The Pegasus 50 seamlessly combines luxurious comfort with high-performance sailing, featuring a bright, well-connected living space protected by thoughtful safety features and a solid windshield. Its modern hull design and precise engineering deliver both thrilling speeds for experienced racers and comfortable ocean cruising, earning it the nickname “Gentleman’s racing boat.”

Key Features:

• Saloon with 360 degree view
• Lots of natural light
• Foldable roof sidewings
• Gimballed settee
• Spacious and organized technical compartments

Specs at a Glance:

• Hull length 14,94 m 49 ft
• Beam max. 4,82 m 15.84 ft
• Draft standard 2,35 m 7.7 ft
• Operational Displacement 11.700 kg 25,794 lbs
• Ballast ratio (to dry weight) 33,2%
• Main sail – full batten, triradial + Antal ball bearing sliders 68,39 m2 736.14 ft2
• J1 – 104% – Triradial 60,37 m2 649.82 ft2
• J2 – Self-tacking jib + endless furler 32,09 m2 345.41 ft2
• Asymmetrical spinnaker + endless furler 188,00 m2 2023.62 ft2
• Water capacity 740 l 195 gal
• Diesel capacity 480 l 127 gal
• Category CE A – Ocean going vessel

The post Cruising World On Board: Pegasus 50 appeared first on Cruising World.

As sailors we all share the same fundamental belief: ‘Do right by the boat and it will do right by you.’ Most of the time, routine maintenance is what’s required. But then, there are the times when it’s time for something more…a rethink and a bigger project—The Refit. That’s what the latest issue of Harken’s quarterly digital digest, “At The Front” is all about.

Year after year we ask…how can we make this boat easier or safer to sail? How can we keep up with the way the leaders sail them today? How can we make what’s not quite right…right? Just because it wasn’t launched that way, doesn’t mean we can’t rig it that way. This fall, “At The Front” dives deep into refits. In this issue you’ll find detailed content with video about:

• A 1926 Herreshoff S Class renewal
• A racer-cruiser gets electric winches—on the mooring
• The entire RC44 Class refit at once
• Two all-out off-shore race boats renewed
• An International 505 pre-regatta refit
• A safer reefing alternative for Warrior Sailors

Check out At The Front—The Refit Issue.

Harken’s Engineering Manager in Pewaukee, Steve Orlebeke has this to say about the role Harken often plays in refit projects. “In my 20+ years at Harken, I’ve followed a large number of refits. I’ve helped design a lot of custom equipment fueled by the objectives of those refits to both cruising and racing boats. At Harken, some of our most successful catalog products began out of a design brief from a naval architect or project manager looking to improve ease of use or performance. New thinking regularly results in new solutions. What comes out of those refit projects is some of the most creative, most enjoyable work we do in the Harken Engineering team. Refits…I say if you’ve got a project, we’re happy to wade into it with you. Just get in touch!”

The post At The Front: Off-Season Refits That Upgrade Your Boat  And Quite Possibly…Uplift You Too. appeared first on Cruising World.

As sailors we all share the same fundamental belief: Do right by the boat and it will do right by you. Most of the time, routine maintenance is what’s required. But then, there are the times when we need something more…a rethink and a bigger project—The Refit. That’s what the latest issue of “At The Front” is all about.

Year after year we ask…how can we make this boat easier or safer to sail? How can we keep up with the way the leaders sail them today? How can we make what’s not quite right…right? Just because it wasn’t launched that way, doesn’t mean we can’t rig it that way. This fall, we dedicate our issue of At The Front to refits. In this issue you’ll find detailed content with video about:

• Two all-out race boats
• A racer/cruiser refit while on the water
• The entire RC44 Class refit at once 
• An International 505
• A safer alternative for Warrior Sailors
• And a Herreshoff S Class design from 1926. 

