Open Days At Premier Marinas

Premier Marinas have some open-days and there is a general invite if you are considering changing where you keep your boat.

The open day is on the 18th February 2012 and the marinas in question are:

Clipper Race Update

Latest Clipper Race Update:

RACE 8: SINGAPORE TO QINGDAO, CHINA
DAY 8
* Geraldton Western Australia claims Scoring Gate victory
* Tactics continue to shape Race 8
* Eventful night for New York crew

Another

Dover Port Developments

Port of Dover Reports

The Bishop of Dover, the Right Reverend Trevor Willmott, has chaired the second meeting of community representatives who are working together in order to take forward the development of the proposed Port of D

Wreck Drifts The Atlantic

Spanish coastal services have reported that a small craft has been washed ashore some three years after it disappeared from US waters.

The craft was a Regulator 26ft Queen Bee which was lost off the coast of Massachusetts in 2008. Coastguar

Volunteer Canal Keepers

The British Waterways volunteer lock keepers scheme has once again attracted a lot of interest with Circa 300 enquiries having been received in the first week.

British Waterways explains that it is currently rolling out the volunteer lock ke...

Round The Island Race 2012

Entries for this year's round the island race have now opened. The race date is 30th June 2012 and entry can be made at www.roundtheisland.org.

For those of our readers from areas outside the Solent, this refers to the Isle of Wight! W...

Marine Gas Oil Sold at Premier Marinas from January 2012

Premier Marinas announce-

The marine gas oil sold at Premier Marinas (excluding Falmouth Marina) is Advanced Marine Diesel 10.

Sourced from Esso's refinery in Fawley, Hampshire and supplied by WP Marine, part of the W...

LAURA DEKKER COMPLETES VOYAGE

Laura Dekker completed her circumnavigation of the globe when she sailed into the Caribbean island of St Maarten yesterday. She becomes the youngest person ever to sail solo around the world.

The voyage took just over a year in a Jeanne

Sovereign Harbour Gets Five Gold Anchors

Premier Marina's Sovereign Harbour has been awarded Five Gold Anchors in the The Yacht Harbour Association's Marina Awards Scheme.

In achieving this award, Premier Marinas achieved one of the highest scores in this highly regarded scheme...

Royal Marines On The Thames

Royal Marines and Police will be on the Thames this week in preparation for the Olympics. It is purely an exercise but will involve jetskis, RIBs, Rigid Raiders, and Offshore Raiding Craft.

It is estimated that 140 commandos and police

MDL Leads the Way in Green Energy with New Solar Installation

MDL has forged ahead with its green agenda by installing a substantial 220 panel solar farm at Ocean Village Marina.

The new system is located on top of the six-storey Ocean Car Park and is set to generate a whopping 41,500 kWh of free

Dover Announces Increase In Cruise Ship Visits

The Port Of Dover is expecting an increase in the number of cruise ships stopping over.

Here is what they have said-

With 156 cruise calls, the 2012 cruise season is going to be another successful year for Dover Cruise Port.

PANTAENIUS YOUNG SAILOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

NEws from the London Boatshow.

Annabel Vose (17) and Megan Brickwood (16) from Southampton were presented with the prestigious YJA Pantaenius Young Sailor of the Year Award for 2011 at the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show on Saturday 7 Ja

Your Invitation to an Open Day at Gosport Marina

Premier Marinas are inviting boat owners to an Open Day at Premier's Gosport Marina on Saturday 21st January 2012 from 13:00 − 15:00 hours.

Besides complimentary refreshments at the Marina Reception, you can also

New Marina On The Oxford Canal

At a recent meeting of the Cherwell District Council Planning Committee, consent was granted for the development of a new 249 boat marina facility close to the village of Cropredy.

The developers of the site have described how they inte

Crossrail Material to Help Make Bird Sanctuary

Crossrail have recently awarded a contract for the shipment of waste material to a joint venture company BAM Nuttall Limited/ Van Oord UK Ltd.

The contract will involve the transportation of waste material from the tunnel excavations to Wall

Clipper Race Update

The following update has been received -

CLIPPER 11-12
RACE 7: GOLD COAST TO SINGAPORE
DAY 16

* Qingdao under pressure from more teams
* Derry-Londonderry moves into second place
* Gold Coast Australia has

Beale Park 2012

Beale Park organises a Boatshow every year and this year, the organisers are looking to do a few new things.

As you probably know, it is the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in the summer and to celebrate, the organisers of the show are looking

Maxi Trimaran Banque Populaire V

Maxi Trimaran Banque Populaire V crosses line in winning time and wins Jules Verne Trophy.

Loïck Peyron and his crew completed their voyage in 45 days, 13 hours, 42 minutes and 53 seconds, improving on the previous record time for

Crofton Lock Stretch To Re-Open

Stoppage works and an unfortunate shortage of water closed the 'Crofton Flight' on the Kennet and Avon in the autumn of last year.

This section of the lock is understood to have been repaired and the water problem resolved It is expec

Brightlingsea Harbour Developments

Wind farm developments at Gunfleet Sands necesitated the upgrading of some facilities in Brightlingsea Harbour. It is anticipated that the associated support vessels will use the harbour.

The main addition has been with regards to the new

Dorset Hotel Olympic Bookings

Hotels in Dorset are not fully booked for the olympics.

Weymouth and Portland are hosting the sailing events and local hoteliers are hoping for bumper bookings. Block bookings have not transpired to a great extent and mainstream visitors a

Beachy Head Stripes Controversy

It was recently announced that the famous stripes on the Beachy Head Lighthouse were no longer going to be maintained.

Trinity House, which maintains the structure has said that the cost (Circa £30,000) was no longer justified in

Broads Announce Low Rise in Tolls

The Broads Authority has announced that tolls on the Broads will increase by only 2.85% in the next financial year, the lowest rise for 17 years.

Broads Authority members unanimously agreed the below-inflation rise in recognition of th

Clipper Race Update

The Clipper Round The World Race report ....

The day after Christmas, two hundred miles to the north east of the Great Barrier Reef, the Clipper 11-12 fleet is revelling in the more settled conditions, sunshine, blue skies, flat seas an

Norfolk Yacht Agency (NYA) Broom 455 For Sale

NYA (Norfolk Yacht Agency) have announced that they have a new highly specified, Broom 455 aft-cabin luxury yacht for sale at an amazing discount - Over £122,000 saving! Norfolk Yacht Agency will be availab

Broom Boats nominated for Motor Boat of the Year Award

Broom Boats, based in Brundall, Norfolk, has been nominated for the prestigious IPC Marine Media Motor Boat of the Year Award. The nomination is for the new Broom 370, a luxury 38ft motor cruiser, which was launched at So...

World On Water Update

Here is our weekly round up of sailing and boat action collected from around the globe.

Some fresh news, views and video.

1- 2011 Extreme Sailing Series Singapore
2- 2011 Volvo Ocean Race Cape Town In-Port race and Leg ...

Broom Boats Exhibiting At BoatShows

The Broom 370 and the Broom 455

Review by the Skippers Guide - as seen through the eyes of Broom Boat Customers.

Quality and Innovation at its Best .

Broom Boats have a reputation for knowing what their customers w

Broom Boats Exhibiting At London & Dusseldorf Boatshows

Broom Boats are delighted to announce their attendance at not 1 but 2 major International boat shows in January.

Broom will be exhibiting a new 370 at the Tullet Prebon London International Boat Show on stand L117.

Bro

Insurance Companies Warning Of Cold Weather

With the onset of cold weather comes the prospect of damage to boats, most particularly from frost. Boat owners need to make sure that they protect their craft from damage. The biggest risk is damage to engines and this year, some insurance compa...

Exciting Hotel Development Announced for Ocean Village Marina

MDL Marinas reports ......

MDL Marinas has teamed up with Harbour Hotels to propose plans for a superyacht-inspired £25 million luxury hotel at Ocean Village Marina in Southampton.

The 4/5* hotel will

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink

If you are in the London area then you might consider a skate in the grounds of Hampton Court Palace.

Should be a memorable experience, hopefully for the right reasons!

Crisp Winter Air and then .... music, refreshments and

World On Water Update

Here's what's on this week's "World on Water", released last Friday 2nd December which, as always, you can watch from the front page of our website or click here

1 2011 WMRT

Clipper Race Update

The Clipper 11-12 Round the World Yacht Race has arrived in New Zealand this week – half a world away from the Solent where the race started four months ago and will return in a further eight months. However, advanced planning meetings have

Environment Agency Looses Small Craft on the Yare

The Environment Agency reports that it lost a small 6ft long craft recently near the Reedcutters Pub at Cantley on the River Yare.

The craft was undertaking flood risk work for the Broadlands project and is believed to have been overwh

New Home For Thames Conditions Website

The host for the River Thames Tidal Conditions website has now changed.

This important website can now be found on the environment agency website.

It retains its original function. Checking the latest advice to boaters befor

Water Resources In Eastern England Requiring Of Careful Management

It might be of some surprise but for this year, a number of regions in the east are still technically classified as being 'dry' when it comes to water resources. The Environment Agency's 'drought management' report highlights potential issues

Royal Ramsgate Marina At Boatshow

Royal Ramsgate Harbour announces .....

'We are pleased to announce that Ramsgate Royal Harbour Marina will once again be exhibiting at the London Boat Show.'

'Visit our stand where we will be pleased to g

INTERNATIONAL COORDINATION ASSURES RESCUE OF FRENCH FISHERMAN

MCA - Dept For Transport reports ...

A call from a French fishing vessel to request the medical evacuation of a crew member became more complicated than usual because no-one on board spoke English.

At 9.45am Belfast Coastguar

Richmond Lock & Weir

The PLA (Port Of London Authority) has issued the following information.

'In order to carry out unexpected extra maintenance works to the weirs at Richmond Lock and Weir it will be necessary to keep the weirs open for a further period

Revised Cuts To Coastguard Centres In Uk

The Government has announced revised cuts to its planned review of the Coastguard Service around the United Kingdom.

Despite some reprieves, it has now been announced that eight stations will close with the loss of 159 jobs.

World On Water Update

Here's what's on this week's "World on Water", released last Friday 18th November .

