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The first thing you should take with you when you are going to have a cruise is a charge of vivacity, good mood and great company. Having dealt with these points, you can continue the preparation more thoroughly. If you have collected all the essentials, but you are still left with the feeling that something is missing, Yachts Review invites you to familiarize yourself with an overview of cool, but at the same time very necessary things that will come in handy on a long and not very long voyage.

Pet life jacket

Great news for pet owners, there is no more need to urgently look for overexposure for your beloved pet or book a place in a hotel, you can take it with you on a yacht trip. And in order not to worry about its safety, just put on a special life jacket. Life jacket, as in the case of a person, is selected according to the size of the animal, and there is a special handle on the back, with which it will be convenient to get the pet out of the water. Preference should be given to bright colors in order to better see it in the water. Reflective elements here will not be superfluous, in case if swimming will continue until twilight.

Pet water steps

Another great invention that will make your cruise more comfortable if you are not ready to part with your pets,  is a boat ladder (or stairs). A simple but very convenient device will help the dog easily return to the yacht or jump into the water whenever it wants, without bothering the owner to run up (or swim up) to the stern every time to help with this. Helping your pet to get on or off the boat is advised in any case tho. Even if you think that the dog swims very well.

 Underwater drone

We got used to the idea that any beauty can be captured from a bird’s eye view with a quadcopter. Beautiful landscapes, sporting events, concerts, even events in the air can now be captured with no obstacles. And what about fans of underwater photography and sea depths? Divers have not spared innovative ideas either; in the last couple of years first prototypes have begun to appear, and today they are already full-fledged underwater drones. They can move up and down, sideways, avoid obstacles, take photos and videos. You can control the drone remotely from a tablet or by connecting it to your smartphone (it depends on the configuration of the model).

You should take into account such characteristics as weight, length of the cable connecting the drone to the remote control (they can be 15, 100, and even 400 meters), speed and battery when choosing a drone. On average, the battery can hold a charge up to two hours, but the option of purchasing an additional unit is available and the charge will be enough for 4 hours.

Anemometer

Obviously, this device measures wind speed. If the old anemometers were two bowls, which spun the wind in proportion to its speed, then modern devices can transmit data directly to smartphones. And they are definitely always at hand. When the captain asks: “How many knots are blowing?” – you can quickly give an accurate answer. Moreover, in addition to speed, modern devices also show wind direction, temperature, humidity, and can predict the weather. Basically, a useful thing for cruising.

Waterproof document pouch

This stuff does not need a detailed description. If the documents are not laminated, they can get wet and deteriorate. Anything happens at sea. Storm, flooded cockpit, and here the bag was left unattended and opened… You can also put into the pouch your electronics, a telephone and other various valuable things. In short, it is better not to neglect it.

 Keychain with whistle and minicompass

We recall the first two points and put this device in our pocket: it certainly will not take up much space, but it can bring a lot of benefit. The whistle will help attract the attention of a pet that has sailed far from the boat. And in communicating with the crew it will help you not to break your voice while trying to get someone’s attention.

Snap tool for covers and awnings

 All ingenious is simple. And thanks to such a simple invention fingers and nails will remain safe and sound. How many crippled hands have been seen by several generations of seafarers. This tool works on either outside and inside snaps. Also it will work both for right-handers and left-handers.

Binoculars with image stabilization

If your cruise is in the best traditions of Jules Vernes’ stories, then looking at the islands and lands just holding binoculars in your hands is not a good idea, trembling hands and rocking of the ship will distort the picture so much that it is simply impossible to see what is in the distance at high magnification. There are two ways out: either a tripod for binoculars or a stabilizer. It will cost several times more, binoculars with image stabilization are classified as professional optics, but you can distinguish a seagull from an albatross using it. Suddenly you will want to do photo hunting right in the open sea.

Bose sunglasses

Bose Frames is a new and entertaining development that combines the function of sunglasses and wireless headphones at the same time. Miniature speakers are built into the bow of the glasses, while no one will know if suddenly you will start to listen to the nostalgic melodies of Utesov peering into the depths of the sea. The sound from the glasses is audible only to their wearer. The glasses are connected to the phone through the application and thanks to the microphone you can receive calls or make voice commands.

Solar charger

A portable solar panel for charging your phone will become an indispensable attribute on long trips, especially if there is no way to recharge it on the boat. You no longer need to worry about spare batteries. A couple more advantages: the charger is lightweight, compact, waterproof, and the process is environmentally friendly.

Waterproof LED-flashlight

 Led lighting is replacing all other types of lamps in many areas of human life, whether it is street lighting in metropolitan areas or portable pocket lights. Its illumination is many times better and brighter and the eyes do not strain so much in the dark in an attempt to make out the desired object. Make sure you have a couple of these lights on hand when boarding the boat. Also the waterproof options should be chosen that it could make up service in a severe storm.

Rescue lock knife

On a yacht ride ropes or fishing line or seaweed can often wind up on the screws. In order not to overshadow your trip with an unplanned parking, quality knives will come in handy for trimming unnecessary items. It is worth paying attention to these three options from Whitby: LK260, RK10 / OR and DK1728 / Y. They are made of stainless steel and have hook ends to tackle the trickiest of ropes.

 

Royal Falcon Yachts Kolishny Kerivnik presenting the project of a mega-yacht, a service for additional nuclear power Let’s take a trip without koshtovnoy lucky students, for example, we will save $ 3 million for participation in the prelude to the experience of the class.

Aaron Olivera became the mastermind, which won the popularity for the majestic Porsche yacht. For this idea, the ship will start sailing in 2025 with 160 participants on board from different disciplines, 20 students, 165 sportsmen and 40 VIP guests, who can pay 3 million dollars for tickets.