Check out At The Front—The Refit Issue

Harken’s Engineering Manager in Pewaukee, Steve Orlebeke, has this to say about the role Harken often plays in refit projects: “In my 20+ years at Harken, I’ve followed a large number of refits. I’ve helped design a lot of custom equipment fueled by the objectives of those refits to both cruising and racing boats. At Harken, some of our most successful catalog products began out of a design brief from a naval architect or project manager looking to improve ease of use or performance. New thinking regularly results in new solutions. What comes out of those refit projects is some of the most creative, most enjoyable work we do in the Harken Engineering department. Refits…I say if you’ve got a project, we’re happy to wade into it with you. Just get in touch!”

The post The Boat Refit Edition: Next Season’s Upgrades appeared first on Cruising World.

As Bitter End Yacht Club continues to expand its offerings, the arrival of e-foiling—thanks to an exciting partnership with BVI E-Foil—marks a new era in the club’s storied history. This innovative sport, which allows riders to glide effortlessly above the water, is set to become a cornerstone of the Bitter End experience, providing both adventure and tranquility on the stunning waters of North Sound.

Marina and Watersports Manager, Nick Putnam says, “BVI E-foiling was the obvious choice for a partner on this endeavor because of their extensive knowledge of the sport. Combined with our excellent location, it was the ideal choice to build out our program.”

For the watersports program, E-Foiling has been a celebrated addition to the program. Putnam continues, “It’s rounded out the waterfront nicely. At Bitter End, we’ve traditionally been focused on wind sports, and sailing excellence has been a long standing part of our history, E-foiling has made getting on the water more accessible for those guests who might be hesitant to harness the power of the breeze, and provides for those who love wind sports, something to do when the rare BVI day leaves the winds whispering rather than roaring.”

Embarking on an e-foiling adventure at Bitter End is as seamless as it is exhilarating. Guests are invited to visit the watersports center, where a team of skilled instructors awaits to guide them through the experience. Much like surfing, the progression from laying on the board to kneeling and then standing is intuitive, and within two hours, most participants are confidently soaring above the water, feeling the rush of flight coupled with the serenity of gliding over North Sound’s pristine, protected waterways.

The unique geography of North Sound—its calm, flat waters sheltered by lush islands—makes it an ideal setting for e-foiling. Here, riders can fully immerse themselves in the experience, free from the concerns of choppy seas or too much boat traffic. The sensation of effortlessly floating above the water, with the breathtaking BVI landscape as a backdrop, offers a perspective unlike any other.

Lauren Hokin, a founding family member of Bitter End, captures the spirit of this expansion: “It is heartwarming and exciting to see our Club Fleet growing again with new ways to explore our watersports playground. Our Club Fleet is central to the Bitter End experience. We are thrilled to welcome new opportunities for adventure and education on North Sound as we chart a course towards an even brighter future.”

E-foiling at Bitter End is more than just a new activity; it is an invitation to explore the beauty of the British Virgin Islands in an entirely new way. As BEYC continues to grow our offerings and expand our Club Fleet, the crew is excited to see how e-foiling will inspire and delight guests. Whether you are seeking adventure, education, or simply a new way to connect with the water, e-foiling at Bitter End promises an experience that is both thrilling and unforgettable.

Beyond e-foiling, the watersports crew has more exciting additions to the Club Fleet this year. Bitter End has also invested in several RS Zest dinghies, perfect for both novice sailors and seasoned enthusiasts alike. These versatile dinghies offer a dynamic sailing experience for adventure sailing or racing around the buoys of the North Sound. 

Additionally, the introduction of adventure SUP excursions and SUP yoga brings new dimensions to stand-up paddleboarding, combining fitness, exploration, and the serene beauty of the surrounding islands. And for those who crave underwater adventure, Kinto’s popular snorkel excursion has returned, to the resounding delight of guests eager to explore the vibrant marine life of the BVI.

The post Point Your Compass Due South, Bitter End Yacht Club Reopens October 23rd appeared first on Cruising World.

This fall, the Bitter End Yacht Club team is hitting the road with their 1973 vintage camper, ‘The Rambler,’ making appearances at the Newport and Annapolis Boat Shows. As they celebrate their return to the water and the launch of exciting new ventures, The Rambler will serve as the hub of activity, offering attendees an inside look at the latest developments from Bitter End.