# 1 2011-12 Volvo Ocean Race Alicante, Spain
# 2 2011 America's Cup World Series-San Diego, USA
# 3 2011 Rolex Sailor of the Year

Skipper's Guide Website Updates

We have been busy updating the website. Not only are we now giving a weather map and uploading lots of photos to Flickr, we are also providing all our advertisers with a separate page on the web site.

Uploading content and photos, thi

Maritime Emergency Conference At Dover

The Port of Dover announced ….

….. that it had welcomed around 250 delegates from official agencies based in Kent taking part in Exercise Manchex 2011. This is a biennial ‘all-day’ maritime exercise con

PLA Highlights Economic Growth On The River Thames

The PLA (Port Of London) has recently commented on the amount of investment that the River Thames is attracting. Investment in new port facilities, piers and vessels is estimated to have generated some £2.5billion.
The PLA explained how

World on Water Update

This week's world on water video is now on the Skipper's Guide.

1 A report on the decimated fleet after the start of The 2011 Transat Jacques Vabre .
2 The carnage on the third leg of the 2011-12 Volvo Ocean Race .
3 Leg 5 s

Ship Detentions From The MCA

The Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) announced that -

'8 foreign flagged ships were under detention in UK ports during September 2011 after failing Port State Control (PSC) inspection.  

Latest monthly figures sho

Fambridge Yacht Haven Open New Facilities Block

Thursday 27th October, 2011 saw the opening of Fambridge Yacht Haven's new facilities block. Councillor John Archer (Leader of Maldon District Council) did the opening honours with Danyal Adams (Marina Manager) and his team hosted the event.

North Fambridge 2011 Winter Series

Last Sunday, the North Fambridge Winter Series got off to a flying start with 14 boats out on the water for the first race. There will be 6 races, 4 to count.

The usual River Crouch challenges were addressed by the fle

World on Water Update

Another episode of sailing action from World On Water.

The following is covered....

1 2011-12 Volvo Ocean Race In-Port Race Alicante, Spain
2 2011-12 Clipper Race Finish Geraldton, West Australia
3 2011 Tran

Volvo Ocean Race - 1st 24 Hours So Far ....

The Volvo Ocean Race have reported on racing from the first 24 hours.

Events have unfolded and whilst these boats are going to race around the globe, weather and sea can cause problems even when you are not far out.

Abu Dhabi

Clipper Round The World Update

The Clipper Race have reported ....

RACE 5: WESTERN AUSTRALIA TO TAURANGA, NEW ZEALAND

DAY 2

* Gold Coast Australia pulls ahead as fleet makes good progress

* Race on to get round Cape Leeuwin as low ap

Broads Tourism Centres Have Success In Awards

The Broads Authority have announced that their visitor centres have had success in tourism awards.

How Hill National Nature Reserve won ‘the Best Family Attraction category’ in the Broads Awards.
This is an award issued

Environment Agency Voices Support For Thames Tunnel

The Environment Agency has added its voice to Government’s support for the Thames Tunnel project. 'Doing nothing is not an option'.

The proposed tunnel, will run along or under the Thames and is designed to alleviate the gross o

Americas Cup Update

The Americas Cup have reported:

Luna Rossa and the Circolo della Vela Sicilia challenge for the 34th America’s Cup

Technical and sporting cooperation with Emirates Team New Zealand

The Circol

Dover Port Welcomes Regional Funding

Port Of Dover reports .....

The Port of Dover has welcomed the announcement by the Government that East Kent’s bid for a £40 million Regional Growth Fund (RGF) has been successful. Spread across the four dis

Woodbridge Tidemill Refurbishment

The historic riverside town of Woodbridge on the river Deben in Suffolk, has much to offer but of significance is the Tide Mill.

Reputably one of the last Tide Mills to remain as working, it was certainly the last working Tide Mill in t

World On Water Update

World On Water have provided another bundle of video clips and images from across the globe. Water based action that should be of interest to all and sundry !

Here is what is on offer.

1 Vestas Sailrocket 2 in Namibia for Wor

Repairs to Wellington Dock In Dover

The Dover Harbour Board has announced that it will begin repairs to Wellington Dock Gates commencing the beginning of November 2011. The seals to these gates have been damaged and repairs are necessary in order to maintain the fu

MCA- Angling Safety Advice

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) have issued some new findings and recommendations with regards to incidents involving Anglers and their craft.

A link to the full article is given below.

In broad term

Clipper Round The World Update

The Clipper Round The World Race have published this race update.

RACE 4: CAPE TOWN TO GERALDTON, WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Gold Coast Australia, the first team to commence the Ocean Sprint in
R

Deadline Approaches For Thames Jubilee Pageant

The final deadline for applications from private boat owners who want to take part in the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant is the 31st October 2011.

So not much time to get your application submitted.

The event is scheduled to

Cunard To Change Flag

The cruise company Cunard is to change its flag. Instead of flying under the British Flag it will start to use the flag of Bermuda next spring.

This is understood to have been done inorder to allow marriages to be held on board which at

Poppy Ale

If you are partial to a tipple (or two!) then you might consider keeping an eye out for 'Poppy Ale' . It has started to be available in Norwich but there are plans for it to spread. So our Norfolk Broads readers should get a first taste.

Weevil To Help Clear Weed

The Environment Agency is now using a colony of tiny weevils to control the Azolla weed.

'Stenopelmus rufinasus, commonly known as the Azolla Weevil, feeds exclusively off the Water fern, Azolla filiculoides. Now the Environment Agenc

Clipper Round The World Update

Clipper Round The World Report from Day 12 of Leg 4.

The skippers and crews on board each of the ten internationally backed
entries of the Clipper Race are today busily preparing for a Southern
Ocean onslaught as an approachin

World On Water Update

Here's what's on this week's "World on Water", released on Friday 14th October.

1 2011 TP 52 World Championships
2 2011 India Regatta
3 2011 WMRT Argo Group Gold Cup, Bermuda
4 2011 Oyster Regatta P

Boat Safety Scheme For River Medway

New safety standards will be introduced on the River Medway with effect from 1st April 2012.

The rules will apply to privately owned boats on the non-tidal Medway, and the standards are as set out in the Boat Safety Scheme Essential Gui

Otter Make Return To Every County In England

The Environment Agency recently announced that Otters have now been seen in every County Of England.

This comes ahead of earlier predictions that had thought a longer period would need to pass before this event happened.

As r

Dover Cruise Port welcomes MV Artania

Latest port news from Dover:

Last week, Dover Cruise Port welcomed the Phoenix Reisen cruise ship, MV Artania on day three of the ship’s voyage from Bremerhaven calling at La Coruna, Lisbon and Barcelona en route to Genoa. This wa

World On Water Update

Here's what's on this week's "World on Water".

1: 2011-12 Volvo Race preliminaries Alicante, Spain
2: 2011 Regattas Royales Cannes, France
3: 2011 Chicago Match Cup Grade 1 Finals
4: 2011 PWA Reno World Cup Sylt

Plans For New Port In Britain

In a recent press release, DP World and London Gateway announce ....

London Gateway, the new global shipping port and logistics centre project, will open in the fourth quarter of 2013 with an initial capacity of 1.6 million TEU (twenty

Clipper Round The World Update

DAY 5- Clipper Round The World reports ...

* Stronger winds fail to materialise as teams reach Roaring Forties.

* New York charges up leader board into second place.

Seahorse Found In The Thames!

The Environment Agency has reportedly discovered evidence of a colony of seahorses in the River Thames. The discovery was made during a routine fisheries survey in Greenwich.

A rare visitor to these shores, Seahorses have been discovere

Broads Authority Update

The Broads Authority have reported ...

'Filby Bridge car park and boardwalk will be closed from the 26th October until early 2012 while the Broads Authority carries out improvement work.

The 30 year old boardwalk is n

Medal Stolen From Portsmouth Museaum

The Portsmouth 'D-Day' Museum has announced that a George Medal has been stolen.

Inaddition, an Olympic souvenir badge has also been taken.

The George Medal was the first medal awarded in Portsmouth and was given to William

PLA report On Thames Challenge

The PLA has reported ...

A Port of London Authority (PLA) team has been tackling a River Thames challenge: rowing 'Blackwall', an 18 tonne barge, downriver from Teddington on a single tide. The team started at 4.15am on Thursday 29th

World On Water Update

World On Water have provided another update of action from boating and sailing events across the world.

Click on the front page video player or click here

1 2011 Extr

Reading Comedy Festival

Reading hosts a festival of comedy between the 1st and 16th October.

Being located along the Thames, this is perhaps an event worth considering for boat owners on the river and regular Skipper's Guide readers. Reading

New Pier On The Thames

Property development company - St George PLC has recently opened a new floating pier at its St.George Wharf site near to Vauxhall on the River Thames in London.

The scheme cost £1.7 million and includes a new river transport servi

New Deep Water Berths At Felixstowe

The world economy doesn’t stand still for long and inorder to keep pace with change, shipping and ports are forever looking at different ways to improve efficiency.

High fuel costs have meant that shipping companies are looking to

Windsor Autumn Festival

For those with boating interests on the River Thames or who might be prepared to travel, the Windsor Autumn Festival is in full flow. There is a full programme of events ranging from music, displays & guided walks. The festival runs from the 1

Clipper Round The World Update

Gold Coast Australia secure Race 3 leg win in Cape Town.

The Clipper Round The World Race reports ....

Gold Coast Australia, one of the ten international teams competing in the Clipper 11-12 Round the World Y

Cunard Consider Moving Ship's Registration

Cunard are considering moving the registration of its ships to other locations outside the UK in order for it to be allowed to undertake wedding ceremonies.
At present, British Law forbids marriage at sea unless it is perform

Paddleboarding On The Broads

The paddleboard surfing craze arrived in Norfolk on saturday as a field of surfers (from all ages) participated in the first Norfolk Broads Classic race. It was a 13 mile race from Wayford Bridge in Stalham to Martham and also a s

World On Water Update

World on Water - Episode 39 - Friday 23rd September 2011:

1 - 2011 New York Yacht Club Invitational Cup
2 - 2011 Americas Cup World Series Plymouth
3 - 2011 PWA Cold Hawaii Cup Denmark
4 - 2011 IS

Green Boat At The Green Boat Show

Ground breaking green boat initiative at the Broads Green Boat Show on Sunday 25th September 10am-4pm.

