News, views, opinions and reviews from Van Isle Marina, one of the largest full service marinas in British Columbia.

Best Foods for Extended Yachting Trips

The Best Foods to Bring on Extended Yachting Trips

Groceries for your Yacht

Are you about to stock your new yacht full of groceries for the first time? If so, check out our helpful guide to filling your fridge and pantry shelves before sailing off for weeks or months at a time.

The following tips are for boaters who plan to set sail for more than just a few days. The items listed below are a great place to start if you’ve never done something like this before.

Staples and Other Non-Perishables

Staples in this case refer to non-perishable items that can be used in many different ways. Some suggestions include:

  • Rice and oatsbest foods to bring on your yacht - pantry stapes
  • Beans and lentils
  • Pasta
  • White and brown sugars
  • Powdered milk for coffee, tea, or cereal
  • Cereals (if you have the space!)
  • Canned goods such as soups, veggies, and sauces

Pro Tip #1: Avoid packing bread with you and instead opt to buy it fresh whenever you can make it to a supermarket or local bakery. Bread doesn’t fair well in the humid environment of boating. Things like English muffins, tortillas, and bagels will likely work out a bit better than a loaf of sliced bread.

Pro Tip #2: For staples and snacks, shopping in the bulk section can be a huge money saver.

Pro Tip #3: Depending on where you’re headed, you might be able to score staples like beans and grains at your destination port for cheaper than you would buy them for at home.

Snacks

Snacks are essential for all different types of boating. Skippering a boat, swimming, and other watersports definitely work up an appetite, and hearty snacks can really save the day out there. So definitely bring all your favourite snacks on board.

Some snacks you might want to take aboard your boat:

best foods to bring on your boat - dried fruit

  • Nuts and dried fruits (trail mixes)
  • Granola bars and energy bars
  • Fruit snacks and fruit leathers
  • Pudding cups
  • Chips and popcorn
  • Chocolate (in some regions good chocolate can be hard to come by, so stash some of your favourite chocolate bars)

Pro Tip #4: For your storage solutions, remember to pack resealable plastic or glass containers, Ziploc bags, and chip bag clips to keep things sealed up and protected against the open sea air.

Spices & Condiments

Be selective about which condiments you bring on board. Fridge space is limited, as are some cupboards. However, the shelf life on many condiments is pretty good, so it can be worth it to spare some space for all your favourite flavour enhancers. Choose items you’re particular about cooking with, and any special items you don’t think you’ll be able to find in other countries.

Some basic condiments include:

best foods to bring on your boat - spices

  • Cooking oil
  • Vinegar
  • Grilling sauces
  • Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise
  • Soy sauce
  • Curry powder
  • Peanut butter & jam
  • Salt & pepper
  • Oregano & basil
  • Powdered bouillon cubes (chicken or beef stock)

Pro Tip #5: Portion off small amounts of spices you already own into small Ziplock bags for compact storage and to avoid having to buy duplicate bottles of anything.

Fresh Food

It’s possible to pack fresh produce on board your boat. Choose things that will last you longer than a week or two, such as apples, oranges, citrus fruit, onions, and garlic. Avoid bananas, berries, and avocados. Truly fresh produce can be obtained from the ports of the regions you visit, depending on where you’re going.

Some cheeses keep for many weeks, making them a relatively safe choice if there is room in the fridge. Butter, eggs, and yogurt also keep for awhile and would make sense to bring if you enjoy those foods.

Pro Tip #6: The more fresh food you can vacuum-pack, the better!

Drinks

Yachting can be thirsty work, so in addition to your favourite coffees and teas, be sure to bring enough non-alcoholic drink choices on board to keep life interesting while you’re away. Again, it all comes down to personal preference, but things like pop, juice, hot chocolate mix, and non-dairy milk are all nice to have on board. For ease of packing, consider drink crystals, which can be easier to lug around than flats of juice.

Depending on your method of obtaining fresh drinking water on board, you might also choose to have a flat or two of bottled water around. Each person on board should have access to no less than 1.5 litres of fresh drinking water per day.

Pro Tip #7: If your yacht does not have a wet bar with an ice box or mini fridge in the cockpit, have a cooler on deck to keep drinks cool and accessible throughout the day. This also helps avoid having to open and close your galley’s fridge all day, which can draw a lot of power.

Cleaning Supplies

Grocery shopping in order to stock the pantry includes cleaning supplies like:

  • Dish soap, hand soap
  • Dishcloths, paper towels
  • Scrubbies for pots and pans
  • Garbage bags
  • Laundry soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Broom and mop

You can pick all these items up at the supermarket, so be sure to add them to your list. View our full boating equipment checklist.

Rationing

Grocery shopping for your boating trip differs a lot depending on who will be on board with you. If it’s just going to be you and another person, things are more straightforward, since you know what you like and what your partner likes and generally how much food you both will go through during your trip.

However, if you’ll be entertaining guests, or bringing small children on board, things get trickier. For instance, kids will be tough to gauge because they will likely have larger appetites while they are out on the boat and getting tons of exercise during various water sports. The best way to ration is to plan ahead, write down how many people on board multiplied by how many meals required, and then you have something to start with.

It can be helpful to include your guests in this planning phase, perhaps by delegating some meal responsibilities. Coordinate ingredient lists and don’t worry if it feels like you’re overthinking it – getting your food right is so important and will lead to everyone having a memorable trip.

Pro Tip #8: Research make-ahead meals that might be nice to bring if your yacht has a freezer. Some online resources have recipes for bag meals, which involve tossing everything you would toss into a slow cooker into a freezer bag until you are ready to go.

Dietary Restrictions

If possible, get a list of any dietary restrictions and special diets of people who will be boarding your boat with you. Run the menu by guests beforehand if possible. Asking everyone’s preferences before setting sail helps avoid awkwardness and people going hungry until the next port.

To fill in any gaps, visit various ports to stock up on the all the fresh fruits and veggies, meats, cheeses, and breads each region is known for. You might also find that you can catch some of your meals if you remember to bring your fishing gear!

Final Tip: Many grocery stores offer delivery services nowadays, allowing you to arrange a drop-off of all your groceries for your boat right to your marina of choice!

For more things you must bring with you while boating (besides food!) check out our blog post on Sailing Essentials – What to Bring on Your Boat.

When it comes to packing the best foods for an extended boating trip, we hope the above list helps you determine what is most important to bring. Many of the yachts for sale at Van Isle Marina come with more than enough storage space for you to leave plenty of staples on board year-round. We also have storage lockers available to further assist with your boating supplies while you moor with us.

Exploring Vancouver Island on a Budget

22 free or cheap things to do in Victoria BC

22 Free or Inexpensive Things to do on Vancouver Island

On the West Coast of British Columbia, Canada, Vancouver Island is home to nearly 800,000 people and is the 11th largest island in Canada. It’s also home to many world-class tourist attractions, many of which are free or inexpensive to check out. Below is a list of Van Isle Marina staff’s top recommended things to do on Vancouver Island if you’re on a budget.

1. Milner Gardens

Vancouver Island is home to many beautiful public gardens, where our mild climate supports a wide variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers year-round. Milner Gardens in Qualicum is a lovely seaside garden definitely worth checking out. This ancient forest and garden oasis sits on top a bluff overlooking the Straight of Georgia.

