Topics

Henley-on-Thames is a picturesque town in Oxfordshire that runs along one of the most scenic parts of the Thames River. It is well known for being the host to the Henley Royal Regatta, a rowing event that happens each year. The event itself lasts for five days from a Wednesday to a Sunday for the first weekend in July. The stretch of river that it occurs along is naturally very straight so is perfect for the racing which has occurred there since 1839. The Regatta offers a unique event to attend with the chance to watch Olympic rowers in true British surroundings. The opportunity to attend and be a part of this event and experience the Henley Royal Regatta hospitality available should not be missed.

The first Regatta was so popular in 1839 that it was expanded from one day to two the following year. By 1886 it was extended to three days and then four days in 1906. By 1986 it had grown to five days just proving its popularity. It became known as a Royal Regatta since 1851 when Prince Albert became a royal patron, since his death every reigning monarch has agreed to be a patron for the event.

For most of its history the Regatta was only available to male competitors but by 1975 this began to change when the first ever woman competitor Christine Paul took part. There was much debate to opening the event to woman as it was thought woman's rowing would never thrive and that the length of the course was longer than most women's courses at 1000m. However this all changed eventually and the elected chairman of the Regatta 1978 Peter Coni said he was supportive of bringing in women's events to the occasion.

So if you have decided that would love to experience this part of English heritage it is worth looking into the Henley Royal Regatta hospitality that is available. For a special event, why not look into booking at Temple Island. Temple Island is a secluded area just near the starting line of the Regatta, which offers the perfect position to view the race whilst offering exclusivity and luxury. A Henley Royal Regatta hospitality package will also offer to you and up to forty guests a wonderful dining experience. So on a lovely summer's day what could be more enjoyable, beautiful settings for the race and a four-course meal brilliantly prepared by world-renowned chef Albert Roux?

Another wonderful day on offer to spectators of the Regatta is the Fawley Meadows site situated next to the riverbank. The Fawley Meadows restaurant is located just next to the meadows and could provide you and up to ten guests the ideal setting for your Regatta experience. Also packages here for the day also include entrance to an alfresco lounge by the river that contains a complimentary bar, live music and comfortable seating to ensure a great outing to Henley-on-Thames.

So if the thought of sitting in a beautiful town surrounded by history and heritage appeals to you, a Henley Royal Regatta hospitality package could be just what you are looking for. Whether you choose to take out business associates or close friends, purchasing a package on the limited Temple Island or stunning Fawley Meadows really will enhance your Regatta experience. Enjoy English heritage at its best and what it has to offer.

About the Author

Dominic Donaldson is an expert in the hospitality industry.
Find out more about Henley Royal Regatta Hospitality and how the services available can help with finding the perfect hospitality package.

Article Source: Content for Reprint

If you've always dreamed of sailing the seas on your own boat, feeling the wind in your hair and the ocean's spray on your skin, and if you've finally decided to make it a reality, read this guide first. Before you withdraw your life savings to pursue your passion, make sure you're making a smart investment. There are many factors to be considered, and buying a boat should never be a spur of the moment decision you jump into on a whim.

Make sure you consider what type of boating you'll be doing and that you seek out the appropriate watercraft. Other factors include the type of body of water you'll be boating on and the weather conditions. Make sure to do your homework and read up about all the different types of boats available. Go to your local yacht club and talk to some folks about what is available and what other boaters in the are sailing.

Finding Your Boat

Once you've narrowed it down and determined specifically what type of boat you're looking for, you can start looking. A used boat will not only be more inexpensive, but it will generally be better equipped than a brand new boat. Though buying a used boat is cheaper, you must consider the extra costs in repairs and upgrades. Even so, the deals to be had by buying a barely-used boat from someone who quit a hobby early into it may be well worth it.

Shopping for a used boat today is easier than ever. You can shop for your boat from the comfort of your own home or office by browsing ads and listings placed in your local newspaper, online classifieds, Web sites such as Boattrader, BoatLeeg or boating magazines. Check your local boat dealerships for deals on used boats that have been taken in as trade-ins. If there is a suitable boat available at a boat dealerships, there will be pros and cons to consider before buying that boat. On one hand, boats bought at dealerships may carry a limited warranty and is likely to have had at least basic maintenance in preparation for its sale. On the other hand, a boat purchased from a dealership rather than from a private party will tend to be more expensive due to the dealer's overhead and cost of business.

Research and Inspect

Once you have found a used boat that you are interested in purchasing, check with the U.S. Coast Guard to find out if there are any recalls on the model you are looking at. They should be able to tell you if any recalls have been issued. If there has been a recall, find out from the seller of the used boat if the necessary repairs have been performed. Be sure to ask the seller for documentation or proof that the repair was done.