The team is excited to showcase the newest product launches from Bitter End Provisions, their exclusive line of high-quality gear designed for adventurers, sailors, and island enthusiasts alike. From innovative technical sailing apparel to rugged accessories built to withstand the elements, the new collections embody the spirit of Bitter End—where adventure meets style. Visitors to the shows can expect first looks at limited-edition items and a chance to gear up with products that capture the essence of life on the water.

In addition to product launches, Bitter End is also unveiling significant updates from their property. The newly launched beach bungalows offer a luxurious and immersive way to experience the beauty of Virgin Gorda, combining comfort with a front-row seat to the Caribbean’s natural splendor. The resort is also expanding its on-the-water offerings with thrilling activities like e-foiling, alongside classic favorites such as sailing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. It’s an exciting time to rediscover Bitter End, where adventure and relaxation seamlessly blend.

Whether a longtime Bitter End enthusiast or new to the community, attendees are invited to stop by, chat with the crew, and experience a piece of island spirit on the mainland. The Rambler is ready to roll, and Bitter End is eager to connect at the shows!

The post Point Your Compass Due South, Bitter End Yacht Club Reopens October 23rd. appeared first on Cruising World.

Andrew Thompson answers his phone breathless, having just come ashore from the afternoon’s racing activity. “I’m on a busman’s holiday in the UK sailing my ‘Solo” – a 12-foot dinghy in a super-competitive fleet,” he explains. To say that the founder and director of Horizon Yacht Charters is passionate about sailing is an understatement. He lives and breathes life on the water.

Thirty years ago, a nine-month contract to run the watersports program for a five-star hotel on Virgin Gorda enticed the Englishman to the British Virgin Islands. In 1998 he co-founded Horizon Yacht Charters, and today Thompson is fully entrenched in the Caribbean life.

“Clearly I love it,” he laughs. “I certainly have a disposition for watersports and windsports. We kitesurf, we wingfoil; it’s just spectacular.”

Thompson is humble about his enviable sailing experience and accomplishments, which include myriad regatta-class wins, and more than 50,000 sea miles. Providing a charter experience that is far above and beyond the norm is his passion.

What began as a fledgling charter operation with three boats has expanded into a fleet of nearly 60 sailing yachts, including monohulls and catamarans, between 34 and 65 feet. Horizon Yacht Charters operates from two locations: the headquarters on Tortola in the BVI and another location on St. Vincent in the Grenadines. From learn-to-sail to bareboat and skippered to luxury crewed, Horizon offers the full complement of yacht charters—with the option of a private-jet charter in tandem. Thompson credits the company’s longevity to its relationship with its discerning yacht owners and charter clients.

A Stone’s Throw From the Dock

“Our clients know everyone in our reservations department,” Thompson says. “There’s Courtney, who has been with the company for 26 years; Christalen, who joined in 2006; and Sandra, who came on board in 2018. Kaleigh runs the crewed-yacht division, and everyone knows our operations director, Henry, who runs the dock.

“Our staff are right there,” Thompson continues. “Our guests aren’t dealing with a remote office or with someone who has never been to the location or on the boats they’re looking to book. When you book a boat with us at our Caribbean locations, you’re booking a specific boat, not just that model. Our reservation team have been on every boat and often walk clients through the yachts virtually to show the immaculate condition, the layout and specific equipment. They are a stone’s throw from the dock and are very integrated into the whole business.”

Perfectionism at Its Finest

The majority of the owners of the boats in Horizon’s fleet are sailors, and with that comes an expectation that the boat will be maintained to the highest standards.

“We have a long-standing relationship with the yards that build the boats for our fleet, and we have a commitment to the owners to maintain the boats in pristine condition. We can keep boats in our fleet up to eight years because we keep up with the maintenance. I’m a bit of a perfectionist in that area.