Environmental considerations are gradually entering boat design and construction and the Norfolk Broads area has companies and organi

BULWARK ARRIVES AT THE SHOW

The Southampton Boatshow reports today ....

HMS Bulwark made its appearance at this year's Show this afternoon (Thursday).
Visitors will be able to will be able to climb aboard, talk to the crew and explore this astounding ship on

Norfolk reports on flood risks

Norfolk County Council report on the important issue of flood risk and protection.

A new report before Norfolk County Council suggests that Tens of thousands of properties in Norfolk may be at risk of flooding.

Crew Chosen For Cultural Olympiad Yacht
The five people chosen to sail a special 30ft yacht along the southcoast of England as part of the 2012 Olympics, have been chosen.

Five of the crew are from Sussex and one from the Isle Of Wight.

This is all part of th...

Clipper Round The World Update

The Clipper Round The World Race have reported ....

RACE 3: RIO DE JANEIRO TO CAPE TOWN
DAY 11

* Fleet splits as distinct tactics play out
* Welcome to Yorkshire ho

Southampton Boatshow Update

The Southampton Boatshow Reports.....

LADIES LEAD THE WAY AT THE 2011 PSP SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW

Thursday 22 September at the PSP SOUTHAMPTON BOAT SHOW promises to be a day out to remember. Th

Sailor Given Life Sentence For Murder

Following the shooting on board HMS Astute in April 2011, Able Seaman Ryan Donovan has been found guilty of murdering Lieutenant Commander Ian Molyneux.

The incident happened whilst the nuclear submarine was on a visit to Southampton. A

Divers Discover Tragic Relic From The Solent

Divers from the Southsea Sub-Aqua club have recently discovered the remains of a D-Day Landing Craft.

The landing craft (LCT 427) was returning to Portsmouth after a successful mission to Sword Beach when it was run-down by HMS Rodney.

East Of England Exports Increase

HM Revenue & Customs have revealed figures showing that exports from companies in the East Of England have reached 25.47bn£, which is an increase of 19.9% against the previous year. Considering the inclement winter weather & extra public holidays...

ORACLE Racing Spithill win the Plymouth Fleet Racing

The Americas Cup Series report .....

ORACLE Racing Spithill won the Plymouth Fleet Racing Championship after an action-packed final day of the America’s Cup World Series in south-west England.

James S

World On Water Update

Here is the latest video update from World On Water ...

If we say so ourselves, this week's World on Water is a really great show!

1 2011 Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup YCCS Porto Cervo .
2 2011 Americas Cup Wor...

Clipper Round The World Update

CLIPPER ROUND THE WORLD RACE REPORT....

RACE 3: RIO DE JANEIRO TO CAPE TOWN
DAY 8

* Lead passes from team to team
* De Lage Landen holds on to fourth place with ju

Southampton Boatshow

The Southampton Boatshow kicked off once again with the 1st Batallion the Coldstream Guards Corps of Drums giving a military feel. The event runs from the 16th to the 25th September . The show starts at 10am and generally runs un

Efforts To Save Great Yarmouth Coastguard Continue

The Broads Authority chief executive has lodged the authority’s objections to the planned closure of the Yarmouth station. This is in advance of the final public consultation period which ends on October 6th.

Ot

Latest From Americas Cup Series In Plymouth

The Americas Cup reports ....

For the second day running, Artemis Racing won two of the three heats at the Plymouth Match Racing Championship. With a second place to add to their two victories today, Terry Hutchinson&rs

Queen Mary 2 Visits Liverpool

The Queen Mary 2 (QM2), which is one of the most famous and one of the world's largest ocean liners, has sailed into the Port of Liverpool. The event has taken place to mark the end of the Mersey River Festival.

Onboar

Broadsman Gets Award For Rescue

The Broads Authority reports ....

A broadsman who ventured forth and saved a holiday maker who couldn’t swim on the Broads has been recognised.

'The Broads Authority’s Chief Executive John Packman presented John

Wedding Ring Discovered On Great Yarmouth Beach

It has been reported that a 'WEDDING' ring has been handed into the police after someone discovered it lying on a Great Yarmouth beach.

The ring is a silver coloured man’s wedding ring. It was discovered by a me

P1 SuperStock Panther Champions

In the sport of powerboat racing, 'Pertemps' win P1 Superstock Panther Championship.

John Wilson (Coleshill, Birmingham) and Neil Scarborough (Monks Risborough) won the 2011 P1 SuperStock 250 Champions at the final ev

Clipper Round The World Update

The clipper round the world race have reported as follows:

CLIPPER 11-12
RACE 3: RIO DE JANEIRO TO CAPE TOWN
DAY 5

* Teams relieved as wind returns across the fleet
* Widespread gear damage aft

Naples To Host Americas Cup Series Race

The Americas Cup have reported that Naples is to host two America’s Cup World Series events.

The report continues ...Naples, Italy, has agreed in principle to host two stops on the America’s Cup World Series

2011 RYA Volvo Zone and Home Country Championships

Sailors have until friday to enter this year’s 2011 RYA Volvo Zone and Home Country Championships

Sailors have until friday to enter this year’s 2011 RYA Volvo Zone and Home Country Championships. Approximat

Illegal workers held in Great Yarmouth

Police Officers have recently raided a local Public House on Northgate Street in Great Yarmouth and held a Chinese man working in the kitchen who is believed to be a failed asylum seeker.

At the same time, two other illegal wor

SCHNEIDER TROPHY 80TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Navigational notices have been issued for vessels in the solent as Schneider Trophy Celebrations will be taking place on Tuesday the 13th September 2011. There is a spare day on the next day (14th Sept) which given the weather tod

World On Water Update

This weeks 'World On Water' can be found on the Skipper's Guide Website.

Video footage includes:

1 2011 WMRT St Moritz Match Race .
2 2011 Clipper Race Leg 2 Finish .
3 2011 Perini Navi Cup Yac

Elvis LIves-on In Great Yarmouth

Many Elvis fans have been gathering in Great Yarmouth for this year’s Elvis Festival.

A week long celebration of all things to do with the ‘King’, participants are enjoying a stay at the Vauxhall Holi

David Walliams Completes Thames Swim

Actor, Comedian and Long-distance swimmer, David Walliams successfully completed his swim of the Thames this evening.

Raising more than £1 million for Sports Relief, David arrived at Westminster Bridge to a large

Americas Cup Series in Plymouth

The Americas Cup reports:

Conditions for the opening days of the America’s Cup World Series – Plymouth are forecast to be at the upper limit for racing, promising thrills and spills when the action starts on

Thames Festival

This weekend (11/12th Sept) is ‘The Mayor’s Thames Festival’.

“A totally multicultural and all-embracing celebration of London and the Thames ... promoting environmental awareness a

Marine Conservation Zones

Proposals have been unveiled to create over 100 Marine Conservation Zones (MCZs).

Originating from the UK Marine Bill 2009 the areas covered are all around the English and Welsh coasts (upto 12 miles).

Shortl

Volvo Ocean Race Update

Latest news from the Volvo Ocean Race.....

Team Sanya have bashed their way through gale force winds in Ireland’s Celtic Sea to arrive home to England after one white-knuckled and exhausting ride.

Media

PLA Notice - Comic Relief

David Walliam's comic relief swim progresses and in advance of it reaching the London area, the PLA (PORT OF LONDON) has issued a notice to mariners (no.U29)

The actual notice is visible strength making it necessary to constantl

Clipper Round The World Update

The Clipper Round The World Yacht Race reports ......

Positions, Saturday 20 August

Boat DTF*
1 Singapore 2,245nm
2 Welcome t

Broads Authority To Review Life Jacket Use

The Broads Authority reports that it is setting up a working party to look at the issue of life jacket use on the Norfolk Broads. The group will discuss the issue with local pressure groups including the Broads Hire Boat Federation (BHBF), holid

Norfolk Broads - Blue Green Algae
Holidaymakers have been warned to avoid contact with the blue-green algae which is turning some of the Norfolk Broads water's green.

Swimmers and dog owners have been warned to avoid contact with the affected water.

Cyanobacteria

Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival

The Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival is just round the corner and something to put in your diary. It opens at 10am on Saturday 10th September 2011 and at 10am on Sunday 11th September. The event is based at South Quay on the banks

Volvo Ocean Race - Course Change

Volvo Ocean Race reports ......

The escalating piracy problem in the Indian Ocean has forced organisers of the Volvo Ocean Race 2011-12 to redraw the routes for the second and third legs.

The boats were due t

Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival

The Great Yarmouth Maritime Festival is just round the corner and something to put in your diary. It opens at 10am on Saturday 10th September 2011 and at 10am on Sunday 11th September. The event is based at South Quay on the banks

Couple Loose Legal Battle To Keep Houseboat Mooring
Having lived on their houseboat for some 20 years, a couple from Bembridge Harbour have lost their case in the court of appeal, to have their houseboat classified as a dwelling. They are now facing the prospect of having to leave their home.

Fastnet Race
Maxi Banque Populaire, the French 140 foot trimaran skippered by Loick Peyron, sets a new overall multihull race record for the Rolex Fastnet Race. Arriving on monday night in Plymouth at 19:48:46, the elapsed time was 1 day, 8 hours, 48 minutes (32

Volvo Race Boats Finish Fastnet

Volvo Ocean Race reports on the boats using the Fastnet for sea trials .....

Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing's Azzam led home the three Volvo Open 70s in the Rolex Fastnet Race in a monohull record time of one day 18 hours 39 minutes today, win

Roundhill Tunnel Improvements

Visitors to Dover Marina by road will have become familiar with the congestion at the Roundhill Tunnel near Folkestone. Commuter Traffic, Ferry Traffic does at times result in some long delays.

After pressure from various organisations

Roundhill Tunnel Improvements

Visitors to Dover Marina by road will have become familiar with the congestion at the Roundhill Tunnel near Folkestone. Commuter Traffic, Ferry Traffic does at times result in some long delays.

After pressure from vario

Americas Cup Update
The Americas Cup reports ....