Cost: $12/adult

2. Abkhazi Garden

Abkhazi Garden in Victoria is a beautiful heritage home and garden established by Prince and Princess Abkhazi in 1946. At this one-acre property you’ll find a stunning example of West Coast design where conifers, Japanese maples, rhododendrons, naturalized bulbs, and woodland companions leave a lasting impression.

Cost: By Donation

3. Butchart GardensButchart Gardens Sunken Garden

Also near Victoria in Brentwood Bay are Butchart Gardens, featuring 55 acres filled with at least 900 plant varieties. Butchart Gardens has a 100+ year history and a staff of 50 gardeners tending to the grounds.

Cost: $19.35/adult

4. BC Parliament Buildings

The BC parliament buildings in Victoria’s downtown inner harbour are home to the legislative assembly of British Columbia. Free tours are offered throughout the year, and there is plenty of park space out front for picnicking and people watching.

Cost: Free

5. Confederation FountainConfederation Fountain Victoria BC

For a unique photo op, check out the Confederation Fountain tucked just around the corner from the legislature building in Victoria. You’ll also find shields of the Provinces, centered by the national Coat of Arms at this small but relaxing area just off the main drag of the waterfront.

Cost: Free

6. Goats on the Roof

The Old Country Market in Coombs is home to the world-famous Goats on the Roof, where goats living up above oversee thousands of shoppers from March through to December. Coombs is a small town in Central Vancouver Island on the Alberni Highway, near Parksville and Qualicum Beach.

Cost: Free

7. Cathedral GroveCathedral Grove BC

On your way to explore Tofino (a seaside community that is an attraction all to itself) you’ll drive through the world-famous Cathedral Grove, an old growth forest known for its gigantic 800-year-old ancient Douglas firs and red cedars. Pull the car over and check it out! Cathedral Grove is just one of countless hikes the Island has to offer. Also explore these South Island Hikes and Central Island Hikes.

Cost: Free

8. Duncan Totem Poles

Duncan, known as The City of Totems, is home to more than 40 totem poles. Each beautifully carved totem pole contributes to the City’s First Nations culture and history. Follow the yellow footprints in the sidewalk for a self-guided walking tour or take the virtual tour to learn more about the totems before experiencing them in person.

Cost: Free

9. Chemainus MuralsChemainus Murals BC

The seaside community of Chemainus is known as The City of Murals. Check out 44 murals that serve as a tribute to the area’s mining, fishing, and forestry heritage. Grab an official Souvenir Mural Map from the Visitor Centre to take a self-guided tour of the massive murals, or simply follow the yellow footprints on the sidewalks.

Cost: Free

10. Elk Falls Suspension Bridge

In Campbell River, the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge is a must-see. Although the area features extensive forest trails, the bridge itself is a short walk to get to. There you’ll get an amazing view of the canyon and a thundering waterfall. The BC Hydro Interpretive Centre nearby is free and adds to the experience.

Cost: Free

11. Kinsol TrestleKinsol Trestle Cowichan Valley BC

Located in the Cowichan Valley Regional District, the historic Kinsol Trestle is 187 metres long and 44 metres above the Koksilah River, making it one of the tallest free-standing and most spectacular timber rail trestle structures in the world. Fully accessible with viewing platforms, we know you’ll love it.

Cost: Free

12. Beacon Hill Children’s Farm

The Beacon Hill Children’s Farm and petting zoo in Beacon Hill Park in Victoria is a favourite among locals, offering an educational, by-donation form of entertainment for the whole family. The petting zoo is best known for its goats.

Cost: By Donation

St Anns Academy Vancouver Island

13. St. Ann’s Academy

St. Ann’s Academy is a national historic site in Victoria that offers tours by donation. Built in 1858, St Ann’s Academy was Victoria’s first Roman Catholic Cathedral before it became a school in 1886.

Cost: By Donation

14. The Raptors

View several different types of birds of prey at The Raptors visitor centre in Duncan. Make sure to time your visit around a flying demonstration. You can also stay for additional meet and greets and hands-on experiences.

Cost: $18/adult

15. Vancouver Island WineriesVancouver Island Wineries

Vancouver Island is home to 32 wineries (and counting!), with the Cowichan Valley being particularly fruitful due to the area being shielded from Pacific Ocean storms. Plan to visit a winery or two while you’re visiting the Island, taste some great wines and meet the passionate people behind some of BC’s best wines.

Cost: Various

16. Whale Interpretive Centre

The Whale Interpretive Centre in Telegraph Cove on Northern Vancouver Island aims to help the public to identify different marine mammals and their role within the ecosystem. Here you’ll find many sea life artifacts, including blue whale jaw, whale lice, ear ossicles, whale teeth, and skeletons of a killer whale, sperm whale, river otter, sea otter, Pacific white-sided dolphin, and more.

Cost: By Donation

17. Biking

Bike riding is very popular on Vancouver Island, with countless bike-friendly trails and lanes seemingly everywhere. Might we suggest grabbing one of our courtesy bikes from the marina? Here are some nearby places you can bike to from Van Isle Marina.

Cost: Free

18. Craigdarroch Castle

Craigdarroch Castle, built in 1887, is a meticulously restored historic house museum and a beauty to behold in Victoria. Here you’ll find 39 rooms and four floors of exquisite stained glass windows, intricate woodwork and fabulous Victorian-era furnishings.

Cost: $14.85/adult

19. Hatley CastleHatley Castle Victoria BC

Hatley Castle, completed in 1908 and located in Hatley Park and Royal Roads University is known by many as X-Men headquarters, due to it being a filming location for the Hollywood blockbusters. Pay an admission fee to take the guided walking tour, or check out the free museum in the basement. The castle is also surrounded by magnificent gardens.

Cost: $18.50

20. BC Aviation Museum

The British Columbia Aviation Museum in Sidney features plenty of aircraft and artifacts relating to the history of aviation in BC and the rest of Canada. They have something for everyone, including flight simulators, unique aircrafts, a kids area, and volunteer tour guides.

Cost: $10

For more things to do in Sidney – home of Van Isle Marina – check out our post on 15 Things to Do in Sidney, BC.

21. BC Forest Discovery CentreBC Forest Discovery Centre

The BC Forest Discovery Centre in Duncan is a huge open air museum with its own operational railway. Check out the exhibits, logging artifacts, and heritage buildings before exploring the forest and marsh trails. This family friendly Island destination hosts plenty of special events and workshops for all ages throughout the year.

Cost: $16

22. Military Museums

Vancouver Island is home to notable military museums:

  • The Vancouver Island Military Museum in Nanaimo houses 25 exhibits focusing on the War of 1812 right through to Canada’s involvement in Afghanistan.
  • The CFB Esquimalt Naval & Military Museum focuses on the Royal Canadian Navy and Merchant Navy’s role in winning the Battle of the Atlantic, and the 100+ year history of Canadian service in submarines.
  • The Comox Airforce Museum includes collections on Military Aviation in WWI and WWII, Korea, the Cold War, United Nations Peacekeeping, and the Squadron section.

Read more: Attractions on Vancouver Island

The suggestions listed above are just some of the exciting things to do on Vancouver Island. If you’ll be arriving by boat, be sure to check out some of the area’s best boat-only access beaches.

Van Isle Marina is one of the largest full-service marinas in British Columbia. Moor your boat at our marina before or after you set out to explore Vancouver Island. (See our yacht park rates to learn more.) We are located at 2320 Harbour Road in Sidney, BC, just a five minute drive from the Beacon Avenue exit of Hwy 17.