Once you have confirmed that any manufacturer's recalls have been corrected, it is time to inspect the boat. The first and foremost concern when evaluating the condition of a used power boat is the engine itself. Since a power boat's engine works much harder than that of an automobile, it is crucial that your "new" boat's engine be in good condition. Checking the things on the following list should be able to provide you with some indication of the condition of the boat's engine.

* Check the bilge for oil. If oil is present, there may be a leak that will need further attention.
* Check the gaskets, freeze plugs and hoses for lubricant leakage.
* Check the condition of all hoses, belts and fittings.
* Pull a spark plug to evaluate its condition. If the spark plug looks relatively new, you can assume that the boat has been maintained regularly. If the spark plug looks rusty and corroded, you should ask for maintenance records.
* Check the engine and drive for white chalky residue. The presence of this residue may indicate that the engine has been running hot.
* Check the engine's oil. If the oil looks murky, water may have gotten into it and could cause problems down the road.
* Check gear case oil.
* Check the condition of the drive, rudder and propeller. Look for signs of damage caused by collision with underwater items.

After you've checked the engine, make sure to inspect the rest of the boat thoroughly. Some of the things you pay close attention to include:

* Check steering mechanism, throttle, controls and all cables
* Turn on and test all systems
* Ensure that all hardware is attached firmly
* Check the fuel tanks, fittings and lines. Look for any leaks.
* Check the batteries and fittings
* Check the propeller shaft and rudder stock
* Inspect the interior of the cabin

After inspecting a used boat and determining that you find it to be suitable, you may still want to have the boat inspected professionally. A qualified technician may be able to uncover problems you may not have noticed, saving you heartache and expensive problems down the road.

Demo Ride

If you have decided to hire a technician or boat broker to help you inspect a used boat you'd like to buy, try to schedule your "test drive" during a time that he or she is available to join you. If not, you should put the boat through a series of tests while on the water. Make sure you pay close attention to the following:

* Check to see if the engine is already warm before you turn it on. If the seller "warmed it up" before you arrived, he may be trying to hide problems with cold starts.
* Check the bilge before and after your demo ride to see if there are any oil leaks
* Maneuver the boat forward and in reverse before leaving the dock to get a sense for how smoothly and rapidly it responds to helm input.
* Put the boat through several slaloms and turns at varying speeds.
* Take waves at all angles to see how the boat handles them.

About the Author

To find great deals on used boats for sale, equipment, boating gear and accessories, visit BoatLeeg Boat Classifieds.

Article Source: Content for Reprint

Locks are used to lift or lower boats from one level to another. They are found on almost all canals and rivers. Below, we describe everything you will need to know about locks on canals.

What is a Lock?
A lock is a section of canal or river that is closed off by gates which control the water level so that boats can be raised or lowered as they pass through it.

What is a flight of locks?
A flight of locks (or lock flight) resembles a flight of stairs - it consists of a number of locks (or steps) one after another. Sometimes there is a stretch of canal between one lock and the next, and sometimes the locks are so close together that the top gates of one and the bottom gates of the next are one and the same - this is called a staircase flight.

What is a manned lock?
Major rivers such as the River Thames and River Severn have locks which are manned and operated for you during the summer months. Canal locks are generally smaller and you must operate them yourself - with the help of your crew.

How do you work a lock?
Don't worry if you are about to go on your first boating holiday and have no idea how to operate a lock, your hire boat operator is sure to talk you thorugh it before you set off. Once you get to grips with them, locks are all part of the fun of a canal holiday and a most efficient form of exercise!

Locks have two sets of gates (top and bottom) and a chamber which your boat enters into. Crucially, locks also have openings (or sluice gates) at the top and bottom and it is by opening these that water is allowed into and out of the chamber to raise or lower the water level - and hence the boat. You and your crew will open and close the paddles using a lock handle (or windlass) which you will carry with you on your cruise.

Going up
1. Open the lock gate and take the boat into the lock. Remember to close the gate behind the boat
2. Open the sluice gate to allow the water to flow from the top pound into the lock
3. The boat will rise as the lock fills
4. Once the water level inside the lock is the same as the water level ahead in the canal, open the top gates and take the boat out
5. Remember to close both the sluice gate and the lock gate behind you to preserve water

Going down
1. Open the lock gate and take the boat into the lock. Remember to close the gate behind the boat
2. Open the sluice gate to allow the water to flow out of the lock
3. The boat will lower as the water level in the lock falls
4. Once the water level inside the lock is the same as the water level ahead in the canal, open the bottom gates and take the boat out.
5. Remember to close both the sluice gate and the lock gate behind you to preserve water

Basic principles and things to remember
Water always flows downhill and lock gates are closed against the pressure of this water. The lock gates will not open until the water pressure (level) is equal on both sides.

