel at between 3 and 5 times the wind speed reaching speeds in excess of 100 kmph.

How does it work? –

Controlling is exactly the same as one would do on a boat. you are required to navigate with your legs and the sail you control with a sheet rope – just pull the rope to sheet in and refrain from pulling the rope for sheeting out.

About the boat -
There are many types of Landsailing crafts of which class – 3 and class – 5 are more often used.

Racing yachts are divided in four classes by FISLY: Class 5 and Class Standard have a tubular steel or aluminum frame and mast with a glassfiber seats. The bigger Class 3 and Class 2 yachts have a lightweight glass-fiber hull and wing-shaped mast and (mostly) a wooden rear axle.

Class 3 is the more popular land yacht is known for the speeds it can reach which can range anything from 70 to 113 kmph. They are also used widely for competing.

Land sailing works best in windy, flat areas, and races often take place on beaches, air fields, and dry lakebeds (playas) in desert regions.

Below is the video of land sailing. It gives an idea of the speeds the boat can reach.

The most important aspect of land sailing is the total balance you get in relation to the center of gravity of the craft and the center of action, which should match, merge or coincide. The weight should be evenly distributed in the front, in the mid-section and the rear side. An appropriately balanced sail with that of the mast is bound to build the sail in proper shape; with a ‘twist’ that is idea.

Built for SPEED – these yachts when sailed downwind move at the speed of the wind, but when the wind is with them the boat can attain 4-5 times the speed of the wind. The average speed during a good wind can be considered upto 50mph.The world record of landyacht speed is held by the Iron Duck which reached the speed of 116.7 mph in a wind of approximately 30 mph. Due to the lightweight and aerodynamic build, racing yachts boost to top speed in about 5 seconds.

Click here to have a look at the events calendar for 2008 for land sailing.

The most recognized competition is the European championship wherin pilots ranging from all classes across Europe come together and participate in this week long festive event.

For more technical information log onto this website.

Hatteras Yachts - The American Beauty!

2008-08-29T10:00:00.002+05:30

Hatteras Yachts, based in New Bern, North Carolina are one of the finest American Yacht builders. From Motor Yachts to Convertibles (Fishing Yachts), Hatteras Yachts has it all.

It all began on the Barrier Islands of the North Carolina shore where the frigid waters of the Labrador Current encounter the tropical Gulf Stream and the outcome is Diamond Shoals.It is home to some of the most turbulent and untamed waters in the Atlantic and some of the best sportfishing in the world..

In 1959 at Cape Hatteras, Willis Slane started building a boat that could conquer the waters of Diamond Shoals and surmount the Hatteras weather. The Boat wasn't some ordinary wooden fishing boat. The boat had to be rugged and robust to take the pounding of Hatteras waters. Thats when Slane chose the new material "Fiberglass" to build this noteworthy yacht that launched an industry. Hatteras produced its 1st 41 foot twin cabin fishing yacht on March 22, 1960.

The market demanded for bigger fishing yachts, and so the fleet expanded from 50 feet to 90 feet (now). Hatteras also began designing and producing a line of cruising yachts that now ranges from 56 to 100 feet in length.

Hatteras yachts are made with perfection. From the moment you fire up the engines and cut through your first wave, you will know the beauty of it. Hatteras has developed a series of convex and modified-V hulls that provide the best of both designs. These hulls deliver a sharp entry and a soft, stable ride – the renowned “Hatteras ride.”

Hatteras engineers specify deep gear ratios combined with larger propellers to obtain optimum performance.

The Following are the Present Models for the Sportfishing Convertible :-

- 50C

- 54C

- 60C

- 64C

- 68C

- 77C

The Motor Yachts line-up includes :-

- 56MY

- 64MY

- 72MY

- 80MY

- 80MY Sky Lounge

- 100MY

- 100CMY

{ - Source}

International Yacht Paint Seminar, Mumbai - Concludes in Flying Colors...

2008-08-28T15:24:00.005+05:30

"YOUR FINISH IS ONLY AS GOOD AS YOUR PREPARATION WORK..."- ALAN KOH (26th August '08)

...definitely one of the most valuable words we must have heard in a while. But to sum up the International Yacht Paint Seminar conducted by Alan Koh in one line would be unfair.

The Open Seminar which happened on the request of Mr. Aashim Mongia of West Coast Marine was conducted at the Royal Bombay Yacht Club, Mumbai on 26th August '08 to the entire Indian yachting industry, saw some quality participation and activities happening.

Thanks to Alan there was a lot of interaction which enabled everyone present to know lots more about painting boats than ever.

ALAN - TAKING INDIA THE INTERNATIONAL WAY

Coming from a boat-building family background, Alan Koh joined International Yacht Paint after many years of successful boat-building that stemmed from a passion towards sailing. At the ripe age of 16, he built his first sail-boat with the intention of claiming something of his own. He jokingly quips 'There was a certain satisfaction when I used to break masts and tear sails while trying to reach the limit...'.

Knowing where to draw a fine line seems to be Alan's strength which was apparent even in the manner he was able to convey something technical as painting in a simple manner...which enabled many who didn't know all aspects of painting to understand a lot more.

Being Senior Project Manager at International Yacht Paint, he heads the Indian as well as Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and Indonesia markets amongst others.

...AND YOU THOUGHT PAINTING WAS (?)...

First, lets clear some air on what painting actually means when it comes to boating.

Ask a layman what he thinks painting a boat is all about, and no one would be surprised if he tells you that it is something aesthetic or decor-oriented.

But sitting through Alan's well-laid out presentation, one gets convinced that painting is not only about the aesthetics of a boat but it is an important and integral part of the manufacturing and maintenance process of boat-building.

Regularly, words such as 'speed', 'drag', 'fuel economy', 'structural strength', 'bowing', 'rolling', 'punctures', 'osmosis' which are more akin to the building and caring of boats, were used.

When used correctly - paints, primers, fillers, gel-shileds and boat care products ensure that your boat performs in the manner you want it...all that by looking as beautiful as she can...

COMPREHENSIVE KNOWLEDGE

So what is most important for International Yacht Paint as a company ?

...SAFETY FIRST...

Contradictory to how most seminars talk about their products at first, and then somehow creep on to the topic of global well-being, health, safety and precautionary measures...Alan initiated the entire seminar with an elaboration on these issues...

Citing examples of how paint components could harm biology if not disposed properly...and injuries and health hazards if safety measures and precautions are not implemented, Alan put through his point that International Yacht Paint has made it mandatory to take care of its environment and its users before promoting its products.

He reinforces his company's and his commitment to the environment with a request to everyone present to 'do your bit for the environment, so that it can do more to keep you happy...'.

International Yacht Paint through its R&D have been able to use components that reduce any damage to its users and the environment to the maximum extent.

Once sure that he had convinced the crowd about safety and precautions, Alan moved on to matters such as paint application and up-keep.

PAINT - CHOSING, APPLYING, UP-KEEP...

'The most important part of painting is Surface Preparation'...thus spake Alan.

Once a boat-owner decides on what paint-scheme he or she would like to go for, surface preparation is the process of cleaning and gritting the surface to minimal depending on whether its the first paint job that is going on. It ensures that the costly paint-coats that would go on to your boat are tied to its surface, and if not done properly result could be the most likely reason for failure.

Alan states that in all his experience of years when clients have reported a failure, he tracks down that when shortcomings have been taken in surface preparation, it is likely that the paint wouldn't last it's possible life-span.

At this point, International Yacht Paint assures that incase any failure is due to its paint not being upto mark, they would bear the cost of such a failure.

Paint application is the process of applying multiple layers of Primers, Fillers and then coats of paint to the boat. Alan instructed everyone to follow the manual provided with every can of International Yacht Paint religiously.

A lot of questions regarding painting above and below the water-line were answered - and details about use of sandpapers, Scotch Brites, marking-tapes, spray-guns were given.

At the same time strict adherence to the Product Data Sheet is a must to ensure that all the products - paint, primer, filler, anti-fouling, gel-shield, varnish IS MANDATORY.

To round-off on application of paints, Alan mentioned that the finish of the topcoat is totally dependent on the finish of the undercoat.

Alan also conveyed how simple it was repair smaller punctures, and introduced boat care products as being the next step to ensure your boat looks as good as new always.

HIGHLIGHTS

If it weren't for the comfortable confines of The Anchorage Room at the Royal Bombay Yacht Club, this seminar would have felt totally out-of-place. To add to the comfort, the food served during lunch was fabulous.

Most of the invitees came in at the stipulated time, and were greeted by the West Coast Marine team - and there were International Yacht Paints catalogs and manuals, the presentation copy, and other souvenirs at everybody's disposal.

The Product Data Sheets that were supplied in the catalogs, made it easier to understand the nitty-gritties involved in the whole process of applying paints.

West Coast Marine left no stone unturned to ensure that all needs of the guests were taken care of.

Covering a total of 4 out of 9 topics pre-lunch, Alan had the ball rolling in terms interacting with the quality professionals available.

Apart from knowing all about International Yacht Paints products and application procedure, Alan even demonstrated how to use various equipment gauges to measure humidity, temperature, measurement of paint-coats in microns and more.