Aaron Olivera, the CEO of Earth 300, told Money FM, told Money FM he thought of the yacht and voyage in 2015, when he went scuba diving in the Maldives. When he went scuba diving in the Maldives he saw dead coral that was killed by the overacidification in the ocean. And the idea of sending “the most beautiful and most intelligent minds” aboard the ship of the new generation came to him.

The design of the ship, which will be powered by safe and sustainable atomic energy from a molten-salt reactor, has 22 “cutting-edge” laboratories that have artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, real-time data processing, and the latest quantum computer.

“It’s state-of-the-art science at sea,” Olivera said on Money FM.

The vessel has a sleek look. It’s 300 meters long, which is about three football fields, by 46 meters wide, and by 60 meters tall at its highest point, or about the height of an 18-story building.

“It’s a vessel that’s got the overall size of a cruise ship, but it’s not a cruise ship. It’s got the overall look of a superyacht, but it’s not a superyacht,” Olivera said on the radio show. “It’s got the technology to rival an aircraft carrier, but it’s not an aircraft carrier. It’s going to have the endurance and the exploration skills of an explorer vessel, but it’s not an explorer vessel. It’s all of those put together in one package.”

Before founding Earth 300, Olivera was the president of Falcon Royal Yachts, where he helped create two luxury megayachts designed by Porsche, according to his LinkedIn profile. Before that, he worked at Corporate Grand, creating elite dining and entertainment experiences for the ultrawealthy.

The CEO has “experiences in a myriad of industries, from training and development, to publishing, hospitality, retail and yachting,” according to his bio on the Earth 300 website.

When asked why he decided to create a ship to be the vessel for studying climate change, Olivera said, “The oceans are the beating heart of the planet. Without oceans, there cannot be any life.”

Currently, the Earth 300 is just an ambitious concept, which, if successful, can go to the first voyage in 2025.

Olivera has already funneled $5 million into the design, and European and South Korean shipyards are likely to carry out the construction, according to reporting from Entrepreneur. The news site said the total cost of the ship would be about $500 million to $700 million, with some funding coming from private investors.

“The idea was to design an object that would be able to capture everybody’s imaginations on a global scale,” Olivera said on Money FM, adding: “There’s nothing like this.”

Most of us want to diversify our daily routine. When motor boats are boring and you want some yachting romance, you can always change the noise of the engine to a light rustle of the sail. The romantic melodiousness of the atmosphere will be complemented by the tapping of winches, the creak of the tiller and the grinding of sheets. What could be more beautiful than a full course and wind-filled sails?

By the way, about the sails. Sails are different and are intended for different sailing in different conditions. Straight and oblique, gaff, slatted, Bermuda, sprint, Latin… There is a huge variety of them, and this is not surprising because sailing has existed for three millennia. But today we will talk about sailing equipment for a type of yacht called the Bermuda Sloop – this is the most common type of modern sailing boat used today and also most often rented in charter.

The Bermuda Sloop is a single-masted yacht with a triangular mainsail and a standard set of head sails. It can be a jib, staysail, spinnaker or gennaker.

High speed will be ensured by a correctly selected sail area, which depends on the purpose of the boat, in what water area the sailing is supposed to take place, the displacement of the yacht and its design features (for example, the material of the hull, whether there is a bulwark, etc.).

Mainsail

The mainsail on the Bermuda Sloop is a triangular Bermuda type sail. Like any triangle, it has three angles – the head (attached to the top of the mast), the clew and the tack. The luff of this sail stretches over the mast, the lower leech stretches along the boom. In classic sails there are also battens, additional stiffeners, which give it a more efficient wing shape, and all kinds of eyelets for additional ends. This sail can be used to sail in any direction. But don’t forget to monitor the boomvang when changing course. One of the advantages of this sail is that, if set up correctly, it can only be operated by one person.

In the past, if the wind intensified, the mainsail needed to be changed to a smaller one. Today, there are modern systems of slab reefing, which help to reduce the area of ​​the sails. With the help of a special rope the sail is lowered and its bottom is pulled up, the area decreases, and with it the load from the steering and the pressure on the sail decrease. When the wind is strong, don’t forget about the corrugation.

Staysail (or Jib)

The staysail also has a triangular shape and is a head sail, which is attached to the yacht’s headstock by the leech. The jib is often used for walking on a beydewind and gulfind course (when the wind is blowing against the direction of the yacht). There are several types of staysails, and depending on their shape and size they are used in different weather conditions. In a strong storm the jib is usually used. Basically, it is the smallest sail, which occupies only 20% of the space between the headstock and the mast, and provides the necessary control with minimal stress on the mast and rudder.

Genoa

Genoa is a large staysail, it’s luff and clew usually reach or can even be placed beyond the mast. This sail is used in light winds on Beydewind and Galfind courses. For long cruise trips it is recommended to have three genoas, which are numbered 1, 2 and 3 and can be changed when the wind changes.

There are additional sails, which can be installed separately or in addition to the existing sails, and are only used on a tail course when the wind comes in from the stern. They are called spinnaker and gennaker sails.

Spinnaker

Spinnaker is the largest sail made of light and rustling round-shaped material. It is used on passing courses from fordewind to backstay and galfind. The sail is lifted by the head, which is attached to the mast, and is held by a special yarn, which changes position along with the sail on turns. It is controlled with braces and the jib is usually retracted. Its control requires many simultaneous actions, so it is extremely difficult to cope with alone, it requires well-coordinated crew work.