AC World Series comes to Newport from June 23 to July 1, 2012

Newport, RI was unveiled today as the final stop of the 2011-2012 AC World Series, which promises to be a dramatic finish to the first seaso

River Thames News

The Environment Agency has recently announced that it is about to invest 2.9 million pounds inorder to maintain structures on the Thames. This should allow for the preservation of locks and the maintenance of river levels.

Airbourne Eastbourne

Eastbourne's famous Airshow kicks off for the weekend (11th to 14th August 2011).

From personal experience, this event should be really exciting with a tremendous variety of aerial displays and static exhibitions. Plen

Americas Cup Update

The Americas Cup reports -

Emirates Team New Zealand is setting a torrid pace at the Cascais AC Match Race Championship, the third stage of the AC World Series competition, leading after the first day of the se

Maritime Ipswich Festival 2011

Maritime Ipswich 2011 takes place on the 20th & 21st August 2011 (Saturday/Sunday).

It is a celebration of all things nautical bringing together Ipswich's maritime past, present and future. There will be visiting

Americas Cup Update

The Americas Cup Reports ...

Following two days off from racing at the America’s Cup World Series – Cascais, the competition will resume on Wednesday with qualifying for the Cascais AC Match Race Championsh

Notice To Mariners - Rolex Fastnet Race - Sunday 14th August 2011

The Queens Harbour Master Portsmouth, ABP Southampton and the Harbour Master Cowes have issued a joint notice to mariners that warns fellow mariners of the Fastnet race start on the 14th August 2011.

It is anticipated

Portable Gas Appliances Warning

The Environment Agency have recently issued a warning concerning the use of portable gas appliances.

The gas appliances in question are those that are predominantly designed for camping and contain an attached gas canis

Clipper Round The World Action

The Clipper Race Fleet left the Solent some 6 days previously and has been snaking its way down the west coast of europe. Variable conditions, tidal gateways and changing places have been the order of the day.

Video Features Now On The Skipper's Guide

We have recently updated the Skipper's Guide Website and we are now providing a video section. We hope that this will become a popular part of the Skipper's Guide website. New videos will be added on a regular basis.

Currently, the vi...

Maidstone River Festival 2011

Saturday 30th July 2011 saw the Maidstone River Festival spring to life. Its a lively event centred around the River Medway which flows through the centre of the town. Maidstone comes out in force to celebrate its connection with the river

Clipper Round The World Race Starts

HMS Illustrious and an armada of supporting boats and spectators gave a spectacular send off to the ten amateur crews taking part in this year's Clipper Round The World Race that set off from Southampton.

The race cove

New World On Water Update

The World On Water video footage has been updated for the week and we have some new action from sail and boating events across the world. Events covered include:

1 - 2011 Audi MedCup Sardinia Cup
2 - 2011

Norfolk Broads News

The Broads Authority reports that it has received the prestigious european charter award for 'Sustainable Tourism'. This is the second time that this award has been received by the Authority.

Europarc assessors spent

'World On Water' Weekly Update

We have this week's upto date edition of 'world on water' showing lots of water action from events across the globe. Hook on for ten minutes of great footage.

1 2011 WMRT Stena Match Cup Sweden Mens .

Medway Yacht Club Regatta 2011

The Medway Yacht Club hosted its annual Keelboat Regatta over the long weekend from the 21st to 24th July 2011. The Skipper’s Guide joined the Medway Yacht Club sailors and jumped on the club boat to take photographs and videos.

Americas Cup News

The Americas Cup report...

Venezia Challenge has defaulted on the requirements to be a competitor in both the America’s Cup World Series and the 34th America’s Cup.

Americas Cup News

The Americas Cup reports ..

Garmin Ltd., (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, announced today that it has been selected to be the exclusive official supplier of marine navigation,

Volvo Ocean Race

Lola Johnson, Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport in the Valencian regional government, paid a visit to Race headquarters in Alicante on Thursday, inspecting the work taking place on a new Volvo Ocean Race museum and touring the state-of-the-a

Shark Jumps Into Boat

It is reported from Mossell Bay in South Africa, that a Great White Shark has dived into the boat of a research team conducting studies on the creatures themselves.

The great white shark was eventually rescued by crane

Folkestone Triennial Art Exhibition

The Skipper's Guide visited the town of Folkestone to see the Triennial Art Exhibition.

It is an outdoor event that is spread out across the town centre and which lasts all summer.

With the main Summer holiday event about to

Seaweed affects beaches in Thanet

Beaches in the Thanet area have recently been afflicted by an overly large collection of smelly seaweed and local residents have expressed concern that this may impact adversely on Tourism.

Thanet Council have now responded and clean-up

Latest News from 'World on Water'

The Skipper's Guide presents 'World on Water'. Kind regards to Boats on TV.

Latest video footage, news and views from sailing and boating events from across the globe.

Events covered this year include:

National Parks Campaign Celebrates 75 Years

The campaign for National Parks Celebrates its 75th year. In this regard, the BBC are running an appeal the details of which are via this link:

www

Americas Cup News

Sailors for the Sea Announced as Official Sustainability and Clean Regattas Partner

Latest News From www.americascup.com

With th

Skippers Guide Website Update

We have made some recent changes to the website which are probably worth a quick note to help you see what might be of interest.

The Skipper's Guides themselves are being distributed on regular occasions throughout the

Government Scales Back Coastguard Changes

The Government’s plans for major cuts to the Coastguard Service have been scaled back but changes remain.

The numbers were set to be reduced from 18 to eight and with only three of the remaining stations being op

Marine Diesel Expert app

The Marine Diesel Expert app is designed to help boat owners quickly diagnose and fix the most common causes of engine failure, using resources that are easily carried on board.

The app leads users straight to the heart of each problem

SS Robin Returns To London

The steam coaster SS Robin arrived in London. This coaster is one of the world’s last remaining steam powered coasters. The 300 tonne ship has returned to the Royal Docks in the East End Of London which is pretty much where life had begun wh

All-star line-up to open 34th America’s Cup in Cascais

The Americas Cup reports:

The best sailing teams in the world are coming to Cascais, Portugal in August for the opening event of the 34th America’s Cup. The America’s Cup World Series &ndash

Team Korea Announces Top Class Crew to Compete in the America’s Cup

WWW.AMERICASCUP.COM reports on further developments....

Team Korea today announced a top class crew chosen to sail in the America’s Cup World series events, opting for a blend of experience and raw talent that includes multiple Wo

MDL (Marina Developments) Announces Freedom Berthing

Marina Developments (MDL Marinas) recently announced a new scheme for its annual berth holders.

Well done MDL !

Freedom Berthing will allow annual berth holders the freedom to keep their yachts and boats in other ...

Latest From World On Water

The Skippers Guide hosts another weeks round up of news and video footage from across the globe with 'World On Water'. Included this week:

1) Start of the 2011 transatlantic race from Newport Rhode Island.

2) Block Island R

The Americas Cup Charts a New Course in Cascais

Inaugural AC World Series Event to Deliver Intense Action at the Water’s Edge.

Latest update from the Americas Cup.

The world’s best sailors arrive in Portugal next week to prepare for the inaugur

EU Taking UK To Task Over Red-Diesel

It is reported that the EU is to start infringement proceedings against the UK over its continued use of Red Diesel.

The RYA reports that the infringement is under EU Marking Directive (Directive 95/60/EC). The continue

NAO Comments on UK Carriers

The National Audit Office (NAO) have raised concern about the Royal Navy’s Two new aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince Of Wales.

Both these carriers survived the Government’s strategic defence review but

Repairs to HMS Victory Due To Commence

Major restoration work is now required on HMS Victory. The wooden vessel currently resides in Portsmouth Dockyard and was Lord Nelson's flagship at the Battle Of Trafalgar in 1805. She has become a major tourist attraction in Portsmouth dockyard.

Insurers Warning Concerning Biodiesel.

Insurers warn that Biodiesel ruined engines are unlikely to be covered by insurance policies.

Engines, which were damaged by biodiesel, which was said to be ‘eco friendly’ and introduced in January, will not receiv...

Concern Over 'Olympic Boaters' in London

Officials on the tidal Thames have expressed concern that large numbers of private craft could arrive for next year's event despite having no booked mooring.

Without a booked mooring, these private craft could be a hazard to other offi

Weymouth Olympic Observation Tower

A company called Merlin Entertainments says that its plans to construct a 53 meter observation tower in Weymouth, Dorset

Dangers Of Tombstoning

We recently reported on the dangers associated with the warm weather and the temptation to jump into the water for some fun or to cool down.

BBC News reports on a

Hook up to the Skippers Guide for this week's update. The video player is on the front page of the Skippers Guide Website.

Video Footage and action fr

10 Years Into Broadland Flood Protection Project

Local MP for Great Yarmouth (Brandon Lewis) recently unveiled a plaque to acknowledge the first 10 years in the on-going '20 year' Broadland Flood Alleviation Project. The plaque was unvelied on the River Bure and so far, 180km

Olympic Moorings

The London Olympics are all but a year away and at the Skippersguide we intend to provide as much boating related news as possible. After all, the event is happening in one of our areas. The Southeast England Skippersguide has lot

Hampton Court Palace Festival

Hampton Court Palace Festival is a music festival that runs from the 8th June to 18th June 2011. Music includes Rock, Pop, Jazz and Classical world.

If you are local to the area, a music lover, visitor or just looking f

Hampton Court Palace Festival

Hampton Court Palace Festival is a music festival that runs from the 8th June to 18th June 2011. Music includes Rock, Pop, Jazz and Classical world.

If you are local to the area, a music lover, visitor or just looking f

Dover Harbour Board Plans £15m Donation

In the on-going story concerning the proposed sale of Dover Harbour.

The Dover Harbour Board has said that it will donate £15m to the people of the town if it's proposed privatisation gets the g

Victory In The Velux 5 Oceans

American ocean racer Brad Van Liew has taken victory in the Velux 5 Oceans Race. Infact he goes into the record books after winning every leg of the 30,000-mile challenge for the second time in his solo sailing career.

Portsmouth Has A Big Visitor

Portsmouth has a big visitor.

Of late we have seen the President of the United States Of America visiting these shores. Now, one of the USA’s newest and biggest warships is also visiting.

