If you enjoy sea kayaking, Vancouver Island is the place to be. From sandy beaches and hidden coves to mountain views, island archipelagos and an abundance of sea wildlife to spot – you can access all the stunning experiences from the seat of your kayak.

If you’re a yacht owner, you’re one step closer to the best places for kayaking Vancouver Island. Anchor up in a sheltered bay and put your kayaks in right there. The beauty of bringing your kayak on your vessel means you don’t have a long paddle to get to your chosen destination – you can spend your time exploring instead.

In this guide to sea kayaking Vancouver Island, we’ll explore the 6 best places to kayak from your boat and share some tips to make every experience memorable.

What Makes Sea Kayaking Vancouver Island Special

From short scenic paddles to multi-day adventure trips and everything in between., there is a multitude of sea kayaking opportunities to be found in all parts of Vancouver Island.

With stunning scenery, mild year-round temperatures and marine life at every turn, no wonder the Pacific Northwest is considered one of the best ocean kayaking locations in the world.

If you have had a dream to kayak with orcas, Vancouver Island is the perfect spot. Many of the waterways around the island are within feeding and migratory paths, and kayakers are often treated to the joyous sight of a pod of resident orcas emerging from the waves.

It’s not only whale watching that is possible from the water. Ocean kayaking around Vancouver Island is likely to get you up close and personal with marine life, including:

• Humpback Whales
• Gray Whales
• Sea Otters
• Sea Lions
• Bald Eagles and other bird life

What to Know Before you Kayak Vancouver Island

Although you may be an experienced boater, there are some things to know before setting off on any kayak trip.

Weather – Vancouver Island weather can change often, especially on the west coast. Always check the marine weather forecast before setting out to avoid getting caught on the water.

Safety – According to the Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide, safety equipment required for human-powered vessels includes:

• A PFD for each passenger
• A bailer or bilge pump
• A sound signalling device (whistle)
• A buoyant heaving line
• A reboarding device, such as a float

Complete a kayak rescue course before you start ocean kayaking to learn lifesaving skills should you or someone with you capsize.

Be prepared – Plan ahead for any trip. Check maps and research the area you plan to paddle in, as some areas are only suitable for experienced kayakers due to strong currents.

6 Best Places to Go Sea Kayaking from Your Yacht on Vancouver Island

There are so many options for sea kayaking on Vancouver Island. However, here are our best suggestions that offer a variety of experiences for the confident kayaker or first-timer.

Kayaking Nanaimo

Nanaimo’s downtown harbour area offers interesting shorter kayak trips. When arriving on your yacht, either moor in the harbour or anchor up by Saysutshun (Newcastle Island). Beginners will enjoy looking for sea stars along the Newcastle Channel, while more experienced rowers can kayak around the island in a couple of hours. Look out for the resident albino raccoon which inhabits this marine provincial park.

Tip: End your day by paddling over to Canada’s only floating pub on nearby Protection Island for refreshments with a view.

Kayaking Deep Cove

Boaters with resident moorage at Van Isle Marina may enjoy a short day trip and paddle closer to home. Head north around the tip of the Saanich peninsula to Deep Cove. Situated on the peninsula’s west side, this sheltered cove is protected enough for beginner paddlers but large enough to test your arm muscles. Anchor up offshore and enjoy exploring the sandy shoreline.

Kayaking Quadra Island

Quadra Island is located within the Discovery Islands on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island and is surrounded by the stunning scenery of the mainland mountain ranges. Quadra has two marine parks: Small Inlet and Octopus Island, which are ideal for exploration by kayak. There are plenty of protected bays to anchor up in while you enjoy getting closer to the secluded shorelines and rich forest greenery.

Tip: If kayaking the ‘inside passage,’ watch out for challenging tidal rapids and whirlpools that can develop in bad weather.

Kayaking Broken Group Islands

One of the most famous places to sea kayak on Vancouver Island is the Broken Group Islands.