Gennaker

Gennaker seems to be something between a spinnaker and a jib. It is an oblique sail with a high clew. It is smaller in area than a spinnaker, but larger than a genoa, and is used for walking on different courses from fordewind to beidewind. Its distinctive feature is that it is mounted on a separate headstock.

Code Zero

Code Zero is an asymmetrical spinnaker that works more like a genoa. The sail was designed for sailing in very light winds on a close hauled course. Due to the fact that the sail is made of composite materials, it is not cheap, so it is rarely seen on charter boats. It is preferred by professional racers.

It is up to the captain to choose the correct sail. It depends on the number of people on board, the experience of the crew, their skill, direction of travel and weather conditions. Those who love speed and movement will choose sharper courses and choose a spinnaker, adherents of calm cruising will give preference to a genoa and relaxation. It’s great when there is plenty to choose from, and it’s even better when you understand a little about why a certain choice is made!

Luxury yachts and commercial vessels, if desired, can be upgraded to electric ones by installing outboard hydrojet propulsion devices powered by batteries.
The innovative DeepSpeed ​​propulsion system of the Italian startup Sealence has a design similar to a rim motor: instead of blades attached to a central hub, they are attached to the rim of the hull, and water flows through the middle. At its core, it is an electric water cannon that combines an engine and a power plant in one device.

If you compare DeepSpeed ​​with propellers and conventional water cannons, the benefits are clear. Firstly, mechanical losses during its operation are practically reduced to zero: there are no gears, shafts or universal joints transmitting power from the engine to the drive, but only a pair of wires conducting current from the batteries.
Secondly, the compact and lightweight body, which weighs only 75 kg (without battery), takes up much less space than the engine and fuel tank. Thirdly, unlike a propeller, the efficiency of which decreases with an increase in speed due to cavitation and losses, in DeepSpeed ​​due to the powerful energy of the jet, the efficiency and power-to-weight ratio of boats increases.

DeepSpeed ​​integrates a jet turbine, battery and control electronics, as well as an onboard power system. Thus, Sealence plans to produce power plant kits for the modernization of ships equipped with gasoline or diesel engines.
The business history of “hydro-water jet” was born in the summer of 2007 from a seemingly joke. It was then that the sports boat of William Gobbo, the current CEO and thought leader of the startup, went down. The € 20,000 bill for the repair of an old US 8-cylinder engine, which came by email, was puzzling. “With this money,” William joked in a conversation with friends, “I’d better install an electric motor and save on gasoline.”
A little later, having burst into flames with the idea, he made a computer model of the installation, and the first working prototype was released in 2010.
But only in 2016 the idea received scientific confirmation and became real. The project was joined by Ernesto Bennini, one of the world’s largest specialists in hydrodynamics and jet engines.The 2021 DeepSpeed ​​prototype is similar to the body of a jet aircraft engine. Like a turbo fan engine, it is engineered to direct water (not air) to the front, accelerating it through a smaller exhaust nozzle. The rotating blades of a single-stage impeller create thrust, providing more speed with less energy loss at high rpm.

The faster the boat moves, the more water is pumped into the jet, increasing its overall efficiency. Since the jet engine is located outside the hull and not inside it, the noise and vibration levels not transmitted to the hull are reduced. In addition, such a device does not require an additional cooling system – its efficiency is provided by the oncoming water flow.
Several boat manufacturers are already considering installing DeepSpeed ​​jet propulsion systems on newly developed or existing boat designs when upgrading them.

Amer Yachts and Scanner Marine announced back in April 2020 that they are working on installing DeepSpeed ​​electric hydrojet engines on their Envy 710 RIB.
New power plant DeepSpeed ​​DS-780 with a capacity of 680 hp and a torque of 1500 N • m. has a peak traction power, which is equivalent to a rather “gluttonous” internal combustion engine. The model is expected to be as efficient as possible over a speed range of 16 to 26 knots on semi-displacement yacht hulls. Another powerful but smaller power plant, the DS-420, is designed for fast boats with an expected rated power of 300 hp and a torque of 560 N • m.

Going forward, Sealence plans bringing to market a complete package of hybrid and electric propulsion systems, with a modular lithium-ion battery system, solar panels, a diesel standby power generator and an expanded line of DeepSpeed ​​propellers controlled by a Smartbox. Today these are boats from 9 to 24 meters long.

The story about the DeepSpeed ​​project will be incomplete if you do not mention the story of how the startup found 3 million euros of investment. On the crowdfunding platform, the funds necessary to launch a startup were raised in two stages. The success is impressive and easy to explain. Italian engineers presented an interesting and real working project. The team’s scientific research, constant testing of the startup and the improvement of the product, which is produced by a private company without much government support, are respected.

Turkey is an incredible country of contrasts, and here you can safely rent a yacht for a week or two or even a month. After all, the incredible waters of several seas at once – the Mediterranean, the Aegean, the Marmara and the Black – allow you to organize completely different holidays. In Turkey, Western and Eastern cultures meet at the same time, where everyone will find something for themselves.

Yachting in Turkey is a trend that is gaining momentum with an incredible scope. Here you can find both quiet bays and stay in a noisy party city. It is not surprising that recently this country has been on a par with the top yacht destinations in Europe, not particularly inferior to Greece in this matter. So why is Turkey so attractive?

First, the yachting season runs from late April to mid-October. The sea here warms up to 25-28 degrees, and the air temperature is 35 degrees. On especially hot days in July-August, the thermometer shows 40 degrees, while a light favorable wind blows throughout the high season, and storms are extremely rare.

