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Embarking on a sailing adventure is a thrilling journey into the unknown, but modern technology has paved the way for safer, more informed voyages. In this comprehensive guide, discover the best apps for sailing in 2023 that seasoned liveaboards swear by.

Navigating the Seas: Essential Apps for Sailing

While the allure of disconnecting from technology is appealing, certain apps are lifelines for sailors, offering crucial information like weather forecasts and navigational aids.

Navigation and Anchoring Apps: 

Navionics: Your Comprehensive Navigation Companion

Navionics isn’t just a chart plotter replacement; it’s a cost-effective solution providing comprehensive charts for an entire region. Its regular updates and crucial details about anchorages make it indispensable. However, a note of caution—relying solely on digital navigation could have its pitfalls.

Tides Planner: Tidal Information Simplified

Tides Planner from Imray is a boon for sailors in tidal regions, offering reliable data and ensuring accurate calculations, especially for those less adept at handling tidal range calculations.

MarineTraffic: Enhancing Safety on the Waters

This app leverages phone signals to access AIS information, aiding in the identification and tracking of boats in your vicinity. While not a foolproof solution, it provides valuable insights for collision avoidance, particularly in conditions of poor visibility.

Get real about sailboat living costs and plan your realistic budget

Google Earth: Visualizing Anchorages

Google Earth proves surprisingly handy for sailors seeking detailed visuals of anchorages, especially when other apps lack comprehensive information. It serves as a useful backup for confirming the suitability of anchorages.

Navily: Your Anchorage Encyclopedia

Navily, a go-to app for anchorage information, offers detailed insights into protection levels, bottom holding, and amenities. While highly beneficial, user experiences might vary, requiring a pinch of personal judgment.

Discover Sailmon App – free tracking on the water here

No Foreign Land: The Anchorage Goldmine

This website serves as a treasure trove of anchorage and marina reviews. Besides offering essential information, it fosters connections between sailors, making it an invaluable resource for those seeking camaraderie.

Anchor Watch: A Guardian for Your Boat

While some sailors swear by Anchor Watch for its GPS-based alarm system, ensuring protection against drifting, others encounter technical glitches. However, its concept remains promising for added security.

Predict Wind: Reliable Wind Forecasts

Predict Wind stands out for its accuracy and comprehensive wind forecasts. Its ability to compare various models and provide insights into predicted conditions makes it a go-to choice for many sailors, although it’s wise to add a buffer to predicted wind speeds for safety.

Windy: A Viable Alternative

For areas where other weather apps falter, Windy emerges as a preferred choice among sailors. While personal preferences might dictate ease of use, combining predictions from multiple apps offers a more holistic understanding of the weather.

Blitzortung: Lightning Alert System

When sudden storms strike, Blitzortung’s real-time lightning tracking provides invaluable information. Especially in regions prone to lightning strikes, this app offers a visual guide to storms, aiding in timely preparations.

Unveil the significance of sailboat masts here

Beyond Sailing: Other Useful Apps

Venturing beyond the confines of sailing-specific applications opens a world of versatile tools that complement and enhance a sailor’s experience.

Sail Expert: Maintenance Log Companion

Sail Expert, while offering a range of functions, shines in its ability to maintain detailed sailing and maintenance logs. Utilizing device sensors, it automatically records crucial voyage details, alleviating the burden of manual log-keeping.

Knots 3D: Knot-Tying Made Simple

Even seasoned sailors occasionally forget specific knots. Knots 3D comes to the rescue with its extensive database and 3D visualizations, facilitating easy knot-tying and retrieval of less frequently used knots.

Stargazing Apps for Sailing: Navigating by the Stars

For serene nights at sea, star gazing apps like Star Walk 2 offer celestial guidance. Their accuracy aids in identifying stars and planets, adding a touch of wonder and assisting in celestial navigation.

Audible: The Sailing Audiobook Oasis

While not a dedicated sailing app, Audible becomes a sailor’s best companion during long passages. Offering a diverse array of audiobooks, it keeps boredom at bay, making tedious tasks on the boat more enjoyable.

Should-Be Apps for Sailing

These ‘Should-Be’ apps offer diverse functionalities, ranging from financial management to informative resources, carving a distinctive place within the sailing community’s toolkit.