Situated off the west coast, south of Tofino in the Pacific Rim National Park reserve, the Broken Group consists of 100 small islands featuring white sandy beaches, inlets and abundant wildlife.

Many people plan multi-night kayak trips in this area, making the most of wilderness camping opportunities on the islands. Arriving by yacht means you can anchor up directly within the islands and take short or longer explorative paddles. Mooring overnight is permitted with a valid Parks Canada pass, enabling you to explore this stunning area at your leisure thoroughly.

Tip: Weather is very changeable on this coast, and fog can roll in quickly. Stay alert to your surroundings and location.

Kayaking Johnstone Straight and Broughton Archipelago

Johnstone straight is the body of water found off the eastern coast of northern Vancouver Island and one of the best places to encounter orcas. During the summer, you can dock at Telegraph Cove, a historical waterfront resort formerly a cannery, a Canadian Air Force mill and a telegraph post.

This marina can accommodate boats up to 25ft and is a great starting point for half or full-day kayak trips with the incredible mainland mountains as a backdrop.

Note: The marina at Telegraph Cove does not offer electrical or water hookups. However, there are services such as a store and restaurant on land.

Tip: From Telegraph Cove, you can easily travel by boat into the Broughton Archipelago, the islands and islets between Northern Vancouver Island and the BC mainland. These islands offer opportunities to spot black bears and cougars on shore.

Kayaking Victoria

Another short trip from your Van Isle Marina base is downtown Victoria. Less experienced paddlers will enjoy the gentle waters of the inner harbour and gorge, which offer plenty of historical architecture to admire from your vessel.

Tip: Day moorage can be booked online with the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority.

Start your Vancouver Island Sea Kayaking Adventure from Sidney’s Van Isle Marina

Van Isle Marina’s location just north of Sidney, BC, is a great starting point to explore Vancouver Island’s many sea

kayaking opportunities. The staff at our state-of-the-art marina are always happy to share some great locations nearby for all of your adventures. .

If you’re looking for a new yacht to transport you and your kayak to our recommended paddling locations, our yacht sales team can help. Contact us today for more information on purchasing a yacht or mooring with us.

A Guide to Essential Marine Electronics

Most modern-powered yachts come with an array of boat electronics, but you may wish to add some extras or have an older boat that needs upgrading. 

This guide will offer a list of the best marine electronics you should consider adding to your slice of on-the-water heaven. 

Read on to learn what’s available, how to get started with boat electronics and how to maintain them so they last a long time.

Tips on Getting Started with Boat Electronics

Boat electronics provide essential functions, like helping you navigate, maintaining the lines of communication, and providing a single operational hub for all your boat’s electronic components. However, like the other parts of a ship, they must be chosen carefully and appropriately maintained. 

Before you purchase any new marine electronics for your yacht, here are 5 things to consider:

1. What type of boat do you have?

Not every boat requires every type of gadget. When choosing boat electronics, you’ll need to consider what kind of boat you own. Is it a cruising boat, a fishing boat or a sailing boat? For example, a fish locator won’t be your top priority if you don’t own a fishing boat and don’t go fishing often.

2. What are your needs?

You’ll have to consider your needs when choosing which electronics to outfit your boat with.

A chart plotter is excellent to have onboard if you regularly travel away from the shore. If you don’t travel far from shore, but fishing is a favourite hobby, you might consider getting a fish locator. 

3. Do you want to upgrade your system?

Like other types of technology, marine electronics are constantly evolving, so it is never long before the next generation of gadgets comes along. If you want to upgrade a component of your system, choosing one with NMEA 2000 networking protocol will allow you the convenience of plug-and-play capability.

4. How do you want to enter data into the system?

You should think ahead. A touchpad will be fine if you’re going somewhere warm enough to rule out the need for gloves. On the other hand, if you are likely to be wearing gloves, a keyboard will work best since touchpads don’t always register input unless the fingers are bare. 