Tides & Weather: What Boaters Need to Know

Tips for Navigating the Ocean’s Tides in Your Boat or Yacht

An essential part of safely cruising the ocean on your yacht or boat is knowing about the tide levels of the areas you’ll be cruising. Even if you’ve chartered the same passage countless times, it’s good to have access to tide tables and knowledge of what types of things affect tide levels.

The topic of tides is covered in safe boating courses, but if it’s been awhile, check out our brief overview of what all boaters need to know about tides.

Key Facts About Tidesboaters and tides in bc

Tides are one of the universe’s most fascinating forces – for boaters and non-boaters alike. Simply put, tides can be defined as the rising and falling of sea levels. Here are some more key facts about tides:

  • During a changing tide, the ocean’s waters are either being pulled towards the poles of the earth or pushed towards the equator. It’s all based on the position and gravitational pull of the moon, the sun, and the rotation of the earth.
  • Along most of the earth’s coasts, tides rise and fall (go from low to high and high to low) two times per day, meaning the tide changes 4 times per day – approximately every 6 hours. These are known as semidiurnal tides.
  • In just a few places around the world, the tide rises and falls only once per day. These are known as diurnal tides.
  • In some places, the first daily high tide is a lot higher than the day’s second high tide, and these are called mixed tides.
  • Depending on the position of the moon and the sun, there are two types of tides that can occur. A spring tide appears when the moon and the sun are aligned with the earth. A neap tide is formed when the moon is at a right angle to the line between the earth and the sun.
  • When the moon is closest to the earth, tides are higher than usual. When the moon is farthest away from the earth, tides are lower.
  • Tides are influenced by the geological differences in the shape of the ocean floor as well as the shape and dynamics of the coastline – they are not consistent across different areas.
  • A narrowing inlet may increase the speed of the tidal currents, while islands in the open ocean don’t usually experience significant tides.
  • Wind and other weather conditions can have an effect on tides. For example, high-pressure systems depress sea levels, while low-pressure systems produce tides higher than predicted.

Why Do Boaters Need to Care About the Tide?

Tides essentially affect the height of the water you’re cruising on, which is subject to change based on the tide. The changing tides can cause several feet of change in the water depth (sea level), so it’s important boaters are aware of the tide’s direction (is it coming or going?) and timing whenever they are boating. Even if it seems like a minuscule level of water depth change, tides can affect things like:

  • what boaters should know about tideshow much rope you need to tie onto a dock
  • how much clearance you have to sail underneath a bridge
  • whether or not your boat bottoms out on a shoal where just a few hours ago the water was deep enough to cruise across
  • your ability or desire to cruise into a harbour where you might be moored, anchored, or docked for several hours at a time
  • how long you can safely stay anchored somewhere. If you underestimate the tide, if the tide goes out, your yacht might just end up beached in place until the next tide rolls in. If the tide rolls in and your anchor isn’t fully dug into the seabed, your boat is likely going to drift.
  • when you’ll be able to pass narrow channels. For certain channels, boaters need to plan their passages around the direction of the tidal flow. In some locales, it may be impossible to travel against the current.

Get Familiar with Tide Tables

Always familiarize yourself with the seascape you’ll be navigating and try to have access to a tide chart whenever you’re out on the water. Tide charts or tables help boaters predict the sea levels of any coastal region at any time of day. Learn how to read them (consult your safe boating books for a refresher) and you’re far less likely to experience any of the issues as noted above.

In Canada, tide tables are published by the Canadian Hydrographic Service. Each tide table shows the predicted times and heights of the high and low waters that are associated with the vertical movement of the tide. They are available in three formats – table, graphic, and text – for more than 700 hundred stations in Canada.

Tide tables are also available on third-party websites like tide-forecast.com, as well as local newspapers, television news, and radio news outlets. No matter where you find your tide tables, look for three important details on one, including the time of high tide, the time of low tide, and the heights of each. For the times in between, you’ll need to use the Rule of Twelfths to best guestimate the sea level based on the stated low and high tides.

Rule of Twelfths

Using the rule of twelfths is a good way to approximate tidal levels if you don’t have access to a complete guide that lists tide levels by the hour. For boaters on the go, this formula is all you need. The basis behind the rule of twelfths is that it takes a period of about six-plus hours for tides to get from low to high tide and vice versa. (Lunar high tides occur every 12 hours and 25 minutes, which means that it takes 6 hours and 12.5 minutes to go from high tide to low tide or vice versa.)

Therefore, the difference between high tide and low tide (the range of tides) can be divided into 1/12th units. During the first hour after low tide, the water level rises by one-twelfth of the tidal range, in the second-hour two-twelfths, and so on. Using this calculation, in the third and fourth hour there is an abundance of tidal movement, but in the first and sixth hour, there is much less.

When You Don’t Have Access to a Tide Schedule

If you find yourself out on the water with no knowledge of the tide schedule for the day, all is not lost! Simply look to the water at the shoreline. The tidal current is actually visible – watch closely and you’ll soon see the sea either flowing towards or ebbing away from the land. You can also follow what other boaters appear to be doing, and tune in to your VHF radio for advice on tides.

Getting to know the tides isn’t difficult once you get the hang of reading tide charts and seeing the tide for yourself. Unlike the weather, and whether or not the fish are biting, tides are a relatively stable, predictable part about boating. They change slightly as the moon changes – and slightly more depending on the weather – but for the most part, tides are a constant, integral part of boating. Whenever you are out boating in unfamiliar locations, try and learn as much as possible about the area, which we believe is all part of the fun!

At Van Isle Marina – your go-to boat marina in the Pacific Northwest – we regularly post snapshots of Sidney, BC’s tide schedules on our Twitter page. Our staff love to help our fellow boaters learn about all the ins and outs of boating, including all about tides and weather patterns. Give us a call, come see our boats for sale, or pull up your boat to learn more about why so many people love to moor with us.

Winter on the Yacht

Tips & Tricks for Boating in Cold Weather

One of the things most yacht owners love is the freedom to pick up and go whenever the mood strikes – and sometimes the mood strikes during the coldest months of the year. When this happens, boating in the wintertime is fully possible, even out here on the Pacific Northwest!

In the right conditions, boating in the winter can be a true joy. So, keep your boat afloat this winter and continue to go boating or live onboard all year-round with our tips for yachting or boating in cooler temperatures.

what to wear for winter boating

Benefits of Winter Boating

  • Peaceful cruising grounds give you room to move
  • Reduced off-season rates for moorage
  • Increased opportunities to brush up on your night cruising skills
  • Keeps you tide over until the warmer weather comes again
  • Keeps your boat in a usable condition so there is less to do come summer

In no particular order, here are our top tips and tricks for winter boating.

Keep Fuel and Water Tanks Topped Up

winter boating - keep your gas tank full

Fill up your fuel and water tanks at every chance you get in the winter. You’ll want to keep both tanks filled up because fuel berth operating hours are usually reduced in the off-season, and water supplies at marinas might even be turned off completely to protect the pipes during cold snaps.

Keeping your fuel tank topped up also helps reduce condensation from forming in the tank. The fuller the tank, the less room there is for condensation to form. This reduces your chances of a diesel bug forming (microbial contamination of the diesel tank), especially when paired with an additive designed to ward off diesel bugs.

