Night fell suddenly upon the tiny yacht, an insignificant blot on the Tasman’s turbulent sea. Ominous clouds closed in, and rain fell heavily. The same three and four meter waves that had been so exhilarating surfing down in the light of day, became menacing monsters, intent on dumping tons of frothy water on Levi’s deck and into her cockpit. Sails were double reefed in anticipation of a stormy night.

We’d left New Zealand’s picturesque Bay of Islands seven days before aboard my yacht Levitation, a Cavalier 32, bound for Queensland, Australia. I had arranged to clear customs at Lord Howe Island, as is popular for many yachts cruising between the two countries.

My crew: Orit a 24 year old Israeli girl, a bright backpacker, who had no sailing experience. She had a spell in the army after school and wanted to become a marine biologist. And Nick, 50ish, who had sailed most of his life and crewed yachts in Queensland’s coastal races, though never owned his own yacht fancied himself as an expert in marine navigation.

Orit and I were on watch throughout the night. Searching the darkness through the driving rain, we eventually made out the black triangle known as Balls Pyramid and the towering mountains of Lord Howe Island.

I found it strange… I couldn’t see any navigation lights… just the ever increasing size of the black land mass. I searched the chart for the magenta-colored flash mark to indicate a beacon and couldn’t find any. I couldn’t even spot the light that should be on the top of the mountain for air traffic. I put out a call on channel 16 on the VHF periodically throughout the night. No response.

Dawn finally broke, grey and cheerless, bustling 25-30kt winds from south east churning up the sea. At 0600 hours the radio crackled into life and I made contact with someone outside our little world. What a relief, I was anxious to get the marine weather forecast. The weather and tide conditions were not favorable to navigate the narrow coral reef entrance, I was told, but by mid-afternoon the situation was expected to improve.

Exhausted we all wanted to get in before nightfall and fatigue was making us edgy. “As soon as my feet touch land, I’m heading for the nearest McDonald’s, a Big Mac and thick shake,” Orit fantasied. “For me it’s a long hot shower, clean hair, dry clothes, and then I’ll settle for a cold glass of chardonnay,” I responded. Nick was quiet! Darkness set in as the harbor master led us in through the narrow coral entrance, where wind still whipped up white caps on the calmer waters of the lagoon. He shone his high-beamed torch on the two unlit triangle navigation aids and lined them up. There were no port or starboard markers, and what I thought was a leading light turned out to be a solitary light on the shore. The mooring was near the coral entrance and the chain was difficult to get up and secure in the still stormy conditions.

The island was dark and forbidding. Where was the town, lights of any kind (navigation, street, car!) and all the familiar signs of life we have been accustomed to! This was a really strange to me. In all my travels I had never experienced it before. This was far from what we imagined as our tropical island getaway.

The sun rose on a new day, and so did our spirits. We were in awe at the majestic twin mountains of Gower and Lidguard, their summits shrouded in mist. Enticing emerald and turquoise waters of the crystal-clear lagoon met with sun-kissed sand and lush tropical forest. Ivory foam cascaded over the world’s most southerly coral reef. We hand fed schools of fish.

Impatiently we waited for the wind to drop, and then we clambered aboard my inflatable, balancing 3 garbage bags of damp and smelly washing. After a long row we hauled our load up the boat ramp. Terra firma how wonderful it felt. The customs officer barefoot and wearing shorts and a t-shirt met us at his office (the back of a four-wheel-drive). I paid a fee of $150A and made arrangements for the quarantine check.

Now was the time to indulge our desire to explore. Nick headed off to Wilson’s bike hire. We’d catch sight of him on occasion, head down with a multicolored helmet on, peddling furiously. Orit and I decided to walk.

At Aunty Sue’s garden restaurant we devoured a meal of freshly caught fish and garden salad. What a luxury after the last eight days. The Leanda Lei apartments allowed us to use their laundry. Orit and I rowed back to Levi. Nick was still doing his own thing and elected to acquaint himself with some of the local at the Bowling Club.

As night fell the wind whipped up the lagoon waters. Levi swung alarmingly, at times healing over. Bullets of wind accelerated down the mountains at amazing speeds, swinging us and pulling us against our mooring. I feared that the chain would break and we’d end up on the rocks or coral. In a lull we put harnesses on (yes at a mooring) and ventured out, securing the boat with more rope and chain. Our first night was very unsettled. At intervals throughout the night I checked the GPS and landmarks to make sure we hadn’t dragged.