The true quality of all present was displayed with the kind of questions that were asked by the people present. From technical to aesthetic and topics inclined towards using yacht paint in Indian conditions, it was a pleasure to hear responses to these.

Hence, ensuring that the right information was imparted to all in the best manner was the real highlight of the evening.

LET'S PAINT...!

Alan Koh's enthusiasm and positive feeling for the Indian yachting industry to prosper was apparent in his tone throughout the talk. He requests all International Yacht Paint users to care for the environment, boats, technique of application and usage.

"Be meticulous...use your Product Data Sheets...do not take your chances since in an attempt to save a few minutes you may waste a lot of your resources..."

He along with West Coast Marine wishes to ensure that the yachting industry in India is here to stay...and while it prospers there is no harm to all.

We invite questions and enquiries related to painting of yachts...which would help you not only to make sure that you make the best use of your paints and related-products, but ensure that it is done in the best possible way.

GiiraYachts.com thanks the teams at International Yacht Paint and West Coast Marine for the exclusive coverage and also all present at the venue for the valuable experience of this first-of-its-kind seminar.

We look forward to Mr. Alan Koh visiting us with a hands-on paint application workshop soon.

Volvo Ocean Race - More than 32 International Sponsors already Set to Sail...

2008-08-27T09:23:00.009+05:30

With 7 super sail-boats already a part of the World's most premier ocean-race...a flurry of 32 companies have already confirmed their participation in this mega-race.

With a strong contingency of communications and apparel companies...the pace of the race will definitely be fast and furious as competing corporates take their battle from land to the oceans.

Commenting on Ocean Racing being the next logical step for Volvo, Head of Sport Sponsorship and Global Events at AB Volvo - Tony Larsson says 'Volvo has been involved in sports for many years. We have always played a big part in developing major sports. Sailing was a natural continuation for the brand and the decision was not difficult to make. We are fortunate to have found sporting events that we believe in, that can be promoted and that reflects our core values. It is the excitement of the ocean racing that appeal to us and we want to link that excitement to our brand.'

As the race’s sole official logistics partner, Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics (WWL) is transporting all essential race equipment and promotional supplies for the race organisation and the participating syndicates.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics is the leading independent provider of finished vehicle logistics solutions for manufacturers of automotive and rolling equipment. WWL offers global and integrated solutions from factory to dealer.

Services include ocean transportation, terminal and technical services, inland distribution and supply chain management, combining global reach with local market expertise.

WHAT'S NEXT...?

Four teams - Carbon Challenge, Russian Ocean Racing Club, Raw Ambition Sailinng, Chieftain Racing are some of the other privileged teams that are already in the running to become the next set of confirmed teams for the VOR '08.

With much time left yet for the race, it's great to see the event building up well from the sponsors end. To a strong extent, it is the change in perception towards sailing being an integral part of the lifestyles and culture of the people - which these sponsors are attempting to touch...

Reach here later for more...

40th Southampton Boat Show! - From the 12th - 21st September 2008

2008-08-26T14:15:00.000+05:30

The PSP Southampton Boat Show is going to complete its no.40 boat show this September. Its going to be one exciting boat show as the show is returning back to the Mayflower Park. The boat show is going to take place from 12th - 21st September 2008 and is associated with ITV Meridian. The show also includes Europe's largest purpose built on-water marina!

The show will be the 6th largest consumer exhibition in the UK. Whether you are boating/ sailing enthusiasts or day trippers, this show will make your day worth while. 135,000 people are expected to visit the show and enjoy an array of activities on the water. This year, National Boat Shows (NBS) is taking the Show back to its roots, by honouring the heritage and history of the past 40 years.

Its going to be the most exciting Show on the South coast where there will be 600 exhibitors and 700 boats on display. There will be a lot to explore on the show whether its power boats, sailing yachts or smaller dinghies. The show wont only display water crafts but also products like deck equipment, clothing, holidays, charters and much more will be exhibited.

For the 40th Show, the Hydropool Marina will be bigger and better than ever before. The impressive on-water feature will allow for nearly 400 boats for visitors to explore, as NBS once again promotes a hands-on Show through its Come On Board campaign. For the 40th Show there's more boats than ever before, so whether the visitor is a bold beginner or a sailing veteran, they can choose from a more varied selection of the latest RIBs, powerboats and yachts to enjoy getting out on the water for free!

Weekly Update – 17th to 24th Aug 08

2008-08-24T12:18:00.004+05:30

If in case you missed the Olympics, fear not. Giira Yachts has been following the Olympic sailing scene right since the time it began and has been providing upto date information to its readers.
This action packed week filled with medals, protests breakdowns has seen new champions triumph.

Below are all the results of the different classes participating in the Olympics along with the key highlights which you may have not caught onscreen.
Olympics 2008 Sailing - Star Class Results
Olympics 2008 Sailing : RS:X CLASS RESULTS (Men & Women)
Olympics 2008 Sailing : LASER CLASS RESULTS
Olympics 2008 Sailing : Yngling Class Results
Olympic Results - 49er Class
Olympics 2008 Sailing : 470 CLASS RESULTS (Men & Women)

GoldFish : The 'Ultimate' Tool on Water ! Call it a RIB dipped in a tub of molten gold and then sprinkled with diamonds...Goldfish boats are a class apart.

World Marina News : Latest Updates - Aug '08- which marina recently won the “Marina Development Italia” Award. Dubai marina to create 1500 new jobs. Click on the title to be updated with the latest news on international marinas.

National Laser Championship '08, Hyderabad - CONGRATULATIONS ALL ! The National Laser Championship, Hyderabad between 3rd to 7th August concluded very successfully, and was a fantastic platform to take sailing in India to the next level. Click on the title to read more about the winners and the event.

As a follow up of our last weeks coverage on the different sailing classes for the Olympics, below are the reaming classes which carry thorough matter on the STAR & FINN Class.

Olympics 2008 Sailing - The STAR CLASS
Olympics 2008 Sailing - The FINN CLASS

To read all our posts on the 2008 Beijing Olympics simply click here.

GiiraYachts wishes all its readers a great weekend.

Olympics Sailing 2008 : Summary

2008-08-23T17:46:00.008+05:30

Tomorrow, the Olympic flame will be extinguished simultaneously at the National Stadium in Beijing and the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center, officially ending the Games of the XXIX Olympiad and bringing to a conclusion a remarkable journey for the sport of sailing.

SOME STATS

1) The 2008 Beijing Olympic Games Sailing Competition brought together 400 of the world’s finest sailors racing in 272 boats representing 62 nations.

2) They demonstrated their talent to the world over the course of 117 races during 13 days of competition in 11 sailing events.

3) After years of dedication and training, competition for the ultimate prize in sport came down to 11 Medal Races, where the winners of the 33 sailing medals of the Beijing Games were decided.

REFLECTIONS OF THE ULTIMATE

Reflecting on the Games, ISAF President Göran PETERSSON said, “I’d like to offer my congratulations to everyone involved in the 2008 Olympic Sailing Competition who contributed to making it such a fantastic success. To the 400 sailors who have competed in Qingdao, congratulations on representing your nation and showcasing our sport to the world. To the medal winners, what more is there to say? You have reached the very pinnacle of sporting success; savour your triumph - you are all heroes of our sport and your success will inspire the sailors of the future.

“Our hosts in Qingdao have provided a magnificent venue, a warm welcome and shown great dedication. A huge thank you to the Sailing Committee and to the thousands of volunteers who have shown true Olympic spirit in their efforts and their enthusiasm for our sport. Your dedication has ensured not just a great Games, but a great legacy for sailing. China won its first ever Olympic gold medal in sailing this year, but I am certain it will not be the last.

“To all of those who have followed sailing at the Games, whether it be watching on the television, via the internet, newspapers, radio, magazines or any other medium - thank you for showing your support of our sport. I hope sharing in the passion, the excitement and the spirit of the 2008 Olympic Sailing Competition has inspired your own sailing dreams.”

SUCCESS TO THE SPORT OF SAILING

1) In many ways this was a landmark Games for sailing. It was the first time the Medal Race format, featuring the top ten competitors competing in a final double-points race, was used at the Olympic Games.

2) China won its first ever gold medal in sailing.

3) Alessandra SENSINI of Italy became the first female sailor to win four Olympic medals.

4) British sailor Ben AINSLIE won his third consecutive Olympic gold medal, a feat International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques ROGGE called “equally fantastic” to the recording-breaking performances of American swimmer Michael PHELPS and Jamaican sprinter Usain BOLT.

UNITY IN DIVERSITY

In total 18 nations won medals, including the first ever sailing medal for Lithuania.

With 4 Gold, 1 Silver and 1 Bronze medal, Great Britain topped the sailing Medal Tally for the third consecutive Games.

Other gold medals went to Australia (two), Spain, the USA, China, Denmark and New Zealand.

GOLDEN MOMENTS

There have been many remarkable and memorable moments: the roar of the crowd as China’s Jian YIN fought her way back into a gold medal winning position in the Women’s RS:X Medal Race; the nail-biting second beat in the Star Medal Race; and of course, the incredible 49er Medal Race are just three.