5. Where exactly do you want to go?

Navigation devices often come with maps for inland, coastal and international waters, with the ability to add other maps to the collection. You can also buy combo gadgets that feature chart plotters and fish locators.

Top 5 Must-Have Boat Electronics

While some boat electronics are optional, like a marine stereo that allows boaters to have audio while out on the water, others are must-haves for all boaters.

Here is a quick look at some of the essential best boat electronics to have on your yacht:

• VHF radio. A VHF radio is an essential electronic tool that allows you to maintain lines of communication with the authorities in an emergency. Since they don’t rely on cell reception and can handle getting wet, VHF radios are reliable and easy to use.
• Multifunction Displays. Also known as “MFDs,” modern versions look and operate like smartphones. In boats that have an array of onboard electronics, an MFD acts as a hub that controls all of it.
• GPS systems. Just as GPS navigation has made getting around on land easy, it can do the same for getting around on the water. Called either a GPS or a “chart plotter,” this type of electronic tool can act alone, be added to your MFD or be accessed through an app on your tablet or smartphone.
• Fish locators. MFDs have a built-in fish locator, but you can buy them individually. Fish locators allow you to locate fish more quickly through sonar. Depth sounders work the same way.
• Engine Monitors. Engine monitors analyze the engine’s components for functionality. An MFD can include this electronic gadget, but it can also work individually as preferred. 

Cleaning and Winterizing Your Boat Electronics

Marine electronics are handy, but you must adequately maintain these tools like any other equipment on your boat. Your electronics will need to be cleaned regularly and winterized before the cold season – or before long periods of disuse – to work at their best.

How to clean your gadgets

Follow these steps to quickly and easily clean your boat electronics:

1. First, turn off the unit to keep your settings safe.
2. Then, spritz the gadget lightly using fresh water and a spray bottle to remove any salt residue.
3. Check the manufacturer’s cleaning directions. If there are none, wipe the gadget’s components with a soft cloth and a mixture of fresh water and mild soap. You can also use a 50/50 dilution of white vinegar or isopropyl alcohol and distilled water. Never use ammonia or bleach-based cleaners, as these can cause the screen’s coating to be yellow. 
4. After cleaning the unit, dry it with a microfiber cloth. Do not use paper towels, as these are abrasive and often contain chemicals.
5. Don’t rub too hard when you clean or dry the unit since the screens on some gadgets can be delicate.
6. Apply a bit of boat wax to your plastic radome and GPS antenna. That will give them UV protection.
7. When you aren’t using the boat’s electronics, keep their screens covered so they don’t get damaged by the sun or dust.

How to winterize your gadgets

If you live in a place with cold and damp winters, think about winterizing the onboard electronics. Winterizing can be quickly done by following these steps:

1. First, clean the boat’s electronics using the steps above.
2. Then, remove the electronic tools from the ship and store them indoors.
3. If you can’t remove the electronics, disconnect the batteries. You can also put a paper bag of rice or silica bead packets near the wiring harness to prevent corrosion when the boat isn’t in use.
4. If you have to leave the electronics onboard, turn them off every so often to reduce the amount of moisture collecting inside.

Let Van Isle Marina Help You Get Connected

Do you need help finding a new yacht with all the electronic systems you want? The yacht sales team at

Van Isle Marina in Sidney, BC, can help guide you to a suitable model.

For more information on how we can help you, contact us today.

Everything You Need to Know About Catching Deep Sea Fish

Deep sea fishing is a thrilling experience and a great way to spend time on the water with some fellow avid anglers.

The chance to do this type of fishing doesn’t come along often, so when it does, you don’t want to risk spoiling the trip with poor planning.

Instead, use this handy guide to learn what gear you will need, the ideal type of fishing boat and what you can expect to catch when fishing Victoria, BC waters.