The travel brochures described Lord Howe as “not just another island, but another world.” And that it is! Discovered in 1788 and settled in 1833, Lord Howe is one of the world’s first three islands to be given the status of world heritage listing and is breathtaking in its natural beauty, marine and plant life. It is only 11km long and 2.8km wide, 700km NE of Sydney, Australia. Two volcanic mountains dominate the island and overlook the reef-fringed lagoon and its rolling surf.

Many of its 300 residents are descendants of the original settlers. The Wilson’s, who have operated Ocean View apartments for more than 90 years, have collected much memorabilia from visiting yachtsman and travelers during that time.

Nick not surprisingly decided to fly home. Orit stayed with me and we settled into a laid -back lifestyle while we made repairs and waited for a favorable weather window.

One night we walked without fear in pitch darkness, as there are no street lights to the bowls club under a ceiling of dense tropical foliage. Keys are left in the ignitions of cars and doors unlocked, no one steals them where would they go. Car accidents, the worst I was told was hitting a tree while drunk after leaving the bowling club. The speed limit is 25km throughout the island and bicycles have right of way.

We enjoyed happy hour at the bowls club, live music at Pine Trees Resort and played Bongo Drums with some of the locals as they strummed guitars and sang.

No we did not find a McDonald’s or even an ATM. High-rise buildings, large hotels, movie theaters, shopping malls and marinas were all noticeably absent. But then too were the things that can only go with development; pollution, traffic jams, high crime rate and stress.

What we did find in abundance were the most important things that nurture the soul. Lord Howe is unspoiled and serene, a haven for rare and beautiful birds, a mecca for fishermen. You can scuba dive or snorkel in the crystal-clear lagoon and there’s deep water fishing beyond the reef. It’s a place to escape the fast life… And lazily embrace beauty and simplicity.

It is difficult to generalise about weather patterns within the area. In the summer months the north usually sees the Meltemi from the NNE – NE. But unlike the rest of the Aegean it is by no means guaranteed and if it does not blow winds are usually light and from the south. The prevailing wind in the south of the area is from the SE and it will blow from midday before calming in the evening. It usually does not exceed force 5. There are limited problems with gusts from high land. Astrous on the Peloponnisos is renowned for a katabatic wind at night. It gets up quickly from calm conditions and can blow a force 7 for up to 6 hours.

Nisidhes Tselevinia, the islands of Spathi and Skilli lie of Cape Skillaion. There is a secluded anchorage at the SW tip of Spathi. Nisis Soupia lies 1.5 miles W of Spathi. Yachts can anchor where convenient, the bottom is covered in thick weed and holding is not good in places.

Ermioni is on the Peloponnisos. When approaching take care of the remains of the ancient mole on the northern side of the headland. Yachts can go bow or stern to on the inside of the outer mole. Alternatively anchor in the bay to the north. The bottom is mud and weed with some rocks with poor holding in places. There is a quayed area on the southern side of the peninsula that can be used with offshore winds. Water is available on the quay and there is fuel in the village. Most provisions can be obtained and there are plenty of tavernas. Ermioni remains comparatively undeveloped. Ormos Kapari is the large bay to the south of Ermioni. Yachts can anchor in the SW corner where there is shelter from the prevailing winds. The bottom is sand and weed with good shelter.

Hydra or Idhra is the long, narrow island lying parallel to the Peloponnisos coast. There is not much written about the island until around the 15th century. Around 1460 Albanian refugees who were later joined by settlers from Crete, Evia and Kythnos settled Hydra. Then in the 18th century Hydra welcomed a large number of refugees from the Peloponnisos during the war between Russia and Turkey. In 1792 the town was almost completely abandoned when the plague killed much of the population. But by the end of the 18th century Hydra had become quite prosperous because of its commercial fleet that was trading as far as France, Spain and even the Americas. When the war of independence broke out Hydra was in a position to contribute some 150 ships and supplies to fight against the Turks. However when Greece did finally achieve independence in 1821 Hydra was economically isolated and did not receive its fair share of assistance from the new state and a period of hardship and unemployment set in causing many of the inhabitants to abandon it leaving behind large mansions and beautiful residences that fell into ruin. Yachts can go bow or stern to the town quay or on the northern mole. The bottom is mud and weed and poor holding in places. Strong winds from the N – NW produce a dangerous surge in the harbour and the north mole is the only safe place. There is water on the quay. The town will provide most provisions. As far as eating out goes the waterfront tavernas are over priced and you will find much better value in the town.

Mandraki is a bay about 0.75 miles east of Hydra. Yachts can anchor were convenient. The bottom is sand, mud and weed with good holding. There are tavernas ashore. Other anchorages on Hydra include Vlikhos, Ormos Molos, Petassi, Bisti and Ay Nikolaos.

