I am back to studying! I really need to sit my Ocean Yachtmaster Exam and I am going through a MOUNTAIN of paper with my study notes on there and putting them up on the blog. That way I get to save them, you get to read them, and I get to chuck out a…
Here in New Zealand, there are strict rules on the safety equipment that boats need to carry on board if they are competing in any yacht races, and also if they are intending on sailing offshore (both racing and cruising). Internationally registered vessels are exempt from these requirements, however I would imagine any prudent seafarer…
For tonights Ocean Yachtmaster study I am looking at abandoning ship. I have already visited the Rescue Coordination Centre, and saw how these amazing people are able to muster assistance in the form of another boat or a helicopter to come and help you. I have learnt about EPIRB’s and how they work, what safety gear you…
We were sailing along a few years ago, racing in one of the winter series yacht races at Naval Point. We must have been doing ok on this particular day as we weren’t too far behind Legacy II one of the faster yachts. They had rounded the mark in front of us and had hoisted…
When you are out in the middle of nowhere, it is so good knowing that you have got people back home who are able to assist when you need them. We were recently sailing in New Caledonia, and were anchored inside a small reef and the sun was going down. It was a lovely spot,…
After our fascinating visit to the Rescue Coordination Centre, we went next door to have a look at the Maritime Radio office and were once again welcomed by their super friendly team who were happy to answer all our questions in between taking calls over the radio.
After having recently studying all about EPIRB’s in my Ocean Yachtmaster course, I realised that I had learnt a lot about how the system works, but I was still in the dark as to what actually happens behind the scenes at the Rescue Coordination Centre once you press the button. Then came a chance email…
I am back to studying my Ocean Yachtmaster course today. Its pouring with rain outside and after listening to an incredible rescue story this week, I thought it was timely to do some research on EPIRB’s For my faithful non-sailing readers (thanks Mum) EPIRB stands for Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon. By the way Mum,…
Skippers – both recreational and commercial, have always been responsible for the safety of their vessels and the people on board in the eyes of the law, but what exactly does this mean in practice? The first thing to note is that in New Zealand there is no requirement to have any kind of license…
When was the last time you serviced your inflatable life jacket? Well I am ashamed to say that the last time I did mine was NEVER!! However after watching this cool YouTube video I realised it wasn’t actually that hard and I should just get my act together and do it.
Astrolabe Sailing 