A 14-day sailing cruise through the delights of Western Kvarner and Zadar
The coasts between Zadar and the western Kvarner are a part of Croatia long beloved by sailors, thanks to their wealth of scenic and cultural treasures. The tradition of welcoming tourists in these areas dates back as far as the…
Sailing among the marvelous Phlegraean Islands and the Amalfi Coast
A week-long sailing cruise between the Phlegraean Islands and the Amalfi Coast is a dream come true. Imagine gliding over crystal-clear waters, powered by the wind, with the freedom to explore hidden coves, sea caves, and untouched beaches accessible only…
Managing wind gusts: Tips for safe sailing
Wind gusts can make the hearts of many cruising sailors race. Especially in light to moderate winds, a sailboat comes alive and accelerates suddenly. But what should you do when the gusts become too strong? The hidden danger of wind…
Sailing without an engine: How to get home in case of a breakdown
When the engine fails, do we necessarily need to use the radio to call for help? Depending on the circumstances, we might be able to manage on our own. Some issues with marine diesel engines can be easily resolved at…
Anchoring: What to do if your boat drifts away in a bay
A slipping anchor is every cruiser’s nightmare. Discover the dangers of leaving your boat unattended at anchor, the economic and environmental consequences, and how proper anchoring can save you from disaster. Every summer, a worrying number of boats end up…
Sailing along the coasts of Brittany, a land of sailors surrounded by the ocean
Brittany, with its jagged coastline, wave-battered granite cliffs, wind-swept islands and islets, is a concentration of harbors and small ports, fishing villages, shipyards, ancient lighthouses, sailing schools, boatyards, and naval design studios. It’s no coincidence that Brittany is the most…
How to manage anxiety, fear, and panic while on a boat
Sailing brings many personal rewards. It allows you to learn to manage both the boat and the crew independently, explore unknown places, and to find yourself and discover your limits. Often, it also helps to overcome your fears. However, there…
Easy cruising: How to enter an unknown harbor
Entering an unknown harbor. Exploring places you have never been to before is one of the greatest attractions of a sailing cruise. However, entering unfamiliar ports and marinas can be challenging and stressful, with many opportunities for mistakes. It will…
Raising and lowering the mainsail: Troubleshooting
What can you do if your mainsail is difficult to raise or reluctant to lower during a cruise? The possibility that the mainsail on some boats does not go up or down easily and quickly is a problem often underestimated…
Katabatic winds: Understanding the risks for sailors on a cruising yacht
Katabatic winds are a meteorological phenomenon that is often little known, yet can pose a danger to sailors on a cruise. These descending winds generally form when a mass of air cools, becomes denser than the surrounding air, and accelerates…