Spetsai lies at the mouth of the Gulf of Argolikos. Pine trees cover much of the island. Like Hydra, Spetsai played an important role during the Greek Revolution of 1821 committing her fleet which was commanded by the heroine Laskarina Bouboulina Spetsai has the same policy with cars as Hydra: they are not permitted on the island and transportation is, like in Hydra, effectuated by horse-drawn carriage, donkey or taxi-boat. Yachts can anchor in the bay with a line to the shore or go bows to in the inner harbour if there is room. In the outer harbour the bottom is sand and weed and poor holding in places. Shelter in the inner harbour is excellent but winds from the NW push swell into the outer harbour making it uncomfortable. There is water and fuel on the quay. There is good shopping with a supermarket close to the harbour. There are good tavernas around the harbour and in the town. Look out for Spetsai’s specialty, “Fish a la Spetsiota” cooked in the oven with a lot of tomato and green peppers and covered in cheese. The town and harbour are attractive with many houses and mansions dating back some 200 years.

Ormos Zoyioryia is a large bay in the NW of Spetsai. Yachts can anchor in the bay in depths of 5 – 8m. There is a small cove on the western side of the bay that offers shelter from all but winds from the NE – E. This is an attractive anchorage, clear water surrounded by wooded slopes and there is a single taverna ashore.

Port Kheli is on the Peloponnisos. Yachts can go bow or stern to the quay or anchor off. The bottom is mud and excellent holding. Shelter is also excellent.

Drinking water and fuel are delivered by tanker. Most provisions can be obtained in the village. There are good tavernas in the village and on the waterfront. The bay is home to many water sports and in the summer has a busy feel to it. There are also anchorages on either side of the entrance channel.

Koiladhia is a large bay on the eastern side of the Gulf of Argolikos. Yachts can anchor of the village in 2 – 3m. Excellent holding on mud and good all round shelter. There is water on the quay and most provisions are available. The tavernas on the waterfront are good and often have fresh fish available.

Khaidhari is set at the top of Ormis Dhrepanou. Yachts can anchor in the bay or go bow to the outer end of the mole. Holding is good in mud and weed and there is good all round shelter. There are tavernas ashore. Tolo is a small harbour. Yachts can anchor of or go alongside, stern or bow to the mole. The bottom is sand and good holding. Water is limited. Most provisions can be obtained and there are plenty of waterfront tavernas that often have fresh fish available. The village is now a bust tourist resort with its fine sandy beach.

Navplion lies at the head of the Gulf of Argolikos. Yachts should berth on the quay in the inner basin. The bottom is mud and holding is difficult. Shelter is good with the exception of strong NW winds. If the swell becomes too bad yachts are better anchored off. There is water on the quay and fuel in the town. All provisions can be obtained and there are numerous tavernas. The town is beautiful. Houses from the 18th and 19th centuries are covered with bougainvillea or clematis. Navplion was briefly the capital of Greece after the war of independence until Athens was chosen as the permanent capital. Astrous is on the western side of the gulf. Yachts can go bow or stern to either mole. The bottom is mud and weed and poor holding in places. Astrous is notorious for the strong katabatic winds that blow off the mountain at night time. There is water on the mole. Most provisions can be obtained but there is better shopping in the town some 2 miles away. There are good tavernas on the waterfront and in the village.

Further to the south is Leonidhion. Yachts can bow or stern to the mole. The bottom is hard sand and rock and poor holding in places. There is limited shelter from the prevailing winds. Water is available on the quay. Limited provisions can be obtained but there are good waterfront tavernas.

Kiparissi is a large bay. Yachts can anchor of the village of Paralia or go alongside the ferry quay. Alternatively go bow or stern to the quay in the SE corner of the bay. A third choice is to anchor in the north of the bay or lastly berth at the mole in the north of the bay. There are provisions and tavernas in the village. The bay is completely unspoilt and is surrounded by high mountains. Ireaka lies at the head of a bay. Yachts can go bow to the quay. The bottom is mud weed and rock and reasonable holding in the main. There are tavernas ashore and limited provisions are available.

Monemvasia is an island linked to the Peloponnisos by a causeway. Yachts can go bow or stern to the mole or anchor off. The bottom is sand, weed and rock with poor holding in places. Water and fuel can be delivered. All provisions can be obtained and there are several tavernas in the old village in a lovely setting. Try the char grilled octopus here.