You can relive the 2008 Olympic Sailing Competition by clicking here or the ISAF Olympic Games microsite www.sailing.org/olympics. (Source)

OLYMPICS AT THE NEXT LEVEL

The 2008 Paralympic Games takes place from 6-17 September, with Qingdao hosting the Paralympic Sailing Competition from 8-13 September.

The next Olympic Games takes place in London, Great Britain in 2012. Weymouth and Portland will host the Olympic Sailing Competition.

GiiraYachts.com hopes that all our viewers enjoyed the Olympics 2008 Sailing events and the coverage...and hope to see you in the waters soon.

Olympics 2008 Sailing - Star Class Results

2008-08-22T16:34:00.006+05:30

British crew Iain PERCY and Andrew SIMPSON won the final gold medal of the 2008 Olympic Sailing Competition after a thrilling finish to Thursday's Star Medal Race held at the Olympic Sailing Regatta, Qingdao, on 21st August 2008. Britain finished on 45 points, eight in front of the Brazilians and Swedes. The South Americans took silver by virtue of their better result in the medal race.

“This win is far more sweet than the gold in the Finn,” said PERCY. “Six months ago, we knew we could do. It’s just that there was so much work involved and there are so many talents in the class. We always knew we were contenders, but only contenders. Every morning we wake up thinking about sailing and nothing else.”

Below is a small video of the race –

Britain eventually finished fifth in the medal race, behind race winners Poland, but the crucial factor was that they finished ahead of Sweden.

The two boats were neck-and-neck for much of the race but Percy and Simpson, who started the race two points behind Sweden, did just enough to keep their noses in front as the pressure increased in the closing stages.

The trio’s first international foray, in the Laser Radial class, at the 1994 Worlds in Wakayama, Japan. Percy and Simpson managed a 5th at the Laser Worlds, which Ainslie was to win later, whilst both Ainslie and Percy were twice selected to the Youth Worlds.

GiiraYachts congratulates them on their achievement and wishes the winners all the best in their other competitions and hope for the same result in the next Olympics.

GoldFish : The 'Ultimate' Tool on Water !

2008-08-22T12:51:00.000+05:30

The title to this post seems like a understatement of drastic volumes...but at the same time conveys the philosophy that goes into making a Goldfish.

Initially looked upon as a tender to super-yachts, Goldfish boats have become extremely popular the sports boat enthusiasts lately.

The facility in the UK - the Salterns boatyard, that produces these has increased its output manifolds, in an attempt to meet demand.

THE IMMACULATE RANGE

Call it a RIB dipped in a tub of molten gold and then sprinkled with diamonds...Goldfish boats are a class apart.

The smallest boat in the line-up is the rigid-hulled 6.65-metre Goldfish 22 Sport. This is followed by the 7.6-metre Goldfish 25 RIB, a superb inboard-engined tender capable of speeds of up to 80 knots, while the 8.9-metre Goldfish 29 RIB has a top speed of 75 knots, making it the fastest single diesel engined powered RIB at the Show.

The Goldfish 30 SC is new to the range. It is a 9.9-metre rigid-hulled sports cruiser that is capable of speeds of up to 55 knots; the fastest single diesel engined production sports boat at the Show.

Recently, potential owners have been showing particular interest in Goldfish’s high performance engine option. This is the D-MAX 370, a sophisticated, tuned version of the Yanmar 6 LP six-cylinder, 4.2-litre 300hp that boosts the power output to 370hp. Depending on the particular model, standard power options include Volvo Penta and Yanmar diesel engines and MerCruiser petrol engines; choices that allow owners to select the boat’s top speed.

The two-stepped, decompressing deep-V hulled Goldfish 25 carries up to seven passengers, while the Goldfish 29 extends this passenger payload to nine. Both are available with an extensive line-up of factory-fitted optional extras. These include carbon-fibre hull reinforcement and a performance-tuned engine. A thruster booster for faster acceleration is fitted as standard.

ROUND BRITAIN WINNER - 2 IN ONE

The Round Britain Powerboat Race - the 'Mount Everest' of powerboat races that happened in June this year saw new winners in the Goldfish boats in both the classes that the Goldfish raced.

Just as the world of motorbikes...you have bikes, and then you have the Harley Davidson; the world of RIBs has its Goldfish.

World Marina News : Latest Updates - Aug '08

2008-08-21T01:32:00.001+05:30

Marinas - India's most required resource in terms of boating, are strategically very important the world over.

Apart from the Glamour and the Luxury associated, there are many authorities that are constantly in the endeavour of making and maintaining the best marinas of the world.

Let's get to know the latest about the world of marinas...

MARINA NEWS

(1) Marina di Varazze wins the “Marina Development Italia” Award

CNBC Europe & Africa Property Awards 2008 have just revealed the results and Marina di Varazze has won the award in the category of “Marina Development Italia”.

The award will be presented at a glittering gala dinner to be held at the Sheraton Park Lane Hotel in London on 27th September.

The fact that Marina di Varazze earned one of these coveted awards is sure proof that Italy cannot only compete but also triumph within the highly competitive Europe & Africa property arena.

Entries were judged by a panel of professionals whose collective knowledge of the property industry is second to none and unsurpassed by any other property awards.

(2) Dubai's Marina Industry to create 1,500 new jobs

A growth surge in Dubai’s marina industry will lead to the creation of 1,500 new jobs, according to a luxury marina developer and management company.Island Global Yachting (IGY), said Dubai would be home to more than 20,000 berths for yachts within the next five years.

The 200% increase in berths on current numbers in Dubai would also lead to the creation of more than 1,500 jobs within IGY’s operations in Dubai alone, it said.

The company is also developing Anchor Marina - a 590-berth facility for private yachts between 10 metres and 30 metres - scheduled for a Dec 2008 opening.

(3) MONTENEGRO - 'Berth'place of a New Sailing Destination

Montenegro presses against Croatia, Bosnia, Serbia and Albania on the southern fringes of the Dalmatian Coast. The seaside is heaven. Green mountains plunge into the Adriatic, the water is cerulean blue and unsullied. Ancient towns, some fortified, dot the shores. Hotels, restaurants and shops are springing up everywhere, but the densities (and the prices) are nowhere near the horrific levels of France's Côte d'Azur.

The bay is a geographical wonder. The English poet Lord Byron called it “the most beautiful encounter between the land and the sea.” Its steep, rugged mountains frame a natural harbour that is well shielded from the Adriatic and has about 100 kilometres of coastline. The bay takes the rough shape of a figure eight, with the inner and outer portions pinched in the middle by a narrows.

A lot of investors are laying their money down to increase marina development here.

The Bay of Kotor marina will see a rise in berths and could have 650 yachts, 150 of them superyachts. Boats as long as 150 metres could be accommodated in a pinch.

For more Marina-related news, images and articles click here.

Olympics 2008 Sailing : RS:X CLASS RESULTS (Men & Women)

2008-08-20T14:48:00.007+05:30

While Yin Jian nearly caused a riot when she won China's first ever Olympic Sailing gold medal in a heart-stopping performance that had Chinese spectators screaming and waving flags...2008 world champion Tom Ashley of New Zealand won gold in the Men's RS:X (Windsurfer) with 52 overall points, just one point better than second-place finisher Julien Bontemps of France!

Results for the RS:X Class Men & Women are in...

A roar went up from the fans lining the viewing wall just outside the venue when they realised Yin had won gold by finishing third in the medal race after fighting back from fifth and out of contention for the title.

Italy's Alessandra Sensini won the race to take silver while Bryony Shaw of Great Britain took bronze after finishing the race second.

Yin led out and chose the left side of the course with Australia and New Zealand in toe, while Yin's main adversaries, Marina Alabau of Spain, Sensini and Shaw went right.

The right side paid and Yin was forced into catch-up as first Alabau, then Shaw and finally Sensini took the lead. Trouble loomed when Ukrainian sailor Olha Maslivets, who was out of the medal running, came between the front pack and China. Had it finished that way, it would have cost Yin the gold medal.

But while Sensini got away from the fleet, Yin fought back to third to claim Olympic glory.

"I didn't think about anything during today's race. I knew that if I kept passing one after another, that victory would be mine," said Yin, asking excitedly: "Is this real? Is this real? Did I really win gold?"

RS:X Women

Gold YIN Jian China
Silver SENSINI Alessandra Italy
Bronze SHAW Bryony Great Britain

2008 world champion Tom Ashley of New Zealand won gold in the Men's RS:X (Windsurfer) with 52 overall points, just one point better than second-place finisher Julien Bontemps of France. Shahar Zubari of Israel finished second in the medal race to grab bronze with 58 points overall and give Israel's its first medal of the Beijing Olympic Games.

Ashley experienced his worst day of sailing on Tuesday, August 19, positioned 32nd in the final race of the opening series, and many wondered if he could climb back to win on Wednesday in the light shifty airs. He finished the medal race third behind Chan King-yin of Hong Kong and Zubari.