Revolut: Financial Management Simplified

Revolut, a financial management app, proves indispensable for sailors handling finances overseas. Offering excellent exchange rates and intuitive money management tools, it streamlines financial oversight while abroad.

YouTube: The Sailor’s Informative Hub

YouTube has evolved into a sailor’s encyclopedia, providing tutorials for boat maintenance and realistic portrayals of life at sea. A valuable resource, it offers insights into both challenges and joys of sailing.

Zoom, WhatsApp Video, or Skype: Bridging Distances

For sailors separated from loved ones, video calling apps like Zoom and WhatsApp are a lifeline. Enabling virtual connections, they alleviate feelings of isolation during long voyages.

Google Maps: Navigating Unfamiliar Shores

Exploring new territories becomes easier with Google Maps, helping sailors locate provisions or services in unfamiliar areas. Its versatility aids in planning and navigating both on land and at sea.

Instagram: Community and Insight Hub

Surprisingly, Instagram serves as a haven for sailors to connect, share experiences, and seek advice. Building a sailing-oriented profile facilitates networking within the sailing community, offering a wealth of knowledge and camaraderie.

New Sailing Apps on the Horizon

Discover the future of sailing assistance with these upcoming apps, set to revolutionize navigation, safety, and efficiency for seafarers:

SailGuru

SailGuru is an emerging app designed to provide real-time insights into weather patterns, wind shifts, and potential hazards. Its interactive interface offers detailed navigational charts and predictive analytics, making it a promising tool for planning safe and efficient passages.

TidalWave Navigator

For sailors navigating tidal waters, TidalWave Navigator integrates advanced tidal data with user-friendly mapping. Offering precise tidal predictions and current flow patterns, this app assists in optimizing routes and anchorage planning, especially in regions with significant tidal fluctuations.

BoatTracker Pro

BoatTracker Pro is revolutionizing boat safety. By leveraging cutting-edge GPS technology, it allows users to monitor their vessel’s location, receive alerts for unexpected movements, and share live tracking data with trusted contacts. This app offers peace of mind by enhancing security while on the water.

Sailor’s Log

Sailor’s Log is a comprehensive logbook app designed to simplify record-keeping and voyage documentation. Its intuitive interface allows sailors to log routes, track maintenance schedules, and capture memorable moments, serving as a valuable digital diary for every sailing adventure.

WindSense

WindSense is an innovative app that amalgamates local wind forecasts with live sensor data from nearby vessels. This collaboration enables more accurate wind predictions, aiding sailors in adjusting sails and optimizing performance based on real-time wind behavior.

Do you know about Waterspeed? Learn more here 

Handy Tips and Life Hacks for Sailors

• Maximizing Solar Power: Optimize solar energy utilization by investing in portable solar panels. These can charge essential devices, reducing reliance on engine-driven charging and expanding energy autonomy while at sea;
• DIY Repair Toolkit: Equip yourself with a comprehensive toolkit for onboard repairs. Include essential items like epoxy putty, spare parts, and a repair manual tailored to your vessel. Basic DIY skills coupled with the right tools can solve many unexpected issues;
• Practical Knot Mastery:Expand your repertoire of knots by practicing a new one regularly. Knots like the bowline or the figure-eight knot serve multiple purposes and mastering them enhances safety and efficiency on board;
• Local Wisdom and Community Engagement: Connect with local sailors and communities in new ports. Often, locals possess invaluable insights into secluded anchorages, resourceful facilities, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that can enrich your sailing journey;
• Emergency Preparedness: Create a comprehensive emergency protocol and familiarize your crew with it. Conduct regular drills for scenarios like man overboard, engine failure, or sudden adverse weather conditions to ensure everyone is prepared to respond swiftly and effectively.

Conclusion

Each app serves as a digital compass, guiding sailors through the ever-changing tides of the seas. They aren’t mere tools; they’re companions, offering safety, knowledge, and sometimes, a touch of entertainment during long passages.

In this world of endless horizons, where the wind whispers tales of uncharted territories, these apps stand as beacons, illuminating the way forward. They represent innovation in the timeless art of sailing, empowering sailors with a vast array of resources, ultimately transforming the once-unfathomable seas into navigable, knowable realms.