“We keep the canvas, sails, cosmetics, mechanicals and electrics in top condition,” he continues. “Each bareboat charter application is carefully reviewed to ensure that the charterer has the appropriate amount of knowledge and experience for the particular vessel. On the docks, there is not a stack pack open, the main sails are put away. That is the attention to detail and the day-to-day of how we operate. These standards are the bedrock to the experience.”

As the company grew, Thompson knew he didn’t want to spend his life on a plane trying to manage fleets all over the world to his exacting standards. So he developed a points system and a worldwide sailing program that allows an owner use of his own boat in the BVI/Caribbean and aboard other boats in partner fleets worldwide.

The Horizon Yacht Charters Difference

Charter guests who want to sail farther afield than the BVI/Caribbean don’t have to venture out on their own; Horizon Yacht Charters offers the same personalized service through a brokerage arrangement with preferred fleet operators in the USVI, Bahamas and Croatia and beyond.

Yacht management and sales are integral to the charter operation, and through the Horizon Yacht Sales division, Thompson and his experienced team consult with owners on every aspect of a yacht purchase, covering the nuances of  builders, or boat models, factory options and bespoke customizations. The company is the authorized dealer for Nautitech Catamarans and Bavaria Yachts in the English speaking Caribbean and distributor for CNB brands including Lagoon, Beneteau, Jeanneau, and Excess, in addition to Fountaine Pajot among others.

Horizon is an American Sailing Association sailing school for its learn-to-sail charters and do offer some boats with asymmetric spinnakers. “We’ve had Quantum Sails design asymetric sails specifically for charter use,” he says. “It electrifies your performance downwind. We are the only charter company to offer these boats.

“We live and breathe the sport of sailing, and we do it to a very high standard. That’s what I’m most proud of,” Thompson continues. “We are a very knowledgeable team passionate about putting out immaculate boats and giving people a great experience. If they want to learn more, we have a sailing school. We can also arrange for excursions such as diving, mountain biking, kitesurfing, hiking and snorkeling. We aren’t just another charter company.”

For more information, please visit: horizonyachtcharters.com

The post At Your Service appeared first on Cruising World.

It’s not every day that a yacht-charter company renews its fleet of available boats all around the world—but that’s exactly what Dream Yacht Worldwide has done in the Caribbean and beyond, adding dozens of new yachts to its 40 bases all around the globe. 

“This fleet update represents a significant step forward,” says Loïc Bonnet, founder of Dream Yacht Worldwide. “It has been several years since we have undertaken a renewal on such a scale, integrating the latest boat models with premium equipment, to guarantee our customers an exceptional experience at sea.”

In the Bahamas and British Virgin Islands—which sit at the top of many American sailors’ lists for must-visit cruising destinations—the new models include Bali’s 4.4, 4.6 and 5.4, Fountaine Pajot’s Isla 40, Lagoon’s 42, the Dufour 390, and Jeanneau’s Sun Odyssey 410. 

There’s a lot to like about all these models, which include catamarans and monohulls alike. They give charter clients the kinds of modern amenities and features that make cruising a true home-away-from-home experience, as well as an exhilarating ride out on the water.

Aboard the Bali 5.4, for instance, the flybridge has cushioned wraparound seating in addition to a large sun bed. Side decks are wide for easy transit around the boat, and handling is made easier by a self-tacking jib and large electric winches. On the main deck, a tilt-open door creates a true indoor-outdoor entertainment space, allowing for an open-air experience at the push of a button. 

On Fountaine Pajot’s Isla 40, just some of the modern amenities include a dinette with wraparound seating in the cockpit, along with wide transom steps that make it easier to get into the water (and to step off the boat for some fun ashore). Forward, there are sun loungers for catching the rays by day or for stargazing at night. In the salon, 360-degree panoramic windows and overhead skylights make the space feel bright and open, even at times when charter clients want to relax and rejuvenate inside.  