"I've done it. It's the most incredible feeling and I can't begin to tell you how I feel right now," Ashley said. "It was an insanely tough medal race -- the weather gave us a little bit of everything, but I tried to sail as consistently as I could."

Julien Bontemps of France, who took the series lead on Tuesday, failed to medal at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games, finishing ninth.

Shahar Zubari also created a Wednesday comeback to claim his bronze medal, reveling in the lighter shifty airs and flat seas -- sailing conditions he loves.

"I feel so happy. I'm only 20 and I feel like a superstar. I was lucky to have the wind on my side today," Zubari said. "When I finished, I counted back and realized I had won bronze. I was crazy with joy."

RS:X Men

Gold ASHLEY Tom New Zealand
Sliver BONTEMPS Julien France
Bronze ZUBARI Shahar Israel

Olympics 2008 Sailing : LASER CLASS RESULTS

2008-08-19T15:49:00.007+05:30

The results for the Laser Class for men & women were surprising. While Goodison had quite a tricky and stressful time winning Gold from the Men's category, amongst the women: Volungeviciute won silver but created Olympic history as the first Lithuanian sailor to win an Olympic medal!

Findout the medalists & their experiences... Results here

Laser Men: Paul Goodison of Great Britain clinched gold in the Laser (Men's One Person Dinghy) with a ninth finish in the medal race and an overall point total of 63, eight points ahead of Vasilij Zbogar of Slovenia who finished second in the medal place to claim silver. Goodison, who finished fourth in Athens, added to Great Britain's impressive gold medal -- making it three gold so far for his NOC. Diego Romero of Italy, an early leader in the regatta, grabbed bronze with 75 points overall.

Goodison came into the medal race 18 points ahead of his nearest rival, so all he had to do was keep Rasmus Myrgren of Sweden from finishing first. The Briton sat on top of his Swedish adversary throughout the two lap windward/leeward course at the back end of the fleet.

"It was quite tricky and pretty stressful," Goodison admitted. "I waited to make sure that I got the gold at the end of the day -- and there was only way to guarantee it. Sweden knew it was coming too -- but I just had to do what I had to do."

Gold GOODISON Paul Great Britain
Silver ZBOGAR Vasilij Slovenia
Bronze ROMERO Diego Italy

Laser Radial Women: Anna Tunnicliffe of the United States staged a stunning and dramatic comeback to claim the Laser Radial (Women's One Person Dinghy) gold medal from rising star Gintare Volungeviciute of Lithuania in light and shifty winds before a packed crowd on Tuesday afternoon. In the box seat going into today's race, Tunnicliffe, the World No.1 Laser Radial sailor, made a dive for the windward end of the crowded start line and, in doing so, crossed early and had to return and restart.

That created easy picking for Volungeviciute who finished with Silver and Xu Lijia of China who took bronze.

With the US sailor out of the back door, China took the early lead, but it was not long before the Lithuanian had the upper hand. Choosing the opposite side of the course to Xu, Volungeviciute led around the first windward mark. Although Xu stayed in close touch, she never caught her rival.

As the leaders reached the last mark of the course, Sarah Blanck of Australia, also in medal contention, caught a shift and made her way to third place, but she needed to pass Xu to win bronze. Then, out of ninth place appeared Tunnicliffe, who had gone to the left side of the course. She came through to finish the race in second place.

Volungeviciute may have missed gold, but she won the race, the silver and created Olympic history as the first Lithuanian sailor to win an Olympic medal. Because Xu stayed calm she kept Blanck at bay in fourth place, the same rank as in Athens.

Gold TUNNICLIFFE Anna United States
Silver VOLUNGEVICIUTE Gintare Lithuania
Bronze LIJIA Xu China

Olympics 2008 Sailing : Yngling Class Results

2008-08-19T03:11:00.003+05:30

The Yngling Class Race came to a fabulous finish with some of the best finishing at the top of the class in these only-for-women sailboat races.

THE RACE AS IT HAPPENED

Two of the three on the British Yngling team — Sarah Ayton and Sarah Webb — defended their Yngling gold from 2004, with Pippa Wilson as third crew in Qingdao after she replaced Shirley Robertson of the Athens crew.

"When we crossed the line, the of three of us just looked at each other," said Ayton, the British skipper.

"Words cannot put any kind of meaning on it. " she said. "You just know that you're the best in the world at what you do."

Their victory came in Olympic sailing's first use of a medal race. The top 10 boats in a series of preliminary races advance to the medal final, which counts double in determining each boat's total score.

Going into the race, which was postponed from Saturday because the winds failed, the British women had a one-point lead on the Dutch team of Mandy Mulder, Annemieke Bes and Merel Witteveen. However, the final race turned into a battle between the British and the German trio of Ulrike Schuemann, Ute Hoepfner and Julia Bleck.

The British led the first two legs, surfing downwind in the choppy Yellow Sea with their spinnaker, only to be passed by the Germans on the third. On the final leg, the British fought back, and crossed the line seven seconds ahead of Germany, to win both the medal race and the gold medal. The Germans ended as No. 4 overall.

The Dutch, which had been the only team in a position to challenge the British crew, were No. 5 in the 10-boat fleet, a finish that secured them the silver.

"This is my first Olympic medal, but it is a pity that we didn't beat (Britain)," said Bes, of the Dutch boat.

The Greek trio of Sofia Bekatorou, who won the 470 class gold in Athens, Sofia Papadopoulou and Virginia Kravarioti finished third in the medal race to snatch the bronze in the close race with the rest of the fleet.

"We feel great for the 10 million Greeks back home," Bekatorou said about bronze.
(SOURCE)

OVERALL STANDINGS

GOLD - The Great Britain Team consisting of Sarah AYTON, Sarah WEBB and Pippa WILSON.

SILVER - The Netherlands Team consisting of Mandy MULDER, Annemieke BES and Merel WITTEVEEN.

BRONZE - The Greece Team consisting of Sofia BEKATOROU, Sofia PAPADOPOULOU and Virginia KRAVARIOTI.

Olympic Results - 49er Class

2008-08-18T20:28:00.008+05:30

And the results are out... The 49er results have been released and already there have been protests. The winners for the medal race are the Danish crew of Jonas WARRER and Martin IBSEN who have won the gold medal in the Skif.

Boat problem –
Just as the race was about to start the Danish team was already in a deep soup. The Danish team lost their mast just as the race had began. The Race Committee protested the Danish 49er because they had sailed the Medal Race in a boat borrowed from the Croatian crew (who were not competing in the Medal Race) after the mast on the Danish 49er snapped shortly before the start. The Protest hearing and Jury deliberations went on late into the night on Sunday and just before 01:00 was adjourned until Monday morning.

If the Danish team had been disqualified from the race they would have dropped from first to fourth overall and out of the medal position.

Conclusion:

DEN, as a boat assigned to compete in the medal race, was required by SI 19.7 to make a genuine effort to start, sail the course and finish. The OMC approved the replacement of the boat and found that it complied with class rules and all equipment inspections carried out in the Medal Race Quarantine Procedures. DEN complied with SI 21.2 and 21.3. The basis for the protest under MR 12.4 ceased to exist when the OMC approved the request. SI 2 (Additional Identification), SI 3 (Cameras) and MR 13 (Medal Race Quarantine Procedures) are subject to discretionary penalties (SI 18.7, MR 13.7). DEN did not gain a competitive advantage by failing to carry the camera (in the prevailing conditions), by failing to carry the correct identification, or by sailing a boat that had not been subjected to the Medal Race Quarantine Procedure at the required time. SI 2, 3 and 21, and MR 13 are not subject to protests by boats (SI 18.7 and MR 13.7).

Rule(s) applicable:
SI 19.7, MR 13, NoR 3, SI 2, 3, 18.7, 21.2 and 21.3.

Short Decision:
The protest by ESP under SI 21.2 and SI 21.3 is invalid. The protest by the RC is dismissed. No discretionary penalties imposed.

Jury:
John Doerr (chair), David Tillett, Marianne Middelthon, Takao Otani, Josje Hofland

If the Danes had been disqualified from the race MARTINEZ and FERNANDEZ would have been crowned Olympic Champions for the second time.

This means Denmark wins gold, 2004 Athens gold medallists Iker MARTINEZ and Xabier FERNANDEZ of Spain win silver and German brothers Jan-Peter PECKOLT and Hannes PECKOLT won bronze.

Olympics 2008 Sailing : 470 CLASS RESULTS (Men & Women)

2008-08-18T17:09:00.000+05:30

The Qingdao sun is definitely shining on team Australia in the 470 classes, with first places in both the Men's event and Women's Olympic event! It's been a serious of slow, technical races so far - rewarding some and challenging others. Patience, at least at the Beijing Olympics, seems to be a winning virtue - so far.

Results here...

The key has certainly been patience and consistency for the Men's event, with only two bullets shared among the top ten in all races. Nathan Wilmot and Malcolm Page of Australia have turned in a 4,7,3,3,3,4 to take first at 17 points. With no double-digit scores yet to toss, the Aussies have a bit of security, while 2nd place France's Nicolas Charbonnier and Olivier Bausset, as well as Nick Rogers and Joe Glanfield of third place Britain, have already tossed what they hope will be their Mulligans - 18th and 19th place finishes respectively.