Up the Antifreeze

If you’re leaving your boat in saltwater for the season, chances are the temperature won’t get so low that any leftover water in your engine will freeze, but just to be safe, make sure your engine’s coolant has enough antifreeze in it. This is especially important if a cold snap is forecast, which does happen every now and again around the Gulf Islands. If required, consider adding some antifreeze through your raw water system as well.

Charge Your Batteries

Keep your batteries charged at all costs! This might require taking them home every so often to recharge them, or using a small solar panel if you can source one. Keeping your engine’s batteries fully charged in winter is especially important because starting a cold diesel engine in frigid temperatures uses up more power than it does in the summer.

Vacuum sealed linens for boating in winter

Stow Bedding, Linens, and Cushions Properly

If you’re planning to keep bedding, towels, and other assorted linens on board year-round, make sure to store them properly so they don’t get damp. Keeping them in a vacuum-sealed bag is your best bet. This will help keep everything dry and mildew-free.

As for your fabric cushions, there is no need to vacuum pack them, simply propping them up on their sides or placing them in slated storage is sufficient. Just make sure there is some airflow around them.

Keep Your Decks Ice-Free

Ice can form quickly on your boat’s decks. Fortunately, it’s easy to take care of – simply pour some buckets of saltwater and scrub a little bit and your decks will effortlessly be de-iced and much safer for all on board.

Don’t Stow Stuff Against the Hull

To prevent mildew from forming inside your accommodation level, do not  store stuff against the hull. Clothing, boxes, fishing tackle – you name it – these items should not be pressed up against the hull. If moisture gets trapped between your items and your hull, mildew will develop and things will start to smell.

Only Plan Short Trips

Since you only get a small window of daylight hours in the winter, we recommend planning shorter trips if you’re new to boating in the off-season. If you’d like to go out for longer, aim to leave before dawn so that it is still light outside upon your return. This is not only safer, but likely to be more enjoyable for guests.

Enjoy Hot Drinks & Warm Mealswinter boating tips - bring lots of coffee

Bring more tea, coffee, hot apple cider, and hot chocolate than you ever think you’ll need for your winter boating excursions. Have enough travel mugs for all on board to keep drinks nice and warm. Hot meals will also help. There is no such thing as too much soup when it’s cold outside, but in today’s luxury motor yachts with gourmet kitchens, the sky’s the limit!

Switch Your Gas

If you’re running butane gas, consider switching to propane for the cooler months, since propane is not as likely to freeze as butane.

Dress for Success

Pack plenty of clothing so you always have something dry to switch into. Don’t go for anything too bulky – layers are best at trapping air and keeping you warm while allowing you to move around.

Bring gloves, hats, face masks, scarves, thick socks, and spares of each. Waterproof everything, where possible. Don’t forget your sunglasses as well – the sun does peek its head from time to time during the winter, albeit a lot lower in the sky.

Read More: Sailing Essentials – Important Items to Bring on Your Boat

Pack an Icebreaker

Just in case you come across a marina located close to brackish water, which can freeze in cold weather, you’ll be happy you have a boathook handy.

Keep Lifejackets Dry and Nearby

Lifejackets are just as important in the winter as they are in the summer, probably even more so, as extreme cold temperatures reduce the amount of time you’ll be able to stay conscious in the water. Keep lifejackets dry when not in use and make sure everyone on board has one that fits them and that you all know where they are stored.

Check Your Insurance

Double check your boat’s insurance policy to make sure you are insured year-round if you plan on venturing off in the winter.

Invest in Cozy Cabin Comforts

There are plenty of things you can do to make things comfortable inside your cabin all winter, which all involve keeping condensation at bay.

  • For extra heating, consider diesel space heaters when cruising, or oil-filled radiators when using shore power. Running a small dehumidifier at night can also reduce condensation while you’re sleeping.
  • Bettering your hull’s insulation is labour intensive but might be worth doing if you plan on winter boating year after year. To do so, apply a product called Celotex to the inside of your fibreglass hull, then add headlining over top. This will also help with climate control in the summer.
  • If you can’t get to your whole hull, try adding better window coverings. They needn’t be fancy, even just some cut-to-size insulating board or old foam camping mat can make a difference.
  • A cockpit tent or enclosure can add a bit more protection from the elements while helping to reduce condensation in your cabin. It’s also great for storing wet clothing, as it keeps it away from your living space.
  • Try and use the marina’s showers whenever you can to reduce overall humidity and condensation on your boat, brought on by your onboard shower.

Do you have questions about life on a yacht during the wintertime? Wondering what boat would be best for year-round enjoyment? Contact a yacht broker at Van Isle Marina to learn more.

Introducing the 2020 Pursuit OS 355

The 2020 Pursuit Offshore 355 Has Arrived at the Van Isle Marina Sales Dock

As Western Canada’s exclusive dealer for Pursuit Boats, the sales team here at Van Isle Marina is pleased to welcome the latest Pursuit power boat model to our sales dock – the 2020 Pursuit Offshore OS 355.  We will be showcasing this stunning vessel at the upcoming Vancouver International Boat Show from February 5-9, 2020 in Vancouver. To tide you over until then, we hope you enjoy a sneak peek inside this exciting addition to our sales dock.

Key Features of the 2020 Pursuit Offshore 355

The Pursuit OS 355 is the mid-size model in Pursuit’s Offshore Collection, with the additional models being the OS 325 and the OS 385. This model’s styling is timeless and classic while introducing a few modern features that are designed as much for offshore cruising as they are for fishing and other water sports.

We know you’ll enjoy all the cleverly disguised storage features and convertible seating and amenities on board, including the electrically actuated convertible berth/dinette in the cabin. And for safety’s sake, the fire suppression system on board adds peace of mind. Let’s check out everything the OS 355 has to offer:

Hull
Pursuit power boats are known for their hand-laminated hulls, infused fibreglass and foam-filled structural grids, and moulded hull side frameless tempered glass windows. The OS 355 also comes with Pursuit Fresh White gelcoat and a 5-ply resin-infused composite transom system with a patented transom reinforcement grid.

Designed right into the hull are transom platform extensions and a boarding ladder.  There is a dedicated transducer location, bow thruster, and 1,100-gph bilge pump with an automatic float switch.

Power

 

The newly arrived OS 355 is equipped with twin Yamaha XTO Offshore 425 hp 5.6 L V8 four stroke outboard engines and direct fuel injection. You’ll also get custom built fuel lines with mechanically crimped fittings and a Yamaha water-separating fuel filter with primer bulbs for each engine.

Cockpit

The wide-open, self-draining cockpit of the Pursuit OS 355 offers up a lot of space for fishing, as well as fold-away transom seating for entertaining. Here you’ll also find moulded port bridge lounge seating with aft and forward facing options and foldable armrests. (All the cockpit seating is upholstered with Dri-Fast foam and mesh backing.)

Within the cockpit there is also a JL Audio entertainment system and a mini galley with a sink, cutting board, electric grill, storage, and refrigerator/freezer with fibreglass lid. On the floor you’ll find the cockpit machinery access hatch and nearby there is a freshwater wash with hot/cold mixing valve and pull-out sprayer at the transom door.