The Lagoon 42 also is chockablock with creature comforts and smart features. Experienced sailors might notice that the rig is moved farther aft, and that the boat has a high-aspect mainsail and self-tacking jib, enhancing performance and making handling easier in all conditions. For those who simply want to chill on board, there’s a sunbathing lounge on the coachroof. In the cockpit aft, the platform and transom steps have been widened to allow even more room for leisure activities and relaxation.

These and all the other newly added boats are kept at Dream Yacht bases, which comprise the largest network of charter destinations in the world. 

Infrastructure in the Bahamas is looking particularly spiffy for the upcoming season, having been repaired following Hurricane Dorian in 2019. More and more boaters are returning to the hard-hit Abacos archipelago in the Bahamas while continuing to enjoy the quiet island chain of the Exumas. The beach bars and restaurants are once again a super-fun scene, with locals eager to extend a warm smile, a soothing rum cocktail, and some zesty conch fritters.

For this winter’s charter season, there’s also news in the French West Indies, which is the part of the Caribbean that includes the island of St. Martin: Dream Yacht Worldwide has moved 30 new yachts into the region to accommodate an increase in inquiries. That means even more islands that can be explored with unmatched creature comforts and amenities, from the spectacular shopping and dining on St. Barts to the quiet outposts and pink-sand beaches on Anguilla.

Also notable is the option to book by-the-cabin itineraries with Dream Yacht Charter. While passionate sailors might prefer to be at the helm themselves, cabin charters are a great option for solo travelers or couples who want to be out on the water, doing watersports, and relaxing—while a crew does the rest of the work. 

“If you’ve never spent an extended period of time on a sailing vessel, a cabin charter might be a good way to see how you feel about being so close to nature and out on the water for a week—and might inspire you to take up sailing classes yourself,” says Tina Huewe, US senior marketing executive with Dream Yacht Charter. “Older generations who might be past wanting to do all the work on board themselves might also enjoy this way of carefree cruising in breathtaking destinations.”

Cabin charters are available in 12 countries, usually aboard six-stateroom boats (each with its own head) that give everyone space to spread out and have privacy too. The packages come with scheduled itineraries, onboard meals and optional excursions. In French Polynesia and Thailand, more than one itinerary is available, giving guests the opportunity to discover different parts of the cruising grounds.

Frequent charterers might want to consider Dream Fractional, a program that allows for co-ownership of a sailing catamaran.

“This program makes being an owner a lot more affordable than regular ownership of a whole yacht,” Huewe explains. “Owners can potentially experience the thrill of yacht ownership and sail top destinations for less than the cost of chartering making this program popular with repeat charter guests.”

And, for charter clients interested in giving electric propulsion a try, Dream Yacht Worldwide now offers Fountain Pajot Aura 51 Smart Electric catamarans and Dufour 530 Smart Electric monohulls in five destinations throughout the Mediterranean. 

These electric-powered charter yachts are based in some of the most popular ports along France’s Côte d’Azur, the Italian islands of Sardinia and Sicily, the city of Naples on the Italian mainland, and the island of Mallorca in Spain’s Balearics archipelago.

“By partnering and supporting the research and development of electric yachts, we can continue to make sailing accessible to people around the world but with a lower impact on our seas and environment,” Bonnet says. “Being environmentally conscious is central to our mission to protect our planet and oceans, and we are confident that our charter clients will support this endeavor.”

The post ​​Options To Explore appeared first on Cruising World.

Dear Friends of Bitter End,

It’s hard to believe yet another Bitter End season lies just beyond the horizon, and with it comes anticipation and appreciation for all those who make Bitter End the unique and magical place it is. It’s been really gratifying to watch our guests return again this past season to stroll on our beaches, mess about in our expanded Club Fleet, drink, dine, and shop in the Bitter End Village and marina, and continue to bring life to this place we think of as the heartbeat of North Sound.

This past Spring, we were fortunate to have a bunch of our family together at Bitter End for an unplanned but fantastically fun few days. We were three generations: grandparents, twenty-somethings, tweens, and tot. Everyone was able to seek their kind of adventure (or relaxation), yet there were plenty of spontaneous family gatherings and fun as well! 