See our Fishing Boats for Sale

Fishing Rods for Deep Sea Fishing

For deep-water fishing, you need a strong rod coupled with a reel that can handle the length of line you will need. There are two main types of saltwater fishing rods:

• trolling rods and
• surf rods

Trolling rods are shorter and stronger than typical casting rods. They feature a large top-mounted reel that has free spooling

movement and holds plenty of line. Trolling rods are typically placed in rod holders on the stern of the boat and allowed to trail behind as the boat moves. All you do is drop your bait and deep sea fishing lures in the water, set your rod in the holder, and let the line drop.

Surf fishing rods are typically used onshore, but they can also be used on boats. They can handle large fish and come in a range of lengths and weights. The reel is bottom-mounted and looks much like a casting reel except that’s a bit

larger. The only “catch” is that, since they are designed for fishing in shallower waters, you may be limited to keeping your bait and hook closer to the surface.

Types of Hooks for Catching Deep Sea Fish

The types of hooks used in saltwater fishing are the same as in freshwater fishing, except that they have a greater size range since the target fish are generally bigger. There are three types of hooks used in deep sea fishing as follows:

J-Hooks

J-hooks come in a range of styles according to what kind of fishing you plan to do, but the unifying feature is that they are shaped like a J. The basic rule when choosing your hook size is to match it to the size of fishing bait you intend to use and the kind of deep sea fish you want to catch.

Circle Hooks

The introduction of catch-and-release fishing gave rise to the circle hook, shaped so that the point of the hook turns inward toward the shank, rather like a J-hook with a more pronounced curve. This shape prevents the hook from becoming stuck in the fish’s gut, instead moving to hook onto the fish’s jaw as the line is pulled.

Treble Hooks

Treble fish hooks resemble three J-hooks clustered together. The biggest benefit of a treble hook is that you can usually use a treble hook that is a size or two smaller than the comparable J-hook and still get the same result.

Types of Boats for Deep Sea Fishing

In deep water fishing, your boat has to be big enough to accommodate you, your friends, all your gear and whatever you catch. So, a simple powerboat won’t do. Your boat also has to be able to withstand the fight of a large fish, as well as have that fish on board.

Below, you’ll find a quick look at the 3 most common types of offshore fishing boats.

Cuddy Cabin 

This type of boat features a vee-shaped hull, 20 to 35 feet long, with inboard engines. The cockpit is set to the side, allowing entrance to the small cabin at the front of the boat. The cabin has seats that can double as beds, and the more luxurious models will have a bathroom.

Down East Cruiser

This style of boat is popular and has been in use for both commercial and recreational fishing for well over 100 years. With a large hull and large inboard motors that can hold a substantial quantity of fuel, this type of boat is ideal for multi-day trips. Down East Cruisers range from 25 to over 45 feet long, with deep vee-shaped hulls that enable them to handle rough seas.

Sport Fisher

This type of boat is purpose-built for chasing big fish. The minimum length of a Sport Fisher is 30 feet, but they can be up to 90 feet. Sport fishers have “tuna towers,” from where the captain controls the boat and keeps an eye out for fish. Featuring a typical range of over 950 km and an array of outriggers, a Sport Fisher can comfortably take up to 8 people wherever they need to go to catch the type of fish they want.

What to Bring on a Deep Sea Fishing Trip

As with any fishing trip, there is always a list of extra things you will need to take with you including an emergency boating kit. When you are spending a few hours or days out on the water, you won’t be able to run to a shop to get something you missed.

So, before you set foot on the boat with your rods and deep sea fishing reels, go over the checklist below to see what else you will need.

