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The Caribbean is well known for its gorgeous cerulean waters and amazing white beaches. Of course then the Caribbean would be an ideal location for sailing. Over 7,000 inlets, reefs, and islands are here. Many people escape to the warm waters of the Caribbean every year for a slice of island life. For sailors however, nothing gets quite as good as the warm consistent winds from the east. There are so many shores, coves, and inlets awaiting discovery, and what better way to see them than from a sailboat cruising around. Cruise through the Bahamas, Belize, Costa Rica, and the Virgin Islands while enjoying some sun as only the Caribbean can provide.

The Bahamas are made up of over 700 islands and there are over 2,000 uninhabited cays to explore and discover. About 30 to 40 people inhabit the 700 islands here. This area is world renowned location for fishing and diving. The area is affected by a cooler winter, but the summer temperatures are known to reach well into the 90s with a high humidity. In the Bahamas, regattas are actually an important social interaction. These regattas are usually over the span of a few days, and feature traditional wooden sailboat parts. On the land there is a festival that is held, while the regatta is underway. Check out the Abacos chain of islands in the north, for a taste of British colonial style and culture.

Belize is most famously known for the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the longest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere and only the second largest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Take a chance to anchor and break out the snorkeling gear to see this amazing natural wonder. In the Western Hemisphere, three of the four atolls are located off the coast of Belize. Besides snorkeling, the waters are also excellent for fishing and scuba diving. The region has an overall tropical climate, with summer temperatures getting into the comfortable 80s. One beach to definitely visit would be San Pedro Beach in Ambergris Caye.

Some of the numerous Virgin islands are inhabited while others are not. The region has a warm tropical climate with trade winds, and temperatures remain consistent throughout the year for the most part. Certain areas experience highs into the 90s while other areas remain at a comfortable 70 degree range. The Virgin Islands are prime locations for activities such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, swimming, and definitely sailing so make sure the sailboat accessories are stocked up. In fact, the Sperry Top-Sider National Offshore One-Design Regatta championship is being held there in 2009.

There are dozens of other countries to check out in the Caribbean, most of which are in close proximity. The crystalline tropical waters and climate of the Caribbean are truly unparalleled, which is why when anyone speaks of going some place nice for a vacation it is usually the Caribbean that comes to mind. Cruise through isolated inlets and coves, discovering all the beauty these waters really offer to a sailor. Sailing definitely has a strong and growing home in the Caribbean, with more attention attracted to its waters each year.

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Africa’s coastlines extend for over 16,000 miles. This means there are 16,000 miles of coastline to cruise and explore with a sailboat. Africa is the only continent to stretch from south of the equator to north of it, and have several unique climates. The climate is close to that of a desert and has arid air, and the north is subarctic. Both savanna plains and dense jungle rainforests are in the tropical south. The coastlines vary depending on if the cruising location is in the north or south, but all these coastlines have amazing local villages and are bursting with culture and life. Thousands of miles of coastline are begging to be sailed including places like Morocco, South Africa, and Madagascar.

A small country on the North West of Africa is Morocco. Most will recognize the name of Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca. The life of the locals is meant to be enjoyed here, so dock at the harbor in this famous city. Visit the local bazaar and pick up a few unique and special souvenirs or boat parts if need be. Moroccan cuisine is actually considered one of the most diversified cuisines in the world. Spain, Portugal, and the Mediterranean countries have no doubt had an influence on this since they are neighboring countries. Beware though, spicy foods happens to be one of their specialties. There are dozens of other harbors along the coastline, including amazing beaches with plenty of snorkeling potential.

When it comes to sailing the Southern region of Africa, there is definitely no better place to visit than South Africa. In Africa, the most popular tourist destination is Cape Town, South Africa, surpassing even Cairo, Egypt in popularity. Cape Town has a great climate, and an incredibly well developed infrastructure. As a result of the geography of the city, numerous beaches are all close by and easy to visit. Drop boat anchor off the coast of these gorgeous beaches and take part in activities such as diving and especially surfing. Boulders Beach is well known for its colony of African penguins that frequent the area. The beaches which are located on the Atlantic Ocean side tend to have cold water, but the waters off the coast of False bay are much warmer, by up to even 18 degrees Fahrenheit.

