Module 1 is the Introduction to Yachting Certificate
The International Recreational Crew Certificate is divided into 6 modules, module 2 gets us under way and you will be learn about safety on board a boat and the use of the life raft and first aid kit, fire extinguishers, flares, life jackets and safety harnesses. What clothing and footwear is suitable for the varying conditions met while sailing. Seasickness and it's symptoms, cause and prevention. How various equipment works including: battery selector switch, bilge pumps, cabin lights, cooker & butane/propane gas, heads and water pumps together with general housekeeping rules. You will learn a very basic theory of how a diesel engine works and maintenance procedures such as checking the level of the oil, changing the oil, changing filters, ensuring the flow of cooling water to the engine and how to change impellors. You will be taught how to keep a good and effective lookout, which should be maintained at all times, while under way. You will take a look at basic navigation, course plotting, nautical charts, safe passage conditions, tides and currents and weather forecasts.
On the practical side, module 3, you will learn how to coil a line and secure it to a cleat, tie a number of knots and use the winches. You will learn how to secure the boat for sea and then how to leave a berth, once under way you will undertake the duties of a lookout, learn how to hoist and set the sails and while helming the boat go through tack and gybe routines. You will anchor the boat and go through man overboard recovery drill.
Module 4 is theoretical and you will look at the International Regulations for Collision Avoidance or the "rules of the road". Specifically looking at lights, shapes, and sound signals. You will look at some more sail handling techniques, there is more work with charts and compass and to conclude you will take a look at marine customs, etiquette and manners.
The next practical module includes safety checks and look at the through hull fittings, engine warning lights and alarms and the emergency fuel cut off. You will learn deck seamanship with more docking and mooring routines. More sail work, bending on, hoisting, lowering, reefing mainsails, handling sheets, lines, halyards, outhauls and sail trim. You will learn more skills at the helm, tacking, gybing, sailing a triangular course, sailing a compass course and heaving to.
Module 6 looks at both theory and practise of Dinghy/Tender handling. You will learn the different types of tenders, engines, spares and maintenance and safety equipment. On the practical side you will learn to row, how to move under power, launch and recover and transfer to and from the dinghy to the boat or dock.
This section concludes with an assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills gained. At the of this course you will be a useful crew member on any small yacht.
The Radio Operator/Communications Certificate is a stand alone module. You will learn how to operate a radio including emergency calls, calling ship to ship, ship to shore, the types of marine radios available and the regulations governing it's use. An examination concludes the course.
The next 5 modules are the International Watchkeeper/Flotilla Skipper Certificate
Number 8 is theoretical and looks at the responsibilities of a watchkeeper, charts and chartwork, the compass, magnetism and concludes with a look at buoys and marks.
The next practical module concentrates on safety including a briefing that should be given to crew members when they join the vessel and looks at the galley area which if not used correctly can be a danger to all those on board. The rest of the section is devoted to boat handling and develops on the skills learnt in the International Recreational Crew Certificate course.
Back to theory in the next module with a look at basic first aid. More work is done with the International Regulations for Collision Avoidance. Finally you will take a further look at marine customs, manners and today's ever increasing legal requirements.
In module 11, the next practical stage you will prepare a passage plan, and while undertaking a short passage work still further on boat handling skills.
This section concludes with an assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills gained.
You have now reached a level that entitles you to the International Certificate of Competence or ICC. It is suggested that the skippers of vessels are required to hold this by some European countries. I have never been asked for mine by the authorities and I know of no one who has. It is also suggested that some companies require it prior to allowing charter of a boat. Again I have not come across this in practise.
The next three modules make up the International Bareboat Skipper Certificate and the first looks at taking over a vessel and the necessary checks on hull and rig, machinery and systems, instruments, safety equipment, spares, tools, fuel, water and provisions. It looks at tides and currents and what causes them. You will learn how to use tide tables and gain an understanding primary and secondary ports. There is some more chartwork that includes position fixing and plotting a course to steer to counteract a current. The section concludes with a look at the responsibilities of the Skipper, their communication with and delegation to the crew.
On the practical side you will develop sailing skills with more general deck work, ropes, knots, splices, the care and use of lines. There is more vessel handling work including anchoring, berthing, mooring, handling in confined areas and handling with currents.
