Yachtmaster training takes us into the Algarve

Building up to a Yachtmaster prep week one of the guys needs a few more miles just to make sure they exceed the 2500Nm qualifying miles, so with a favourable forecast and beautiful clear skies we are sailing along the Algarve which is proving interesting for the crew as well as taking them out of their comfort zone as we cruise new grounds. During the RYA/MCA Yachtmaster exam there is quite rightly a lot of emphasis placed on pilotage techniques so what better way to practice this than visit unfamiliar harbours and anchorages whilst also incorporating key skills such as MOB and picking up mooring buoys under sail.

Currently in Vilamoura we plan to take on additional crew before heading to Portimao, Lagos and Albufeira on our return leg to Ayamonte before an intensive final few days of preparation before the big day.

If you think you have what it takes to become a Yachtmaster or are simply up for a sailing adventure, drop us a line to find out more about our sail training course in Spain or adventure holidays.

Good luck to the boys next week

New Ayamonte Sailing Centre is open for business

Having left the shores of La Manga and the Mar Menor behind us, we are now fully open for business from our tidal sailing school based in Ayamonte on the Costa de la Luz or Spanish Algarve as it is better known.
From this unique location on the river Guadiana we are offering the full range of RYA sailing courses and navigation theory along with VHF radio (SRC) and First Aid training.
So if you fancy learning some new skills this winter why not join us for a practical learn to sail week or enrol on one of our Navigation theory courses that will be taking place over the winter months. What better time to learn new skills, meet like-minded people and get trained in time to get maximum enjoyment form the 2014 boating season.
It may be winter but the weather is still pleasant and you really can sail here year round, so just because the shorts have gone away for a few months doesn't mean that you cannot still enjoy the great outdoors, dig out those jumpers and lets go sailing.
To find out more details on our sailing and navigation courses, contact us or call Debbie on 00 34 695 326184 or UK local rate call 0872 426 0837

Milebuilder opportunity

Sailing mile-builder come adventure sail leaving from La Manga on the 6th October and arriving in Ayamonte on the 17th October. Sail along the entire South coast of Spain calling at the Costa del Sol, Cadiz and the Costa de la Luz before exploring some of the Portuguese Algarve and returning to our new home port of Ayamonte.
12 days onboard, over 500 miles including 60 mile Yachtmaster qualifying passages, overnight sails and some great adventures all for just 1150€

To find out more or to reserve a bunk, contact Debbie on 0034 695 326 184

Spanish Boating Tax

As a 6th listed Charter yacht we seem to have attracted more than our fair share of the Spanish Authorities attention this year. It seems that when stopped or boarded one of the key things they ask for is the proof that we have paid the Impuestos Especiales de Matriculacion which is basically the 12% boat tax for vessel that remain in Spanish waters for excess of the 183 days. Having owned the boat for a number of years now she is actually exempt but even that does not stop them asking for it.

Whilst we have absolutely no problem in being checked up on, it becomes embarrassing when we have clients on board and tiresome as we have just been checked out by their colleagues, one would think in this age of computers and shared information that the various departments could run a quick check on us before boarding again.

They say that those with nothing to hide need not worry, which is very true. Call me cynical but these checks can be described as nothing other than a blatant attempt to boost the Spanish Treasury pot with fines and tax collection. I would be interested in hearing from anyone else if you have been experiencing this kind of control and with sufficient evidence of excessive controls it may be possible to present a case to the Spanish Tourism Department and alert them to the potential damage being done to Spain´s image on the yachting scene.

At some point in the future surely the left hand needs to catch up with the right hand and actually figure how they are going to promote leisure boating in Spain rather than destroy what little of the nautical sector they have compared to other Mediterranean Countries.

Don´t miss out - Competent Crew or Day Skipper week

We have one space remaining on our sail training week commencing 31st August. Learn to sail or improve skills on or Competent Crew or Day Skipper week. Enjoy sailing in the Spanish Sun and return home with a tan before the European winter takes hold. Experience sailing as it should be in a warm climate with crystal clear waters, take in the Costas Calida and Blanca as we explore whilst learning, so don´t miss out and give Debbie a call on 0034 695 326184 to find out more or contact us using the form on the main webpage www.go-n-sail.com

Sailing trips

The 3 hour sailing trips are proving as popular as ever, with the mercury rising and temperatures becoming unbearable away from the coast, there really is no better trip out for the family.
Sailing times are 10.30 and 15.30 daily subject to weather, give Debbie a call to find out more

Mazarron sailing trips

Our 3 hour sailing trips leaving from the Puerto Deportivo Mazarron have begun again and will run until the end of August. Just as in previous years trips are proving as popular as ever. Come along and get involved pulling a few lines or relax and soak up the sun before plunging into crystal clear waters or maybe enjoying a snorkelling experience with the fishes.

To join us, all that is needed is a towel, sense of humour and a mere 35€ per person, trips run everyday leaving from just in-front of the underground car park. Departure times are 10.30am and 15.30pm.

If your looking for a trip with a difference or to celebrate a special occasion, why not join us for a sunset cruise and enjoy a sun-downer as the day comes to a close with the sun sinking into the Mazarron hills.

To find out more or to make a reservation, call Debbie on 0034 695 326 184