• Tidal fishing licence
• Tackle
• Extra line, hooks and sinkers
• Bait
• Clothing for all possible weather
• Rain jacket and pants
• Shoes with good traction
• Gloves
• Hat
• Sunblock
• Polarized sunglasses
• Lip balm with SPF
• Seasickness medication
• Hand sanitizer
• First aid kit
• Plenty of food and fresh water
• Life vests
• Life preserver rings
• Towels
• Camera
• Sealable plastic bags for waterproofing
• Cash, if you are hiring a charter
• A large cooler with ice or freezer packs
• A dry bag or duffel for transporting supplies

For overnight trips, you will need to include the following items on your checklist:

• Headlamp or flashlight
• Sleep mask
• Battery pack and charger for a cell phone
• Toiletries

What You Can Catch in BC’s Pacific Waters

British Columbia is known for salmon, so it’s no surprise that all five species can be found here in the waters around Vancouver Island. In addition to the five types of pacific salmon, there is a variety of fish species that are popular catches, including the following:

• Pacific Halibut
• English Sole
• Ling Cod
• Pacific Cod

Get Started on Your Deep Sea Fishing Adventure with Van Isle Marina

Do you want to go deep water fishing but aren’t sure where to start?

Whether you are looking to buy your first sports fishing yacht or want to upgrade from your current cruiser, the Yacht Sales Team at Van Isle Marina can get you set up with the boat of your deep sea fishing dreams.

Our state-of-the-art marina, located in Sidney, BC, is close to the spectacular scenery of the southern Gulf Islands, making it a great place to start and end your open sea fishing adventure.

Contact us today to find out more about our current yachts for sale and our marina services.

Sailing Cats Can Be Great Onboard Companions

Having cats on boats is a great way to bond with your four-legged buddy while still doing something you enjoy. If you are thinking about taking your cat on a boating trip, both of you will benefit from what can be a positive experience. 

If your sailing cat isn’t already used to being on a boat, though, you will need to take steps to get your furry best friend to the point where they can comfortably join you.

Read on to discover how you can take your cat boating and what you will need to pack for them. 

Getting Cats on Boats

If you’re considering sailing with a cat for the first time, you can make the experience easy and enjoyable for both you and your pet by taking some steps to prepare first.

Going boating with pets requires some training to get them used to being on an unfamiliar surface. Boats are not stable, so your cat may be anxious or unsure of its footing. Additionally, when you need to get off the boat, your cat may feel out of its comfort zone that you are not there. 

As their trusted friend, it’s up to you to make sure of a few things before you get your cat on a boat: 

• Can your cat swim? Unfortunately, accidents can happen that may result in your cat going overboard. To ensure that a small accident doesn’t turn into a bigger one, make certain your cat knows how to swim before you decide to take them onto the boat.
• Is your cat comfortable being on a boat? Cats are usually home-based pets, preferring to lounge on the couch or catch a glimpse of sun by the window. Do you think your cat would adapt comfortably to life on a boat? Would they be okay to walk around on the outside deck and in the cabin?
• Is your cat a quick learner? Don’t rush when you’re training your cat to be on a boat. Even if your furry best friend is a quick study, taking your time makes the transition from land to boat much easier. 

The Potty Issue

Training your cat to do their business on board may be tricker than home since they are used to their litter box and its familiar location. 

For successful potty training onboard, bring the litter box your cat uses at home – they will be used to the smell and will most likely have better success. As well, make sure you have a plan for waste disposal, especially if you intend to go on a multi-day trip.

What to Bring For Cats on Boats

Just as humans need supplies when going sailing, cats also require the same consideration. 

If you want to take your cat with you, you’ll need the following things:

• Leash and harness. If you plan to explore on land as part of your trip, you will need to bring a leash. If your cat mistakenly falls into water, a harness will support its weight when you haul it out of the water.
• Rope ladder. In the event that your feline friend tumbles off the boat, you can throw them a rope ladder to claw into and pull themselves back up onboard. 
• Large net. This may also help rescue your cat out of the water if they go overboard. 
• ID tag. An ID tag should have your phone number and address on it in case your cat gets lost during the trip.
• Food and water bowls. A water bowl is always necessary, especially during hot days, but a food bowl may also be necessary if you are going out for longer than a few hours. 
• Food. Like the humans on the boat, your pet will need a supply of food big enough to last the whole trip. Keep extra dry cat food onboard in case of emergencies.
• Fresh water. It’s important to bring a supply of fresh water for your cat since drinking from other sources may make them sick. 
• Sunscreen. If your cat has very short hair or bald areas – such as the area around their nose – they may require sunblock to avoid getting sunburned.
• Rug or mat. Boat surfaces can get hot in the summer. A rug or a mat offers your cat a safe and comfortable place to lie down.