Helm

With our new OS 355 you get a truly appointed enclosed helm station where you will find the centre-mounted stainless steel steering wheel, main switches, bow thruster joystick, 12V panel with illuminated Carling rocker switches, compass, waterproof stereo remote, and Yamaha Command Link Plus Display. Factory options selected on this build are the factory-installed Garmin Package (Dual GPSMAP 8612 [1XSV], Airmar B175M 20 Degree 1KW Chirp Transducer, NMEA 2000 Starter kit, Pursuit Custom Dash Panel, Yamaha Gateway w/cable, VHF 315, and VHF Antenna), and Garmin Radar Open Array GM 424xHD2, You’ll have comfortable access to everything from your swivelling captain’s chair with its drink holders and fold-away armrests and footrest.

Hardtop

 

Another great feature of the OS 355 is its fully integrated moulded fibreglass hardtop that covers the helm station and comes with an integrated visor; dedicated radar, antenna and outrigger locations; and an optional, electronically actuated, one-touch sunshade that offers everyone on board additional comfort and protection from the sun.

Windshield

One of the stand-out features of the OS 355 is its custom windshield system with optically clear laminated glass, tempered side glass with infused fibreglass frame, and an electrically actuated centre vent window. The windshield system comes complete with pantographic windshield wipers, a freshwater washer system, and a three-piece drop curtain.

Within the windshield area there is also integrated life jacket storage, integrated overhead glove boxes, screened ventilation hatches, a horn, and a trumpet.

Cabin

 

The beauty and comfort of the OS 355 continues down below in the cabin. A moulded acrylic access door with a secondary framed screen door leads to your cabin entry steps with your custom handrail and wood treads. Down in the cabin you will find custom solid wood tongue and groove floor accents, drainage and sound-damping insulation, and interior air-conditioning with a reverse cycle heat and sound shield.

The stand-out feature in the cabin is the electrically actuated V-berth seating section with its fixed cushions that converts to a queen berth. This area also triples as the dining area, with the solid wood table with power adjustable pedestal. Here you can take time to eat, socialize, sleep, or just relax and enjoy your 28-inch LED TV with JL Audio stereo speakers.

All around you in the cabin there will be storage, including the forward gunwale storage shelves, forward outboard storage compartments, in-floor storage, mid-berth hanging locker, mid-berth horizontal storage, and cedar-lined hanging locker. The cabin area is rounded out nicely with the forward hardwood framed accent mirror and the forward curtained hull side windows to port and starboard.

Head

The starboard designer bathroom is enclosed in fibreglass and features a Corian countertop, glass bowl designer sink, wood-framed entrance door, full length mirror, full height linen closet, towel rack, vanity storage, toilet, and shower. The door to the linen closet pulls double duty – just slide it over and it acts as the privacy door to the shower.

Galley

The port galley is gorgeous and fully equipped with modern appliances and touches. You’ll have access to everything you need to prepare gourmet meals anywhere you go in your OS 355, including a Corian countertop and backsplash, stainless steel sink with cutting board cover, upper and lower cabinets, stainless steel fridge and microwave, and dual burner glass cooktop.

Fishing Features

Rounding out our roundup of key features on board the Pursuit OS 355 is all of its fishing features, including multiple stainless steel rod holders, a 28-gallon recirculating livewell, under gunwale rod storage, additional horizonal rod storage in the cabin, insulated fish boxes, and a cockpit tackle centre. All these features and more make this model perfect for fishing trips.

The OS 355 is now available in the Pacific Northwest through the team here at Van Isle Marina. Contact one of our friendly, knowledgeable yacht brokers for more information.

The Pursuit Promise

 

Pursuit Boats are designed, developed, and manufactured in the United States. Each model comes with yacht-quality amenities and transferable warranties. In addition to Pursuit’s Offshore models, the company also has an impressive line of award-winning dual console models, including the DC 295, which will also be showcased at the Vancouver Boat Show, alongside the OS 355 and OS 325.

See more Pursuit Boats available through Van Isle Marina.

At Van Isle Marina in Sidney, BC, we look forward to matching more boaters with the best Pursuit Boat for their boating needs. We’d love to chat more at an upcoming boat show, or you can come see us anytime and we will help you build your perfect Pursuit. We are located at 2320 Harbour Road. Find out how to get here.

Whale Watching on Vancouver Island

An Introduction to One of Vancouver Island’s Most Popular Activities

Vancouver Island is home to spectacular whale watching opportunities, with numerous companies offering tours up and down the Island. But if you have your own boat, you can easily

become your own personal whale watching tour guide. The best part is that whale watching can be done almost anywhere around the Island – and you might even spot some without even trying that hard.

Although it’s possible to see whales at any time of year around Vancouver Island, the best time for dedicated whale watching around Vancouver Island is May to October. This is also when you’ll come across countless whale watching operators while out on your boat. If you see a whale watching tour group all with their binoculars out, you’ll know you’re also about to approach some majestic creatures!

>> Read more: West Coast Whale Species and How to Identify Them

Types of Whales Around Vancouver Island

The most common types of whales to watch out for around Vancouver Island include resident and transient Orcas, humpback whales, and Pacific gray whales.

Orcas

Orcas, also known as “killer whales”, are black and white toothed mammals that are actually members of the dolphin family. They are the smallest “whales” on this list; a male orca is 5 to 7 metres long and weighs around 6 tonnes, while a female orca is 3 to 5 metres long and weighs about 3 to 4 tonnes. Their dorsal fins can get to be around 2 metres high, so they’ll be quite easy to spot. They also aren’t afraid of slow-moving, quiet boats and are actually known to swim right up to lucky boaters and kayakers.

There are two main categories of orcas living around the Island: resident orcas and transient orcas. Resident orcas (both northern residents and southern residents), tend to stay in one area, while transient orcas move around frequently.

Where to find them: Resident orcas are commonly found around the Gulf Islands, the Southern Coast near Victoria, the Strait of Georgia near Vancouver, and the Johnstone Strait (Campbell River, Telegraph Cove). There are approximately 80 “northern resident” orca whales who live and travel around Northern Vancouver Island, while there are approximately 220 “southern resident” orcas living around Southern Vancouver Island.

There are also around 260 transient orcas that are most common around the northern part of Vancouver Island, including near Campbell River, Telegraph Cove and Port Hardy. Some have also been known to be near southern Vancouver Island as well (Victoria, Oak Bay, Sidney, and Sooke).

You’re more likely to spot resident and transient orcas on the east coast of the island, as well as the southern and northern tips of the island, rather than the west coast.

The best time to view orcas in the Pacific Northwest is from May to October.

 

Humpback Whales

Humpback whales are the largest whales living around Vancouver Island, with lengths varying from 12-16 metres and weighing nearly 80,000 pounds! In addition to their sheer size, which exceeds the length and weight of a fully loaded school bus, humpback whales are also known for their unique sounds and songs, and beautiful breaches.

A humpback whale’s long pectoral fins and knobbly head give it a distinctive body shape that’s greyish on top with a whiteish underbelly.

Where to find them: Humpback whales near Vancouver Island are most common about 30 miles off the shores of Ucluelet, Bamfield and Tofino (Barkley and Clayquot sound). They can also be spotted around Telegraph Cove and Port McNeil.

The best time to view humpback whales in the Pacific Northwest is from May to September.