This section concludes with module 16 and includes a look at the weather and sources of weather information, personal observations, weather patterns, land and sea breezes, the different cloud formations, rain and fog. You will learn pilotage. There is an in depth look at passage planning including pilot books, almanacs, considerations for passage planning, coastal passages, passage strategy, port regulations, pilotage plans. Finally you will take a further look at the International Regulations for Collision Avoidance.
This section concludes with an assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills gained
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Safety Tips for Global Travel Vacations
If you're planning a trip abroad, you're probably concerned about travel safety. Global travel and vacations do pose a risk whether you're traveling alone or with your family. Here are some simple travel safety tips you can follow without adding a lot of stress during your trip.
Resort or Hotel Safety
Be sure the area where you plan to stay is not a high-crime area. Check with several hotels in the area and ask what the crime level is in the neighborhood. When staying at a remote luxury resort, be sure you know how to phone the local medical dispatchers or police in case of an emergency. You might be 20 miles out of town and a desk clerk might not be available to assist you when needed, so prepare in advance just in case.
When exiting your hotel room or the hotel lobby into the parking lot, check your surroundings for suspicious persons. Keep your money, credit cards and traveler checks hidden away in a safe place. Avoid carrying a purse or handbag openly. If the hotel provides a safe in your room, use it for valuables and money as well.
If traveling with children, never leave them alone or allow them to wander around the hotel. Predators look for children who are alone and can easily capture them and drag them into a room without your knowledge.
Make Copies
It's important to make copies of all important documents before leaving. In global travel and vacations, there are usually many papers to keep up with such as licenses, passports, birth certificates, and insurance documents. You should even copy your credit cards (front and back). Leave these copies with someone you trust.
Health Safety
When traveling to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, or any other country, there may be health issues you should know about in advance. Some countries require vaccination shots before crossing the border. Check with your local health department as well as the country's regulations to find out what (if any) health risks exist.
It's also a good idea to take out a travel insurance policy in case you need hospital or doctor treatment while away.
Understand the Laws
When traveling to another country, it's good to understand the local laws before you arrive. Ignorance is no excuse. If you plan to rent a vehicle while away, learn the road laws and what the signs mean so you'll be prepared to drive.
Create an Itinerary
Before you leave, create an itinerary of your travel plans and give a copy to a loved one so someone will know your travel schedule in case of emergencies.
Avoid Travel Scams
If seeking travel information online, beware of scams. If you're new to travel booking, you can sign on with an experienced travel company that knows the ins and outs of travel. These companies can often get better rates for you on luxury beach resorts, golf resorts and hotels, holiday cruises, and so forth. Whether you're skiing in the Swiss Alps or visiting the sandy beaches of Greece, you'll save time and money. Some companies will even allow you to sell their services and earn an extra income. If you love global travel and vacations, it can be an exciting "work at home" business!
Plan ahead for safety, but don't forget to have fun on your vacation!
Resort or Hotel Safety
Be sure the area where you plan to stay is not a high-crime area. Check with several hotels in the area and ask what the crime level is in the neighborhood. When staying at a remote luxury resort, be sure you know how to phone the local medical dispatchers or police in case of an emergency. You might be 20 miles out of town and a desk clerk might not be available to assist you when needed, so prepare in advance just in case.
When exiting your hotel room or the hotel lobby into the parking lot, check your surroundings for suspicious persons. Keep your money, credit cards and traveler checks hidden away in a safe place. Avoid carrying a purse or handbag openly. If the hotel provides a safe in your room, use it for valuables and money as well.
If traveling with children, never leave them alone or allow them to wander around the hotel. Predators look for children who are alone and can easily capture them and drag them into a room without your knowledge.
Make Copies
It's important to make copies of all important documents before leaving. In global travel and vacations, there are usually many papers to keep up with such as licenses, passports, birth certificates, and insurance documents. You should even copy your credit cards (front and back). Leave these copies with someone you trust.
Health Safety
When traveling to Europe, Asia, Africa, India, or any other country, there may be health issues you should know about in advance. Some countries require vaccination shots before crossing the border. Check with your local health department as well as the country's regulations to find out what (if any) health risks exist.
It's also a good idea to take out a travel insurance policy in case you need hospital or doctor treatment while away.
Understand the Laws
When traveling to another country, it's good to understand the local laws before you arrive. Ignorance is no excuse. If you plan to rent a vehicle while away, learn the road laws and what the signs mean so you'll be prepared to drive.
Create an Itinerary
Before you leave, create an itinerary of your travel plans and give a copy to a loved one so someone will know your travel schedule in case of emergencies.