The USS GEORGE

Dunkirk Little Ships Gather In Ramsgate

Once again, the little ships of Dunkirk are gathering in Ramsgate to mark the anniversary of the Dunkirk Evacuation.

Between the 26th May & 4th June 1940, 900 craft were used to evacuate 380,000 British & French soldiers from t

Herne Bay Pier Appeal

Local campaigners have appealed to the community in Kent for help to rescue Herne Bay pier. At one point this was the second longest pier in the world but parts of the pier collapsed in 1978 following a severe storm and the remain

New Thame Walkway

The London Mayor (Boris Johnson) recently announced new plans to create a one kilometre walkway which will run for a mile along the northern part of the Thames.

The plan is for the river bank between the Tower Of Lon

New Bridge In Norwich

Work has commenced on the construction of a new bridge in Norwich.

This is a pedestrian bridge and its location is just outside the Broads Authority Offices at Dragon Fly House. Completion is planned for the 11th Novemb

Southend On Sea Airshow

This year sees another return of the Southend On Sea Airshow. Dates for your diary are Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th May 2011 and it is the 26th year.

Advertised as one of Europe's biggest free Airshows, the event take

Mass Stranding Of Pilot Whales In Western Isles

A large gathering of Pilot Whales is being monitored by marine groups in South Uist in the Western Isles.

The whales have come inshore and are struggling to return to deep water. The reasons why these whales come so clo

Coastguard Review Continues

The on-going review of Coastguard services continues with a select committee of MP's visiting stations and talking to Coastguard Officers. Today, it is understood that the MP's will be in Stornoway.

The current Govern

Dover Port Update

The Government has recently announced proposed changes that might assist the people of Dover in their attempt to purchase the Port Of Dover.

Inorder to attract further investment and place the Port Of Dover in a better

Port Of London Notice To Mariners - Bugsbys Reach
If you are navigating up the Thames there is always something going on. The Port Of London issue notices to mariners which warn of temporary changes or areas where extra caution is required.

In this regard, we would draw you attention to

RYA Sealine Southern Motor Cruise
If you have been reluctant to cross the channel in your motor cruiser then here is an event that might be worth a try.

It starts in the solent and allows boat owners the option of crossing the channel in company with others including RYA

Boats On Tv - World On Water - Weekly Update From The Skippers Guide
The Skippers Guide Website has this week's action from across the globe including:-

1) ISAF sailing from the French Sailing Week. This includes Olympic selection.

2) Second round action from the RC44 championships on Lake T

Heigham Sound Dredging On Hold
Plans to dredge 12,000 m3 of silt from Heigham Sound in the Norfolk Broads have been postponed. Difficulties are understood to have arisen as to where the dredged silt was to be deposited.

Its a shame and of some concern to local boat ow

Maidstone River Festival 2011
Dates for this year's Maidstone River Festival have now been published. Saturday July 30th 2011 is the day to put into your diary.

With the River Medway passing straight through Maidstone this yearly event takes place on the River and a

Boat Auction At Ramsgate
Hobbs Parker are running an auction of ten boats at Ramsgate Harbour on Saturday 14th May 2011. From the photos as laid out in the sales catalogue there appears to be a fair variety on offer and at prices that are likely to cater for various budgets.

Hydropower On The River Thames
The Environment Agency and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead (RBWM) have tabled proposals for small scale hydropower schemes at Marlow, Boveney and Boulters weirs.

There is a 12-week Expression of Interest tender period which

Royal Navy In Cliff Face Rescue
The Royal Navy has rescued seven people and a dog from treacherous cliffs off Staffa in the Inner Hebrides. The Royal Navy winched the casualties by helicopter on the 20th April when their boat capsized.

It sounds like a dramatic rescue...

Thames 'A' Raters and Floating Houses
The Thames Sailing Club has raised concerns over the potential impact of a proposed new development of floating homes.

This sailing club is the home of a unique sailing class known as the ‘Thames A Raters’. A distinctive keel boat wi

HMS CORNWALL RETURNS
HMS Cornwall returned to her home port in Plymouth on what is stated as her last voyage. She is the last of the type 22 frigates and joined her sister ships Chatham, Campbeltown and Cumberland.

The Government's spending reviews have pus

Volunteer Lock Keepers
The Environment Agency is giving people an opportunity to become a volunteer assistant lock-keeper.

The scheme is planned to run over the summer months. Volunteers will be assisting with the operation and maintenance of the locks and if

Easter Weather
The weather is forecast to be set fair for the bank holiday and as we write, the marinas along the south and east coasts of the UK are busy with people venturing out to enjoy the weekend. Whilst Easter is late this year, we are enjoying some unusuall

Broads Development Plan Document
New Development plans for the Broads are currently at a consultation stage and so, if you feel strongly about how the Broads move forwards then you might like to take a look at the Broads Website:

http://www.broads-authority.gov.uk/autho

Tsunami Affects Economy Of Japan
Exports in Japan are reported to have fallen by more than expected in March. This has been attributed to last month's earthquake and tsunami which affected shipments.

Finance ministry figures show that exports declined 2.2% from a year

RYA WINDSURFING WEEK
The RYA announces that there are two more weeks until the start of the National Windsurfing Week 2011.

This is an 8-day event which aims to raise the profile of windsurfing and also is designed to introduce more people to this great s

Turner Contemporary Arts - Margate
The Coastal Town of Margate is now host to a new arts centre called the 'Turner Contemporary'. So if you are along that line of coast or near enough to travel, then why not go and take a visit.

The centre opened on Friday 16th April 20

Boats On TV - World On Water - Weekly Update From The Skippers Guide
More video footage from Boats On TV's - 'World On Water'. Our weekly update From The Skippers Guide.

This week there is news from :

1) Les Voiles De St.Barth Regatta.

2) Sodebo's Finish in the circumnavigat

Broads Authority Budget
The Broads Authority recently set its budget for the year ahead. This is in the light of a reduced National Park Grant. In basic terms the total funds for the year are estimated at £6.69 million which is made up of a £4 million Government Grant wit

The Tudor Pull
Well here is something you don't hear about that often. A 'Tudor Pull'.

See the Port Of London Notices to Mariners and you will understand that this is an event on the River Thames.

Port Of London Notice M.28 refers to th

Gaes Finishes in 6th Place (Barcelona World Race)
Dee Caffri & Anna Corbella have finished in 6th place today in the Barcelona World Race. They are the first female duo to complete the race. They have sailed a steady and challenging race and were pushing the leaders all the way.

Local

Broads Outdoors Festival
The Broads Authority has announced that a ‘programme of over 60 events will kick off the first ever Broads Outdoors Festival, showcasing the best of the Broads, which will run from Saturday May 7 to Sunday May 15.’

The broads author

Boats On TV - World On Water
Boats On TV's, 'World On Water' has new events and footage from the week ending 8th April 2011. The Skipper's Guide is pleased to be able to share this footage and we hope you are enjoying the weekly updates. Events on show this week include:

Shooting On British Submarine
An unexplained shooting incident on board a Royal Navy Submarine has resulted in the death of one Royal Navy Service Person and another is in a very serious condition.

Events unfolded on board a Royal Navy Submarine (HMS Astute) whilst

Skipper's Guide Tide Tables 2011
If your copy of the 2011 Skipper’s Guide does not have a yellow sticker on the cover the tide table is incorrect.

Please note that all times stated must be GMT.

We apologise for the inconvenience, however we accept

RORC Announces Entry Change To Allow More IRC Boats
The Royal Ocean Racing Club has announced that it will be increasing the number of places for IRC yachts in this years Rolex Fastnet Race. It will achieve this change by removing the 'professionally' sailed classes from the entry list which stands

Pollution To Newmill Channel, Kent
Pollution was reported to have escaped into the Newmill Channel in Rolvenden, near Tenterden, Kent on Friday and efforts are continuing to minimise the impact.

The pollution is reported to have escaped from a Water Treatment Plant.

Barcelona World Race Finish
As reported on our Twitter Page earlier today, Virbac- Paprec 3 crossed the finish line and won the Barcelona World race.

The exact finish was this morning at 10hrs 20mins 36 seconds. Competitors Jean-Pierre Dick (45) and Loïck Peyron (

Maersk Announces New Container Ships
One Of The Worlds' Leading Shipping Companies ‘Maersk’(The A.P. Moller - Maersk Group) has recently announced that it intends to construct ten super container vessels.

This is a significant order. The vessels will be known as ‘Tr

Boats On TV - World On Water - Weekly Update From The Skippers Guide
Boats On TV have provided another round-up of video footage from across the globe. This is available on the Skipper's Guide Website. Access the Video Viewer on the front page and catch up with the latest events and news. These include:

Last Miles For Leader In Barcelona World Race
In the Barcelona World Race, the final miles are counting down and with the leader some 70 miles from the finish line, a monday morning completion is anticipated. Virbac-Paprec is currently making 6.7 knots and so the exact finish time is perhaps a

New Skippers Guide 2011 Published
The 2011 Skipper Guide's are now published and being distributed.
If you have not got a copy then we will be delivering to addresses in the the Thames, Southeast and East Regions in the next week or so... Alternatively, please email or call an

Replacement For HMS Endurance Announced
In these times of cuts, cuts and more cuts it is perhaps of some unusual interest to hear of a replacement for the Royal Navy rather than gone and not to be seen again.

Thus our ears were drawn to the news that the ice patrol vessel, HMS

DEFRA: Non-Native Aquatic Species
Yesterday, DEFRA announced its new scheme called 'Check, Clean and Dry'. This is designed to stop the spread of non-native aquatic species which can drastically invade our waterways and threaten our native species:

All recreational wat

Barcelona World Race Update From The Skipper's Guide
86 Days gone and in the Barcelona World Race, the remaining yachts are approaching the closing stages. Indeed, the leading yacht (Virbac-Paprec 3) is currently 1283miles from the finish. Currently holding a lead of 270 miles over the second placed ya

Week 12 Of Boats On TV's World On Water
Week 12 Of Boats On TV's - 'World On Water'.