I have been bargain yacht hunting for six years now and have now come to recognize that sometimes a superb deal on a used vessel can bring a greater sense of gratification and pride than the smell and shine of a new factory product. This year has been a banner year but…

I strongly believe boat auctions will continue to stir up some unprecedented savings for boat buyers in 2010 — and several years to come. There are still a lot of boat owners who can’t afford their mortgage right now let alone their 21′ Sea Ray. And once its repossessed — you can find it at auction.

However, finding legitimate auction sources, especially online can be a real chore. Whether you are a DIY’er or simply looking to find a discounted vessel, I have found the following sites without a doubt — the best public marine auctions sources available on the internet:

1. Boat Auctions Direct — This resource regularly aggregates in all nearly every marine auction source across the U.S. It is extremely detailed and also includes pwc’s, rv’s, atv’s, in addition to marine equipment auctions as well.

2. National Liquidators — Now this company is the largest auction house in the U.S. and practically carries the yacht auction industry in southeast Florida. NL will on average have 350-400 bank repossessed vessels at any given month.

3. Commonwealth Boat Brokers — By way of two locations in Virginia, CBB inventories acres of bank repossessions together with pwc’s.

4. Gov Deals — You don’t have to pay to view Government auctioned assets when you can access most of their seized items here for free. Just click the boating link and you can view current inventory up for bid.

5. Luxury Yachts at Auction — This auction site lists a directory that offers an extensive selection of yachts, sailboats, pontoons, Bayliners, trawlers, houseboats, performance, fishing and bassboats, including multiple other asset classes i.e. equipment and machinery.

6. Crashed Toys — is a specialty insurance and salvage auction company with numerous pick-up locations across the country. They specialize in seized, repossessed or salvaged cars, trucks, yachts, trailers, pwc’s motorcycles and more. Simply register to bid online.

I’ve subscribed to almost every free and/or paid membership auction site out there. And though many are beneficial, several are not practical for locating auctioned assets of any type.

WARNING: Be most notably cautious of ‘auction’ sites (mainly those sponsored listing ppc sites) that gratuitously offer ‘free’ repo listings in exchange for your name and e-mail, and other personal information. I’ve never got anything from these sites but a email box full of spam from other third party sites.

Anyway, the auction sources above certainly aren’t exhaustive, nonetheless I think you’ll find they should put you in front of a bargain boat pretty quick.

Descriptions of the five most luxurious yachts in the world

1. The Eclipse Yacht – The owner of the Eclipse Yacht is Roman Abramovich, a Russian aristocrat. The yacht is approximately 558 feet long and is considered to be the most expensive yacht in the world. It has been reported to cost anywhere between $540 million to $1.1 billion dollars and has exquisite features, including 24 cabins for overnight guests. Additionally, the Eclipse has two separate swimming pools and even a mini-submarine, for the very adventurous. The master suite itself measures 5000 square feet and is located on the highest point of the deck. Boredom is never an issue with the cinema, private garden and library. To keep the family safe while sailing the open seas, the Eclipse is designed to be completely bullet proof.

2. ‘A’ Superyacht – This yacht is also owned by a Russian aristocrat, Andrey Melnichenko. The cost is rumored to be approximately $323 billion dollars and it measures approximately 390 feet in length. One of the most impressive features of this yacht is the private deck, which measures 80 feet long; designed for the owner’s wife who adores sunbathing. The yacht also has a helipad for guests who wish to arrive in style. Inside the master suite and bathroom are pure marble floors. The finishing touches to the A Superyacht include a private lift and staircase.

3. Platinum 525 or The Golden Star – Owned by the Sheikh Mohammed bin-Rashid Al Makhtoum of Dubai, the cost of this yacht is $300 million dollars. Measuring 531 feet, this mega yacht was originally designed in 1996; in 2001, it was purchased by the Sheikh and renamed, the Golden Star. As the name states, the yacht measures approximately 525 feet and has luxury suites for guests. It also features a squash court, health spa and swimming pool. In addition to the excellent amenities, this yacht also has a special suite for the owner and a total of five suites designated for VIPs. The additional guest rooms can accommodate up to 12 comfortably.

4. Pelorus Yacht – Also owned by Roman Abramovich, this $300 million dollar yacht is considered to be a casual luxury, compared to the Eclipse. However, it is still quite outstanding, measuring 377 feet in length. Included in the superb features are the jet skis, swimming pools, conference rooms and 18 suites for overnight guests. The yacht can accommodate a total of 58 people comfortably. As a security measure, the Pelorus comes equipped with a very unique feature, a missile-detecting system and a mini-submarine for speedy escapes.