How to Keep Your Sailing Cat Safe

Safety needs to be considered when having cats on boats. Among the other safety equipment and supplies you pack for a boating trip, you should include some basic medical and safety supplies for your cat too, such as:

• Life vest. Even if your cat knows how to swim, a lifejacket is still needed to ensure their safety.
• Overboard plan. Just like you have an overboard rescue plan for humans, you will also need one for your cat. This may include training your cat to respond to a specific set of commands and getting them used to wearing a lifejacket.
• Fishhooks and bait. If you plan to go fishing, make sure your hooks and bait are safely stowed so that your cat doesn’t get hurt.
• Seasickness medication. Cats can get seasick, too. Fortunately, they can usually take the same seasick medicine that humans take for this problem. If you want to be certain, however, ask your veterinarian before heading out on the boat.
• First aid kit. Pet first aid kits are available at most pet stores, and they include items that are specific to animals – unlike human first aid kits. If your cat is on any medication, be sure to also include that in the kit, where it will be safe.
• Shade. Like humans, cats can be susceptible to heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Ensure there is somewhere shady they can rest in extreme heat.

Finding Pet-Friendly Marinas

Although most marinas are pet-friendly, not all are, so ensure you check ahead if you’re planning to dock at different marinas during your trip. You should also familiarize yourself with their rules concerning pets. It’s simple to plan your marina stops using the internet, since most marinas will have a website that may include information about their pet policies.

At Van Isle Marina, we love pets. We understand that the boating lifestyle can mean taking your beloved animal onboard to share in your memories. 

Whether you’re looking for a permanent base or a stopover for one night, your four-legged friend is welcome at our Sidney, BC marina. Contact us today for more information about our moorage rates.

Your Complete Guide to Global Yacht Races

Yacht races pit sailing yachts against each other or the clock to race through a course marked out by buoys or over long distances from one location to another. 

Many sailing enthusiasts take up racing not only out of a desire to win but because they enjoy the mental and physical challenge of the sport. 

Yacht races take place all over the world, from hyper-local races organized by yachting clubs to global-scale events watched around the world.

In this article, we’ll discuss the types of yachts used in racing, as well as highlight some of the most famous yacht races around the world.

The History of Yacht Racing

The word “yacht” comes from the Norwegian word “Jagt”, which means “a swift, light vessel of war, commerce or pleasure.”

Formalized boat racing began in Norway in the 17th century, but boats specifically made for racing first emerged in England around 1815, when the Royal Yacht Squadron was established. In 1875, the Yacht Racing Association was formed—this association is credited with writing the standardized yacht racing rules, some of which are still in use today.

These days, World Sailing governs boat racing of all kinds and every four years, they publish a revised edition of The Racing Rules of Sailing.

3 Types of Sailing Yachts

When it comes to yacht racing, there are 3 types of boats that are usually seen: monohulls, catamarans and trimarans.

Monohulls have a traditional hull type – being single-hulled with one or more masts. This type of yacht is stable and able to travel long distances at speed. That said, they can be tricky to handle in tight spaces and may not be able to withstand rough seas as well as other types of yachts.

Catamarans are a newer type of yacht, having first appeared in the late 19th century. They feature two parallel hulls that are connected by a platform or a frame. Catamarans are wider than single-hulled yachts, so they offer better stability in rough waters and are easier to manoeuvre. They also have great cargo and passenger capacity. The downside of a catamaran is that they are slower and less fuel efficient.

