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Boating Knowledge Category

Feb
07

Goodbye Old Friend


Southampton Notice to Mariners No.5 (T) of 2020 -Calshot Dolphin What are RYA Instructors, examiners and trainers going to use now?  One of the local resources used by many RYA Recognised Training Centres is no more.  The 'dolphin', just south of Calshot Spit, had been used for many years as a test of practical navigation, at night, for both sail and power students; a favourite…
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Oct
29

Off Season Skills Refresh


So the nights are drawing in, the weathers not as warm as it was a few weeks ago; it must be the end of the boating season.  For many, it makes sense to put the boats to bed and settle down to normal winter activities around this time of year.  Maybe a little off season maintenance, or an upgrade or two if the weather is…
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Apr
15

COLREG’s


It is sometimes obvious, when we are out on the water, to see how some boaters either have little knowledge of their obligations under COLREG's or are mis-interpreting them.  The most obvious mis-interpretation is regarding 'Right of way'!  To hear two boaters arguing about a near miss situation can be quite informative.  When one party shouts "I have right of way" you just have to…
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Jan
03

How do I get an ICC?


A question that we get asked on a regular basis is 'How do I get and ICC?' Lots of people choose to go abroad for their holidays and want to hire a boat. Most countries now ask for a minimum of an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) to allow you to hire a vessel. To work out what you need depending on the size of…
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Jan
24

Suggested check list for vessels on a Cruise in Company


Charts and publication for area of travel in date GPS or plotter or combined version with correct charts Navigation tools - pencil, plotter, dividers Extra warps and fenders Fire Blanket Main Anchor complete with safety lanyard Kedge Anchor with 10m chain and suitable warp - warp also acts as a towline so min 20m Wood panel to cover any broken hatch Softwood wooden bungs for…
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Sep
11

Buoyage – The signposts of the sea


In 1977 the International Association of Lighthouse Authorities - IALA - adopted two systems of buoyage across the world. These are referred to as "Region A" and "Region B". With the exception of the Americas and parts of Asia, the system used by the rest of the world is "Region A". In England and Wales, buoyage is provided by Trinity House and conform to "Region…
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Sep
11

Rules of the Road – The International Regulations for the Prevention of Collision at Sea


Or IRPCS for short! The International Regulations for the Prevention of Collision at Sea are a set of rules that apply to all vessels using the sea be they commercial or leisure and all water users are obliged to observe them. The most important aspect of the "Col Regs" is to maintain a good look out at all times. The skipper is responsible for keeping…
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