470 Men:

GOLD Australia WILMOT Nathan & PAGE Malcolm
SILVER Great Britain ROGERS Nick & GLANFIELD Joe
BRONZE France CHARBONNIER Nicolas & BAUSSET Olivier

In the Women's event, the Netherland's Marcelien De Koning and Lobke Berkhout looked like they're in a match race for the gold with Australia's Elise Rechichi and Tessa Parkinson. Neither team had given up a double-digit finish , and they were tied for first place with 3,1,9,5,2,2 finishes for NED, and 2,2,4,1,9,4 finishes for AUS. Notice each team has a first, two seconds and a ninth - out of a fleet of 19, that's some tight racing, and this got very interesting as the event continued. Finally, as mentioned above, the sun was indeed shining on the Aussies... Autralia won Gold!

470 Women:

GOLD Australia RECHICHI Elise & PARKINSON Tessa
SILVER Netherlands de KONING Marcelien & GLANFIELD Joe
BRONZE Brazil BERKHOUT Lobke & SWAN Isabe

National Laser Championship '08, Hyderabad - CONGRATULATIONS ALL !

2008-08-18T15:00:00.002+05:30

The National Laser Championship, Hyderabad between 3rd to 7th August concluded very successfully, and was a fantastic platform to take sailing in India to the next level.

The Sailing Team from the Royal Bombay Yacht Club of Mumbai fared fabulously with Ayesha Lobo, Xerxes Bamboat and Advait Deodhar winning medals in various categories.

The contingent from RBYC that landed in Secunderabad under the watchful guidance of Mr. Sunil Lobo, had a great time in terms of tasting the Hyderabad waters and the fun and frolic between races.

WINNERS ALL

XERXES BAMBOAT

Winner of the Gold medal in BOTH Laser 4.7 and Youth Laser Radial Categories.

AYESHA LOBO

Winner of the Silver medal in Laser 4.7 Girls and Bronze in Laser Radial Women Categories.

ADVAIT DEODHAR

Winner of the Silver medal in Laser STD Category.

These young sailors were stretched to their maximum over the entire week. The races of various categories were at times back-to-back...one in the morning session and the other in the evening sessions.

The finest sailing acumen notwithstanding, it came down to sheer grit and determination for all of them that made them reach the top of their individual standings.

Youth such as Ayesha, Xerxes and Advait are the fore-bearers who can take the sport of sailing to the next level with their commitment towards the sport. Their dedication towards the sport are one of the key characteristics that could turn the tide towards the yet lesser known but immensely exciting sport of sailing.

Through their participation, it was the sport of sailing that was the real winner at the end of the day...their medals being the Icing on the Cake.

Watch this space for details on how the week transpired on the winners who have made us proud...

Olympics 2008 Sailing - The STAR CLASS

2008-08-18T13:10:00.004+05:30

The first one-design class, the Star has the best in technology and demands the best of racing skill, yet remains one of the most fun boats to sail anywhere.

Unlike most modern racing boats, it does not use a spinnaker when sailing downwind. Instead, when running downwind a whisker pole is used to hold the jib out to windward for correct wind flow.Design -
Designed in 1911 by Francis Sweisguth, it has proven to be a classic in every sense. It is the oldest Olympic class, having first been used in competition in 1932, and still at the heart of that competition today.

Supported by a worldwide association the Star as a class is one of the best organized in sailing, with over 7,500 yachts built over its 80 year history, and 2000-plus actively racing today. The Star is reached Worldwide in over 170 fleets by thousands of sailors.

Olympics -
The ten preliminary races are scheduled for the afternoons of August 15, 16, 17, 19, & 20. The final Medal Race is scheduled for the afternoon of 21 August 2008. 16 teams of two sailors each competed in this Star sailboat competition.

Quick Facts -

Crew Two
LOA 6,922 mm (22 ft 8.5 in)
LWL 4,724 mm (15 ft 6.0 in)
Beam 1,734 mm (5 ft 8.3 in)
Chine: 1,372 mm (4 ft 6.0 in)
Draft 1,016 mm (3 ft 4.0 in)
Hull weight (with fittings) 671 kg (1,480 lb)
Mast height (above deck) 9,652 mm (31 ft 8.0 in)
Main and Jib area 26.5 m² (285 sq ft)
Mainsail area 20.5 m² (221 sq ft)
Jib / Genoa area 6.0 m² (65 sq ft)
Official website - http://www.starclass.org/

About the boat
Adjustable Jib Leads
The four-way action of the deck-mounted jib leads allow you to carve the shape of the sail, keeping a good shape to match changing conditions.

Hiking Vest
A simple harness allows the crew to get his or her weight out of the boat more efficiently. Made legal by class rules in 1981, the vest must be equipped with a quick-release to ensure safe exit in an emergency. The vest eliminates alot of the exertion and gymnastics traditionally associated with extended periods of hiking.

Suction Bailers
Developed by Star sailor Duarte Bello, sailors quickly discovered that several strategically placed bailers can quickly and safely drain any excess water in the cockpit Most Stars generally have 4, two in the center of the cockpit, and two located near the chines.

Circular Boom Vang
Also developed by Duarte Bello for Stars, this innovation reached popularity in the 1960's, having proven to be a safe and efficient way to control the high loads of the long boom. This development later spread to other classes, among the 12-meters of America's Cup fame.

Whisker Pole
The simple sailplan utilizes a whisker pole to sail wing-on-wing off the wind, thus making the most of the generous sail area.

www.GiiraYachts.com : Weekly Update - 10th ~ 17th August, 2008

2008-08-17T15:03:00.005+05:30

For the benefit of our viewers, every Sunday we bring to you a WEEKLY UPDATE on the latest in world of boating in that week and a list of all the posts that have been put on www.GiiraYachts.com.

LAST WEEK'S POSTS

11th August, 2008 - With the Olympics 2008 here, and a buzz in the air about China dominating the sailing events, we have discussed the same in -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/olympics-2008-will-china-sailing-team.html

12th August, 2008 - Raymarine, one of the world's best in Navigation Equipment, wants your kids to be safe and sound, whether it's your yacht or an expensive charter - your child's life is PRICELESS -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/raymarine-life-tag-wireless-mob-system.html

13th August, 2008 - Know more about your boat with our technical articles...in our last and final of the Types of Hulls series talks about Semi-Displacement Hulls -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/types-of-hulls-3-semi-displacement.html

14th August, 2008 - Do you know about the Yng-Ling Class to be raced in the Olympics 2008 ? -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/olympics-2008-sailing-yngling-class.html

15th August, 2008 - We love Mochis, and we are sure you will too after you read about the Mochi Long Range 23 -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/mochi-long-range-23-true-green-yacht.html

16th August, 2008 - Now, get to know more about the 49-er class racing in the Olympics 2008 -

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/olympics-2008-sailing-49er-class.html

17th August, 2008 - Covering boating in the USA has always been a pleasure, this particular post is about how boaters are considered and responsible part of keeping the environment clean and green in USA.

http://www.giirayachts.com/2008/08/us-clean-boating-act-of-2008.html

...and hope all Indians had an Happy Independence Day!

The U.S. 'Clean Boating Act of 2008'

2008-08-17T02:00:00.000+05:30

Not many of the boating federations in the world are as powerful as the Great Lakes Boating Federation in USA, that is not only a community-based meeting place for boaters in the Great Lakes region, but also has the strength of 4.3 million boaters.

A couple of years ago, environmentalist in the U.S. of A. had threatened to regulate discharge on boats navigating the Great Lakes. This was instigated by the predatory aquatic nuisances that have come to decimate the indigenous aquatic life within the Great Lakes.

THE CASE AGAINST THE GREAT LAKES' BOATERS

In late 2007, environmentalists argued in court that the discharge of recreational boats should be regulated as stringently as the ballast of commercial ships and water-treatment facilities.

They ultimately won that case, and the new rules were set to go into effect this September 2008.

THE ACT

Congress has passed the “Clean Boating Act of 2008,” President Bush signed it, and thirteen million recreational boaters have been spared the axe. Without this legislation, boaters would have been subject to overzealous new regulations and hassles. With this legislation, a longstanding exemption to this harsh permitting procedure has been permanently restored.

Had the “Clean Boating Act of 2008” not been passed by Congress and signed by President Bush, the 13 million U.S. boaters would have faced a calamity of monumental proportion. The carefree pastime that’s so important to the nation’s families and local economies would have been tangled up in red tape. We have averted that possibility now, and those responsible for the Clean Boating Act of 2008 should be congratulated for ensuring that we did.

THE GREAT LAKES REGION

Consisting of Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, they form the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth. They are sometimes referred to as inland seas or Canada and the United States' Third Coast.

The Great Lakes region possesses 20 percent of the world’s fresh water resources and is home to 4.3 million freshwater boaters. This exemption is a relief to all the boaters that bring $60 billion of economic good to the U.S. economy, $16 billion of which is based in the Great Lakes.

Great Lakes Boating Federation serves as advocacy voice to boaters on the Great Lakes in US and Canada.