Another week of TV footage from boat and yachting events across the world. Displayed on the Skipper's guide website for all to enjoy.
As the weather warms up, more events closer to h

Port Of London Notice To Mariners
The Port Of London Issue Regular Notices To Mariners which give information on both permanent and temporary changes to the river. Vessels using the river should refer to these on a regular basis as changes to navigation are regularly updated.
<

Dredging On The Broads
The Broads Authority has announced that it is to start dredging at Heigham Sound. This is the narrow section between Duck Broad and Meadow Dyke. It has a high priority in the Authority’s Sediment Management Strategy having silted up to 90cm in plac

2011 IFDS Disabled Sailing World Championships
The RYA today announced that it is organising the 2011 IFDS Disabled Sailing World Championships.

The event is to be run at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy which is the venue for next year's Olympic Sailing Regatta.<

London Cable Car Update
The Greater London Authority has granted planning permission for cable cars to cross the Thames.
Not only will this cut commuter times over the river, but it will also be a fantastic tourist attraction offering an unrivalled route with breath-t

The Moon Of Late
If you looked up at the sky over the weekend you might have noticed a particularly bright moon. Your eyes were not deceiving you as indeed the moon was in an unusual position that meant that it was indeed brighter. The sheer fact was that it was near

London Array Wind Farm & Fishermen's Gat
The Port Of London has designated the Fisherman’s Gat channel a Precautionary Area as the first phase of construction of the London Array starts. This is a wind farm. An ever more common site along our coastline and ‘love them or hate them’, t

Barcelona World Race Approaches The Home Straight !
In the Barcelona World Race the ‘distance to finish’ numbers are now getting lower with the leading yacht ‘Virbac-Paprec 3’ being approximately 3000 miles from the finish in Barcelona. It has been an event filled race with a number of boats p

Boats On TV Week 11 Review
The Skipper's Guide Website has been updated with Boats On TV's weekly review of sailing news and events from across the world.

It is a free video and tv streaming service that we hope you enjoy.

The team from 'boats on t

Blue Water Rallies Announcement
Blue Water Rallies announced that it will be ceasing to trade from 30th April 2011. The announcement highlighted problems with the economic downturn, and piracy in the Indian Ocean.

The rally had been unable to progress beyond Oman due

US Navy Repositions Fleet Off Japan
It is reported that the US Navy has repositioned its 7th Fleet off the Japanese Coast in response to very low level radioactivity.

The fleet was operating some 100 miles off the coast and the source of the radioactivity is the plants at

Tsunami In Japan
The Prime Minister of Japan has described the Earth Quake and Tsunami as the worst incident for Japan since World War II. Loss of life and livelihoods is by far and away the greatest tragedy of the earth quake and tsunami in Japan and attentions will

World On Water - Week 10
This week's programme from World On Water has been uploaded to the Skippers Guide Website and is waiting to be reviewed.

There is some great video footage from across the globe and as we are just starting to feel those shoots of spring

Comic Relief And The Shipping Forecast
Lord Prescott will be reading the shipping forecast later this month in order to raise money for the forthcoming 'red nose day'.

Lord Prescott happened to be at the Radio 4 headquarters on other matters and commented about staying to r

Waterways Charity Update
The British Government recently issued a statement on the future of inland waterways in the UK.
In the statement, the Government issued its preference for a phased transfer of state owned waterways into a new waterway charity for England & Wal

Port Of London Warn Of Requirements To Navigate
The Port Of London has recently issued notices to mariners that warn of the necessity for boat owners to know the meaning of lights and markers on bridges.

Navigating in confined space and with other vessels as per those that are found o

Barcelona World Race Update
In the Barcelona World Race, the leaders are almost half way across the Southern Ocean between New Zealand and Cape Horn. The leading yacht is Virbac-Paprec 3 with Mapfre close behind. At some times, the lead has been as little as 8 miles which when

Port Of London On The Up
If a Port's performance might be an indication of an economy's health then recent figures released by the Port Of London give some optimism in the light of recent economic news and statistics.

The Port of London Authority (PLA) reports

Carnival Splendor Due Back In Service
Carnival Splendor, the modern cruise liner, is due back in service this week.

Last year, this ship hit the headlines as it suffered a fire and became stranded on the 8th November. The incident was widely reported as passengers remained o

Team Australia Enter The Americas Cup - Official
Team Australia's Official application to enter the Americas Cup was recently accepted by the Golden Gate Yacht Club. It is a long overdue return to the competition. Australia's official involvement has not occurred for over a decade. A long estab

HMS Cornwall Frees Captured Fishermen
Navy News reports that HMS Cornwall has boarded a suspected pirate ship close to Africa and released the fisherman who had been held captive for some considerable time.

The captured vessel was a very poor Dhow which had been taken by pir

Additional Funding for Flood Works on The Thames
Environment Agency Announces 39 new flood and coastal defence projects.

The total budget over five years amounts to £521m. This covers new schemes, and those already under construction., This will also cover a further 185 schemes whi

Skippers Guide Now Taking World On Water
The Skippers Guide website has recently been updated and we are now taking Video Streaming from 'world on water'. This is a regularly updated video player that will give a round-up of water based events from across the globe.

Add it as

Greek Tanker Taken By Pirates
The Greek shipping company, Enesel, has reported that one of its supertankers has been hijacked in the Gulf. The vessel is known as Irene.

The incident is reported to have happened about 400 miles southeast of Muscat (Oman). This is some

Air Sea Rescue Contract Cancelled
The search and rescue privatisation programme has been cancelled amid concerns about the bidding process.

It is reported that commercially sensitive information has been released to the detriment of the process.

The Departm

Jules Verne Trophy - Attempt Abandoned
The current attempt to break the Jules Verne Record has been abandoned.

The Maxi sailing Trimaran - Banque Populaire V had been damaged and whilst attempts to repair the vessel were made whilst at sea, the team have decided that the boat

Calling Classic Yachts
Along the coast and up the creeks and eddies in our patch and beyond there is many a classic yacht with a tale to tell of pitching to a breeze along a wind swept coast or surfing around an old race course. If you own such a boat and are looking for

Pfizer Announce Sandwich Closure
Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer announced that it is to close its site at Sandwich in Kent. If you were to pass along the eastern kent coast heading south from Ramsgate then some of the large buildings along the shoreline are Pfizer's.

Pfiz

New Sponsor For Cowes Week
The organisers of Cowes Week have recently announced that the new title sponsors of the event are Aberdeen Asset Management. The initial term of the arrangement is reported as three years.

The event will be known as Aberdeen Asset Manage

Jules Verne Trophy Update
Regular readers of these pages and race followers will know that the Maxi Banque Populaire V is currently starting to battle its way around the world in an attempt to break the world record for a non-stop circumnavigation of the world. The Maxi set o

Lobster Pots - Scourge Of The Sea
Have you ever got caught by a lobster pot or tangled with an un-illuminated buoy. Well it is very frustrating and at times potentially dangerous.

Paul Blackett from Britannia Sailing School gives some useful words of advice on these matt

Dates For The Diary
Applications for entry to this year's Round The Island Race are now being accepted. The race will be in its 80th year. The start details are 0600hrs on Saturday June 25th 2011.

www.roundtheisland.org.uk

The Race Organisers

News From The South Atlantic
In the Barcelona World Race, news emerged today that one of the race favourites has been forced to withdraw following damage its mast.

In technical terms, the section of mast above the 'Solent Hound' broke. In more general terms this

New Kent Power Station
In a statement issued by the Department of Energy & Climate Change dated 25/01/2011, the Energy Minister (Charles Hendry) gave the go-ahead for Scottish Power to construct a new 1,000 megawatt gas fired power station near to Hoo St Werburgh in Kent.

Thames Cable Car
Plans are beginning to take place inorder to create an impressive cable car in time for the London Olympics in 2012.

Transport For London are proposing to construct a 1,100 metre link from the area close to the O2 dome and heading over

Change Of Lead In Barcelona World Race
Virbrac Paprec 3 retook the lead this morning. In reclaiming the lead, Virbrac Paprec 3 are claiming a new 24-hour record for a 60ft monohull in the category distance travelled (subject to official confirmation). Of late, Virbrac Paprec 3 had a lead

Jules Verne Trophy
The Jules Verne Trophy has restarted again this year as Banque Populaire V crossed the start line earlier this morning. The start time was actually 12hrs 11minutes and 45 seconds (Paris Time). The start line itself remains as a line drawn between Ush

Iraqi Navy Training With Royal Navy
The Ministry Of Defence has recently reported that the Iraqi Navy has been conducting its first patrols of territorial waters in the new Swift patrol boat. The patrols are reported to be in the Al Basrah Oil Terminal area.

The Royal Navy

Thames Estuary Airport Debate
The Mayor Of London (Boris Johnson) has again raised the issue of having a new London Airport constructed on a man-made island in the Thames Estuary. The £40bn plan project is controversial but the Mayor sees it as a possible option if London and th

Dehumidifier And Fire Risk
A recently reported incident where a substantial sailing yacht was damaged by fire from a defective dehumidifier highlights the importance of checking out electrical equipment and taking precautions when in use.

The yacht in question was

Jules Verne Trophy
The Maxi Trimaran 'Banque Populaire V' has upgraded its status to a code orange. This means that a planned start to a circumnavigation is imminent. The possibility of a start is scheduled at some time between Thursday & Sunday but that could even c

Velux 5 Oceans Sprint Two
The third placed yacht in the Velux 5 Oceans Race sailed across the finish line in Wellington (New Zealand) at 3pm local time.

Perhaps the toughest 7500 miles in the race, the yacht 'Active House' was only 60 hours behind the winner.

London International Boat Show
The Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show drew to a close over the weekend and the organisers (National Boat Shows) reported an increase in visitors when compared to the previous year.

The show set out to provide a slightly diff

Goodwin Sands Rescue
The RNLI station at Ramsgate was called to help a sailing yacht that had run aground on the Goodwin Sands over the weekend.

The Yacht had left Ramsgate and headed north. It accidentally ran aground. The lifeboat crew agreed to assist but

Cruise Liner Outruns Pirates
A British Cruise Ship carrying Saga passengers is believed to have had a close shave with some Somali Pirates on its way between Mauritius and Mombasa.

The Spirit Of Adventure which had 350 passengers onboard, was able to increase speed

Sealine International Award
Sealine International picked up the award for Best Flybridge Motor Boat under 55 feet at the IPC Motor Boat of the Year awards.