Watching the next generation experience this place, which is so special to all of us, brought back a flood of memories. Sitting on the beach as my nieces and daughter splashed about in the sparkling and turquoise Sound, it was impossible not to think back to the long, sun-drenched days we spent immersed in the sea, playing with new friends, hunting for shells, sailing to nowhere in particular, living the dream. Bitter End really is a uniquely wondrous place for kids of all ages. 

It was thrilling to see the property so vibrant and buzzing with activity during our stay. For the past couple of years, the marina has been a hub of activity and the center of our Nautical Village. Now, we’re excited to let you know that we’re expanding our hotel offering with the addition of 10 new boutique accommodations.

By late 2024, we will introduce 4 luxury Beach Bungalows and six additional Marina Lofts, bringing our hotel offering to 12 rooms. Plans to expand to 18 rooms are on the horizon.

The Beach Bungalows are nestled on Pelican Beach just north of the Village and boast private water access, unmatched sunset views, and beautiful, beachy décor.

Our new Marina Lofts, cantilevered over the sea, reflect a nautical vibe coupled with modern comforts and amenities. These rooms have private docks overlooking Bitter End’s anchorage as well as breathtaking views of North Sound and the setting sun.

Looking further beyond the horizon, we are planning for a luxury spa, pool, additional retail amenities, an expanded yacht club concept, and a limited residential offering. We have a lot of great things ahead!

While we continue to invest in our property, we believe that it’s equally important to invest in our community and surroundings. We have done so via The Bitter End Foundation, our US-based 501(c)(3). The Foundation supports projects and causes in and around the BVI, especially those that encourage good stewardship of marine ecosystems and address the unique needs of communities whose livelihoods depend upon the sea. To our global family and friends, we are grateful for your continued support.

A heartfelt Bravo Zulu to the Bitter End Crew for delivering a warm, safe, and vibrant guest experience. Our shared passion for the sea is a huge part of what makes this such a special place. To our guests, fans, and friends near and far, we look forward to seeing you again soon! There’s a whole lot of fun awaiting you at BEYC!

Wishing you fair winds and following seas,
Lauren Hokin & The Bitter End Crew

The post Introducing Bitter End’s Beach Bungalows appeared first on Cruising World.

Anyone who loves being on the water has a dream cruising destination—or several—in mind. Yours might be to explore hidden grottoes in the cool azure waters of the Mediterranean, snorkel in the crystal-clear seas of the Caribbean, feel the wind in your hair in the Whitsundays or dive into the mystical oceans of the Far East. Whatever destination is on your proverbial Bucket List, finding a vessel and a reputable charter company in your area of choice and managing the details of the booking, however, can quickly hamper those dreams.

Having identified the need in the market for a one-stop, full-service global charter booking resource, Maryland-based firm 12 Knots created 12knots.com, a comprehensive, real-time search engine and booking platform for sail and power yacht charters around the world.

Unique from other booking sites, 12 Knots takes its offerings several steps further. Clients can search for listings by destination, vessel type and model, budget or via global map of professional charter companies, all of which can be further narrowed down with filter preferences. The charters offered span from crewed term charters (three days and up) to cabin (shared) charters to bareboat (DIY) charters. A personal booking manager is available around the clock to assist with any inquiry.

THE IDEAL YACHT CHARTER RESOURCE

“We didn’t set out to create this platform, but we saw the need for it, and it has evolved into one of the industry’s leading charter listing sites,” says 12 Knots founder and general manager Grigory Eliseev. Founded as a sailing school in 2009, 12 Knots had an operations base in Montenegro—a popular charter destination—and noticed that as students were learning to sail, they were also searching for charter companies with whom to put their newfound skills to use.

“At the time, searching for a charter vessel in a specific area was quite complicated; there was no single place where you could check dates, availability, prices and boat specs,” Eliseev says. “You had to call or email several companies and wait for their reply. Particularly in the Caribbean, where there are hundreds of charter operators, it took a lot of time to contact the companies and then compare the offerings.”