Avoid Travel Scams
If seeking travel information online, beware of scams. If you're new to travel booking, you can sign on with an experienced travel company that knows the ins and outs of travel. These companies can often get better rates for you on luxury beach resorts, golf resorts and hotels, holiday cruises, and so forth. Whether you're skiing in the Swiss Alps or visiting the sandy beaches of Greece, you'll save time and money. Some companies will even allow you to sell their services and earn an extra income. If you love global travel and vacations, it can be an exciting "work at home" business!
Plan ahead for safety, but don't forget to have fun on your vacation!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Going Camping? How To Find A Great Camping Spot
If you want to go on a camping vacation, you will be faced with the decision on where to go. Many experienced campers have their favorite spots but if you want to try something new or are a novice camper, you will need to know how to choose a great camping spot. The first thing you will want to determine is whether or not you will be renting a recreational vehicle or sleeping outside in a tent. There are different grounds available for RV owners and those who are camping in tents. There are also features that you may want to be aware of when traveling with certain age groups. Some areas are more amenable to adults only while others are family friendly. The more populated areas are generally the ones that are best for smaller children and families.
Distance is another consideration. Most people do not want to drive long distances in order to camp. Airplane travel is also not conducive to camping since all the equipment that needs to accompany the travelers will not typically fit in the allotted luggage constraints. Therefore, flying is usually cost prohibitive. There are camping spots available throughout the United States often within a decent driving distance of most major cities. When looking for a camping spot, there are a few places you can go to use as a resource.
Travel agents will have ample information on campgrounds available and will be able to coordinate sightseeing, guided tours, and adventures. Camping stores will often have recommendations on popular local camping sites. The Internet is a valuable way to find information on camping. There are numerous sites online where you can get information on all camp grounds within a specific area. You can get editor's and user reviews that will help you make a final decision on where to go.
Distance is another consideration. Most people do not want to drive long distances in order to camp. Airplane travel is also not conducive to camping since all the equipment that needs to accompany the travelers will not typically fit in the allotted luggage constraints. Therefore, flying is usually cost prohibitive. There are camping spots available throughout the United States often within a decent driving distance of most major cities. When looking for a camping spot, there are a few places you can go to use as a resource.
Travel agents will have ample information on campgrounds available and will be able to coordinate sightseeing, guided tours, and adventures. Camping stores will often have recommendations on popular local camping sites. The Internet is a valuable way to find information on camping. There are numerous sites online where you can get information on all camp grounds within a specific area. You can get editor's and user reviews that will help you make a final decision on where to go.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Alaska Yacht Charters - See The Glaciers And Exciting Wildlife
Crewed Alaska yacht charters allow you to enjoy whale watching and the many other sights that Alaska has in store for you. With these yacht charters you can gaze in awe at majestic mountains that reach into the clouds and visit places that a cruise ship cannot enter. There are flexible itineraries to suit every individual taste so that you get to have the full experience that Alaska has to offer with a yacht charter. If you have sailing experience, you can handle the yacht yourself when you book one of the many Alaska yacht charters.
The abundance of wildlife that you can see with one of the Alaska yacht charters is astounding. Killer whales, black bears, mountain goats and the many species of birds that Alaska offers are just one of the reasons why an Alaska yacht charter is a popular vacation idea with so many people. If you are an avid fisherperson, then with yacht charters, Alaska will help your fishing dream to come true. The type of fish you catch depends on the time of year you book the yacht charter. From May to September, you can fish for different species of salmon, while halibut is present all through the year.
If you want to learn how to sail the waters of Alaska, you can take an educational Alaska yacht charter where you learn as you sail along. Then when you decide that Alaska yacht charters is the way you want to spend all of your vacations, you can save money by not having to hire a captain and crew. With bareboat yacht charters, Alaska has so much to offer that it will take several charters for you to see it all. You can be the captain of your own yacht when you have the proper qualifications and bring along your own food and supplies.
With Alaska yacht charters you can have your own private cruise to Alaska without having to share anything with strangers. This way you can have the run of the yacht and its spacious rooms and deck area. You don't even need to bring your fishing rods with an Alaska yacht charter if you book one of the crewed yacht charters. Alaska is the perfect destination for any occasion, but honeymooning in Alaska is one vacation you will never forget. There are unnamed coves along the coastline of Alaska where you can see the majesty of the scenery in all its glory.