"BOATERS SHOULD BE RESPONSIBLE..."

With this new legislation and exemption, Congress and the President have recognized that recreational boaters aren’t the enemy in the fight to keep our water’s clean. Rather, boaters are important stewards of U.S. waters.

The Clean Water Act will allow them to continue enjoying their boating sport and life style while nourishing their coastal economies without needless bureaucratic oversight.

SOURCE

Olympics 2008 Sailing - The 49er Class

2008-08-16T06:39:00.001+05:30

Considered as one of the fastest sailing boats the 49er is fast becoming a craze worldwide. The 49er class of boats which is an evolution of the International 14's and Aussie 18's is also a important part of the Olympics.

About the boat –

It is a double handed twin trapeze boat, meaning that it is sailed by a helm and a crew, the helm making many tactical decisions, as well as steering, and the crew doing most of the sail control. Designed by Julian Bethwaite, the 49er is an evolution of the International 14's and Aussie 18's

The high-performance dinghy class with a low hull and tiny wings, by skiff standards is also used for open competition in the Olympic Games. With a Portsmouth yardstick Handicap of 68.8 the 49er is the fastest two person one-design monohull dinghy.

Quick facts about the 49er –

Designed by - Julian Bethwaite
Crew Two (Double trapeze)
LOA 4876mm (16ft)
LWL Beam [w.o./w. wings] 1752mm/2743mm (5ft 9in /9ft)
Draft 1447mm 4ft 9in
Hull weight (with fittings) 74.25kg (210lbs)
Main and Jib area 215sq.ft
Spinnaker area 400sq.ft
Official website - http://www.49er.org
Current world champions - Nathan OUTTERIDGE and Ben AUSTIN
Seiko is also the official 49er class sponsor.

Design Features

The design of the 49er achieves an outstanding harmony of visual appeal, physical parts and dynamic ratios to achieve a miniaturized design of a new level of efficiency.

Drag
The drag of the 49er shape and assembled parts is far lower than that of any previous skiff. The following features all contribute to this:

Hull
This is due to both hydrodynamic (shape of the wet part of the hull) and aerodynamic (the hull is lower) features
The hull has no vertical or external bulkhead.

Wings
Wings are small and slender, blending smoothly into the hull with no bulky tube outlines or plug-in points
They are also low - well below the meter height above the water where the wind speed is slower because it is slowed by surface friction with the water.

Sails
The unusual design of the forward end of the mainsail foot both cleans up this area and greatly improves the efficiency of the jib/mainsail slot interaction
The diameter of the longer FRP topmast is tiny due to the spun alloy used
Foils are also state of the art

Ratio
The 49er s final ratios are also impressive. The 49er is a miniaturized and simplified design and yet it has achieved the superb performance level only recently achieved by the Grand Prix Eighteen footers. However, the 49er is affordable and easy to sail and is so efficient that it needs only 85% of the Eighteens relative power to achieve the same speed.

Below is a video of the 49er practice session before the China Olympics 2008

The Olympic Angle -
The 49er event is scheduled to sail 16 races. For each event the regatta will consist of an opening series and a medal race. The medal race will be scheduled on the day designated for each event's medal ceremony, if by that day six races of the full schedule have already been completed.

The 49er president is none other than our very own Malav shroff who is also an Olympian sailor himself. He was also a participant of the 49er during the 2004 Olympics where he along with his partner Sumeet Patel stood 19th in the final rankings. Click here to see the rankings

Olympic Racing Schedule 2008
16 races scheduled for 49ers (includes medal race)
Warning signal at 1300 each race day
• Aug. 9 - practice race
• Aug. 10 - racing
• Aug. 11 - racing
• Aug. 12 - reserve
• Aug. 13 - racing
• Aug. 14 - racing
• Aug. 15 - racing
• Aug. 17 - medal race
• Aug 18-19 - reserve for medal race

The 49er made its first Olympic appearance at the Sydney Olympics in 2000 and has continued to grow in popularity ever since.

For all those interested in the technical aspects of the boat click here.

Olympics 2008 Sailing : The LASER Class

2008-08-16T00:53:00.010+05:30

Probably the world's most loved sailboat due to it's nimbleness while handling, and ability to speed at lightning speeds, the Laser Class of sailboats is synonymous to professional youth sailing.

The Laser is one of the most popular single-handed dinghies in the world. By 2007, the number of boats produced exceeded 190,000.

A commonly cited reason for its popularity is that it is robust and simple to rig and sail.

THE LASER CLASS

According the Laser Class Rules the boat may be sailed by either one or two people, though it is rarely sailed by two. The design, by Bruce Kirby, emphasizes simplicity and performance.

A version with a smaller sail, the Laser Radial (see below), will be the women's Olympic-class boat this time 2008.

Laser sailing and racing presents a unique set of physical and skill based challenges. Fast Laser sailing requires an advanced level of fitness in order to endure the straight legged hiking and body-torque techniques required to get upwind and reach quickly.

Downwind sailing is unique in that Lasers can sail by the lee and reach. Fast Laser sailors switch back and forth between these two points of sail to surf and sail around waves.

LASERS - 4.7, RADIAL & STANDARD

The Laser 4.7 uses a short pre-bent lower mast to maintain a balanced helm and a sail area that is 35% smaller than the Laser Standard. It is ideal for learning to sail or for the lighter weight sailor graduating from Optimist.

The Laser Radial is the next step up. It uses a more flexible and slightly shorter lower mast together with a sail area 18% smaller than the Laser Standard. The Laser Radial has a large following with national and international regattas and World Open &Youth Championships attracting as many countries and competitors as the Laser Standard Rig. As well as a strong following amongst lighter weight sailors the Laser Radial is also used for youth, women and masters racing. Many countries now support a full Laser Radial Youth programme and in a survey of national yachting authorities conducted by the International Sailing Federation the majority replied that the Laser Radial was their preferred youth boat.

The Laser Standard can be sailed by any weight in light winds, but as the wind increases it is better suited to higher sailor weights.

...AT THE OLYMPICS 2008

The skill of the competitors in both Laser classes is simply astounding, and the conditions at Qingdao in this year's Olympics will likely reward the quick over the fast. With a fairly goo-catching centerboard and flat bottom, the Lasers may have a tricky time with the Qingdao algae if it comes back in quantity, and it could be a major factor for the fleet. Keep a close eye on Tom Slingsby (AUS), as well as Murdoch (NZL) and Goodison (GBR) for the Laser Class, and Anna Tunnicliffe (USA), The host nation's Lijia Xu (CHN), and Sarah Blanck (AUS) for the Laser Radial Class.

For the Laser Class Olympic Race Schedule, click here.

Olympics 2008 Sailing - The FINN CLASS

2008-08-15T16:59:00.009+05:30

In 1949, the Finnish Yachting Association started a design competition for the Helsinki (1952) Olympics. Rickard Sarby was the one who answered the call, he designed and then actually built the FINN but it was rejected by the committee.

Though the design was rejected by the association , it became instantly popular amongst the sailors. More FINNs were made and on water the boat use to beat other designed boats almost everytime . So, appearing in Helsinki in 1952, the FINN earned its first Olympics just like the sailors themselves, by proving to be the best..

Design Changes
Although the Finn hull has changed little since 1949, there has been other developments in controlling the sails. The original spars were made of wood until the late 60’s and early 70’s when there was a slow change to Aluminum masts. Aluminum is significantly more flexible and gives more control over sail shape.

It became common place after the 1972 Olympics in Kiel when they were first supplied to Olympic sailors. Recently, carbon fiber masts have become common place in competitive Finn fleets. The sails too have gone through revolution and are now commonly made of Kevlar.

Few tips for Boat Handling - Tacking :-

-Heeling the Finn to leeward helps steer it around a leeward mark.
-When tacking, steer with the tiller behind you on completing a tack.
-Do not switch tiller and sheet hands during a tack until you are on the new weather rail.
-Tacking in heavy air, keep the tiller behind your back until you are fully hiked on the new weather rail. Switch hands only when fully hiked.
-Use your tiller hand, not your teeth, to gather up the main sheet when trimming.
-Steering with the tiller and main sheet in one hand frees the other hand for the sail controls.
-Heeling to windward upwind in flat water and light to moderate air works well but takes lots of practice and concentration.
-Watch where you are steering! And be aware of issues like an anchor rode for racing marks.
-The faster the Finn is going downwind, the easier it is to gybe in strong winds. With the bow of the Finn in the deepest part of the wave trough, you will be going maximum speed.

At the Olympics -

The sailing event of the 29th Olympic Games will be held at Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center from August 9-21, 2008.
Log on to - http://en.beijing2008.cn/sports/sailing/index.shtml

Specifications Under Current Rules :-

Number of crew - 1
LWL - 14 ft
LOA - 4.5 m 14 ft 9in
Beam - 1.51 m 4 ft 10in
Hull weight - 140kgs 319 lb
Sail Area - 10 m². 115 sq ft
rig type - Cat.

Olympics 2008 Sailing : The RS Class

2008-08-15T16:22:00.000+05:30

The waves and winds are up in Beijing and it's time for WindSurfing the RS:X way...

