Castle Rock is a submerged seamount divesite in northern Komodo, usually dived in strong current, negative entry and known for having plenty of shark action….Whitetips, Blacktips and even Grey Reef sharks can be seen here along with schools of Trevally, Fusiliers and Surgeonfish.

0

0

0

45

Sailing holidays: the perfect way to have fun, feel the wind on your face and taste the freedom.

0

0

0

611

We got increasingly frustrated by our small petrol (gas) outboards that we use very infrequently on our dinghies and Chat 18 catamaran. Never quite knowing whether they would start, or how long they would run. Usually because the small jets would clog up, a problem aggravated by the ethanol fuel now used in the UK, USA and elsewhere. So earlier this year we bit the bullet and bought a used Torqeedo 1103 electric outboard. It was on ebay, from "one careful lady owner" - actually the advert said "only used on a fresh water trout farm" which we hoped was much the same thing. And we have been very pleased with it this summer, using it on Sagitta's tender, sometimes for long distances, yet never seeing the charge drop below 80% So we then tried using it on our Chat 18. And immediately discovered two problems, probably common to other small daysailing boats. First, the battery was much larger than the integral petrol fuel tank. So, when tilted up on the swingdown bracket, the Torqeedo hit the tillerbar. That meant we had to use the transom mount, which in turn meant the leg had to be angled back in use to clear the immersed rudder blade. Very inefficient and too close to the surface. And second, when tilted up and turned sideways the tiller control arm would detach - something that doesn't happen with a petrol outboard. So we had to remove it, and then reattach it whenever we wanted to motor. Fortunately Torqeedo has realised that many people have these problems and so supply reasonably priced, extra long cables, not just for the battery but also for the tiller arm. Accordingly we bought a 1.5m (5ft) battery cable and a 5m (16ft) tiller cable. This video shows the results of the first motor, one calm winter evening. I still have to re-route the cables through the back of the cockpit and more permanently mount the tiller arm. The deeper propellor is more efficient and there is no aeration when cornering or in waves. Top speed was very close to 5 knots, about hull speed on an 18ft boat. In reverse speed was about 3 knots. Although it's more awkward to lift the outboard leg without the battery in place it does now fit comfortably below the tillerbar when raised for sailing. So we're very happy so far! For once there is audio on this short video. But even if you turn the volume to high you won't hear the outboard - another bonus! More on the Chat 18 here https://sailingcatamarans.com/index.php/designs-2/2-catamarans-under-25ft/475-chat-18-daysailing-catamaran And Torqeedo here https://nestawayboats.com/

0

0

0

34

0

0

0

0

3,491

https://www.charterworld.com/index.html?sub=yacht-charter&charter=motor-yacht-diabolik-11577

0

0

0

256

After a full day of sailing through Croatia’s sun-soaked Adriatic waters, there’s no better way to top it off than a night out in one of the country’s most iconic island towns—Hvar. Known for its vibrant nightlife, historic charm, and elegant waterfront, Hvar is the perfect destination for a relaxed yet unforgettable evening ashore. Our crew, sailing aboard a spacious catamaran with Alitis Yachting, was ready to swap their deck shoes for something a bit more festive. With their experienced skipper—who, by mutual agreement, joined the crew for the night—they set off to explore the best of Hvar after dark. Arriving in Style Pulling into Hvar’s harbor just before sunset, the views were spectacular—stone buildings glowing golden in the last light of day, yachts lined up along the promenade, and the fortress high above, watching over it all. Once the catamaran was safely moored, the crew freshened up and headed out, ready for a night of delicious food, flowing drinks, and island magic. Dinner with a View The evening began with a dinner reservation at a cozy seafront restaurant, handpicked by the skipper, who knows the town like a local. The menu? Fresh-caught fish, grilled octopus, handmade pasta, and Dalmatian wines that paired perfectly with the sea breeze and sunset. There’s something special about sharing a meal on land after a day at sea—stories flow easily, laughter gets louder, and the bond between crew members grows stronger. Cocktails and Good Vibes After dinner, the group moved on to one of Hvar’s stylish cocktail lounges, tucked between historic buildings and bougainvillea-covered walls. With music in the background and craft drinks in hand, the energy of the night started to rise. For those in the mood, the evening continued at Hula Hula Beach Bar for sunset beats and then on to Carpe Diem, Hvar’s legendary waterfront club, where dancing under the stars is practically tradition. Skipper or Crew – Just Friends on Shore What makes sailing with Alitis Yachting truly different is the human touch. Their skippers aren’t just there to sail—they’re part of the experience. With professionalism, flexibility, and a genuine love for the sea and hospitality, they know when to give space, and when to join in. On nights like this, the skipper becomes part of the fun—joining the crew for dinner, sharing local tips, and maybe even raising a toast or two. Back on Board: Quiet Nights & Starry Skies After the party, the crew returned to the comfort of their catamaran. Some stayed up a little longer, sitting on deck under the stars, letting the gentle rocking of the boat and the sounds of the harbor lull them into total relaxation. This is what makes sailing with Alitis Yachting special: adventure by day, celebration by night, and a floating home that’s always waiting for you. Looking for a sailing holiday that blends freedom, fun, and local charm? Set sail with Alitis Yachting, and let nights like Hvar become part of your story. ALITIS YACHTING yachting@alitis.hr +38598229437 croatia-sailing-family-holidays.com/

0

0

0

54