 

Pacific Gray Whales

Pacific gray whales are medium to dark gray or black in colour and can grow to be up to 13-15 metres. The females are slightly larger than the males (the opposite is true for orcas). Adult gray whales have a mottled appearance caused by scratches, and barnacles and orange sea lice that make a home of their skin. Gray whales do not have dorsal fins, so instead be on the lookout for their vertebral bumps or “knuckles” along their lower backs.

Where to find them: Pacific gray whales are mainly found up and down the west coast of Vancouver Island, as this is their annual migratory zone. They can also be found around the southern tip of the Island (Victoria and Sidney). Pacific gray whales aren’t typically found on the east coast of Vancouver Island, as this is not their migratory path.

The ultimate time to spot a Pacific gray whale is between March and April. During this time, around 20,000 gray whales are migrating from Mexico (where they have babies) to Alaska (where they feed on cold-water crustaceans and more).

A Few Whale Watching Best Practices

As of 2019, along the south coast of BC, the DFO is asking boaters to stay at least 200 metres away from southern resident whale populations between November 1 and May 31, and at least 400 metres away from southern killer whales between June 1 and October 31 – about the length of 4 football fields.

You are also expected to reduce your speed to less than 7 knots and avoid fishing when you’re within 1,000 metres of a killer whale. Areas to be aware of include Gulf Islands, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Mouth of the Fraser River.

In general, when you see whales and wish to get closer:

  • Approach them from the side, rather than the front or the rear.
  • Approach slowly, avoiding sudden changes in speed or direction.
  • Shift your motor into neutral or idle upon your approach.
  • Stay as quiet as you can. This means no echo sounders, horns, whistles, revving motors, shouting, or loud music.
  • Do not disturb resting pods.
  • Travel at low speeds and in the same direction when travelling parallel to whales.
  • Don’t trap whales too close to the shore.
  • Don’t come between whales and the shore.
  • Don’t feed or touch the whales.
  • Be mindful of other boats in the area. Keep your distance until the boat ahead of you has moved on.

See the DFO’s webpage on watching marine wildlife for more information and helpful infographics.

Pacific Rim Whale Festival

If you’ll be in the area and wish to learn more about whales on Vancouver Island, check out the 33rd annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival happening March 20-28, 2020 at the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Ucluelet and Tofino on Vancouver Island’s west coast. The festival is an annual spring celebration that marks the typical return of the migratory gray whales as they make their way to the Artic Ocean.

Additional Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

While whale watching, you’re likely to spot plenty of additional wildlife in the area, including bald eagles, dolphins, porpoises, seals, otters, sealions, and countless seabirds. Read more about the other wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities on the Island.

Buying a Whale Watching Tour Instead

If you’d rather try whale watching with an experienced tour guide before going for it on your own, there are many whale watching companies to choose from. Typically, tours are 3 to 5 hours long, with many promising a 95% chance or more of spotting whales. Some companies offer different types and sizes of boats. Aim to arrive 30 minutes early so as not to miss your scheduled departure time, and dress in warm layers to beat the chill of the ocean air.

Many boats have washrooms on board and are wheelchair accessible. Don’t forget your binoculars and camera – preferably one with a great zoom!

At Van Isle Marina in Sidney, BC, we offer a wide variety of boats and motor yachts that would be perfect for your next whale watching adventure. Check out our selection of new and used yachts and boats for sale, or come see us in person and let us show you around.

Old Boating Superstitions

19 Things Boaters Used to Be Superstitious About

At Van Isle Marina, we have rounded up some of the most popular superstitions held by boaters. Some of these superstitions are meant to ward off bad luck, while others are meant to bring good luck to everyone on board. Many of the following superstitions date back to the earliest days of sailing – although, like most superstitions, some of their origins remain either unknown or unconfirmed.

Do you abide by any of these old superstitions while onboard your motor yacht or boat?

Bad Luck Omens

These items were said to bring bad luck, and therefore were banned from being on board.

  1. Bringing Bananas on Board

Back in the day, bananas brought boaters more than just bad luck. They also brought the breeding grounds for spiders and perished too quickly, leading to unpleasant rotting containers of fruit.

The notion of bananas being bad luck on boats is said to have started in the 1700s, during the height of the trading empire between Spain and the Caribbean, where several of the ships that disappeared were carrying banana cargos at the time of their disappearance.

  1. Changing a Boat’s Name

Changing a boat’s name is considered a huge no-no that can lead to bad luck. So, if you purchase a pre-owned vessel, it’s best to leave her name alone to avoid bad luck. The reason is based on Greek mythology, where Poseidon is said to keep a record of every vessel’s name.

If you must change the name of your boat and you are superstitious, be sure to carry through with the ceremony that involves removing all traces of the boat’s name from public record. (A little tough in the age of the Internet, however!) The paperwork with the old name ought to be burned in a wooden box, and the ashes thrown into the sea with the outgoing tide.

  1. Saying the Word “Goodbye” When Departing

Ancient mariners thought that saying the word “goodbye” actually doomed the voyage. Of all the superstitions on this list, this one is still quite popular. It’s a little bit like telling an actor to “break a leg” instead of wishing them “good luck.”

  1. Whistling Towards the Wind

Boaters have long believed that whistling towards the wind will “whistle up” stormy weather. We wonder if whistling on the accommodation deck poses the same risk?

  1. Redheads

It used to be believed that redheads in general were unlucky. They weren’t allowed on board, even as guests, and even a boater seeing a red-headed person right before setting sail was considered bad luck.

  1. Women

Having women onboard was also believed to be unlucky. Despite many boats being named after woman, and the presence of female sculptures being used to adorn the bows of vessels, for a time it was thought that women angered the seas, which led to dangerous voyages.

Women were also seen as distractions to ancient mariners, keeping them from their duties, which also led to dangerous voyages.

  1. Never Set Sail with Someone Who Has Debts to Pay

If there were no other signs of bad luck to blame when things go awry on a vessel, mariners might default to blaming any seaman on board who hasn’t settled his debts before setting sail.

  1. Seeing a Shark or Manta Ray

Seeing a shark’s fin swimming near your boat was said to be a bad omen; it signified that death was near – and not necessarily by the jaws of the shark. Seeing a manta ray was just as nerve-wrecking.

  1. Setting Sail on a Thursday or a Friday

When it comes to sailing, it’s not just Friday the 13th that should be avoided – it’s all Fridays. The superstition of Friday being considered an unlucky day to start a voyage is said to have religious roots, with some people believing it’s likely because of Jesus Christ being crucified on a Friday.

Thursdays are also considered by some to be bad sailing days because Thursdays are “Thor’s day” – Thor being the Greek god of thunder and storms.

Good Luck Omens

These items and routines were said to bring good luck, and were therefore encouraged to be on board or practiced.

  1. Setting Sail on a Sunday

Old sailing superstitions state that Sundays are the luckiest day to set sail.

  1. Tattoos & Piercings

Gold hoops were considered not just good luck, but they also signified when a boater had sailed around the world or crossed the equator. Many boaters also believed nautical tattoos were good luck, with both piercings and tattoos warding off evil spirits.

  1. Stepping onto a Boat with Your Right Foot

Which foot you use to take the first step onto your boat before a journey is said to bring either good luck or bad luck. The right foot is the good luck foot, while stepping on with your left foot first is to be avoided.