The RS:X windsurfer is a design by Neil Pryde that will be used in the 2008 Olympic Sailing Competition.

The International Olympic Committee choose the RS:X because it is representative of equipment used by performance orientated recreational sailors.

Sailors of the RS:X need to be athletic and the craft performs in a wide range of wind speeds.

CONSTRUCTION & DIMENSIONS

Hull Length 285.6cm

Hull Beam 93.3cm

Hull Volume 227 litres

Hull Thickness 13.8cm

Mast Length Men’s 520cm / Women’s 490cm

Hull Weight 15.75kgs

8.5m sail (women) 5.5kgs

9.5m sail (men) 6.1kgs

490 mast (women) 2.2kgs

520 mast (men) 2.4kg

Boom 3.05kg

PVC / Carbon / Epoxy sandwich over CNC machined EPS foam core. One shot boards are pressed and cured in a single shot process that reduces hand work to the minimum.

STYLE OF RACING

The class rewards all aspects of a competitor. Competitors must be able to sail the correct course and downwind tacking angles also become important especially in the lighter conditions.

The one design nature of the equipment means terminal and average speeds are very close and advantage is usually gained by better tactical decision making.

Brain and brawn are rewarded in a relative equal manner. With so many boards on the starting line a sailor must be able to make a top quality start from the front row or find themselves in a tough position to recover from.

Follow the race schedule for the RS:X here.

MOCHI CRAFT Long Range 23 : The TRUE GREEN Yacht (that will make your friends go green too)

2008-08-15T06:18:00.002+05:30

With fuel prices burning holes in many a boat-owners' pockets without a spark - one can imagine many potential buyers contemplating their purchases.

Mochi Craft, one of the prestigious brands of the Ferretti Group, has topped its ante and have developed the only large luxury motor yacht to be granted ‘GREEN STAR Clean Energy - Clean Propulsion’ certification by RINA, the Italian Ship Register.

Taking the GO GREEN step further, it is also the first "Zero Emission Mode” motor yacht over 20 metres.

LONG RANGE

The Long Range 23 is a revolutionary three deck motor yacht and with it Mochi Craft rewrites the history of the international nautical sector.

Taking its luxury boats to the next level - this is an Expedition Boat...Mochi Craft Style.

So next time you see a dashing yacht in the middle of the ocean with exciting colors and flair...expect it to be a Mochi.

MOCHI STYLE - A CRAFT OF ITS OWN

Taking a traditional lobster-boat the luxury way would definitely mean that you need to have finesse and passion fueling the 'luxury-cylinders' of your mind...

The Advanced Yacht Technology division at Ferretti embodies all their products with an unprecedented distillation of innovation and technology...

Mochis are the most-loved boats by the Italian gliterrati and has a fan-following with the likes of Nicole Kidman and Nicolas Cage.

STAR CLEAN ENERGY & CLEAN ENERGY RATING

The 'zero emission mode' hybrid propulsion system allows the craft to be managed in five different ways, ranging from traditional diesel function to the zero emission mode.

Users have the option of lying at mooring with zero emissions while accessing the boat's electrical facilities, for example, or leaving port in silence and creating no smoky exhaust emissions.

The Long Range 23 also uses Ferretti's new Fer.WEY (Ferretti Wave Efficient Yacht) 'trans-planing' hull, which the firm says ensures higher hydrodynamic efficiency than other planing or displacement hulls.

The manufacturer says it offers a significant reduction in rolling over traditional displacement hulls.

The motors are powered by a pack of Lithium ion batteries, the most advanced technology in this field.

While operating in 'energy storing' mode, the batteries rapidly store the energy produced by the diesel while under way.

The batteries can also be recharged simply by plugging them to the shore power connection. For short range coastal cruises, the yacht can, for example, leave port, cruise around and return using only the electricity drawn and stored from the terrestrial network, providing significant energy savings and much less pollution.

The Mochi Craft Long Range 23 will be launched at the Genoa Boat Show in October.

Surely, your surroundings and your pockets both remain GREENER with boats such as the Mochi Craft 23 Long Range.

Olympics 2008 Sailing : The YNGLING Class

2008-08-14T08:00:00.001+05:30

From all the classes (eight in totality) that are being raced at the Olympics 2008 in Beijing, the Yngling (pronounced 'ING-ling') is probably one of the most quickest, and safest at the same time.

The Yngling is a type of sailboat that the International Yngling Association calls an "agreeable cross between a planing dinghy and a keelboat." Its design is classic, and its construction is durable.

THE YINGLING

It was designed in 1967 by Jan Herman Linge; it was adopted as an international class in May 1979.

Linge wanted to build a keelboat for his young son, and thus named it Yngling, the Norwegian word for "youngster".

Those familiar with the Soling will instantly recognize the Yngling as a "mini-Soling," a description which is quite apt.

CHARACTERISTICS

1) Crew : 2–3
2) LOA (Length OverAll) : 20.8’
3) Beam : 5'6"
4) Draft : 3' 5"
5) Hull Weight (with fittings) : 1422 lb

While the Yngling is not as fast as the Soling, it is quicker, and more nimble. It turns more quickly and in less distance, and responds better to crew weight trim adjustments.

The Yngling has a mainsail, a jib and a spinnaker. Compared to the Laser (a much more common boatclass), it has a lot more beam and rarely capsizes, making it a "friendly" boat. It got the ISAF International Class status in 1979, and was chosen as the Olympic Women's Keelboat for 2004 and 2008.

AT THE OLYMPICS

A sailing class to look out for at the Olympics as well as a worldwide hit with "youngsters" of all ages for its nimble speed, it weighs in at a mere 1,422 pounds.

This is a 3-person boat in the Olympics, and an incredible excercise in teamwork.

To be sailed only by women at the Olympics, the Yngling races are bound to be full of grit and emotions.

For the Race Schedule, click here.

Types of Hulls - 3 : Semi-Displacement Hulls

2008-08-13T12:47:00.000+05:30

In our last and final post of the Types of Hulls series - we talk about the combination of the Planing and Displacement Hull - aptly known as Semi-Displacement Hull.

The semi-displacement hull is a design that attempts to combine some attributes of displacement hulls with some features of planing hulls.

Menorquin Yachts popularly use these sort of hulls and the M/Y Galactica is the first super-yacht to officially use this design.

SEMI-DISPLACEMENT HULLS

Also known as Semi-Planing Hulls, is generally used in mid-range flybridge cruisers of 50-100 ft in length. The semi-displacement hull never completely planes, but relies on a flat forefoot and lots of horsepower to drive the yacht a little bit over its bow-wave, generating some lift.

The typical semi-displacement hull is a development of the pure displacement hull - with sharp and deep forward sections fairing into full rounded aft sections. The major difference between displacement and semi-displacement hulls is in the buttocks.

Effectively, the yacht is always driving uphill on its own bow-wave – so fuel consumption is very high. The yacht can be heavier than a full planing yacht, so it can be a little more stable in a sea or at anchor, but never as seaworthy as a full displacement yacht.

A semi-displacement hull is essentially a displacement hull with straighter buttocks ending at a round-bottom.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Generally, displacement speeds are considered those below a speed/length ratio of 1.5. The semi-displacement region extends from 1.5 to about 2.5. Above this is the pure planing region for normally proportioned monohulls.

By definitions, the speed of a semi-displacement hull is limited unless huge amounts of horsepower are applied, simply because you are always pushing the boat through the water. The deep-V holds world records for speed and endurance in rough water.

Semi-Displacement Hulls are used for good sea-worthy, bigger boat designs at lesser running costs.

Olympics 2008 Sailing : The 470 Class – Getting Grips On The Hardest Olympic Design

2008-08-12T15:09:00.012+05:30

The 470 Class fulfills the Olympic double handed sailing discipline for both Men and Women. The strict one design class has proved its excellent suitability as an Olympic Sport during 15 Olympiads (9 for Men and 6 for Women) because of its characteristics as an high performance sailing dinghy, suitable for human athlete body-weights from all continents and very capable of performing in most weather circumstances, from light to heavy wind.

THE 470 DINGHY The 470 is an Olympic class dinghy recognised by ISAF, sailed by both male and female teams. It was designed in 1963 by the frenchman André Cornu, as a modern fiberglass planing dinghy. In 1969 the class was given international status and it has been an olympic class since featuring at the Montreal Olympics in 1976. In 1988 the first olympic womens sailing event was sailed in the 470.

The boat is equipped with spinnaker and trapeze, which demands real teamwork. To be competitive, everything should be mastered to perfection and the 470 is often quoted as the hardest Olympic design to get to grips with. Tactically the boat is demanding as speed differences between competitors are small and fleets are usually big.

In Athens in 2004 the 470 womens class was one of ten sailing disciplines competed for and will be used again in Beijing.

PARTICULARS

Length: 4.7m, 15’5"

Length of waterline: 4.4m, 14’6"

Mass: 120kg, 264lbs.