The judges were from Motor Boat & Yachting and Motorboats Monthly. The general summary was that the F42 had

New Featured Article On Website
We have updated the features section of the website.

If you are a frequent visitor to this site then you will know that we are following the Barcelona World Race.

Nearly two weeks gone and lots of action. 'A bit of everythi

Geoff Holt Named As Yachtsman Of The Year
Following a successful crossing of The Atlantic, Geoff Holt has been named as Yachtsman Of The Year.

Crossing the Atlantic in a 60ft Catamaran, Geoff Holt became the first quadriplegic to sail across the Atlantic without assistance.

New Opportunities
In these economic times, non-marine companies are looking laterally at promotional opportunities and you can understand why the boating industry can be seen as an area where potential marketing opportunities can arise. The background to this rela

New Clipper Boats For 2013
Clipper Ventures Announces New Boats For Round The World Race

The London Boatshow is always a time for new announcements. Among the many we heard that the Clipper Sailing Race is to take place with new boats.

Clipper Ventu

Alex Thomson Ready to Rejoin
Alex Thomson is reported to have been passed fit to rejoin his yacht 'Hugo Boss' in the Barcelona World Race. Alex fell unwell in the build up to the start and was unfortunately prevented from being on the yacht at the start. Competitors gave a dis

Barcelona World Race - One Week Gone
Well it is a week since the start of the Barcelona World Race and the leading yachts are just off the West Coast of The Canary Islands. The racers have had mixed weather and mixed fortunes.

The race started in dull and overcast condition

London International Boatshow
The London International Boatshow kicks-off at the Excel Centre today. The show is on from the 7th to the 16th of January and looks like it should be a good one with lots of exhibitors, displays and things to do..

Too many things to ment

Ouse to Seaford Head Coastal Defence Strategy
The Environment Agency has issued (4/1/2011) a consultation paper that sets out a proposed framework for managing flood and erosion risk over the next 100 years. The paper covers the area from the River Ouse (from the A27 road bridge) to Newhaven in

VAT RISE TO 20%
Well that day has finally arrived. As a New Year gift to us all, the Chancellor of the Exchequer has increased VAT to 20%. VAT is not a British Tax and was really only introduced when we joined the 'Common Market' . Since that moment, successive Go...

Anglia Sea Ventures Support RYA Training Course
Here is our first featured article for the new year.

The RYA have introduced a new online Training Course on Essential Navigation & Seamanship.

Further details of the course are given on our features page which can be access

Barcelona World Race Start Day
Well its start day at the Barcelona World Race. 60' monohulls setting off on a non-stop circumnavigation. 14 boats are already making preparations for the start.

At the Skippers Guide we have to say that the live TV streaming looks abso

Barcelona World Race
In the light of Alex Thompson's recent surgical operation it is perhaps no surprise to hear that he will not be starting the race tomorrow (31/12/2010).

Instead, the race organisers and other entrants have graciously permitted the Hugo

The Barcelona World Race
The next big event to follow starts on Friday in Spain and is the 'Barcelona World Race'. It is a two-handed race using the Imoca Open 60 racing yacht much the same as you would see in the single handed races. Speed with very basic comfort is prett...

River Medway Update
The Environment Agency has recently announced that the section of river at Eldridges & Porters Lock which is in the upper reaches of the River Medway, Kent is closed until the 22nd Of April 2011. This is to allow for repairs to the lock gates and loc

Australian Syndicate Submits Entry To America's Cup
An Australian Syndicate which includes Ludde Ingvall announced that it had submitted a Notice Of Challenge to enter the 34th America's Cup. This comes after entry fees have been lowered to £710,000.

The whole idea behind the challenge

Rolex Sydney Hobart Race
In the Uk, most parts are having a particularly cold December and there is a lot of 'the white stuff', indeed I haven't heard much about that yearly question as to whether it will be a white christmas or not. The bookmakers seem to have gone silen

America's Cup
In these tough economic times it seems that even the 'flush amongst us' might be feeling the pinch. Recently, the organising committee for the next Americas Cup decided to lower the entrance fees. At present there are only five entrants (including ...

Volvo Ocean Legends Regatta
The Volvo Ocean Legends Regatta recently announced another famous entrant from the 1989-1990 race, that being ‘Rothmans’. Rothmans was an eye-catching 80 foot maxi sloop with a very striking paint job. She was skippered by Lawrie Smith and came

Velux 5 Oceans Leg Two
The second leg of the Velux 5 Oceans Race set off from Cape Town. The race had been delayed because of bad weather but eventually a suitable 'window of opportunity' appeared and the race committee gave the go-ahead.

A southeasterly br

Modernisation Of Coastguard Services
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Transport (Mike Penning) recently announced a review of Coastguard Services under the banner 'Modernisation of Coastguard Services'.

A consultation period has been launched to consider the

Global Force Takes The Medway By Storm
Following the introduction of the Skipper's Guide features page, we have now uploaded an article written by Global Force/Stormforce Chandlery.

Caroline Dyson gives a short summary of how she and her family not only got into boating but

'On-Board' Sailing Scheme Grows
Quarter of a million children have had a taste of sailing thanks to the RYA's 'Onboard' scheme.

The scheme has been running for 5 years and in that time the RYA recently estimated that a quarter of a million children had been introduc

Pirates Seize 70,000 Ton Cargo Ship
A Panama Flagged, Liberian Owned Bulk Cargo Carrier has been seized by Pirates off the Somali Coast. When we say 'off the Somali Coast' we are talking about a distance of 1050 miles. So, as widely reported, the pirates are somewhat spread across a

Best And Worst Boating Moments
Being on our boat, just being there, is one of the very few places in this increasingly crazy world that we can find peace and contentment, well most of the time anyway! It must be something to do with a sense of detachment.

This watery

Plain English
Today is officially 'Plain English' day. This is an official day which is organised by the 'Plain English Campaign' who are a group which has been - 'Fighting for crystal-clear communication since 1979'.

You may have noticed the sl

Weymouth Olympic Test Race Notice Is Published
In these cold and chilly winter months, it is difficult to think about sailing so it is good to remind yourself that we have a very special event in the not too distant future.

Having waited for a very long time for this country to host

The Thames Tunnel
Amazed to read about this proposed project but then it all appears fairly logical.

Thames Water are proposing to build a huge sewerage tunnel that will broadly follow the path of the Thames for approximately 20 miles. The Tunnel itself

Louis Vuitton Announces Partnership with 34th America's Cup
Continuing a 27 year connection, the Paris Fashion House, Louis Vuitton has announced that it will once again be a partner sponsor for the forthcoming 34th America's Cup Yacht Race Series.

It's a long way from the first event which was

Things Happen Even When You Are Not Racing
In the midst of these cold wintry days that are currently affecting Britain it is probably hard to remember that in other parts of the world things are still 'normal' .

Spare a thought for the crew onboard the IMOCA Open 60 - Central L

The Weather Outside .....
Well (as they say) the weather outside is ..... probably cold and snowy today in Britain.

As has been widely reported we are having an unusual November. Freezing temperatures, snow and travel disruption. I dare say we will have one of

British Waterways Update
National Trust For The Waterways

The British Government has recently announced plans to create a 'national trust' style charity that will manage our inland waterways. It is publicised as the biggest shake up since the privatisation in

USS Enterprise Reaches 49 Years Of Age
USS Enterprise Reaches 49 Years Of Age

The world’s first nuclear powered aircraft carrier is celebrating its 49th year of service. Apart from the USS Constitution, she is the oldest serving warship in the US Navy. The current Enterpri

SKIPPER'S GUIDE INTRODUCES NEW WEBSITE UPDATE
The Skipper's Guide Website has been updated with the addition of a new features page. The website has recently been the subject of some upgrading and new changes with the current features page addition being just part of this process.

Kiwi Boys Get Rescued After 50 Days Adrift
Three young New Zealand Boys have been rescued in the Pacific after having been given up for lost.

The boys disappeared whilst out in their small open boat in New Zealand and then drifted 1200 kilometres towards Fiji. A trawler from Well

SKIPPER'S GUIDE WEBSITE UPDATED
SKIPPER'S GUIDE UPDATES WEBSITE

The Skipper's Guide have updated their website with the addition of some new search criteria in the guide section itself. The Skipper's Guide has always gathered together lists of marine related busines

'Sayings & Jargons' from The Skipper's Guide
Sayings and Jargons from our maritime past.

'Drip Pan' - A boring individual.

'Hanging on the slack' - Waiting for something to happen.

'Haircut runs' - Hectic and short runs ...

HMS ARK ROYAL MAKES LAST VISIT TO NEWCASTLE
The Skippers Guide reports on the passing of a fine ship.

HMS ARK ROYAL is due to sail into Newcastle for the last time on Friday the 19th November. This is the flagship of the Royal Navy which was launched at the Swan Hunter Shipyard,

Route Du Rhum- La Banque Postale - Update
Class 40 leader, Thomas Ruyant sailing on board Destination Dunkerque is reported as being very close to the finish line. Race data places him about 18 miles from the finish line. Second placed competitor, Nicolas Toussel sailing on board Credit Mutu

Thomas Ruyant Wins Class 40 in the Route De Rhum
Thomas Ruyant, on board Destination Dunkerque, sailed over the finish line in Guadeloupe earlier today and took class honours in the Route Du Rhum La Banque Postal. It was a deserved victory as Thomas had sailed the race intuitively and had been at t...

Environment Agency Announces New Changes To Boat Registration
In a press release dated 17/11/2010, the Environment Agency has announced changes to boat registrations for inland waterways across the country. The measures come into force from January 2011 and will result in the harmonising of regulations on the n

Brad Van Liew Takes Line Honours in Leg 1 of Velux 5 Oceans
American yachtsman, Brad Van Liew has taken line honours in Leg 1 on board his yacht Le Pingouin.

The race set off from La Rochelle on the 17th October 2010 and the five competitors sailed off across the Atlantic towards South America,

England's Bathing Waters Continue To Improve
The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) has revealed new quality standards for bathing water. According to reports issued by DEFRA, 97.6% of England's bathing waters meet the European Commission's minimum water quality thresho

BRITISH YACHT COUPLE FREED
The kidnapped British Yacht couple, Paul and Rachel Chandler, have been freed.