  1. Having Cats on Board

Cats served the important function of rat control onboard cargo ships back in the day. Seeing one or inviting one onto your vessel was inviting good luck to come your way (and less rats!). On the flip side, a cat thrown overboard meant extreme bad luck or even death was on the horizon. Boaters strove to keep their cats content and happy for this reason.

  1. Seabirds & Dolphins

Seeing an almighty albatross was considered good luck, which meant that killing one was definitely bad luck. Likewise, swallows and gulls were also considered good luck birds. The souls of perished boaters were said to live in seabirds, so their presence was welcomed.

Seeing dolphins swimming in line with your boat was also a sign of good luck.

  1. Pouring Wine on the Deck

In the earliest days of sailing and yachting, pouring wine on the deck was said to bring good luck. Nowadays it just sounds like a mess and a waste of wine!

  1. Hanging Horseshoes

Hanging a horseshoe on a ship’s mast was done to turn away stormy weather.

  1. Tossing Coins Overboard

Throwing a few coins into the sea as a boat left a port was said to be the same as paying a small toll to Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, to ensure a safe voyage.

  1. Seeing Red Skies at Night

Seeing a red sky at night, as in the phrase, “red sky at night, sailor’s delight; red sky in morning, sailors take warning” is still considered a popular superstition, and perhaps the only one on this list based on science. A red sunset is said to indicate stable air and high pressure coming from the west. On the other hand, a red sky at dawn is a marker for rain and stormy seas.

Learn more about the history of yachting.

If you’re in the market for a new boat or yacht, there is plenty to choose from here at Van Isle Marina. We specialize in Riviera Yachts and Pursuit Boats and also showcase a wide variety of pre-owned yachts. Come visit us in Sidney, BC near Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal!

Tips for Long Range Cruising

Sailing Around the World? Here’s How to Prepare

Before taking your motor yacht or sailboat out on the open ocean for weeks, months, or years at a time, there are a lot of important things to consider. Here is a list of things you need to do to prepare for life on the open sea.

Read More: Important Items to Bring on Your Boat

  1. Communications Plan
  • Inform your family and friends back home of your approximate travel itinerary. This is mainly so they don’t worry about your whereabouts.
  • As cellphone fees can be extraordinary out at sea, plan ahead by expanding your data plan. And keep in mind that relying on a cellphone alone will not be adequate for long range cruising.
  • Ensure you have a working VHF radio onboard and that everyone knows how to use it. A VHF is essential for weather updates, making or responding to mayday calls, and communicating with your fellow cruisers. Make sure your EPIRB (emergency position-indicating radio beacon) is also in working order.
  1. Paperwork
  • Ensure you have acquired all the necessary paperwork required to operate your boat. This includes your Registration papers (registration required if leaving Canada) , boat insurance, VHF operator’s certificate, and personal photo identification (passports) for everyone onboard.
  • Research any applicable visa requirements for the destination countries you’ll be visiting for long periods of time.
  • Plan to obtain all of the paperwork you need well before your intended cast off date to avoid disappointment if paperwork isn’t filed in time.
  • Make sure your financials are in order. Pick up foreign currency if you can ahead of time, and let your credit card companies know you’ll be travelling.
  • Consider any additional paperwork, such as for your pets.
  1. Pack the Right Provisions
  • Stock your yacht with specialty foods you won’t be able to get in other parts of the world that you might be craving. Some examples include your favourite condiments, coffee and teas, cereals, candies, chocolates, canned soups, and sodas.
  • Pack produce that has a long shelf life, like apples and oranges, carrots, celery, and onions, while avoiding produce that perishes quickly, like bananas.
  • You can typically source staple foods like rice and beans from your destination countries.
  • Remember that going to restaurants while moored or anchored is one of the major expenses of sailing around the world that can be drastically reduced by preparing as much as you can onboard your yacht.
  1. Toiletries and Medications
  • Planning to have enough of the right toiletries and medication on board might take more foresight than you’d think. It takes time to book appointments with your doctor and get prescriptions filled, depending on your physician. Don’t leave this to the last minute!
  • Don’t overstock items like over the counter medications, as these have expiration dates. You might also be able to find common OTC medications at your destination countries for much cheaper.
  • Check the contents of your First Aid Kit and find out who on board your boat is familiar with everything in it. Does more than one person on board have First Aid training?
  1. Mechanical, Electrical,& Plumbing
  • A boat mechanic can be hard to come by when you’re at sea, so do all you can to learn about the mechanics of your boat. You want to be able to troubleshoot and repair your yacht’s engines and mechanical systems yourself as much as possible. Take classes, watch YouTube videos, and find other boaters who can give you a rundown on your boat. Tinker on land as much as possible prior to your trip.
  • Don’t leave home without the tools and spare parts to get jobs done quickly on the go.
  • Study your boat’s sink, shower, and toilets to understand how they operate and what to do if there are leaks or clogs.
  • Your yacht’s electrical system powers everything from your lights and appliances to your navigational instruments. Study boating manuals and know what batteries on your model need to be prioritized, and how long they last. Again, try for hands-on tinkering where possible.
  1. Entertainment Options
  • Think about how you’ll spend your downtime on the boat in between ports and pack up whatever you’ll need for rainy days, including books, board games, cards, laptops, movies, music, and more.
  • Find out ahead of time what your fellow passengers are most looking forward to during the trip. If your goals aren’t all that aligned, it might be worth reconsidering the duration of the trip, or postponing the trip until all parties are “on board”, so to speak.
  • If you’ll be working or otherwise checking in with the office from time to time, make sure you have all the supplies you need to earn a living while at sea if need be.
  1. SafetyChecks
  • Ensure everything you need for safety’s sake is accounted for. This includes life rafts, life jackets, that First Aid Kit as mentioned above, fire extinguishers, a working radio (also mentioned above), and the right anchor for the seabeds you’ll be navigating.
  • Safety also means ensuring handrails are screwed tightly in place, there are no tripping hazards anywhere, and there are no burned out exterior or interior lights.
  • Debrief everyone who will be travelling with you on the location of all safety equipment on board.
  1. Consult Your Fellow Cruisers
  • Before setting out on the journey of a lifetime, ask other boaters for their tips and suggestions. They can be especially helpful when it comes to favourite destinations, routes, durations of stays, dangerous areas, expensive cities, and so on.
  • Experienced boaters have up-to-date information as well as the wisdom of trial and error. Learn from them! If you’re new to the yachting community, start by talking to your yacht broker, chat up other boaters entering the marina and at trade shows, and check out online forums.

Be Sure the Boating Lifestyle is Right For You

 

There are so many things to love about life on a yacht, but it’s understandably not for everyone. Cruising can be considered physically and mentally challenging at times, especially if you’re not used to being away from home for long periods.

Before journeying out for weeks or months at a time, be absolutely certain that yachting for long durations is the right choice for you. Ask yourself, do you have a passion for the outdoors and will you be happy constantly being at the mercy of Mother Nature?

Experiment with any long range cruising “thresholds” you might have by staying close to shore for extended periods at a time before heading out for longer ocean crossings to see how you manage.

When yachting, you might have to contend with things like:

  • sea sickness (yourself or your passengers)
  • cooking and sleeping while the boat is rocking
  • not being able to follow a strict schedule
  • not being able to make quick trips to the mall or grocery store
  • missing family and friends back home
  • anxiety around stormy, rough oceans
  • never feeling like your clothing is completely dry
  • giving up your regular spa treatments and gym membership

Fortunately, today’s modern yachts provide so many luxuries and comforts that long range cruising can be made ultra-comfortable. From laundry machines to dishwashers and smartphone chargers, to enclosed decks and enough storage for all of life’s necessities on board, modern luxury motor yachts present today’s boaters with everything they need to experience life at home while out at sea.