5. Dilbari Yacht – The Dilbari is owned by Alisher Usmanov, a Russian businessman. Measuring 361 feet in length, the cost is approximately $256 million dollars. Luxuries include swimming pools and a helipad. The 12 guest rooms are filled with spectacular amenities and extraordinary decor. In total, there are five decks so everyone on board can experience a level of privacy if they want to step away from the entertainment and seek a little peace and quiet.

Available rental options

Each of these tremendous works of art can be rented for day excursions or longer periods. But, be prepared to spend a pretty penny for the privilege. For example, the Eclipse can cost approximately $2 million dollars to rent for a week.

Other yachts, like the Platinum 525 or the Pelorus are a bit less expensive, averaging approximately $500,000 to $1 million per week.

The majority of the people who exercise these options consist of celebrities. In fact, when they vacation in places like the Caribbean or the South of France, they often rent super yachts like these to ensure their privacy and to keep the Paparazzi away.

Over the past few years, renting super yachts has become much more popular with celebrities because of the intimate settings and extreme luxury. They also provide the same accommodations as most 5-star hotels, without the intrusions.

The upcoming London Boat Show at ExCeL is set for 10 – 14 January, 2018. This year's 5-day event is bound to be spectacular. It always brings boating enthusiasts from around the world. The attendees are boat owners, people planning to buy one soon, and others who are simply looking at concrete examples of their dreams.

Dreaming of the Life

Bodies of water attract a wide range of types of people. Some just want to look, some want to jump in, and many want to float on them and travel across them. These are the attendees of the show. They love rowboats, power boats and luxury yachts. Many wish to have a boat (any boat!) In which they can enjoy their leisure time. The attraction of the sea affects many people, and the idea of ​​owning a boat brings up images of sailing off to paradise. Due to this, many plan to one day own their own boat. It could be a dream when they will win this week's lottery, or be a reward for years of hard work. In any event, there is a feeling of having arrived when you own your own boat.

Boat Exhibitions

The UK has a rich history of marine exploration and shipbuilding. Some of the world's best boat building companies are here in the UK, including Sunseeker, Fairline Boats and Princess Yachts. Most of these and many more will be at London Boat Show along with other European and International companies. There will also be stands from the manufacturers of specialist parts, marinas, boat brokerage companies and a very large collection of suppliers of peripheral products and services to boating enthusiasts.

Maintenance

Attending a boat show of this magnitude brings to mind not only the cost of buying a boat, but also the costs involved in ensuring your boat is well equipped and well maintained, and, therefore, safe. The dream may be of leisure time on your boat, but boat owners can find that a great deal of their time is actually spent maintaining the boat to keep it seaworthy. Many find this activity rewarding in itself!

In spite of the cost and time involved, for many people those aspects are greatly overshadowed by passion. Marinas are full of beautiful, well-kept boats from all over. Owners of boats big and small will put their passion for boating to work which adds to their enjoyment. There are many fans of older models of boat, often due to the fact that the boat they have cared for and loved over a long period has just gotten older.

Whatever you're attracted to contemporary or classic styles, regular, knowledgeable maintenance of the boat is necessary to ensure a long life and safety when being used. It is vital to know your limitations, as well as your skills, so you know when it is necessary to hire professionals to undertake more complicated maintenance work.

Quality Boat and Engine Parts

Some parts can be refurbished when they are subjected to erosion, physical damage or plain old wear. There is always the possibility, though that you'll need to purchase replacement parts. These should always be of very good quality and manufactured by a known company. They may not be the least costy things on offer, but they are the best value over time and save you more effort in the future. Being more dependable, they also give that extra margin of safety on the water.

You will want to do business with companies who have built a reputation of being a reliable and professional supplier of high quality boat parts. They should offer a disparate range of products from restructured manufacturers, such as Mercruiser and Volvo Penta parts to ensure that you can keep your boat in top condition and your dreams alive.

We had a good week aboard the Patricia Ann. I finished her exterior teak and got all set to begin a painting undertaking. It’s been a hot and wet summer therefore with a bit of chillier conditions here; we are able to get some required tasks completed.

I received an e-mail from John telling me he located our internet site and he together with his wife were going to retire and were thinking about living aboard a used trawler. I responded that I would be thrilled to aid them with their goal of living aboard a trawler.

However to take on a totally different chosen lifestyle that you’ve known for a long time takes some courage. Hey I understand, Mary and I began life on board a boat in excess of 12 years ago. Additionally that was prior to the world wide web and individuals like me publishing well written articles on how to go about living onboard a boat.

So I began to think, what would be the words of wisdom I would desire somebody to talk about with me if I were beginning? This is my list to assist you to establish if this is best for you.