Trimarans are a variation on the catamaran, having three hulls instead of two. The outside hulls are smaller than the main hull in the centre, which offers greater stability than the other two yacht types. They’re known to be the fastest of the three yachts, making them a popular choice for racing. That said, they can be hard to handle without the right crew, and they are not as suited to long-distance travel as the other two types

The Top Global Yacht Races

In yacht racing, there are four different categories of competition: 

• Inshore
• Offshore
• Ocean Racing
• Around the World

Below, you’ll find a quick summary of what these categories mean as well as examples of some of the most popular races in each category.

Inshore Yacht Races

Inshore races are short yacht races that occur on open water that is typically only a few kilometres away from shore. These races can take place on a large lake or the ocean, using buoys or other markers to outline the course.

The 3 most popular inshore races include:

• Cowes Week – featuring 40 daily races with up to 1,000 boats. This race takes place every year in August on the Solent Channel, between the Isle of Wight and mainland England.
• The Americas Cup – known informally as the Auld Mug, it’s arguably the most exclusive yacht racing event in the world. Racing yachts must conform to specific requirements and only two yachts participate, the challenger and the defender. The race is held every three to four years and in a different location each time.
• Les Voiles de Saint Tropez – this competition, located in the south of France, unfolds over a week and features over 300 yachts with over 3,500 crew members taking part.

Offshore Yacht Races

Offshore racing is typically of the point-to-point variety, meaning that the racers start at one location and race to another. 

Three of the most popular offshore races include:

• The Sydney-Hobart Race – is an annual race that runs from Sydney, Australia, to Hobart, Tasmania.
• The Tour de France a la Voile – runs parallel to the cycling competition of the same name, covering 1000 miles of the French coast along the English Channel, the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean.
• The Fastnet YachtRace – covers 600 miles from the Isle of Wight, rounding the southern tip of Ireland and ending up at Plymouth, England.

Ocean Yacht Racing

Yacht races in this category are also of the point-to-point type, except that they often—though not always—cover longer distances than the offshore type of race.

• The South Atlantic Race hosts over 50 participant yachts and covers over 3600 miles from Cape Town, South Africa to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

• The Route du Rhum is a primarily single-handed yacht race that happens every 4 years, covering approximately 3700 miles from the northern tip of France to the French Caribbean Island of Guadeloupe.
• The Ostar was first held in 1960. It runs from Plymouth, England to Newport, Wales, and covers approximately 3000 miles.

Around the World Yacht Races

As the category name implies, Around the World races cover long distances and are usually completed in segments or legs.

• The Ocean Race began in 1973 and is one of the toughest yacht races. It consists of nine legs and covers over 27,930 miles.
• The Clipper Round the World Yacht Race, though no longer running, was still notable. The race was established by the first man to complete a continuous, single-handed circumnavigation: Sir Robin Knox-Johnston. Participating boats were designed specifically for the race and crewed by a professional skipper and paying novice sailors. 
• The Global Solo Challenge pits participants in a circumnavigation race against the wind and the current. Yachts are specifically designed for the race and are manned by a professional skipper and a crew of novice sailors.

The 4 Main Rules of Yacht Racing

There are many different rules governing the sport of yacht racing, according to The Racing Rules of Sailing, but the four most important are as follows:

• Rule 10: “Boats on a port tack shall keep clear of boats on a starboard tack.”
• Rule 11: “When boats are on the same tack and overlapped, the boat to windward shall keep clear of a leeward boat.”
• Rule 12: “When boats are on the same tack and not overlapped, the boat that is astern shall keep clear of the boat ahead.”
• Rule 13: “When a boat is tacking, it shall keep clear of boats that are not tacking.”

Get Started Locally with Van Isle Marina

Interested in purchasing a vessel? Speak to one of our knowledgeable marina yacht brokers, they’re always happy to help and answer any questions you may have.

If you participate in a local yacht race, why not extend your trip to visit Van Isle Marina? We offer nightly moorage and usage of all our state-of-the-art facilities including showers, laundry, dog wash, fire pit and more! Contact us today for more information.