Many of the yachts for sale at Van Isle Marina are suitable for long range cruising, whether that’s up and down the coastline, or across continents. We hope the above suggestions help you plan for smooth sailing and the trip of a lifetime. Contact us for more information on any of the above or to learn more about our boats for sale.

Central Island Hiking Trails

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VHF Marine Radio Etiquette

VHF Marine Radio Etiquette

10 Basic Rules of Radio Etiquette When Using Your Yacht’s VHF Radio

If you’re new to the boating community, familiarizing yourself with some simple radio etiquette will help you feel more confident when out on the water. Van Isle Marina has you covered with our handy beginner’s guide to VHF radio etiquette.

But before we get to the etiquette, there are 2 main housekeeping rules:

1. Never Leave Shore without a VHF-FM Radio Onboard

Motorboat operators, and especially yacht operators, should never leave the shore, dock, or marina without a VHF-FM radio on board their vessel. VHF stands for Very High Frequency, and when you’re out at sea, a VHF radio is your primary way to send and receive distress calls to and from the Coast Guard and other boaters.

Why Your Cellphone Won’t Cut It – VHF radios are still the preferred communication method for boaters, despite everyone having a smartphone these days. They are more reliable than cell phones out on the open sea because they can withstand rough weather, are wired to your boat’s battery so they are always charged, and consistently provide more reception than cellphones. They are of large benefit to boaters because they can reach a larger audience than a cellphone, and you don’t have to memorize any phone numbers to communicate with other boats.

2. Take a VHF Course & Get Certified

It’s better for all boaters if every operator of a VHF marine radio is trained up on how to use one. That’s why, as required by the Radio Communications Act, all VHF marine radio operators must carry a Restricted Operator

VHF marine radio etiquette

Certificate (Maritime). Get your certificate, often referred to by its abbreviation – ROC(M) – through the Canadian Power & Sail Squadrons (CPS), which handles training and testing for Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.

Find a VHF marine radio course in your area. The training course will prepare you for a short exam and go more in-depth on the etiquette mentioned here, as well as show you how to use the device.

Note that an ROC(M) is required to operate a radio, this includes the act of turning it on.

>> Read our complete boating safety checklist.

Now, let’s move on to radio etiquette.

10 Basic Rules to Marine Radio Etiquette

1. Keep chatter to a minimum on open channels.

On a VHF radio, channel 16 is an open channel, where all conversations are essentially public and overheard by other boats. You’re not on a private phone call when you’re speaking over a VHF radio. Keep side conversations about dinner plans on general-use channels like 68 or 72. Or better yet, use your cell phones for these types of plans.

2. Be aware of the working channels for your area and keep the right ones clear.

For example, a local water taxi company might use a specific channel to run their business, so try and keep it clear, simply out of courtesy. This will happen naturally if you abide by rule #1 regarding keeping chatter to a minimum in general. Commercial craft and drawbridge operators will also have their own dedicated channels they prefer, so keep them clear as well.

Channel 16 is for International Distress, Safety and Calling, which includes maydays and other warning calls, so it’s also definitely one to keep clear.

3. To indicate you’re done speaking and awaiting a response, say “over”.

The word over is used to signify that your sentence is over and that you are now waiting for a reply. Of all the radio etiquette out there, this might be the one rule you already knew about, as it’s featured on TV and the movies constantly. However, it’s easy to forget to say it after awhile, so make it a habit right from the start.

4. When you are finished with the conversation, do not say “over and out.”

Contrary to popular belief, “OVER” and “OUT” are never used at the same time, since their meanings are mutually exclusive.

5. When you’re first calling on another boat, repeat the name of the boat you’re calling three times.

…Then repeat the name of your boat three times as well. For good measure, also mention the channel you’re using, and remember to conclude with “over”. For example, this would be a proper way to contact a vessel named Annabelle: “Annabelle, Annabelle, Annabelle, this is Christine, Christine, Christine, channel 1-6, over.” It may seem wordy, but it’s proper VHF radio etiquette.

6. When responding to another boat who has called you, state their name, then your name.

The other boater will know right away that you received their message and are now responding. Saying their name back right away grabs their attention immediately. There is no need to state their name and then your name three times each. Once is fine when you’re responding to a call.

For example, to respond to Christine, the response would simply be, “Christine, this is Annabelle. Over.”

7. Learn and use the NATO phonetic alphabet.

When you’re having to communicate single letters, use the NATO phonetic alphabet so that the person receiving your message is absolutely clear on each letter you’re speaking. This means familiarizing yourself with the “Alpha”, “Bravo,” “Charlie,” “Delta,” names that refer to letters. It’s a universal language when out on the water.

8. Read numbers as single digits.

Another universal standard for VHF radio use is reading out single digits instead of longer more complex numbers. So, it’s clearer and easier to understand “one-six” to refer to channel sixteen, and “six-eight” referring to channel sixty-eight. This especially helps when there is a language barrier amongst boaters.

9. Know about the types of calls you’ll hear

There are  three main types of calls you’re likely to overhear on your VHF radio: Safety, urgency, and distress calls. Knowing the severity of each one of these calls and how they affect you is important. Likewise, when making these types of calls, using the right call at the right time is more than just proper etiquette – it’s proper efficiency!

  • Safety calls, as recognized by the spoken phrase Securité (a French word, pronounced “securitay”) are meant to alert all nearby boaters to something. This is an informational call or message, and nothing more. For example, a commercial ship leaving a dock might broadcast on channel 16 the fact that they are on the move. Other times, the Coast Guard will broadcast securité messages too, such as missing navigation marks, upcoming storms, or debris in the area. There is no true danger, but something to be mindful of.
  • Urgency calls, as recognized by the spoken phrase pan-pan (pronounced pahn-pahn) are meant to alert all nearby boaters when there is an emergency onboard a vessel, but it is not a life or death situation. Pan-pan calls are not a call for help, although they do signify that something significant has happened on board, which may lead to an all-out mayday call. The Coast Guard and other nearby boats are made aware of the situation but do not provide immediate rescue.
  • Distress calls, as recognized by the spoken phrase mayday are broadcast when there is a catastrophic event, such as a sinking vessel, a fire on board, or someone on board requiring immediate medical assistance. The proper etiquette here is to not abuse the use of a mayday call. Use it as a last resort only! If you hear a mayday call and are close enough to respond, you must do so.

10. Watch your language

While we’re on the topic of etiquette, we thought it would be worth it to mention avoiding foul language. Remember, your conversations on VHF radio are heard by other boaters, so it’s best to be respectful and watch your language. Keep it clean out there!

The above guide to radio etiquette covers the basics and is a good place to start if you haven’t spent much time operating a vessel before. However, there is still much to learn when it comes to the use of your radio and yacht’s navigational system. (See housekeeping rule #2 above about taking a course and getting certified).

Van Isle Marina’s yachting experts will be happy to provide you with more radio tips for any of the boats you’re interested in at our marina. Contact us to learn more about touring our marina and our new and used boats.

250 656 1138

2320 Harbour Road, Sidney, British Columbia V8L 2P6

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