Secondly, the coastline of Turkey is a picturesque nature, historical fortresses and castles. There are about 2,000 islands in its water area, and their coastline is incredible caves and stunning beauty of bays. In addition, Turkey is easy to navigate, so it is also suitable for those who want to independently manage their yacht and have minimal experience.

And thirdly, the infrastructure in Turkey is one of the best today. You can moor at the waterfront restaurants, which often have their own pier or pontoon, and some even replenish fresh water and electricity. And what is important, marinas and other services in Turkey are several times cheaper than similar ones in France, Italy or Croatia.

A special feature of sea travel in Turkey is that the route runs along the coast. Therefore, you will most likely have to walk twice along the same places. However, the presence of an incredible number of small towns and picturesque parking lots allows you to plan your trip in such a way as to stop in different places.

The best option for a sea cruise will be the coast of the country from Istanbul to Antalya. It is here that the nightlife is in full swing in Marmaris, from which you can go to the town with history – Fethiye and explore the heritage of Lycia. Or, for example, head for the Teke Peninsula from Antalya and go along the way to the picturesque places of Finike, Demre or Kekove. And if you want to combine a Greek-Turkish journey, then from Bodrum you can go to explore the Greek Dodecanese archipelago. Whichever destination you choose, great weather, light breezes, marinas with excellent infrastructure and mesmerizing nature await you.

The main marinas from which it is always recommended to start exploring yachting Turkey are Bodrum, Marmaris, Gocek and Fethiye. As a rule, the majority of yacht charter offers are concentrated in these regions.

Bodrum

Bodrum is Turkey’s unspoken tourist and yacht capital. It is also called the Turkish Riviera and for a reason: excellent infrastructure, great climate and unique nature. Here you can not only taste local cuisine in the best restaurants, but also enjoy active water sports. From Bodrum, you can make transitions to the Gokova Bay, reaching Marmaris, Knidos or Finike, as well as transitions to the Gulluk, Göcek Bay or the Datca Peninsula.

Marmaris

Once the town of Marmaris was just a fishing village, and now the city and the bay of the same name is a major tourist center. This bay is considered an ideal starting point as it lies between Bodrum and Fethiye. The coastline is made up of pebbly beaches and promenades, and many marinas are located in a more secluded corner a little away from the bustling city center. Although here you can find a lot of entertainment – nightclubs, restaurants and bars.

Gocek

Gocek is located just 22 kilometers from Dalaman Airport. It has many anchoring spots to offer, as it is located on one of the largest bays of the same name in Turkey. In addition to its impressive size, the bay is an ideal water area for relaxing yachting: many small picturesque islands, which are replaced by caves and an unusual coastline, cozy villages and restaurants in lovely bays.

Interestingly, Gocek is encircled by a thin strip of land, where the trees drop their crowns directly into the turquoise waters, and the foliage reflects and plays with the azure waters, creating landscapes of extraordinary beauty. After a modern marina with a developed infrastructure was built here, the town turned from a fishing village into a yachting center. In addition to recreation, there are as many as five marinas with excellent service, and even a shipyard.

Turkey as a Mediterranean destination was one of the first to open for yacht charter during the COVID-19 pandemic.Also, for a long time, special permits were not required to enter Turkey, but today, when crossing the border of this country, you must have a fresh test for the absence of coronavirus with you.

Coming soon, read more about Turkey’s popular yacht destinations in the new issue of YR.

Nowadays, it is becoming more and more difficult to “disconnect” from the routine, even during the rest. And the Internet, which has not so long ago burst into our lives, on the one hand does not allow us to relax, on the other, it is difficult to imagine any everyday life and holidays without it. We are used to visiting familiar websites every day, reading news, receiving emails, solving work issues even on vacation.

We will not talk about the riot of children and adolescents on a ship without the Internet and social networks. So everything is clear. For owners of large and small boats, access to the worldwide network is no longer a luxury, but a vital necessity. However, when traveling, connecting to it can be a major problem due to inconsistent coverage, dead zones and slow speeds.

Due to the high cost of traffic and, often, low speed, satellite Internet is used for emergency communications, navigation and in order to receive information far from the coast. And so far there is no such technology that would be both affordable and has satisfying quality of work.

Therefore, let’s talk about other ways to stay in touch and have access to the Internet when you are on a yacht, at sea and not far from the coast. The choice of equipment that will be needed during the trip depends on how long the ship will be on the way, how many countries and marinas it will visit.

Most marinas provide Wi-Fi networks – this is the most common and least expensive solution for connecting to the Internet when traveling, but good signal quality is a lottery.

But as soon as the ship leaves the marina, moving away from the coast, the Wi-Fi signal weakens and the Internet begins to “disappear”.

In such a situation, you need to take care in advance and purchase a signal amplifier and a WiFi router on the yacht, which, amplifying the signal, will distribute the Internet already within your network. The amplifier antenna itself communicates with the router through a cable; it can be connected to your computer and configured by an IP address.

A Wi-Fi signal booster (WiFi extender, repeater, etc.) is a device that actually just repeats the signal, in fact, passing it further through itself, increasing the range, speed and performance.

Keep in mind that setting up the internet is not always an easy task, especially at sea, additional hardware may be required to complete the installation.

Shakespeare WiFi2 WebWhip Antenna is a fully integrated and waterproof Wi-Fi antenna, radio and router. This antenna is capable of extending the coverage of public hotspots up to 11 km by creating a local Wi-Fi hotspot with any standard Wi-Fi router. Does not require software installation, works from any device with a web browser. Bandwidth 100+ Mbps.