Do you wish to wake up every morning and look at the sun rising over the creek? We do it each morning. It really is great living aboard a trawler! Should you not like your neighborhood, you simply untie the dock lines and travel. No it is definitely not a full-time Jimmy Buffet way of living but it comes close. We do take pleasure in our cocktail hours on board. Cooking food on our grill on our sundeck used trawler is wonderful!

Used motor yachts and used trawlers call for lots of work to keep them healthy. You should have a lot of money or have a talent for repairing things. You will always find maintenance to perform on a used motor yacht or used trawler. In order to live on board you will have to be a skipper, navigator, plumbing technician, painter, electrical technician, mechanic, cook, and much more I likely cannot remember.

Learn how to live on board by using every one of your senses. Each used motor yacht or used trawler has its own group of noises; learn how to recognize what they are and what they mean. One can’t know everything about your new motor yacht or used trawler when you get her. I have spent more than 12 years to gradually trace every hose, and every wire to understand the Patricia Ann. Look forward to spending time doing just that.

Listen to the noises that the used motor yacht or trawler makes. If you hear the battery charger or bilge pump run greater than once during the evening, that’s your sign to look into it. How about that popping noise under your used motor yacht or used trawler you hear while in bed? No the vessel is not going down or the zincs corroding, its only shrimp feeding.

If you smell something that is strange, like diesel, it really is time to take a look in the bilge. While underway, should you experience a shuddering, you may have quite a bit of growth on the shafts and props. You should get a diver down below to see if there is anything attached to the running gear. Make sure your spouse is onboard for the long haul and not only along for the ride. If Mama isn’t happy nobody is happy.

You must be prepared to make some sacrifices like a washer and dryer. Boaters generally are very decent people. I hardly ever meet one I don’t like. If there is something you do not know, do not be reluctant to ask us veterans in the boating community. We all had to learn from someone or through our mistakes along the way. In addition blunders can be pricey!

Well that ought to provide you with a good idea of what to look forward to.

Indeed, a lot has been said in literature about the mysteries of the sea. While Henry Longfellow has discovered its weird ways as “…foreshadowing and foreseeing/of things beyond our reason or control” (“The Sound of the Sea”), isn’t it a mystery that the nautical world, especially that of the east, continues to enthrall tourists across the globe? With the growing number of niche global travelers, adventure voyagers and adventure sport enthusiasts flocking to various Asian sea hotspots, the Asian cruises, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing activities are making for truly idyllic island hopping experience for many.

Have you ever tasted the pleasures of luxury Asian cruises, or looking out for hiring them for a remarkable adventure trail to the tropical islands of Malaysia, Thailand or Singapore? Each island of Southeast Asia, including the Phuket Islands, Phi Phi Islands or the idyllic islands of Malaysia, speaks of the rich, vibrant history of the coast and its various cultures. Probably every adventure traveler out on a tropical trail would want to explore it along with the luxury and style offered by these cruises. Yes, Asian cruises have always had an unmistaken charm, and today, with luxury charter companies in Asia like the ‘Tawan cruises’ offering brand new Riviera motor yachts imported directly from Australia, the Asian tourism industry is roping in valued international tourists to explore the exotic lands of the orient.

Take any premiere luxury boating and sailing magazine published from Asia, and you will find insightful news on cruises, yachts, wonderful marinas, exotic cruising destinations and international regattas meant for yacht enthusiasts/tropical adventure travelers. Spectacular nautical events, including the BMW Royal Langkawi International Regatta, the Raja Muda International Regatta, Malaysia, the Singapore yacht race or the grand Phuket King’s Club Regatta have been able to capture the core boating as well as the lifestyle market, comprising of wealthy yacht owners and global yachting enthusiasts.

With yachting in Southeast Asia emerging as a booming industry, the Southeast Asia being looked upon in recent times as a haven of fabulous nautical events roping in the “nouveaux riches”. On the whole, such international adventure tourists are keen on discovering the following:

·Air-conditioned charter yachts, sailing/diving vacations with deep sea fishing

·Exclusive marinas, cruising destinations and yacht clubs for enjoyable holidays

·Spectacular sailing and yachting events amidst the coastal locales of Phuket Islands (Thailand), Malaysia, Singapore, among others.

Today there are Asian cruises with all facilities, including day trips, overnight stay and extended cruising, which means you can double the pleasures of your cruising adventures. Besides, for the leisure, lifestyle and business travelers, there is the tranquility and signature treatments offered in world-class Asian resort spas, which means a tropical adventure traveler can double his/her pleasures of these fabulous vacation getaways. Moreover, with state-of-the-art luxury boating magazines focusing on boating, spectacular sailing/yachting events and other nautical activities in the Asia Pacific, you can now plan for fabulous itineraries in the Southeast Asia within no time.

