Sailing tips
62 articles
tipsHow to Read a Charter Listing: 9 Things Photos Hide
Charter listings show yachts at their best. Learn to decode what's missing — refit dates, hidden costs, and red flags — before you book.
tipsCharter Yacht Insurance: What's Covered, What's Not
Every charter includes basic insurance, but your real exposure is the security deposit. Here's exactly what's covered, what CDW costs, and what falls on you.
tipsCharter Yacht Handover Checklist: 47 Things to Check
Your handover takes 30-60 minutes and protects a deposit of up to €3,000. Here's every item to inspect before you sign.
tipsMan Overboard: What Every Crew Member Must Know
MOB is sailing's most critical emergency. Learn the 3 actions for the first 10 seconds, recovery techniques, prevention habits, and why 15 minutes of practice on day one could save a life.
tipsHow to Read Wind and Weather Before a Sailing Day
Checking weather takes 5 minutes daily. Learn the Beaufort scale, the best apps, regional wind patterns, and how to make smart go or stay decisions before you cast off.
tipsMed Mooring: How to Dock Stern-To Like a Local
Med mooring means reversing stern-first into a berth with your anchor out. It looks intimidating but follows a clear 10-step process. Here is exactly how to do it, what goes wrong, and how your crew can help.
tipsHow to Anchor a Yacht: A Step-by-Step Guide
Anchoring is the most important daily charter skill. Learn how to choose the right spot, set your anchor properly with correct scope, and check it holds. Takes 10 to 15 minutes once you know the process.
routeBVI: Tortola to Virgin Gorda and Back in 7 Days
The classic BVI loop from Tortola covers 80NM in 7 days through Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke. Steady Force 3-4 trades, mooring balls everywhere, and short hops make this the world's easiest cruising route.
learningCan You Learn to Sail in a Week? What's Realistic
One intensive week gets you a Day Skipper certificate and competence in moderate conditions. But real confidence takes 500+ miles and 2-3 seasons.
learningRYA Day Skipper: The Complete Guide for 2025
Everything you need to know about the RYA Day Skipper: theory, practical, costs by location, and what it qualifies you to do on the water.
learningWhat Is the ICC? Your Boating Certificate Explained
The ICC proves your boating competence across borders. Here's where you need one, how to get it, and what it costs.
routeAround Mallorca: A 180NM Sailing Circuit in 7 Days
Circumnavigate Mallorca in 7 days covering 180NM. From Palma to Cabrera National Park, the east coast calas, Cap de Formentor, and the dramatic Tramuntana cliffs.