As technology evolves and new horizons emerge, these sail apps continue to evolve, offering sailors not just convenience, but an endless journey of learning and discovery on the open waters. They reflect the fusion of the past and the future, encapsulating the spirit of exploration that defines the essence of sailing itself.

The jib sail, a key element of a sailboat, is a triangular sail positioned ahead of the mast. Its versatility in size and shape makes it suitable for various sailing conditions, playing a crucial role in the vessel’s performance.

The Significance of a Jib Sail in Sailing

This triangular sail significantly enhances a sailboat’s navigation capabilities. Positioned at the forefront, it’s pivotal in capturing wind power and assisting in maneuvering and speed control. Unlike the mainsail, the jib relies less on direct force, adapting swiftly to changing winds for optimal sailing.

Navigating with a Jib: Tips and Techniques

Efficient use of the jib sail necessitates an understanding of wind conditions and sail adjustments. While some sailors prefer sailing with the jib alone, it’s essential to balance this preference with knowledge of sail dynamics.

The Anatomy of a Jib Sail

Understanding a jib sail’s parts, such as the luff, leech, foot, tack, head, and clew, is crucial for effective sailing. Each component plays a specific role in the sail’s performance.

Adjusting and Maintaining Your Jib 

Maintaining and adjusting a jib sail is vital for optimal sailing performance. Regularly inspecting the sail for wear and tear, particularly along seams and attachment points, ensures longevity. When adjusting the jib, focus on the halyard tension to maintain the sail’s shape. The clew and yard position is crucial for effective wind capture. In varying wind conditions, adapt the Cunningham and outhaul settings. 

The right balance in the jib’s trim is essential: an overly tight jib can hinder maneuverability, while a too-loose jib fails to harness wind efficiently. Regular cleaning, safe storage, and professional repairs when needed are key maintenance practices. By understanding and applying these practices, sailors can ensure their jib sail remains a reliable and effective component of their vessel.

The Variety of Jib Sails and Their Uses :

The variety in jib sails caters to diverse sailing conditions and styles. Standard jibs are all-rounders, suitable for various wind conditions and sailing purposes. Genoas, larger, excel in upwind performance, providing more power by capturing additional wind. They are ideal for racers and cruisers needing extra thrust. Storm jibs, smaller and sturdier, are designed for heavy weather sailing, offering stability and safety during high winds. Racing jibs are tailored for competitive sailing, emphasizing lightweight materials for speed and quick response. Selecting the appropriate jib sail depends on factors like the size of the boat, prevailing wind conditions, and the sailor’s experience. Understanding each type’s unique features and optimal conditions can significantly enhance a sailor’s adaptability and success on the water.

Jib Sail Materials: Making the Right Choice

The material of a jib sail plays a crucial role in its performance and durability. Polyester, particularly laminated Dacron, is a popular choice for its balance between durability and performance, suitable for cruisers who prioritize longevity. For racers, materials like Kevlar offer lightweight advantages and minimal stretch, crucial for maintaining sail shape and maximizing speed. 

However, Kevlar’s susceptibility to UV damage and higher cost makes it less ideal for cruising. Advanced materials like carbon fiber and laminates combine light weight with high strength, but their cost and maintenance requirements may not suit all sailors. Sailors should consider factors like sailing style, frequency, budget, and expected conditions when selecting jib sail materials. The right material choice can greatly affect the sail’s efficiency, ease of handling, and overall sailing experience.

Key Points: The Role of a Jib Sail

• Enhanced Maneuverability: The jib sail’s position and shape provide better control and agility for the sailboat;
• Wind Adaptation: Its ability to adjust to varying wind conditions optimizes sailing performance;
• Variability in Size: Jibs can be customized in size to suit different sailing needs and conditions;
• Essential for Navigational Precision: Critical for fine-tuning the boat’s direction and speed.

Comparative Table: Types of Jib Sails

Jib Type	Usage	Characteristics
Standard Jib	General Sailing	Balanced size, versatile for various conditions
Genoa	Upwind Performance	Larger, extends beyond the mast for more power
Storm Jib	Harsh Weather	Smaller, robust design for high wind stability
Racing Jib	Competitive Sailing	Lightweight, designed for speed and agility

Conclusion

In summary, the jib sail is an indispensable component of a sailboat, offering both functional and aesthetic value. Understanding its role, types, and maintenance can significantly enhance sailing efficiency and enjoyment.