If you are going to travel half way across the world to watch one of the most exciting motor races in the world why not do it in style? If money is no object, or you have been saving up for this trip of a lifetime to watch the unique Singapore Grand Prix there are several ways you can do this and live like a film star for the weekend.

What makes the Singapore Grand Prix unique and different from the other Formula One races in the calendar? It is the only race in the history of F1 that takes place at night. At 8pm on Sunday evening, September 22nd 2013 the world’s greatest drivers will set off on a 61-lap circuit covering 5.067km of public roads in the Marina Bay region of Singapore. 80,000 spectators will line the route to cheer them on and millions of people around the world will watch the race on television.

You have to be there to experience the tremendous atmosphere and excitement of this race and you have several choices to make this a weekend you will never forget.

Stylish Yachts

First, you could hire a yacht, whether you wish to impress important business clients or simply to live like a film star for the weekend, you can find a yacht to suit your tastes.

From small motor cruisers where you can relax on deck in the evening sipping your gin and tonic to a luxury yacht where you can throw a lavish party there will be one for you. Yachting life is becoming so much part of the Singapore Grand Prix weekend now some of the best yachts in Asia sail into the harbour that weekend knowing they will easily find a charter.

Luxury hotels

If on-board life is not for you then why not follow in the footsteps of film stars and foreign Princes and take an elegant suite at Singapore’s most famous hotel Raffles. Refurbished so it is the same as it was in the golden days of Hollywood you could enjoy ultimate luxury and impeccable service. After a day out watching the racing you can relax in the Long Bar gently sipping a Singapore Sling.

After Parties

If you wish to rub shoulders with the drivers themselves, mingle with film stars and models that follow Formula 1 racing around the world then you should purchase a VIP ticket for the Singapore Grand Prix.

The Paddock to Party ticket gains you entrance to the exclusive Amber Lounge that is situated next to the Conrad Centennial Hotel and is set up especially for the event.

It is where the drivers like to come to relax and unwind and you could find yourself standing at the bar next to Jason Button who loves the venue. On the relaxing terrace is a cascading wall of water or you can simply sit and watch a fashion show.

For the more energetic you can dance to the top DJs and you do not have to go in a party and book a large table. Individual admission tickets can be purchased which includes unlimited drinks including champagne.

Sailing in sun drenched waters with seas the color of the blue sky and dolphins leading the way as they frolic in the bow wave. Finding the perfect anchorage before the sun sets over palm fringed beaches and lingering on the deck over cocktails as the moon casts its silver shadow, waves gently rocking contented souls. This I envision as the cruising lifestyle… a year round enjoyment. Then my home is in tropical Queensland, Australia.

The Other Weather Extreme!

On a visit to Canada I experienced the other extreme and saw how keen yachties do it elsewhere. In Canada the sailing season begins to wind down in September and October as they prepare for a long cold winter.

Canada’s Great Lakes are fresh water and quickly freeze as soon as the temperature plummets. A large percentage of yachts and motor boats are hauled out and put on cradles. Masts are taken down and the hulls covered in plastic shrink wrap to protect them from the ice and snow. Ice can be damaging to fiberglass and timber alike, getting into and enlarging even the smallest of cracks.

Laying up chores stretch from protecting all the fittings with lubricants and pumping antifreeze into the engine cooling system to draining fresh water tanks.

Ice freezes the hatches and companion ways shut and unless you have made provision to get in, it is sealed for the winter.

Marinas and anchorages become so solid with ice you can skate on them. Fishermen stand where waves have lapped at hulls just months earlier, making small holes to drop a line.

But some sailors actually remain on board their yachts in marinas during the winter, saving their money for other things, including dreamt of cruises to distant sunny shores.

In Frenchman’s Bay near Toronto, for instance, they have had as many as 50 yachts with Canada’s liveaboards every winter.

How do they survive!

As winter closes in they erect an enclosure over there yachts deck. It takes a week to erect the cover and at the end of the season they’re stored for the next winter. Two plastic sheets are draped over the top so that they can use the deck as well as the heated cabin below for living space. The clear plastic sheets act as a greenhouse and heat up above deck. There is a small door in the cover so you can enter the cockpit. Some even add windows.

Ruth, who with her husband was just having her first season living aboard their yacht Witchcraft when I met them, explains: “Despite the previous cold snap, wintering in has been terrific. All sorts of people have asked if we are cold. We always knew we were Canada’s liveaboards and required heat. Difficult concept for many to understand, this living aboard even in winter, I suppose.”