There are so many possibilities with Alaska yacht charters that it is difficult to list them all. Sightseeing and education are all rolled into one with this type of yacht charter as you get to see the sights up close that you saw in books and magazines. Dock in one of the small towns and explore the streets, stores and cafes. Take a helicopter trip to see polar bears in their natural habitat and to get a glimpse of the vast landscape. Once you book one of the Alaska yacht charters you will most definitely want to repeat the experience.
The abundance of wildlife that you can see with one of the Alaska yacht charters is astounding. Killer whales, black bears, mountain goats and the many species of birds that Alaska offers are just one of the reasons why an Alaska yacht charter is a popular vacation idea with so many people. If you are an avid fisherperson, then with yacht charters, Alaska will help your fishing dream to come true. The type of fish you catch depends on the time of year you book the yacht charter. From May to September, you can fish for different species of salmon, while halibut is present all through the year.
If you want to learn how to sail the waters of Alaska, you can take an educational Alaska yacht charter where you learn as you sail along. Then when you decide that Alaska yacht charters is the way you want to spend all of your vacations, you can save money by not having to hire a captain and crew. With bareboat yacht charters, Alaska has so much to offer that it will take several charters for you to see it all. You can be the captain of your own yacht when you have the proper qualifications and bring along your own food and supplies.
With Alaska yacht charters you can have your own private cruise to Alaska without having to share anything with strangers. This way you can have the run of the yacht and its spacious rooms and deck area. You don't even need to bring your fishing rods with an Alaska yacht charter if you book one of the crewed yacht charters. Alaska is the perfect destination for any occasion, but honeymooning in Alaska is one vacation you will never forget. There are unnamed coves along the coastline of Alaska where you can see the majesty of the scenery in all its glory.
There are so many possibilities with Alaska yacht charters that it is difficult to list them all. Sightseeing and education are all rolled into one with this type of yacht charter as you get to see the sights up close that you saw in books and magazines. Dock in one of the small towns and explore the streets, stores and cafes. Take a helicopter trip to see polar bears in their natural habitat and to get a glimpse of the vast landscape. Once you book one of the Alaska yacht charters you will most definitely want to repeat the experience.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Holiday Insurance - Cheap Holiday Insurance - Travel Insurance - Instant Holiday Insurance
Instant Holiday Insurance is one of the UK's largest independent travel insurance company selling cheap travel insurance products, holiday insurance, medical and general insurance services. Instant Holiday Insurance is a trading partnered with of Essential Travel Ltd, who are authorised & regulated by the Financial Services Authority No. 300175
Our Holiday Insurance Web combines great value with comprehensive cover. We cover you for lost or delayed luggage, lost cash, passport and other personal documents plus emergency treatment. We established to offer UK customers comprehensive holiday insurance at competitive low prices. The travel insurance policy will cover you for any medical expenses that you incur should you be involved in an accident or become ill and require hospitalisation. Apart from medical expenses the policy should also cover things like; legal expenses, cancellation & curtailment,loss of money, baggage, passport, etc. and personal liability. Probably the main thing to consider is to make sure you are covered for any activity that you intend to undertake so that you and your equipment are covered while participating,e.g. skiing, scuba diving etc. Travel insurance in an instance without any hassle and with totally safe online transaction from start to finish.
We have a range of products including single trip holiday insurance, long stay holiday insurance, annual multi trip holiday insurance, ski holiday insurance and more for individuals, couples and families for a matter of months and need adequate cover at resonable rates.
We have partnered with Essential Travel to offer you fantastic deals on Travel Insurance. Essential Travel has teamed up with AXA Insurance UK plc to help provide you complete peace of mind on your holiday. We also offer family insurance and World Wide Travel Insurance online for UK holiday makers. Single Trip travel insurance is perfect cover if you are off on one holiday or escaping on a short break. If you are planning to travel a few times this year then an annual policy offers you both convenience and value for money. Our service specialist was set up with one main aim to provide convenient high value cover at the lowest prices possible.
You can easily get instant online holiday insurance quote where you can select your insurance package, date of travel, which could be for Europe or worldwide. Once package is selected,you can then enter your credit card details and get print off of your travel insurance policy and cover details immediately. Insurance certificate will reach to you either by email or by regular post.
Enjoy your holiday and be safe during holiday by getting insured with instant holiday insurance.
