Sailing
Sailing off into the sunset is most peoples idea of paradise,
and this island can certainly make those dreams come true.
This sport has no age limits and offers
something for everyone from a gentle excursion around the
coastline to the more intense demands of physical yacht
racing. Sailing is also a team-building sport and can be
undertaken for a day out, or even for weeks at a time. Some
of the most important requirements of this sport are a complete
knowledge of the safety aspects required, a good pair of
sea legs plus a good memory, a heavy wallet as sailing can
be quite expensive.
From the initial investment of the boat
to the equipment required, and of course the ongoing expense,
it could certainly pay to hire initially to be certain its
something that you have both the time and money to invest
in. There are many registered clubs and organisations that
offer comprehensive courses, provide all the equipment and
organise excursions
offering an opportunity for the participant to enjoy the
ocean without getting completely wet.
As with wind surfing, sailing also requires
knowledge of the water and wind patterns as well as the
basic components of the boat itself. There are three essential
parts of the boat; the sails, hull and rudder. Fabric sails
are attached to a mast that intercept the wind and carry
the boat along. The sail pivots off the mast, which allows
the boat to catch wind at a variety of different angles
making it possible for the boat to sail against the direction
of the wind.
The hull is a rigid, streamlined shape that
must cover enough surface area to support the weight of
the boat itself, including its cargo. It floats because
it weighs less than the water it displaces. The hull includes
a part referred to as a keel, or in smaller boats, a centreboard
that extends down into the water to keep the boat from being
blown sideways. These components also help the hull track
in a straight line as wind, sea currents and swell all effect
the boat’s movement.
The steering is controlled by the rudder,
a paddle found under the boat, which, when turned, pivots
on the centre point of the hull and takes the boat off in
the required direction. A tiller (the wooden pole directly
attached to the rudder), has to be moved away from the direction
you want to turn whereas a wheel has the hidden gears designed
to turn the rudder in the correct direction makes the steering
similar to the way you would steer a car.
Although the majority of what needs to be
learnt will happen while at sea there are some steps that
you can take that will help to gain the most out of a sailing
experience.
1) Take layers of clothing so that they
can be removed or added as necessary. There is often very
little shade on a boat so cool cotton clothing will help
to prevent sunburn and sun stroke.
2) Make a checklist of basic equipment and
accessories and organise them neatly on board so they are
always close at hand.
3) Reading up on sailing can help to develop
different tried and tested techniques and make the experience
more challenging.
4) Keep a sailing diary noting your performance,
areas that were difficult and those where you excelled.
This will both encourage you and act as a reference point
for problems that may occur while sailing without tuition.
The sailing experience is to feel the freedom,
space and uncontrolled movement of the sea. As with most
sports, perseverance is essential and highly rewarded when
you are able to sail alone. For those that feel this is
all a little to active, the benefits of sailing can be simply
indulged aboard a catamaran where every whim is catered
for from drinks, lunch and plenty of sunbathing space while
the more willing and experienced do the hard work!
You can also charter yachts from Puerto
Calero among other places, to enjoy the sensations of
freedom cruising the Canarian waters, dropping anchor in
lonesome bays, near Papagayo
swimming in the crystal clear water, having an 'intimate
sunbath', relaxing on small golden beaches, fishing, eating,
having a 'siesta' to the sound of the sea... You can also
take an excursion on
one of the many island cruises available. Look out for dolphins,
wales and turtles and anchor in picturesque harbours. Appreciate
the Canary Islands from their best side.
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