Considering a life on a sailboat evokes dreams of adventure, freedom, and a unique lifestyle. However, one of the primary concerns for prospective sailors is the actual cost involved. How much does it truly take to live on board a sailboat? We’ll dive deep into various expense categories to provide a comprehensive understanding of this adventurous lifestyle.

Food Costs When Sailing

Sailing demands a thoughtful approach to provisioning and meal planning. Understanding the dynamics of food expenses is crucial. Initially, finding a balance between quality and cost was a challenge. 

Adjustments, like substituting expensive items with budget-friendly alternatives, became essential. Smart shopping strategies, such as seeking out cheaper supermarkets and stocking up on long-term provisions in costlier locations, helped stretch the budget. 

Monthly Food Spend

Initially budgeted at £200, adapting to quality food within this budget was a challenge. However, prudent shopping and compromises helped maintain a satisfactory diet within these constraints.

Fuel Expenses

Fuel needs on a sailboat encompass various elements, from diesel for the main engine to gas for cooking. Unexpected factors, like unreliable wind forecasts, affected our petrol consumption. Utilizing rowing as much as possible significantly cut down emergency dinghy petrol costs. Exploring solar options for cooking further aims to reduce our monthly gas expenses.

Learn about cutting-edge sailing tools in this article. 

Monthly Fuel Cost

Averaging at £57.10 over the year, diligent planning and conservative use significantly reduced these expenses, making them comparable to previous commuting costs.

Working On Board

Incorporating work-related costs, including phone bills and potential equipment failures, is integral. Ensuring connectivity for work necessitates a part of our budget. Additionally, allocating funds for unexpected replacements or repairs safeguards against financial strain in emergencies.

Monthly Work-Related Expenses

Maintaining connectivity and addressing potential equipment issues, averaging at £69 a month, ensures smooth operations aboard.

Sailboat Essentials

Essential boat-related expenditures span marina fees, chart subscriptions, courtesy flags, and other ongoing necessities. Strategies to minimize costs, like utilizing free quays and leveraging solar power for electricity, significantly curtailed expenses. However, essential maintenance and unexpected yard expenses were unanticipated.

Explore another variant of budget of living on a sailboat 

Monthly Essentials Cost

Averaging at £255, encompassing vital boat needs and mitigating marina expenses through strategic planning.

Sailboat Maintenance

The cost of maintaining a sailboat is significant. Unforeseen repairs and replacements, especially for critical components like the windlass, impacted our budget. Seeking professional help for engine maintenance added to these expenses. While attempting DIY maintenance, certain complex repairs required professional intervention.

Monthly Maintenance Cost

An average of £375.46, primarily incurred during winter months due to essential repair and replacement work.

Budget for Luxuries

A small allocation for personal indulgences and entertainment adds to the monthly expenses. While this category is flexible, conscious spending on recreational activities and occasional luxuries contributes to the overall lifestyle experience.

Monthly Luxury Spending

Maintained at £36.66, mainly directed towards celebratory occasions and occasional treats, enriching our sailing journey.

Helpful Budgeting Tips

Leveraging financial tools like Revolut aids in cost control and overseas spending management. Creating budgets and monitoring expenses through intuitive apps streamlines financial organization, providing real-time insights and control.

Buying an Old Boat – Hidden Costs

Purchasing a sailboat entails substantial initial outlay and ongoing expenses. The process involves meticulous budgeting, factoring in acquisition costs, and anticipated post-purchase investments for personalization and maintenance.

The Grand Total – Understanding Costs

The total cost of living on a sailboat varies significantly based on individual circumstances. While initial months showcased a budget of £625.79, strategic planning and adaptations led to a year-average of £993.22. This variance highlights the adaptability and potential for cost-cutting in this lifestyle.

Updated Costs: Third Year Insights

Reflecting on three years of sailing reveals shifts in spending patterns. Increased income led to heightened food and luxury expenses while reduced maintenance and mooring fees optimized costs. This evolution showcases adaptability and the potential for a flexible budget in long-term sailing.

