Preventing Boat Propeller Injuries
August 6, 2007
Each year hundreds of propeller accidents leave tragedy in their wake. The Office of Boating Safety reported that in 2002 there were 239 accidents involving motor or propeller strikes among recreational boaters. 47 of those accidents resulted in death. Plan for a safe time on the water and minimize accidents.
The Office of Boating Safety recommends a combined approach of increased awareness and improved technologies to reduce the number of injuries and death resulting from this type of incident.
The National Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety has also taken notice of the increase in propeller related injuries and note that the increase in injuries is probably related to a direct increase in the number of boat owners in America. "Since 1990, personal watercraft (PWC) use in the United States has increased by an estimated 400%. In 1996, there were approximately 900,000 PWCs in use," reads the web site.
The web site defines PWCs as being approximately eight feet long, powered by self-contained engines with an enclosed propeller that uses pressured water for thrust. Most models are designed to accommodate two to three passengers. A PWC cannot be steered when the engine is off, even though momentum may still carry the PWC forward.
Back to Nature: Observing Marine Life When Boating
August 5, 2007
“Whether you boat on fresh water or on the ocean, there is a lot of marine life to observe and appreciate. We boat in the Pacific Northwest off the west coast around the islands and straits of the Pacific Ocean. The sea life here is exceptional. Following are some of our wonderful experiences.”
One of the most powerful sights is that of large pods of Orca whales, or Killer whales as they are often referred to, as they migrate off the coast. Sometimes there can be several in these pods including mother whales and their babies. Orca whales are quite beautiful to see. Their black and white bodies glisten in the sunlight each time they appear near the water surface or do a breach jump. Usually the babies follow their mothers. It is quite possible to watch them for hours without getting tired.
Boaters must be careful and remain a respectable distance from the whales, as most whales are endangered. You do not want to interfere with their normal migration routes and movements. It is possible to see Orca whales up close in captivity, and they are splendid animals. But when you can actually see them in their normal environment in the ocean, it is magnificent. How fortunate we are to be able to go boating for a few days and have them entertain us along the way.
The Bottom Line on Yacht & Boat Charters
August 4, 2007
Whether you are considering your first yacht charter vacation or simply looking to live the experience again there is a lot of vital information you need before planning and embarking on your voyage. Firstly, you need to consider the type of yacht charter that is suitable for you. There are crewed or unscrewed yacht charters, bareboat or even a motorised yacht. Each have their advantages and personal preference will dictate the chosen charter for you.
One thing for certain, though, whatever type of vessel you go on, there are many destinations to choose from each of them offering beautiful islands and shimmering seas by day and exciting or romantic night life. As with any vacation you need to plan carefully, but when chartering a yacht it is absolutely imperative that you take the essentials and spares. Once you’re out to sea there will be few opportunities to stock up and an emergency is much of an emergency when you’re hundreds of miles from the nearest chemist or shop.
Many who are chartering for the first time do so for a little quality time with family, friends and loved one because chartering a yacht is one of the most tranquil and peaceful vacations you can decide on.
How To Save Money On Cruises
August 3, 2007
1. If you’re 55 or older, you can get senior citizen discounts.
2. If you belong to American Automobile Association or American Association Of Retired Persons, you can get a discount.
3. "Buy One-Get One" fares are often offered. You buy your ticket and bring another person along for the ride. Or better yet, split the cost of the fare and you both travel at a 50% discount.
4. Added Value or Free Days. You book a 7-day cruise and get 3 days free or free shore excursions, as well as pre or post cruise hotel rooms.
5. Flat fare specials are one fixed price for the best available cabin at the time of booking.
6. Share a cabin with friends, another couple or two family members and you could easily end up cruising for free. This fare package can also be cut four ways - reducing the burden on all. You will be sleeping in head over bunks that are comfortable, so consider this strategy. Just make sure everyone gets along.
7. You should check into airfares at reduced rates offered by your cruise line to get you to your embarkation site.
What You Need to Know About Cruise Holidays
August 3, 2007
Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of driving, sitting erect in a plane etc., go for a voyage through water- a cruise which provides you the best comfort and sight seeing. Sea journey has its own charm and charisma. The world seems a live paradise when you get the chance to gaze the Sky kissing on the forehead of Earth. Such is the unprecedented experience of the scenic splendor exclusively through a cruise. Planes and jets can make you reach your destination instantly but if you are in no hurry and in a mood to relax then a cruise is the most appropriate and a perfect idea.
There are a variety of cruises. Some vessels like Christmas market cruises are small while others ocean going ones are comparatively quite large. Then there are those that have an aura of remarkable serenity contrary to the ones that are extremely vibrant and brimming up with life. Cruises also vary according to the age groups of people. Like the serene ones are usually meant for the grown ups, while families with kids prefer entertaining cruises to keep their children busy throughout.
First Time Cruisers
August 2, 2007
If you are a first time cruiser you are in for a treat! Cruising can be a great experience provided you are aware of certain things and know how to get the most out of the experience.
If you are flying or driving, I recommend getting to the city where you will board the ship the day before you sail. This will prevent you from running to the ship at the last minute, hoping it is still there, should you have any problems with flight delays, lost luggage, traffic back-ups, etc. This will allow you to rest from your travel and give you ample time to get to the ship on the day it departs. Avoid getting to the ship at the earliest time allowed or at the last minute. Getting there in the middle of the hours designated to check in sometimes reduces the time you have to stand in line to check in.
Alaska - Easy Cruise Guide
August 1, 2007
WHAT TO SEE: Legendary beautiful scenery of Alaska- magnificent coastal fjords, rugged glaciers, vast evergreen forests, sky-high mountains, 7 of which are the tallest peaks in North America (to see Mt. McKinley, North America’s tallest peak, you’ll need to take a tour to the shore into the Denali National Park), abundant land and marine wildlife- moose, kodiak and grizzly bears, caribou, dall sheep, puffin, otters, seals, humpback and killer whales, dolphins, bald-headed eagles and much more. Shore excursions are optional, as well as guided tours in a cruise ship’s port of call. They are offered in all Alaska ports and cities and are a great way to enrich your cruise experience with visiting coastal attractions, historical places, challenging yourself in kayaking, helicopter tours, mountain biking,…
CRUISE LENGTH: 7 days on average.There are some 11 and 14 day cruises which include more ports of call and more glacier touring. There are 2 different kinds of cruises available: Inside Passage Cruise: roundtrip departure from Vancouver/ Seattle, usually 7 days long. You cruise the inside passage through the islands offshore from British Columbia and Alaska. Stops usually include Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway and Juneau. Gulf of Alaska Cruise (or Glacier Route Cruise): You cruise one-way northbound from Vancouver/ Seattle or one-way south from Seward, Alaska. You will see more glaciers on this route and an additional port or two.
