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Sailing is an exciting activity that combines adventure, technique and a deep respect for the sea. If you are already experienced in sailing, but want to improve your skills and
Ocean Sailing: an adventure without limits
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Intensive sailing courses for Easter
In response to the demand of our students, we propose a series of improvement courses that we have scheduled for 4 days to take advantage of the Easter holidays 2025.
Ocean sailing is one of the most exciting and challenging experiences a sea lover can live. From the majesty of the waves to the vastness of the horizon, sailing the high seas offers a unique connection with nature. In this article, we will explore some key aspects of ocean sailing, from preparation to execution of an unforgettable voyage.
1. Preparation: The First Step to Adventure
Before setting sail, good preparation is essential. This includes:
- Check list of the boat: The equipment and revision of the boat. Before setting sail, familiarize yourself with your boat. Knowing the boat and checking where and how the key elements of the boat are located is essential for safe navigation when there is no possibility of external assistance.
- Route planning: It is not only necessary but mandatory to make a travel plan. In the travel plan we must include:
- A pilotage plan for entry and exit at the ports of departure and arrival.
- Meteorological analysis.
- Route hazards.
- Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA).
- Nautical charts and navigation applications for safe and efficient routing.
2. Navigation Techniques
Ocean navigation combines both traditional and modern techniques. Some of the most important are:
- Astronomical Navigation. Use the stars and other celestial bodies to determine your position. This classic method is still fascinating and useful in case of technological failures… It does not depend on on-board power!
- GPS, plotter, Radar, AIS, GRIB files: Nowadays, we have electronic equipment that greatly facilitates navigation. Let’s use them to our advantage.
3. Safety at Sea
Safety is paramount in ocean sailing. Here are some tips:
- Safety Equipment: Always wear life jackets on deck, check that your mandatory safety equipment is complete and up to date with expiration dates.
- Communications: Again we are back to combining modern and classic devices:
- Classics: Radio stations: VHF short range and long range SSB,
- Modern: IRIDIUM (voice worldwide coverage), SATLINK (internet)
- First Aid Knowledge: Having basic first aid knowledge can be crucial in emergency situations.
4. Life on Board
Sailing is not only about getting to a destination, but also about enjoying the journey. Here are some things you can do on board:
- Cooking at sea: Experiment with simple recipes that you can prepare while sailing. Food tastes better when enjoyed overlooking the ocean.
- Marine wildlife watching: Keep your eyes open for dolphins, whales, birds and other sea creatures. Ocean life is one of the biggest surprises of sailing.
- Navigation guards: The night provides an incredible spectacle: the celestial sphere without light pollution.
- Relaxation and reflection: Take advantage of the time at sea to disconnect and reflect. The disconnection from everyday life on land that the ocean imposes can be very rejuvenating.
- Camaraderie: life on board 24 hours/day outside the comfort zone creates very strong and permanent bonds between crewmembers. Nothing like ocean voyages to help meet new people.
Conclusion
Ocean sailing is an adventure that offers freedom, challenge and beauty. With the right preparation and an adventurous spirit, you can create unforgettable memories at sea. So, pack your bag, choose your route and let’s set sail for adventure!
From Julio Verne Náutica, through our colleagues of the Asociación Náutica Navega, we offer you different oceanic programs for this 2025. What are you waiting for to know them?
Iván Pérez-Gándaras is CEO of Julio Verne Náutica and the main Director of the company's RYA Training Center. His vast experience is based on the highest nautical qualifications such as Yachtmaster without limits, STCW95 and RYA Yachtmaster Offshore with commercial endorsement. He has accumulated more than 20,000 ocean miles in deliveries and transatlantic crossings, in addition to 30,000 miles in scientific expeditions, including Antarctica and Newfoundland.
A trainer since 1993 and instructor of nautical qualifications since 2009, his background combines a solid technical background with exceptional practical experience. With a degree in Marine Biology from the University of Santiago de Compostela and World Champion in Dinghy Sailing (1989), his unique perspective ensures that Julio Verne Náutica's articles, training and charter services are delivered with the highest level of technical rigor and passion for the sea.
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