Discover what sailors pay for food

Navigating Financial Adaptation

Living on a sailboat presents a continual learning curve, especially regarding financial adaptation. Beyond the outlined expenses, a deeper understanding emerges from the day-to-day realities of this lifestyle:

• Adapting Meal Plans: Embracing local cuisines and seasonal produce significantly impacts food costs. Engaging with local markets and adopting a flexible approach to meal planning offers both savings and diverse culinary experiences;
• Environmental Considerations: Leveraging renewable energy sources, such as solar power, not only minimizes costs but also aligns with eco-friendly practices. Exploring eco-conscious alternatives contributes to long-term sustainability while potentially reducing expenses;
• Community Engagement: Building connections within the sailing community often unveils cost-saving opportunities. Shared resources, collective knowledge, and communal support mitigate individual expenses and foster a sense of camaraderie;
• Practical Skill Development: Acquiring DIY skills for minor repairs and maintenance significantly reduces reliance on professional services, thereby trimming overall expenditures. Investing time in learning basic mechanical and electrical skills proves invaluable;
• Cultural Immersion: Embracing local customs and adapting to diverse cultural practices enriches the sailing experience. Engaging with local communities often reveals cost-effective alternatives for various necessities.

Ongoing Financial Evolution

The financial journey of living on a sailboat continues to evolve, shaped by individual experiences and evolving circumstances:

• Flexibility in Expenditure: Over time, the flexibility to adjust budgets based on changing preferences and circumstances becomes apparent. Priorities shift, and financial allocations adapt accordingly to align with evolving needs and desires;
• Long-Term Financial Sustainability: Balancing short-term indulgences with long-term financial sustainability becomes a key consideration. As the sailing journey progresses, maintaining a sustainable financial outlook ensures continued enjoyment of this unique lifestyle;
• Adaptation to External Factors: External factors, such as global situations impacting travel and income streams, necessitate adaptable financial strategies. Developing resilience against unforeseen circumstances becomes integral;
• Holistic Lifestyle Integration: Beyond financial considerations, the sailboat lifestyle encompasses a holistic integration of values, experiences, and personal growth. Striking a balance between financial prudence and lifestyle fulfillment remains an ongoing endeavor.

Conclusion

Living on a sailboat is a compelling blend of adventure and financial mindfulness. It’s a lifestyle that beckons one to navigate not just the seas but also the intricate currents of budgeting and financial prudence.

From culinary creativity to harnessing nature’s elements, sailors master the art of frugality without compromising on the essence of the voyage. Budgeting for essentials, managing unforeseen expenses, and balancing indulgences with financial moderation define the sailor’s financial journey.

The evolving nature of sailboat living costs unveils valuable insights. Adapting to changing financial landscapes and imbibing lessons from the sea fosters not just adventure but also financial wisdom for a lifetime.

In recent years, paddleboarding has found its way into a trendy hobby. Paddleboards can often be rented in many swimming spots, but people are so enthusiastic about the hobby that more and more prefer to buy the boards for themselves. It is a low-threshold activity that does not require extraordinary skills.

In all its versatility, paddleboarding can be both an effective sport and a moment of peaceful relaxation. Many practice yoga on their SUP boards or even discover the underwater world in the calm and clear waters. Paddleboarding has become a straightforward way of life for many people. On the board, body balance and muscles can develop almost unnoticed, but many also engage in effective, heart rate-raising sweat workouts.

Paddleboarding is suitable for people of almost any age or condition.

Below, we give the beginner tips on how to try this water sport so that the first time on the board runs as smoothly as possible and there is no room for doubt.

The paddleboard and the balance

SUP stands for stand-up paddling. However, this does not oblige anyone to stand. The board can initially be explored while sitting in complete peace so that the techniques of kayaking become familiar. Some old veterans also paddle sitting – admiring and relaxing.

It is always a good idea to get up from your knees so that your head does not bump into anything in the event of a fall. Stand in a sturdy crotch position in the middle of the board. This is the best balance point on the board and this is where you should set your body every time. Many first-timers are afraid of the instability and swaying of the board, but the fear is completely unfounded! You can get a feel for the real stability of the board by carefully shifting its weight from side to side. It is not advisable to let the knees lock in a straight line, but it is a good idea to keep them a little flexible at all times.