 

Antenna-amplifier for Wi-Fi signal Wave WiFi Rogue Pro, easy to install, can be connected directly to any device, router or switch with an Ethernet connector. When connected to a wireless router, Rogue Wave Pro DB provides access to most wireless devices on board. At the same time, it does not require the installation of special software (the firmware allows the user to see the access points and monitors the signal quality), all operations are carried out via the network. Covers public Wi-Fi hotspots up to 11 km. Connects to marina networks 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz.

The high-performance EC-HP Wave Wi-Fi Signal Amplifier provides a maximum power output of 1W, allowing you to receive Wi-Fi signals up to 19 km away. Serves as a wireless access point and allows compatible devices to connect to the vessel’s wireless network with Etherne support, allowing it to operate autonomously or integrate into the boat’s network.

What if the Wi-Fi network is not available?

After leaving the range of the Wi-Fi hotspot, you can switch your cell phone to another data / LTE data plan and, using additional equipment, further strengthen the cellular signal. Mobile Internet will be available at a distance of 12-16 km from the coast.

For this you will need:

• SIM card
• Modem with SIM card slot (hotspot)
• Marine Cellular Antenna
• Cellular Signal Booster
• The router allows you to automatically switch between Wi-Fi and cellular depending on availability, giving priority to Wi-Fi.

A stationary router will transmit a wireless signal on the yacht, a modem is connected to its USB connector, which, in turn, receives a signal from local providers. You can buy a new “local” SIM card specially for traveling, or use your usual one by connecting it to a profitable tariff plan. Data transmission technologies are becoming more and more – 3G, 4G, 5G, GPRS, it is worth considering this when choosing a telecom operator.

The most “maritime Internet service” so far remains 4G LTE-A, which operates at various frequencies and under various protocols of the region/country. The successor to 4G is the new 5G technology, and its main advantage is speed. The 5G network can transfer data 100 times faster than the 4G network. While the rollout of 5G networks is well under way, it will take several more years to reach levels of coverage and transmission distance similar to that of 4G networks. There are more 4G towers. And there are very few routers with 5G support so far.

The Digital Antenna, a 4-inch digital cellular dual-band antenna, enhances signals in the cellular (824–894 MHz) and PCS (1850–1990 MHz) bands. Omnidirectional (equally receives and transmits the signal in all directions), therefore provides 10 times more signal strength than a conventional mobile phone. Each antenna connects to a mobile phone or cellular signal booster.

Shakespeare World Band Wi-Fi antenna kit and AnyHhere SuperHALO 2G/3G/4G/LTE cellular amplifier. The fiberglass antenna amplifies Internet signals, allows you to receive and send data through Wi-Fi routers located several kilometers away. The kit provides extended cellular coverage, optimized to enhance reception while supporting 10+ users.

As for modems that can read a SIM card, you might want one that is “unlocked” for most cellular companies. You need to find out about unlocked versions of modems in advance from the seller. Most often they choose a 3G or 4G modem that operates in the GSM standard, this is the most affordable and widespread technology in the world.

Netgear LB1120 WiFi 4G / LTE Modem Router – Provides automatic backup 4G / LTE or 3G broadband connection with download speeds up to 150 Mbps.

The key piece of equipment that will combine Wi-Fi and cellular data on the Internet is the router, which will transmit the Internet signal to all devices on board the yacht.

The PepLink Pepwave Surf Soho Router connects to the Internet via USB modem, Ethernet or Wi-Fi. If Wi-Fi is not available, it will automatically switch to your cellular connection. As soon as Wi-Fi becomes available again, it connects back, always keeping its priority.

The Yachtspot Maritime Internet Router provides global 4G and WiFi frequency coverage.

It should be understood that if you are in the zone of an unreliable signal, then all attempts to use the connection will be in vain. Equipment manufacturers are constantly looking for efficient and simple ways to help maintain uninterrupted communications at sea, offshore and ashore.

In the meantime, if your yacht is close to an access point or shore, then Wi-Fi and cellular communication, with the proper equipment, will provide you with a good connection and the Internet.

 

The most common marine navigation system that detects depth and recognizes objects underwater is the echo sounder. In articles, brochures, and on boxes with goods, you can find many other variations of this term – “fishfinder”, “fathometer”, “sonar”, “depth meter”.

The constantly developing technologies for detailing the shape and structure of the seabed are not only  fishing enthusiasts’ interest.

When buying an echo sounder, first of all, you need to decide how it will be used: mainly for fishing, navigation, or for both. It should be borne in mind that during yachting we are most interested in what is in front of the boat. Unlike fishing, where a good image is often more important than what is directly underneath or at the side.

This is where the “far-sighted” sonar can replace the conventional echo sounder.

Modern sonar models are becoming a powerful tool for both cruising and racing yachts. They provide sufficient image clarity, for example, to distinguish areas of algae or sand in an anchorage. Depth sensors transmit sound pulses or “pings” that are reflected when they hit the seabed.

Much of this improvement is due to the presence of CHIRP sensors, they can distinguish multiple targets by scanning using signals of different frequencies. This allows individual fish to be displayed, for example, rather than simply pointing out shallow water, identifying vegetation on the seabed, distinguishing between sandy, muddy or rocky coastlines, and, when anchored, finding sand on the first try.

By analyzing parameters such as sonar receiver sensitivity, transmitter power, transducer efficiency and display resolution, you can finally decide what exactly you need on your yacht.

Since the echo sounder sends pulses with a certain frequency, the higher this frequency is, the higher the detail of the resulting image will be. Some devices offer dual or multiple frequencies that provide both range and crisp images.

The transmitter power determines the rate at which information is sent. A low-power device will take longer to deliver information, and this is a losing proposition. The echo sounder will require low power at high frequency for shallow water and high power and low frequency at depth for normal operation.