The island of Madagascar is located only 250 miles east of continental Africa. Thermal winds year round, and amazing waters, are in Madagascar. Water temperatures here actually range well into 86 degrees Fahrenheit; most of the year the waters are warm in the 75 degree Fahrenheit range. Several rainbow-colored fish and other different tropical fish hide in the broad coral reefs. There are beaches that stretch for miles and it’s relatively easy to anchor and explore the mainland. Sit down and fish from a sailboat, or take a snorkeling trip to visit the coral reefs. Considering its separation from the African mainland, there is no shortage of indigenous wildlife in Madagascar to see.

Just to start with Morocco, South Africa, and Madagascar are all known for excellent sailing prospects and show the continent’s rich diversity. There are so many miles of coastline to cruise along, that it would be impossible to get bored. It could even be considered a worthy adventure to circumvent all of Africa to get the full exposure of these rich and beautiful shores. Stock up on boat supplies and get ready for some good weather, a decent amount of sun, and warm waters; Africa is definitely a great location to check out for cruising potential.

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On a sailboat there are a few safety features that should definitely be installed. Undoubtedly there should be a fire alarm installed below deck on the sailboat. It is equally as important to test this boat fire alarm once a month to make sure it is working adequately and properly. Often, fire alarm batteries run out of juice and leave sailors unknowingly vulnerable. The fire alarm which is purchased and installed should definitely be loud in pitch when going off. This will ensure that it will be loud enough to hear all around the boat.

To supplement the fire alarm, there should be a carbon monoxide detector installed as well. Many people each year fall victim to having carbon monoxide poisoning. The most deadly aspect of carbon monoxide is that it is odorless, and even those with a keen nose will miss its presence. There should be one installed in every sleeping area, galley, and confined space to maximize coverage and protection for the crew. Installing a carbon monoxide detector will provide early detection of the situation and prevent needless health injuries.

The boat interior should be well lit without a doubt. Utilize boat interior lighting which is cost beneficial. Mount an LED light on the ceiling or the wall, as one of the many types to chose from. Light can be cast where it is needed by using a small halogen type lamp. This latter type would be ideal for reading. It is also important of course to get a waterproof design. For smaller spaces and other situations, keep a powerful flashlight aboard. Some flashlights even come with built in FM radio.

Beyond safety within the sailboat, the exterior of the boat should also be well lit with boat exterior lighting. These lights are used also for navigational purposes. The best type will be the LED type, since they use half the energy and have a long life. Depending on the length of the boat, the models and types of external lights are going to vary. Two miles at the least should be the visibility allowed by the exterior lights. There should also be a floodlight aboard that will be used for certain situations.

If it is possible, having a generator would also be a good idea. An efficient and worthwhile generator needs to be selected. This may cost a little bit more, but the long term benefits will eventually make themselves clear. There needs to be specific features installed on a boat for safety purposes. To those who sail actively, it becomes known that just as important as maintaining the sailboat is maintaining safety on a sailboat.

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In a quaint harbor on the coast of Thailand, the nightlife is vibrant. The locals have laid out a small bazaar selling everything from clothing to food to fish to knock off DVDs. This is just a small sample of the lifestyle one encounters while sailing along the coasts of Asia. Thailand harbor’s will lend a different experience than docking at a harbor in the Philippines or India. Come sail along the coastlines of Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, and India and be immersed in many of their exclusive customs.

Thailand and it’s many islands have a warm tropical climate and lovely white sands to welcome sailors. The year round cruising potential, and the friendliness of the Thai people lends credit to the draw of these waters. The magnificent coral reefs off the shore are just a hint at the multitude of divers that visit these waters. There will never be an idle moment or an empty stomach as the Thai cuisine has ample selection for all. Of course the must-see city is Bangkok, where the Thai identity is still visible beneath the modern guise of the bustling metropolis.

There is no official count as to exactly how many islands are in Indonesia since there are so many. There are definitely 13,000 to 17,000 individual islands in the range. With all these numerous islands, it is conceivable to sail and discover an untouched landscape and coral reefs thriving with life. For the avid surfers, drop boat anchor in Flores or Lombok. Surfing in Sumatra is unparallelled. When visiting Komodo, see the infamous Komodo dragons. For a taste of the city life, the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is the most populated city in Southeast Asia.