The paddleboard and its use

The paddle should be approximately twenty centimeters longer than its wearer. It takes a decent wide grip, with one hand on the paddle handle and the other on the handle. Don’t hold the handle with both hands. Immerse the entire paddle shoulder in the water, as the movement is much slower and smoother when it is only half submerged. Make the most of your middle body in the movement, not just your hands. This puts more strength into the movement and makes the rush a more effective full-body workout, even if it’s not your goal. Simply maintaining balance on the board will develop the muscles of your middle body and legs. It would be a good idea to make more efforts on the other side before changing the kayaking side, so the board slides faster and faster.

Security and equipment

While paddling, you may move even in deep waters, so safety is of course paramount. The board itself floats, which already brings certain security. It is attached with a string to the paddleboarder’s ankle so that it does not escape when he may fall off the board. Without a runaway strap, you shouldn’t go out into the water at all, because if the board goes with the wind, a paddleboarder is in real trouble. Floating vests are also a good solution, especially for those who doubt their swimming skills. However, falling off the board is not common, as they are typically fairly stable to move as long as the paddleboarder himself acts responsibly and avoids good distances from other paddleboarders, for example. The beach should also be close enough to get there relatively quickly, for example when a thunderstorm strikes.

Being prepared for the weather is an essential thing when paddleboarding but there are a few other important things. For a longer kayaking trip, you can even pack a decent lunch, and for example, getting a waterproof backpack is a good investment as well. At the very least, it would be a good idea to always bring a bottle of water with you, because, as said earlier, SUP boarding can become a workout. When the sun is shining, it should definitely be accompanied by headgear and sunscreen with a high protection factor, which should also be used at regular intervals when paddling for a long time. The surface of the water reflects the sun’s rays a lot, which greatly increases the risk of burns. Sunglasses may also be good to grab along for the same reason.

Although most of the body is covered in cooler weather, it is still good to protect exposed skin with sunscreen. You can paddle well in the water all year round, and even in winter, it does not require any special arrangements other than warmer clothes. Drysuits are sold by almost all shops specializing in water sports and hiking. It would be good to have a merino wool layer, for example, especially in the harshest winter frosts.

That’s it! Every beginning can be tough but paddling is so much fun, so don’t hesitate to try this awesome activity and share your impressions!

Now that the countries have started to open their borders again and travel is possible again, a luxury cruise could be just the right way to relax and let your nerves rest. There is plenty to choose from: the cruise ship, the destination, the route, and the length of the voyage, and there is guaranteed to be a pleasant option for the needs of each customer group. Some long for a little break from everyday life, while others long for a longer cruise with all the goodies. Below there are a few inspiring options for travel fever.

A day cruise

A day cruise can be the right solution for a busy person who needs a little detachment from everyday life. Day cruises are often quite inexpensive and often on offer. In particular, weekday departures are often only available for € 10, which makes them very popular. The purpose of these cruises is typically to land at the destination countries to spend the day.

In sunny weather, you can spend time on the deck of the ship with a cold drink. Indoors, on the other hand, there are the tax-free stores, where you can spend a lot of time, for example, choosing cheap cosmetics and delicacies.

Day cruises usually leave the port early in the morning, so those who board the ship have access to the land all day. The ship returns in the early evening and on the way back there is typically an organized program and the opportunity to dine or enjoy the bar. It’s easy to embark on such a journey when inspiration strikes. You don’t even have to pack a suitcase with you, although bringing a swimming suit and sunglasses would definitely make sense!

An overnight cruise

Overnight cruises are especially popular among young people and big companies. For the second group of guests, the ship has meeting rooms for rent. There, the staff can spend the day. In the evening, a standing table with all its delicacies offers favorable conditions for colleagues to get to know each other better. The music plays on the ship the whole night but you can also have a rest in your own, comfortable cabin.

You can also go on a cruise with the whole family because children will be also interested in the program. Being on board alone is often inspiring for children, as it differs from ordinary everyday life in many ways. For example, cruise ships offer a play corner, where you can usually find at least the balloon sea. In addition, slightly older children may be interested in traditional arcade-type games that can be played for little money.