The impulse sent by the echo sounder transmitter is reflected from various objects that it encounters. This allows you to collect information about everything that is in the water column: about the number, size, density of objects, about the structure of the bottom. The display processor processes the information received, resulting in a moving graphic image on the screen.

In order to select the correct display type, you must decide in advance where the fishfinder will be installed. Sunlight won’t be a concern if the display is installed indoors, but if it is placed in direct sunlight, a high-contrast LCD display is likely to be needed. A clear, high-contrast picture can only be seen on a high-resolution display. These displays use vertical pixels and are good at displaying small objects and signals.

Another parameter that is necessary for the correct selection of the echo sounder is the radiation cone or beam width, which the sensor directs to the bottom of the reservoir. The narrower the beam, the less area it covers. Advanced echo sounders have multiple beams, including side beams, which provide greater coverage.

Fishfinder Raymarine i50

The Raymarine i50 fishfinder consists of the latest generation of 3-line Raymarine displays. The i50 comes in several flavors. Pushbutton controls make Raymarine i50 instruments easy to operate. It displays data on depth, speed, distance traveled, water temperature.

Depth sounder NASA Clipper Depth

The Nasa Clipper Depth System consists of a marine echo sounder display and a hull end-to-end transducer. It has audio and visual notification of shallows, a choice of depth display speed, high transmission power, storage of all settings in non-volatile memory, low current consumption.

Sonar B&G Triton 2

It provides key instrument data such as speed, depth, wind direction and heading. Combined with the Triton² pilot keypad, the LCD display can also serve as a complete autopilot control system.

Fishfinder Garmin GNX 20

This is a marine instrument with standard 4-inch anti-reflective LCD display. It has low power consumption, scale mode and graphics for displaying depth, speed, wind and 50 more marine and boat parameters.

Sounder Plastimo Echotest

This portable device requires no installation. It has a fully waterproof housing and takes readings at a maximum depth of 80 meters. The Echotest is equipped with a large LCD display with LED backlighting for use at night. To measure the depth, the instrument is immersed in water. It runs on a 9V battery. This is certainly not the most accurate or best sonar option. Can be used for small boats and short walks.

Sonars

Sonars do not replace existing data sources such as classic sounder, charts and visual cues, but provide additional data to help you make more accurate decisions.

B&G ForwardScan

The system has a 180 kHz sensor, scans the seabed in a 15 ° arc at a distance of up to 90 m in front of the vessel. ForwardScan data not only shows a graph of the depth in front of the boat, but can also be overlaid on the map to indicate safe, warning and critical depths. ForwardScan uses a detachable slim sensor that protrudes 31mm below the chassis.

Echo pilot

Echopilot is optimized to display as much detail of the seabed as possible. It is updated with very low latency and can be used at speeds up to 20 knots. FLS 2D has a 30 ° beam width and a maximum range of 200 m, which is ten times the depth in shallow water. The bottom structure is visualized on a 7-inch screen, with hard materials such as rocks displayed in red and softer echoes from sand and dirt displayed in blue.

Garmin Panoptix

Designed for installation on yachts. It’s sonar sensors pass through the boat’s hull. FrontVü displays the seabed in front of the boat up to 90 m. The scanner has a 20 ° beam width and provides a clear image at boat speeds up to 8 knots. LiveVü Forward allows you to see fish and seabed structure at a reduced distance of up to 30 meters.

When choosing an echo sounder, it is worth remembering the conflict between range and detail.

Low-frequency sonar with a frequency of about 80 kHz can examine objects at great depths, but will not be able to convey special details. Conversely, a higher frequency unit operating at around 200 kHz will show more detail, but at the expense of range. Large and powerful converters can provide a wider range at high frequencies, but they will likely not be easy to install on a yacht.

The Mediterranean is unbeatable for its choice of beautiful yachting destinations to visit on your holiday on yacht.

Here is part two of our favourite locations for you to add to your holiday wish list.

Balearic Islands – Spain

The Balearic Islands are a must-see for all who sail the Mediterranean Sea. They are home to the widest variety of landscapes and fun you might find in the area.

Ibiza and Formentera Islands

Formentera is located 6 kilometers south of Ibiza.
If Ibiza can be called the “Queen of the Parties”, then Formentera is its complete opposite. Despite its close proximity to Ibiza, Formentera provides a very different holiday. People come here for the sake of delightful beaches with white sand and clear turquoise water, for relaxation, clean air and barefoot walks under the stars.

Mallorca

Mallorca is one of the best spots in the Med and that position is very well-earned. It is home of an amazing juxtaposition of some of the best beaches you´ll ever see, sheltered coves, Moorish and Roman remains and limestone mountains. You won´t regret dropping your anchor in this island.

Menorca

You will not find a single highrise building here – the entire island is a nature reserve. Here time flows slowly, as if basking under the rays of the gentle sun, and the sky and the sea are so piercingly azure that you cannot understand where one ends and another begins. This is a piece of paradise on earth, to which you will certainly want to return,having been there once.

Montenegro

This is a Balkan country that is made of medieval villages and amazing Adriatic-coastline beaches. While you sail the Mediterranean Sea, you can see glacial lakes, limestone peaks and the breath-taking Tara River Canyon which is 1km+ deep.

Kotor Bay (Boka Bay), Montenegro

Boka Bay is the largest and most picturesque bay of the Adriatic Sea. This is truly a miracle of nature: many beautiful bays, ancient cities on the coast, high rocky mountains, approaching directly to the coastline, narrow straits and islands. All this leaves an unforgettable experience for a lifetime!