Mast: 6.76m, 22’3"

Total Sail Area: 12.7m^2, 137ft^2

Jib: 3.58m^2, 39ft^2

Main: 9.12m^2, 98ft^2

Spinnaker: 13m^2, 140ft^2

The 470 Races Men & Women are sheduled on the 11th, 12th, 13th & 15th at the olympics this year. Watch out for results on this space!

Raymarine Life Tag Wireless MOB System!

2008-08-12T12:25:00.002+05:30

Its always fun to go cruising down the river or cutting through the waves of the ocean with your family or friends on a nice Sunday evening. But there is always concern for safety for your little ones.

There was a time when you had to keep a watch on your kids all the time while you are out cruising. But when you are on a 150+ luxury mega yacht its very difficult to keep an eye on them. thats when Raymarine Life Tag Wireless MOB ( man over board) System comes in good use. Its a small light device which can be attached to child’s life jacket, or stuffed into a child’s pocket..

The Life Tag operates on the same wavelength as a master unit that is mounted in the center of the boat, so if the life tag or the life tag attached on the child gets drifted more than 30 feet from the center of the boat a loud beep alarm will be activated.

So if your yacht is docked at marina you will never fear your child wondering away from the boat or by any chance if your child falls off the boat while cruising the alarm will go on and the captain will immediately stop the boat and retrieve him/ her.

Its a great feature considering its rate. Costing just above 600$ for this unit, it is less than most larger, crewed charter yachts spend on champagne for the week. No doubt this product is going to do great in the market and i see it being used a lot on the chartered yachts that welcome family with young children. This product is simply amazing for its prise and size and is a must buy for all yacht owners!

Olympics 2008 Sailing : Will China Sailing Team Grab Gold?

2008-08-11T11:08:00.005+05:30

Sailing as a sport began in China in 1978 and developed rapidly. More than 20 provinces, cities and regions now plan to start sailing competitions. Although there is still a long way to go for China's 470 and Tornado-class sailors to catch other world-class teams, the Olympics provides the Chinese athletes a great opportunity to learn.

As the host, China is directly qualified to enter all 11 sailing events. Sailors competing in Yngling, 49er and Finn events were selected from Qingdao.
The Chinese team also has gold medal chances in men's and women's windsurfing and the Laser Radial sailing class.

Ben Ainslie of Britain (L) and Zhang Peng of China competing in Finn class sail upwind during the first race of the sailing competition at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games in Qingdao, Shandong province,August 9, 2008. (Above)

Women's windsurfer Yin Jian won a silver medal at the Athens 2004 Olympic Games. Determined to give her best performance at home, Yin has been training hard.

Laser Radial competitor Xu Lijia, currently ranked second in the world by the International Sailing Federation, is another one leading China's bid for a sailing gold.

Young and talented, Xu won the 2006 Laser Radial World Championships and took a silver medal at the 2008 Worlds. World No 1 Anna Tunnicliffe of the United States and Tania Elias Calles Wolf of Mexico are Xu's strongest rivals.

Tiantai is a local Qingdao team that is representing China in the Yngling event. It won third and sixth place respectively in the 2006 and 2007 Qingdao International Sailing Regatta.

To prepare for the Games Wang Yong, coach of the team, invited foreign coaches to help the athletes improve their skills and strategy.

Experts also gave psychological guidance to bring out a top-notch performance.

"We undertook physical training and studied competition rules in the morning, and went out on the water in the afternoons to familiarize ourselves with the venue," said Song Xiaqun, a competitor with the Tiantai team.

China has taken first place many times in the Asian Games. The women's windsurfing team has won five world titles. China won two silver medals in Barcelona in 1992 and the same in Athens four years ago - but never a gold.

According to this report by the China Daily, lets wait and watch if China grabs gold!

Volvo Ocean Race - The REEL Story !

2008-08-10T13:05:00.004+05:30

This would make an interesting read...

For the first time in the history of the Volvo Ocean Race, and the history of the sport...a dedicated Media Crew Member will be on-board all the boats praticipating in the Volvo Ocean Race.

The dedicated Media Crew Member on board each boat will be taking the 2008-09 event into a new sporting dimension by capturing the drama, the conflict and the daily challenges of sailing 37,000 miles around the world.

WHAT'S ON ?

Most of these Media Crew Members would be not from a sailing background and only experts at capturing the real moments of the sport on this long odyssey.

On one hand, there’s a great story to be told about people living and working in extreme conditions, and that’s easy to film as there is almost constant hardship onboard. On the other hand, they have to live that life too.

It’s one of a number of challenges posed to the Media Crew Members employed to shine an unprecedented amount of light on this sport.

In real terms, they will be living between two watch systems, trying to capture the hidden essence of what this event is about, while simultaneously staying sane. In cynical terms there is a thought they may be relegated to the chores others avoid.

MORE THAN JUST MEDIA...

Apart from media related duties, the Media Crew on board each racing yacht will be responsible for taking regular water samples using a sophisticated testing process based on bioluminescence using a measuring instrument called a luminometer.

This is in-line with the Volvo Ocean Race taking part in a pioneering project aimed at finding out how the oceans have been affected by ships’ exchanging of billions of tonnes of ballast water.

Surely a step ahead for the sport of sailing, we wish all the Media Crew Members all the best for their voyage, and for capturing the spectacularity of the sport in the best way!

Types of Hulls - 2 : The Displacement Hull

2008-08-08T12:30:00.000+05:30

In our second part of the Types of Hulls series...we talk about the Sumo Wrestler them all - the Displacement Hull !

Pushing it's weight through the water, displacment hulls are the Gentle Giants who are are often misunderstood by prospective buyers since they are not meant for SPEED - that may often tickle the senses of many.

DISPLACEMENT HULLS

Displacement hulls typically have a rounded bottom with a tear drop shape running bow to stern. Displacement hulls "displace" or move, an amount of water equal to the weight of the boat.

The displacement hull displaces water equal to its total weight. As the displacement hull begins to move through the water, small waves appear at the bow and further aft along the hull. When speed is increased, these waves grow larger and the distance between them increases, until the boat is riding between the two waves at the bow and stern.

At this point, the hull has reached its maximum hull speed. Adding additional horsepower (or sail power) after this point only makes the waves bigger, with very little or no increase in the speed of the boat.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

There is a simple empirical formula to work out the hull speed of a diplacement hull in knots: 1.39 x the Square Root of the Boat's Waterline Length in feet. For example, if your waterline length is 100 ft, multiply 1.39 by the square root of 100 gives a hull speed of 13.4 knots.

ADVANTAGES OF DISPLACEMENT

Displacement hulls have several advantages, often overlooked by newcomers to the yacht market. They require relatively little horsepower to drive them through the water, so the fuel consumption of the yacht is much lower. Smaller engines cost less to buy and maintain.

Because the yacht pushes aside the waves rather than riding over the top, its ride is smooth and seaworthy. Because there is plenty of hull below the waterline, the yacht tends to be stable and comfortable at anchor (where yachts spend most of their time).

And finally the lower speed of the yacht means that appendices such as zero-speed stabilisers and azipods can be added to the design.

Most matured buyers of boats go in for displacement hulls.

Rafting Destination - 1 : Wet-n-Wild Weekend On The River Kundalika – 3 hours Away From Mumbai!

2008-08-07T11:08:00.001+05:30

If you love the monsoon and figure high on the adventure barometer, white water river-rafting is a must try!

The Western Ghats are full of short and swift flowing rivers. However due to uneven terrain, there are not many river rafting location in Maharashtra. However Kundalika river which lies hardly 100 kms from Mumbai and Pune provides excellent opportunity for river rafting. It is preferred one day weekend getaway adventure destination near Mumbai and Pune.

River Kundalika is fed by waters released from Mulshi Dam and Bhira dam and provides 9 km rafting location with class 3 and class 4 rapids.
The best time to visit here is the monsoon, when the water levels are good for rafting. However, depending on levels of water, rafting can be done rest of the year as well.
Rafting is done over an 8 kms stretch, a journey filled with high thrills over rapids lasting almost three hours. Apart from rafting, there are other activities like river-crossing, jungle treks, rock-climbing (post-monsoon) and boating.

A number of Mumbai and Pune based adventure clubs organize white river rafting camps during monsoon near Kolad. The daily rafting charges are around USD 50-75.
Some of the clubs are:

Camp River Wild
Mercury Himalayan Explorations (MHE)
Kamath Resorts
Empower activity camps

How to reach Kolad:

Kolad lies on the Mumbai - Goa national highway. It is about 98 kms from Mumbai. The river rafting site is located at Saje village, 97 km west of Pune on the Mulshi-Kholad Road. Mumbai and Pune are the nearest international airports. Kolad or Roha railway station on the Konkan railway is the nearest railway station.

Sight seeing near Kolad

Kansai Waterfall (about 7 kms)
Hot Springs at Uddhar (9 kms)
Pali Ganesh Mandir (13 kms)
Trek to Sarasgad, Sudhagad
Alibaug Seaface (35 Kms)
Birla Salao Temple (52 Kms)
Bhira Dam (46 Kms)
Raigad Ropeway.(70 Kms)
Murud Jangira(93 kms)
Tamaani Ghats(Waterfalls)(48 Kms)