Our Holiday Insurance Web combines great value with comprehensive cover. We cover you for lost or delayed luggage, lost cash, passport and other personal documents plus emergency treatment. We established to offer UK customers comprehensive holiday insurance at competitive low prices. The travel insurance policy will cover you for any medical expenses that you incur should you be involved in an accident or become ill and require hospitalisation. Apart from medical expenses the policy should also cover things like; legal expenses, cancellation & curtailment,loss of money, baggage, passport, etc. and personal liability. Probably the main thing to consider is to make sure you are covered for any activity that you intend to undertake so that you and your equipment are covered while participating,e.g. skiing, scuba diving etc. Travel insurance in an instance without any hassle and with totally safe online transaction from start to finish.
We have a range of products including single trip holiday insurance, long stay holiday insurance, annual multi trip holiday insurance, ski holiday insurance and more for individuals, couples and families for a matter of months and need adequate cover at resonable rates.
We have partnered with Essential Travel to offer you fantastic deals on Travel Insurance. Essential Travel has teamed up with AXA Insurance UK plc to help provide you complete peace of mind on your holiday. We also offer family insurance and World Wide Travel Insurance online for UK holiday makers. Single Trip travel insurance is perfect cover if you are off on one holiday or escaping on a short break. If you are planning to travel a few times this year then an annual policy offers you both convenience and value for money. Our service specialist was set up with one main aim to provide convenient high value cover at the lowest prices possible.
You can easily get instant online holiday insurance quote where you can select your insurance package, date of travel, which could be for Europe or worldwide. Once package is selected,you can then enter your credit card details and get print off of your travel insurance policy and cover details immediately. Insurance certificate will reach to you either by email or by regular post.
Enjoy your holiday and be safe during holiday by getting insured with instant holiday insurance.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Hidden Gems In The Costa Del Sol
Malaga, Spain is a wealth of historical and cultural knowledge for tourists. As the capital of Costa del Sol, or the "Sun Coast", Malaga lies on the southern coast of Spain and has a lot to offer the casual traveler and history buff alike. Not only will it take you back in time when you visit some of the most important structures in Spanish history, it also brings you into the present day, with its wide variety of shops and markets. Most of the attractions are within walking distance, once you're in the city center, so it's easy to take in all the city has to offer.
Historical Tours
Just a short walk from the historic city center, you'll find the fortress El Alcazaba. The entrance to this landmark, which dates back to the 11th century, is known as the Puerta del Cristo, or "Christ's Door". The first mass after the Christians' victory was celebrated here. The lush grounds consist of carefully manicured gardens and stately fountains. Many terraces on the property provide fabulous views of the town. The Archaeological Museum can be found on the grounds. Just outside the gates of this structure, you'll find the ruins of an amphitheater that dates back to Roman times.
Another point of interest not to be missed is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, the country's most famous artist. It can be found in the historic city center in the Plaza de la Merced. In 1998, the Picasso Foundation took over the historic building, and it was officially re-opened by the King and Queen of Spain, after being closed for over 100 years. It serves as a tribute to Picasso's life and is a testament to his talent.
Aside from these two attractions, the city is overflowing with other historical points of interest, including a variety of museums and churches that date back centuries.
Life in Malaga
Historical Tours
Just a short walk from the historic city center, you'll find the fortress El Alcazaba. The entrance to this landmark, which dates back to the 11th century, is known as the Puerta del Cristo, or "Christ's Door". The first mass after the Christians' victory was celebrated here. The lush grounds consist of carefully manicured gardens and stately fountains. Many terraces on the property provide fabulous views of the town. The Archaeological Museum can be found on the grounds. Just outside the gates of this structure, you'll find the ruins of an amphitheater that dates back to Roman times.
Another point of interest not to be missed is the birthplace of Pablo Picasso, the country's most famous artist. It can be found in the historic city center in the Plaza de la Merced. In 1998, the Picasso Foundation took over the historic building, and it was officially re-opened by the King and Queen of Spain, after being closed for over 100 years. It serves as a tribute to Picasso's life and is a testament to his talent.
Aside from these two attractions, the city is overflowing with other historical points of interest, including a variety of museums and churches that date back centuries.
Life in Malaga
The area of Andalucia, where Malaga is situated, is the most populous region in Spain. It's steeped in culture and tradition. Over 3,000 fiestas are held here each year. It seems that a special event or holiday is celebrated nearly every day. From carnivals to religious processions, these events showcase the true spirit of the Andalucian people. Residents are very congenial and friendly, and enjoy a deep sense of community. The nightlife here is as relaxed or as fast-paced as you like. From a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, to singing flamenco songs in a local pub, you can't help but discover something you'll enjoy.
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