Malta and its archipelago

Made of many islands, only three of them are inhabited. The area is only 300 square kilometers and is bathed by deep blue Mediterranean waters. These places are not usually crowded by tourists.

La Valletta, Malta

This is the capital city of Malta. It is a city made by gentlemen for gentlemen. The Knights of St. John made this a beautiful place to visit and left behind amazing constructions. The beaches and, especially the harbor are unique and one of the best spots in the Med.

Comino and Gozo – islands of the Maltese archipelago

While yachting around Mediterranean waters, you can find some treasures; Comino and Gozo are two of them. These sister islands offer everything from the Blue Lagoon and its turquoise waters to snorkeling, scuba diving or just swimming. Dropping anchors in either of them is definitely worth it.

 

The choice of scuba diving equipment should be taken seriously. Of course, you can always rent all the equipment, it is both cheaper and simpler – one and a half dozen kilograms of diving gear will not have to be dragged to another country or to another continent. However, an experienced diver, captain or yacht owner will always confirm that it is much better to have your own equipment, first of all it is a matter of hygiene and self-confidence. The mask, costume, boots fit to the naked body, the regulators are generally located right in the mouth. You are unlikely to prefer someone else’s toothbrush to yours. There is the same point here.

In addition, due to the coronavirus, many trips and plans have to be postponed or canceled altogether. And those who decide to dive in Ukraine should also take into account that rental equipment may not always meet all the requirements and requests of the diver. In general, it would be better to get your own.

In order to determine which equipment should be chosen, the Yachts Review experts decided to give some recommendations on diving equipment and what is needed for diving in general. Conditions for scuba diving can be totally different (depending on the water area the water can be warmer, if it is, for example, the Red Sea, or colder, as in the Arctic Ocean or some Ukrainian quarry), we will focus on universal options.

Before we will consider each gear more detailed, we suggest you look through our checklist, which can be useful for diving. Here you can find out whether you need to check the size or technical suitability of your equipment or make sure you need to buy something or not. We filled out the table while checking our own equipment, it is clear that you have to make your own checklist to your preference.

		to wear	to check	to repair/to buy
1	Wetsuit	+	+   OK	–
2	Mask	+	+  NG (not good)	to buy
3	Flippers	+	+   OK	–
4	Tanks	–	+   OK	–
5	Computer	+	+   OK	–
6	Regulator	–	+   OK	–
7	Belt and weights	+	+   OK	–
8	Buoyancy control device	+	+   NG	to repair
9	Rebreather	–	–	??
10	Accessories	–	+   OK	to buy battery
11	Bag	–	+   NG	to buy

Wetsuit

A wetsuit is used to keep your body warm in the water. When water gets under the suit, it is warmed by the body temperature, so it is comfortable to dive in the water. Typically suits about 3 mm are used for warm water. 5 mm wetsuits will do too. For cold waters (12-18 degrees) 5-7 mm wetsuits are usually chosen. The colder the water, the correspondingly thicker the neoprene layer should be chosen.

A dry-type wetsuit is designed for cold water, it is designed on the principle of a spacesuit – no water gets under it, plus there is modern synthetic insulation, so you won’t freeze in one. Warm clothing is available in the form of thermal underwear under the suit.

A wetsuit is an individual thing, different brands make them according to different patterns and you need to focus on many different criterias: weight, height and other physiological characteristics of a diver. The most popular suits are Scubapro, 4element, Santi, Henderson, Aqualung.

Dive mask

You need a mask to see underwater. While choosing it you need to pay attention to the soft silicone and hypoallergenic aspirator, soft silicone spout. Masks can be mono-glass and double-glass. The only difference between them is that you can install lenses in two-glass masks if you have poor eyesight. You can choose Hollis m1 or Aqualung Micromask, for example.

Flippers

There are also two types of fins: open and closed heel.  In warm waters closed-heel fins can be used, they are worn on bare feet. Open heel fins are designed for diving in cooler water and are worn over neoprene boots. They are adjustable to fit your foot, and the foot is protected from the cold under the thick sole of the shoe. Scubapro Jetfin or Mares Avanti Quattro fins can be a great addition to diving in any area.

Dive tank

Gas mixtures help scuba divers to breathe underwater.  They are filled in special cylinders, which differ from each other in volume and material of manufacture.  Usually tanks are made of steel or aluminum, but in recent years composite ones are gaining popularity.  They contain ordinary air that we breathe on land (not pure oxygen), and under pressure it compresses 200 times.

Typical diving cylinders volumes can range from 1.5 to 18 liters.  Most often, divers take with them a main tank (from 10 to 18 liters), an emergency tank (also called bale out, from 0.4 to 1 liter), and a pony tank (an additional small cylinder). The rebreathers which we will highlight below usually use small volumes 1 to 3 liters.

Computer

The computer is an integral part of your diving equipment: it displays depth, water temperature, dive time and no–decompression limit. In case of a computer, consider the Shearwater Terric or Suunto Zoop. Both options have proven themselves well with experienced scuba divers.

Regulator

The name speaks for itself, this device regulates the air pressure in the cylinder to the ambient pressure. It is also called the “diving octopus” – due to the large number of hoses it vaguely resembles an octopus. The regulator has a first stage, which is screwed into the cylinder valve and reduces the pressure to 8-12 atmospheres; it includes two breathing air sources (one on a shorter, the second on a longer hose). Air enters the second stage, which already reduces the pressure to ambient. The second stage has several hoses, one of which is attached to a barometer (shows the pressure in the tank and the amount of air), as well as a hose that connects to the buoyancy control device.