When in Vietnam, Halong Bay would be the first place to check out. The limestone islands on the north coast are exactly the type of breathtaking backdrops to sail a boat alongside of. These massive pinnacles, which also go by karsts, have stirred many local legends, mythology, and poetry. For lush beaches visit Nha Trang and hang out with the fish in the waters ideal for snorkeling. Enjoy the sun set over the horizon, lighting up the limestone in radiant warm colors, while sitting on a sailboat.

One of the lesser visited destinations of Southeast Asia, the Philippines boasts over 7,107 islands laid out on 1000 km of turquoise waters. Most of these islands have sandy beaches and volcanic mountains. Visit the island of Puerto Galera for some of the best beaches. Also be sure to stop by Cebu and its neighboring islands for excellent anchorages. Most visitors to this island archipelago stop by the country’s capital, Manila. If one happens to find themselves on Roxas Boulevard, be sure to view the sunset. Glimpses of Spanish culture are fused into the architecture and lifestyle prevalent among its people.

It is definitely rewarding to sail along the coastlines of India if time allows. There are over 560 miles of interconnected waterway in the region of Kerala. One could view the entire natural habitat all from the comfort of a boat as it travels in rivers, lakes, and inlets. As for the main waters off the coast, it is abundant in fish, and sea turtles. The coral reefs are in close proximity, ideal for snorkeling and diving. In the isolated archipelago of Nicobar and Andaman, there are over 500 islands away from the well developed shorelines.

While sailing along the coasts of these Asian Countries, there is a cultural diffusion, and broadening of experiences such as fishing, diving, snorkeling, and of course fine cuisine. There is a collection of so many islands of different countries in such proximity. The sun rises over a placid Pacific Ocean as a cool breeze whips through the air, catching the sails, propelling sailors into the fascinating unknown.

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A weather outlook conjured by the imagination is definitely azure blue skies, placid waters, and a cool breeze. When Sperry Top-Sider Offshore One-Design (NOOD) Regattas take place this year, these are precisely the types of days which will be coveted. Almost all of these NOOD Regattas were plagued with some weather issues and delays last year. Hopefully this year’s prospects will improve and everyone will get to enjoy a remarkable weekend of sailing and racing.

The Sperry Top-Sider Chicago NOOD Regatta commenced on June 19^th until June 21^st in Chicago, IL. This NOOD Regatta, hosted by the Chicago Yacht Club, is known to place sailors in the turbulent Lake Michigan waters, and give them the opportunity to measure up their skills directly against fellow sailors without attention to the different designs between sailboats. Major entries in racing classes for this year’s fleet included Beneteau 40.7, Great Lakes, J/105, and Tartan Ten boats.

On July 23^rd until July 26^th the Sperry Top-Sider Marblehead NOOD Regatta was underway in Marblehead, MA. This Regatta is annually expected to draw the biggest crowds compared to other locations for NOOD Regattas. The Marblehead Racing Association expeted a turn out of over 1,00 sailors, as the even takes place in the Massachusetts Bay waters. A few of the fleet sailing in Marblehead will include boats from Sonar, Town Class, Viper 640, and J/105 classes.

Hosted by the Larchmont Yacht Club the Sperry Top-Spider Larchmont NOOD Regatta is taking place in September on the 12^th and 13^th in Larchmont, NY. The Larchmont Yacht Club, one of the most prestigious yacht clubs in the nation, and this NOOD Regatta attract many sailors to its unique waters. These are the same waters that last year caused quite a stir when winds directions shifted suddenly as much as 50 to 60 degrees prompting a few sailors to react fast or risk getting nudged off course. The fleet for this year includes boats from Farr 40, Express 37, Shields, Etchells, and many more classes.

Last year, damage from Hurricane Ike resulted in the cancelation of the 2008 Sperry Top-Sider Houston NOOD Regatta only a few days before it was scheduled to take place the weekend of the 19^th. This year’s Regatta takes place from September 25^th to September 27^th in Seabrook, TX. Be on deck and at the ready to raise those boat anchors because it can be surmised that the Houston Yacht Club is itching for a wicked revival. Steady waters and pleasant skies will undoubtably be their first desire.

Whether it be a venue hosted by a local Yacht Club or sailing for pleasure, it will be foolish to miss out on the NOOD Championship which is taking place in Tortolla in the British Virgin Islands November 7^th to November 12^th. If last year’s NOOD Regattas were any indication, load up on boat supplies and start yearning for that perfect day, because this year’s Sperry Top-Sider NOOD Regatta season will certainly be full of surprises.

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