Insulation is added to the inside of the hull to prevent condensation and during the coldest months of winter electric and diesel space heaters run almost non-stop.

Below-zero and Canada’s Liveaboards!

Simple things we take for granted I warmer climates, like filling our freshwater tanks, have to be thought through. Hoses left with water in them freeze and aren’t usable, so Canada’s Liveaboards tend to have a day when they all fill their tanks.

A small bubblier machine is used to keep the water moving. Air pumped through a perforated hose lying on the bottom causes bubbles to rise from the warmer water below the ice and thereby prevent freeze-up against the hull, which would crush it.

Logs or empty polyethylene bottles strung end to end in the water near the boats can also prevent pressure from the heavy ice build-up.

Venturing out to use the onshore toilet and shower facilities is something that has to be tackled with extreme care. Says Ruth: “A slick ice wall to navigate is not one of life’s pleasures. Yuck! A slip could conceivably risk me going through the ice and into the water. For all of that I am happy with the choice we made to move aboard.”

Despite the hardships and drawbacks, living aboard is not a passing whim for most. Some live this way for years saving their money for other things.

“The decision to put our money into a bigger boat rather than buying a house and having a mortgage was to save for a trip south,” another cruiser told me.

Living aboard in below zero places requires some thought and planning, but we have the comforts of home and a TV, laptop and telephone.”

When Snow and Ice Melt!

As the days get longer and the snow and ice melt with the onset of spring. In April and May thoughts turn to the coming five months sailing season. Yachts start to come to life and marinas buzz with activity. Winter covers are removed, masts stand proud again and Bob Marley CDs are slipped onto the stereo. Reggae music transports skippers to places they intend to be next year… no ice, snow and freezing blizzards.

They dream of sailing south for the winter to the sunny Caribbean and sailing as we do in Australia… year round!

Yacht enthusiasts from all over are discovering the beauty of boating in Phuket. The weather is divine, the scenery is beyond breathtaking, and the Andaman Sea, with its amazing deep-blue waters, is scattered with tropical islands and deserted beaches, and is undeniably one of the most amazing places for cruising on Earth. And Phuket, which is now known as the sailing capital of Asia, has certainly stepped up to its growing popularity among boaters. Today, the island nation has already established four major marinas for local mooring and is also home to some of the best annual yachting events around.

This increasing interest has also stimulated growth in various marine services and suppliers, such as the international boat transport industry, where companies have been busy shipping boats and yachts at record rates year-round to the island from every corner of the globe. People are excited about boating in Phuket and once you experience it for yourself, it’s easy to see why.

Phuket is an ultimate sailing location and allows easy passage to extraordinary nearby places such as Phang-Nga bay, with its stunning limestone karst scenery, the Phi Phi Islands (Leh and Don), and the relatively unexplored and pristine Andaman Islands that lie between Thailand and India. Phuket is also very conveniently placed as a base from which to explore further south, down the Malacca Strait towards Singapore, with the chance to stop at other worthwhile locations on the way past Malaysia.

Without a doubt, Phuket is truly making a big splash when it comes the leisure boating world, not only for its noteworthy cruising conditions and beautiful scenery, but also for hosting some great boating events. There are three annual sailing regattas: The Phuket King’s Cup Regatta (in December), The Bay Regatta (in February), and the Six Senses Phuket Race Week (in July). Although the King’s Cup is by far the most popular, each of these regattas attracts many local and visiting participants and onlookers alike, all seeking a taste of some of the world’s finest sailing.

Another happening is the annual SEA Property International Phuket Multihull Championship, which is the biggest firefly race in Asia, and takes place during monsoon season when unpredictable weather makes for extra added excitement and suspense as well as inconsistent race results year after year. There is also the Asia Super Yacht Rendezvous, which is an exclusive international event for motor and sailing super yachts. This three day event is the longest running of its kind in Asia and brings together the largest gathering of super yachts in the region. And lastly, the PIMEX Phuket International Boat Show is yet another major boating event that highlights up to 40 yachts and super yachts from all over the world, and even if you’re not buying a boat you can surely appreciate this events luxurious ambiance combined with the spectacular backdrop.

Many yachters are even opting to moor their boats in Phuket year-round, rather than places like the Med. Apparently, it is much more affordable and just as appealing, if not more appealing than other popular year-round mooring destinations. In fact, in 2007, the Thai government dropped the boat import tax altogether, from 200 percent to 0 percent, which contributed to this increase. “The sailing in Phuket in incredible,” commented Bo Brighton, a yacht owner from Australia. “It is by far our favorite boating destination, and we’ve been all over the world. We actually dock there year-round.”