There are summer and winter regulators, so you need to choose one that suits the water area where you are going to dive. In addition, while choosing the device you should pay attention to the materials from which it has been made. For example, membrane regulators are resistant to clogging in dirty water conditions and can also be used in cold water. Piston regulators, in turn, are distinguished by their durability due to a reliable spring mechanism.

The market leaders today are the Apeks, Atomic or Aqualung regulators.

Belt and weights

Due to the wetsuit, the diver has excessive positive buoyancy and therefore requires lead weights. They are worn either on a weight belt, which is attached at the waist, or can be placed in the BCD, if it has connectors for them. The belts are made of latex, nylon or rubber. Latex is the most expensive, nylon is the most durable, and rubber is the most practical one. In order to achieve zero buoyancy you need to know your weight, the thickness of the wetsuit, where exactly you will dive, whether it is sweet-water or a salt water, and the depth. How much cargo you need will depend on this. Here you can stop at Scubapro, Beuchat or Best Divers belts.

Buoyancy control device

The BCD is needed to regulate buoyancy: inflate it to stay in place, or deflate it to dive and go deeper. There are two of the most popular types: vest expansion joints and wing expansion joints. Usually beginners start training with vests, while more experienced divers prefer the wings as they help maintain a horizontal position in the water and have more lift due to the larger displacement.

One of the best BCD available today is the Halcyon. Their devices are reliable, made of durable materials, and a special system allows you to effortlessly adjust the length of the monostrope. There are built-in weight pockets for lead weights, which will be highlighted below.

You can also pay attention to the Scubapro X-Black model. It greatly simplifies the buoyancy control and is easy to use even when the chambers are completely filled with air.

Rebreather

Special attention should be paid to modern breathing devices – rebreathers. Scuba gear is a system of an open breathing cycle, the rebreather is more complicated – it has a closed cycle. In it, carbon dioxide released during breathing enters a container, where computers analyze its composition, after which the mixture is enriched with oxygen to the level required for a certain depth. The result of the treatment is fed to the diver’s breath. In fact, this device replaces all the main devices at once – a regulator, a buoyancy control device and tanks.

Rebreathers come in different configurations and the choice should depend on the purpose of the dive. For example, it will be enough for underwater photographers to dwell on simpler models that will not allow diving deep, but will allow them to stay under water for a long time. Those who want to set dive records often choose more sophisticated devices. In general, the device is not intended for beginners and amateurs. And the price bites: the price of new models can reach 16 thousand euros.

Accessories

Depending on the purpose of the dive, additional accessories can always come in handy with the main equipment. Buoy and reel are needed in seas where there is a flow. Diving lights come in handy for night dives or sunken object research. A lance and a net will be needed for spearfishing. Lycra T-shirts, neoprene helmets, gloves, knives, even underwater scooters – there is a huge variety of additional elements. Lets not forget about the camera in order to capture all the beauty seen under the water… But the most important thing is a bag for all the uniforms, in order to neatly accommodate everything and conveniently transport it to the right places.

A compressor for “filling” tanks may be very handy, so you will not have to depend on coastal services and worry about where to replenish stocks (of course, if the size of the engine room allows you to place the compressor).

Trends in interior design are constantly changing. Some of them become modern classics, but others can be forgotten the next year. No one will deny that 2020 was significantly different from everything that happened before. People all around the world started to spend much more time at home, that is why the problem of functional, but at the same time, nice space is extremely acute today.

Here are some main ideas, which will be prevailing at interiors in 2021. 

Comfort above all

The events of the past year forced us to take a closer look at spaces, where we had to spend so much time. First of all home furnishings and personal yachts interiors must be usable and functional.  

Designers believe that in 2021 one of the principal trends will be comfort in the widest sense of this world. Interior designer Sheila Bridges emphasizes that “well-being and resilience are in priority now”. 

Imagine fluffy and soft furniture, natural wood and bookshelves with your favorite novels. Due to the pursuit to comfort and coziness the reimagining of old furniture will also be popular. Vintage dressers on tiny legs, hinged tables, drinks trolleys from the last century 20s — all of this stuff will be found its place in our houses again, thinks Charu Gandhi.

Natural materials   

Using natural and eco-friendly materials — this is an established gold standard for interiors, which is not be going to lose its relevance. Wood, leather, linen, suede, cotton, wool, rattan, and bamboo — all of these materials are allowing to make a stylish and cozy interior, and also suiting to conscious consumption and nature care trends.  

Various textures are remaining an important accent of a stylish interior. Designers suggest experiments with paint and textured plaster to give space some highlights. 

The final focusing point in the interior made with natural materials in neutral colors can be green plants and flowers.   

Multi functionality

The pandemic made many of us ponder about the functionality of limited space. We have to work, relax, make fun and doing sports at home. The trend which was widely used in yachts interior design is gaining popularity on land now.

Multifunctional furniture provides flexibility and versatility. Designers plan to use freestanding rule which allows swapping furniture and decor in case of your desire or need. Perfect symmetry is giving way to relaxed elegance.

Open spaces which effortlessly combine dining area, rest zone, and place for fitness are a very good example of multi functionality. Such a decision is especially popular with yachts owners.

Closeness to nature   

Also, the past year emphasized the importance of existence comfortable outdoor spaces. Now designers want to pay more attention to informal terraces, balconies, and backyards.

We shall not ignore the big windows trend too. It causes good light and allows using beautiful landscapes as additional decor.

For yachts exterior, this tendency means even more attention to the decoration of upper decks, beach clubs, and outdoor descent to the water. So in this case will be creating a real lounge zone with a bar, sun loungers, and a pool.