Parents will be able to breathe for a moment and relax because even the pickiest child will find something to enjoy during the trip. Of course, a trip with a large family can hit the pocket and many families choose to fund their cruises with credit cards. According to Bastakreditkort – a Swedish service that reviews credit cards – Scandinavians are the biggest lovers of cruises. 17% of their users, who use their website to compare credit card terms, spend money exactly on cruises. The terms of the most frequently used credit cards can be checked here and here.

Ships today have a wide range of payment options, especially for cruises between eurozone countries, so there’s no need to worry about currency conversions. Tax frees can very well be paid for in cash or with a number of different cards. The cards often also include travel insurance, which is always sensible to invest in case of unexpected events.

Luxury cruise

If the goal is a decent vacation, a multi-day cruise may be the right solution. These cruises typically do not land ashore at all. Guests enjoy a vacation specifically at sea. Ships sail in the Eastern or Western Mediterranean and prices range from € 900 to € 1,350 for a week-long trip in a standard double cabin.

Perhaps when embarking on such a trip, you should also invest in a luxury cabin with all the treats, so that the trip really comes with the same feeling of luxury as staying in a hotel on land. There are many cabin options, the most expensive being the suite. Seven nights in a suite for two adults would cost around € 3,500. In addition to the restaurants and nightclubs included in the package, the luxury cruiser offers, for example, a spa department with various pampering treatments and a gym for those who remain active on holiday. Massage, jacuzzi, and a good dinner with a delicious dessert form a relaxing package for those in need of a real holiday. The complex is crowned by a room with a magnificent sea view and a soft bed. Calm sea waves to the deep sleep of a thoroughly relaxed traveler.

World-class entertainment from acrobatics to comedy and theater is available during the day. Some of the performances are included in the price of the trip, but sometimes there is also a program for an additional fee. Even a person who is always on the move will not have time to get bored, even on a week-long cruise. When the weather is good, you can spend time on the deck of the ship sunbathing with a good drink and book.

Windsurfing – boarding with a sail – was born in the middle of the last century. And the 70s were marked not only by the sexual revolution, but also by the flourishing of this sport. The new generation strived for freedom and active recreation, windsurfing was gaining popularity not only in America, but also in Europe: every third German family had a board with a sail. Windsurfing has developed rapidly, sails have become lighter, boards are faster, and now it not only inspires thousands of people around the world, but is also part of the Olympic Games program.

Pedal boats are designed for outdoor activities. They are used mainly at leisure, as one of the ways to move along a river, lake, sea surface, without dipping into it. Such trips not only entertain, allow you to walk long distances, but also strengthen your health. Moderate physical activity improves blood circulation, stimulates metabolic processes, and guarantees an energy boost. In addition, weight-watchers will appreciate such walks. You can train the muscles of the legs, abs, burning calories without much stress.

The most common are water bicycles at recreation centers and beaches. It is easy to purchase such craft for personal use. For example, the demand for catamarans is high among residents of the private sector, owners of summer cottages, where there is access to the beach, pier.

The advantages of water transport include:

environmental friendliness;
noiselessness;
versatility. Suitable for adults and children;
profitability. Does not require fuel and energy source;
ease of care. In the manufacture, special materials are used that are not susceptible to corrosion (stainless alloys, plastic).
You can use a water bike literally in any weather, until the pond freezes over. If it is no longer possible to swim, it will still allow you to enjoy the walk.

Rowing in kayaks and canoes is a type of non-stop rowing on boats, kayaks or canoes. It is an Olympic species since 1936 (it was first presented at the 1924 Olympic Games as a representative species). In addition to the actual rowing and canoeing or sprint (from the English. Canoe sprint) there are many other disciplines using these types of boats. Of these, only rowing slalom is included in the Olympic program.

International competitions in rowing and canoeing are held under the auspices of the International Canoe Federation (ICF). In Russia, its representative is the All-Russian Federation of Kayaking and Canoeing (VFGBK).

Both men and women are engaged in rowing and canoeing. Recently, mixed sports, the so-called mix, will also be included in the program of international competitions.

There are boats for one participant – singles, two participants – deuces and four participants – fours.