The Chandlers were on a world cruise aboard their yacht when they were boarded and kidnapped by Somali Pirates. They have spent over a year in captivity livin

Route Du Rhum- La Banque Postale - Update Review
SKIPPER'S GUIDE REVIEW

The Route Du Rhum yacht race from St Malo to Guadeloupe continues. In the 'Ultime' class the first four boats are home with another three yet to finish. In the class Imoca, Roland Jourdain on board Veolia Enviro

East Anglia Sailing Trust Reach Final of Big Lottery
The East Anglian Sailing Trust (EAST) have reached the final of this year's People's lottery. Up for grabs is funding to the value of £50,000.

The Lottery is broadcast by Anglia TV. Viewers will be able to vote for their f...

London Boat Show News
This year's Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show will have a used boat section.

The Boat Show have reported their market research which suggests that 70% of visitors are interested in seeing used boats at the show. The research

Sports Review- Round the Island Race
Sports Review - Round The Island Race.

If you were a competitor in the last Round The Island Race or are intrigued by the event then you might be interested in the forthcoming broadcast on Channel Four. The event goes out on Saturday

Notice To Mariners - Tower Bridge - London
NOTICE TO MARINERS

Port Of London Authority has issued a notice to mariners (No.M74 ) affecting Tower Bridge and all boat owners intending to navigate this area are advised to check the details and follow the guidance.

The n

Groupama 3 Wins The Route Du Rhum
As expected, Groupama 3 crossed the finish line in Guadeloupe at 4.16 hours (local time) this afternoon and won the 'Ultime Category' in the Route Du Rhum la Banque Postale. Franck Cammas had accumulated a sizeable lead over the week and excepting ...

Leading Yacht Approaches Finish Line in Route Du Rhum
Groupama 3, the leading yacht in the Route Du Rhum race is close to the finish line in Guadeloupe. The distance to the finish line is below 280 miles and Groupama has a fairly healthy lead. Weather conditions at present are somewhat light but closing...

Route Du Rhum- La Banque Postale - Update
Latest placings in the 'Categorie Ultime' are that the leader, Groupama 3, with Franck Cammas onboard, is 163 miles from the finish and making 15 knots. The second placed yacht, Sodebo, is 425 miles from the finish and making 16 knots. Third place

Dover- 'People's Port' buy-out Scheme
The Dover People's Port Trust has been officially launched with the intention of buying the port.

Presently, Dover Harbour is run by the Dover Harbour Board. The trust has been operating since 1606 with profits being ploughed back into

KENT POWERBOAT RACER BREAKS RECORD
Daniel Cramphorn and his P1 Powerboat team have broken the magic 100mph barrier for a boat of its class, and are now the world speed record holders. The previous record was set at 86.69mph and so this represents a fairly substantial record breaking i

Two East Anglia Marinas Get Award
Two marinas in the East Anglia Area have recently been awarded Gold Anchors.

Tollesbury Marina has been awarded four Gold Anchors. This marina is located on the River Blackwater in Essex. You can see the directory advert for this marina

NEW WEBSITE
NEW WEBSITE FOR SKIPPER'S GUIDE

We are now pleased to announce that the Skipper's Guide Website has been updated. With the help of Squiders Web Design we have completely modernised and updated the website. The Skipper's Guide Website

NEW DIESEL DIRECTIVE FROM 1/1/2011
NEW EU DIRECTIVE ON ‘RED-DIESEL’ EFFECTIVE FROM 1st Jan' 2011

EUDirective2009/30/EC comes into force on the 1st January 2011 and from that date, all gas oil (red diesel) marketed for use in non road mobile equipment and recreational

Felix - The New Member of the Olympic Sailing Squad
Feathered Addition to British Olympic Sailing Team.

Felix is a Peregrine Falcon and he has been given an honorary membership of the British Olympic Sailing Team. Whilst his activities will be water bound, most of the time he will be chas

Route Du Rhum Starts
ROUT DU RHUM – La Banque Postale

85 Skippers set off from St.Malo in France on this year’s Route Du Rhum. The race sets a course to Pointe-a-Pitre in Guadeloupe and is no easy trip.

Today’s start was mostly a light air

WEIL'S DISEASE
WEILS DISEASE

It has been widely speculated that the recent death of former Olympic Rower, Andy Holmes, is connected to Weil's Disease.

People that enjoy boating and other activities involving fresh water, particularly slo

JARGONS AND SAYINGS
JARGONS AND SAYINGS …. A few nautical terms and phrases…

‘Got the Weight’ – to have the responsibility.

‘Dummy week’ – The week between pay days in the navy. Sailors were traditionally paid every fortnight.

THAMES WATER QUALITY IMPROVING
THAMES WATER QUALITY IMPROVES

The Environment Agency has reported that water quality in the River Thames area has improved over the past year.
Against increased EU regulations, recent tests and reports show an improving environment

New Cowes Marina Gets Planning Go Ahead
Planning permission has been granted for the development of the outer harbour marina in East Cowes on the Isle Of Wight.

This will add a further 300 berths to the Town with additional planned facilities including Hotel, Residential and C

Government Rejects Kent Airport again ...
The Government has again ruled out plans to develope another airport in Kent. Recent speculation had rekindled the proposal to build another airport on the Hoo Peninsular. The Prime Minister was responding to questions raised in Parliament . The M

Government Cancels Rescue Tug Contract
In the wake of the Government's spending review, we understand that the tugs used as 'emergency towing vessels' have become a casualty. Following the 1993 Braer Oil Spill in the Shetlands, commercial tugs were strategically located at various loca

Marine Coastguard Agency Co-Ordinate Offshore Rescue
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) are co-ordinating rescue operations in response to a Faroes Registered Fish Factory that was on fire in the Western Aproaches. The vessel had 111 people on board although none essential crew had been evacuated

The Folkboat is to Celebrate 50 years
If you are a folkboat owner, you might want to get in touch with the Folkboat association. Next year (2011) is the 50th Anniversary and the owners association has some special events.

The association has been in existence for nearly as

KILLER SHRIMP !
A new visitor to these shores was found at Grafham Water (Cambridgeshire) in September. Known as the 'Killer Shrimp', I think we are okay but it kills native shrimps and freshwater invertebrates including small fish!

The Environment A

Is the Seventh Wave Always The Highest
It has been said for many a long time that the seventh wave is always higher. Is it true. Well its hard to say but here is something to think about. The surface of water will invariably be constantly moving. This movement will invariably take the for

Plans For Improved Sea Defences in the Shoreham Area
Plans For Improved Sea Defences at Shoreham...

The Environment Agency and Adur Council has announced plans to rebuild flood defences in the Lancing and Shoreham Areas.

The land in question is low lying and along the west ban

Chart Changes - Restructuring of Leisure Charts
United Kingdom Hydrographic Office Announces Changes to Leisure Portfolio. In a press release dated 27 August 2010, the UKHO announced plans to restructure the Admiralty Leisure range of charts. The plan is to focus on two products; the Admiralty Lei...

Health Issue - Skin Care
It might seem a slightly remote issue to raise and perhaps for the more matcho readers a topic that might be of little interest but this is not an article about makeup issues.

This is a serious reminder about the dangers of being out in...

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Volspec Announce New Facility at Essex Yacht Marina

Drought Conditions Are Likely In The Summer

Marine Insurance

Clipper Race Update

Broads Authority News

Open Days At Premier Marinas

Clipper Race Update

Dover Port Developments

Wreck Drifts The Atlantic

Volunteer Canal Keepers

Round The Island Race 2012

Marine Gas Oil Sold at Premier Marinas from January 2012

LAURA DEKKER COMPLETES VOYAGE

Sovereign Harbour Gets Five Gold Anchors

Royal Marines On The Thames

MDL Leads the Way in Green Energy with New Solar Installation

Dover Announces Increase In Cruise Ship Visits

PANTAENIUS YOUNG SAILOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

Your Invitation to an Open Day at Gosport Marina

New Marina On The Oxford Canal

Crossrail Material to Help Make Bird Sanctuary

Clipper Race Update

Beale Park 2012

Maxi Trimaran Banque Populaire V

Crofton Lock Stretch To Re-Open

Brightlingsea Harbour Developments

Dorset Hotel Olympic Bookings

Beachy Head Stripes Controversy

Broads Announce Low Rise in Tolls

Clipper Race Update

Norfolk Yacht Agency (NYA) Broom 455 For Sale

Broom Boats nominated for Motor Boat of the Year Award

World On Water Update

Broom Boats Exhibiting At BoatShows

Broom Boats Exhibiting At London & Dusseldorf Boatshows

Insurance Companies Warning Of Cold Weather

Exciting Hotel Development Announced for Ocean Village Marina

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink

World On Water Update

Clipper Race Update

Environment Agency Looses Small Craft on the Yare

New Home For Thames Conditions Website

Water Resources In Eastern England Requiring Of Careful Management

Royal Ramsgate Marina At Boatshow

INTERNATIONAL COORDINATION ASSURES RESCUE OF FRENCH FISHERMAN

Richmond Lock & Weir

Revised Cuts To Coastguard Centres In Uk

World On Water Update

Skipper's Guide Website Updates

Maritime Emergency Conference At Dover

PLA Highlights Economic Growth On The River Thames

World on Water Update

Ship Detentions From The MCA

Fambridge Yacht Haven Open New Facilities Block

North Fambridge 2011 Winter Series

World on Water Update

Volvo Ocean Race - 1st 24 Hours So Far ....

Clipper Round The World Update

Broads Tourism Centres Have Success In Awards

Environment Agency Voices Support For Thames Tunnel

Americas Cup Update

Dover Port Welcomes Regional Funding

Woodbridge Tidemill Refurbishment

World On Water Update

Repairs to Wellington Dock In Dover

MCA- Angling Safety Advice

Clipper Round The World Update

Deadline Approaches For Thames Jubilee Pageant

Cunard To Change Flag

Poppy Ale

Weevil To Help Clear Weed

Clipper Round The World Update

World On Water Update

Boat Safety Scheme For River Medway

Otter Make Return To Every County In England

Dover Cruise Port welcomes MV Artania

World On Water Update

Plans For New Port In Britain

Clipper Round The World Update