Eliseev and his team began compiling their contacts and accumulating a database of charter options to share with their clients. What started as a listing of 100 boats has expanded into an online database of 22,000 vessels ranging from sailboats, powerboats, motoryachts, trimarans, catamarans, gulets and houseboats. The majority—95 percent—of the vessels on the 12 Knots website are managed by professional fleet operators, while a small number of vetted privately owned vessels, mostly operating in remote areas such as the Philippines, comprise the rest of the listings.

“Our database is expanding all the time,” Eliseev says, adding that professional charter companies are providing their listings through 12 Knots as the platform continues to gain international exposure. “We are adding new fleets and new charter companies in destinations all over the world.”

THE WORLD IS YOUR OYSTER

With 12 Knots, it’s simple to search for the perfect vessel or charter type that suits your budget and your preferences in your desired destination. If you don’t have sailing experience or don’t want to charter a whole boat, the cabin charters option offers sample daily itineraries, boats and available dates, and a price per person and cabin per day.

For crewed charters, your search results will also include a list of extras you can select—from tips to provisioning and meals to crew preference—to allow a view of the inclusive price depending upon the type of boat and duration of your charter. The 12knots.com website also allows you to filter results by equipment, year built, number of cabins or berths, and more.

Offering a selection of boats from multiple fleet operators, each with at least several boats in their fleet, gives clients a great selection of vessels from which to choose in a particular area. Having the peace of mind that your vessel will be reserved—reservations are held for four days without obligation—and available for your arrival is an additional benefit.

The 12 Knots loyalty program offers discounts and booking incentives as well as a client account portal to access previous bookings or upload a client sailing résumé—something that the company requests of its bareboat charter guests to document training and experience levels.

When it comes to discovering your dream destination, 12knots.com is particularly useful in providing detailed destination-specific information, such as cruising conditions, temperatures, rainy days per month, sample itineraries, and average prices throughout the year. And finally, the 12 Knots dedicated booking manager has knowledge of the global fleet, destinations, sample itineraries, and vessel types to suit each guest and guide you in making an informed decision about your dream charter experience.

In sailing terms, 12 knots of wind is said to be the ideal condition for a perfect sail. Now, with its ever-expanding online booking system, 12 Knots provides the ideal conditions for charter bookings too.
For more information or to start booking your next vacation, visit 12knots.com.

The post Smooth Sailing appeared first on Cruising World.

Harken REFLEX furling has proven its value to recreational racers and shorthanded cruisers delivering very reliable, very tight top-to-bottom spinnaker furls. This is great news for sailors itching to get their free-flying sails out of the forepeak and into the air. After all, downwind sailing is supposed to be the best sailing of all. Even if you’re sailing shorthanded, with a Reflex, you can furl up the kite and leave the halyard hoisted until you drop anchor or get back to your slip. So why are so many people motoring?!

Here’s how Reflex works so reliably where other systems can disappoint: the Reflex torsion cable is the secret. Using a unique stainless mesh cage around a rope core, the cable is amazingly ‘twist-rigid’. It transfers rotational torque from the deck where you are pulling the furling line, to top swivel where complete furls must start. Why do complete furls have to start up there? Spinnakers have much more area up top. That’s just the opposite of a jib which has much more area down at the deck.

Complete ‘top-down’ furls require all that area be furled before the foot finishes—just the opposite of what’s required of your more common headsail furler. The Reflex cable acts more reflexively to start the top spinning more than anything we’ve ever tested. The cable executes this while being easy to manage as you move it in and out of the sail bag. You use one cable per kite. Then a single large diameter bottom unit you use for all your kites helps make the furling process itself less of a strain.  Reflex comes boxed with everything—no power tools needed. There’s still time to get Harken Reflex furling sorted and get out there before the season is in full swing. Watch Reflex at work.

The post Make Downwind Sailing Fun Again. Turn Off That Motor and Unfurl Your Kite! appeared first on Cruising World.