How long does it take?
Passing through a lock will generally take from 10 to 20 minutes, depending how big the lock is and whether or not it was originally set in favour of the boat (it is always pleasing to meet another boat coming towards you on the approach to a lock - this boat will have just exited the lock on your level and therefore the lock will be set for you).

About the Author

Waterscape is Britain's official guide to canals, rivers and lakes. Waterscape's website offers boating, walking & cycling guides and holiday ideas.

http://www.waterscape.com/

Article Source: Content for Reprint

Before you invest in a new or used boat, you must understand that boating is an expensive hobby. You will have to spend time and money on the care and upkeep of your boat. You will also have expenses associated with docking and fuel. With that being said, there is nothing like the passion of sailing the seas, or going out into the ocean for a weekend of fishing, sea and sun. Weighing out all the pros and cons is something you must take the time to do. So that you understand some of the work required to keep your boat in tip-top shape, read the following boat maintenance guide. Please keep in mind that this general boat maintenance guide is intended only to give you an idea of the basic care needed by boats in general and is not by any means all-inclusive.

Know Your Boat

As mentioned above, this guide will only give you an idea, not an end-all be-all instruction for the maintenance of your boat. Your best bet is to research your specific make and model, including the year if your boat is older. Start your research by reading any manuals that may have come with the boat. If you purchased your boat used and it did not include an original owner's manual, you may be able to get it directly from the manufacturer by visiting their Web site or by requesting a copy in writing. You may also be able to get a copy of the owner's manual by calling the manufacturer directly and asking them to send it to you.

Read the owner's manual thoroughly to find any information pertaining to regular care and maintenance of the boat. Realize that if you have an older boat, the information may be somewhat outdated in that you may wish to consult a professional such as a boat dealer or broker that specialized in your specific make and model.

Research the Web and try to find message boards and forums where boat owners that have similar boats to yours post about their experiences and how they deal with certain situations. You may find several boat owners willing to dish out advice specific to the care and maintenance of your boat. As with anything you read online, make sure to take any advice with a grain of salt and check your sources. If many boat owners are consistently giving the same advice, it is safer to assume that the information contained therein is accurate and good.

After researching your boat thoroughly, you should have a more accurate idea of the timing and specifics regarding the regular care and maintenance required by your boat.

Typical Maintenance

* Keep it Clean
A key step in maintaining your boat is to wash it regularly. Cleaning your boat regularly doesn't only contribute to the looks of the boat, but also helps to protect your boat from the wear and tear inflicted by environmental conditions. Be sure to use only products that are earth-friendly. Also, wax your boat regularly to further protect the surfaces from the elements.

* Proper Mooring
Boats don't only sustain scratches and dings from being used out on the water. Damage can appear on your boat's body while docked if it is not moored properly. Make sure all lines are fastened securely and don't show signs of wear or breakage.

* Battery Care
Check your battery regularly by inspecting its charge and fluid levels. Make sure that the area around your battery is clean and dry at all times.

* Regular Overall Inspection
Boats require regular inspection, as that is the only way to identify any problems or potential problems. Routinely check your boat's controls, engine, cables, rudder, throttle. Always be on the lookout for loose fittings, fraying ropes or hoses/cables that are dry, cracked or brittle. It is easier to prevent damage to your boat when you are actively looking for little things that might cause damage in the future.

* Motor Maintenance
Follow best practices for motor care as outlined in your boat's owner's manual. Flush your engine after every use. Check fuel tanks and clamps for rust, damage or corrosion. Check the engine's oil levels and cleanliness. Also keep an eye on your boat's cooling system to ensure that it is working properly.

* Winterization
To protect your boat during the months that it's not actively in use, you must take the proper winterization steps. Whether you are able to store your boat under shelter or not, you must check your boat's owner's manual for the proper techniques of winterizing your boat. If you are not familiar with what needs to be done to winterize your boat, enlist the help of a more experienced friend or contact your local boat dealer or broker for assistance.

* Bilge Pump
Don't forget to check that your bilge pump is working properly. In case you do need to use your pump, you may need enough power to run it for an extended period of time. Make sure your battery system can support this.

* Electrical Systems
Keeping all of your boat's electrical systems clean, dry and free from damage is crucial to the overall safety and well-being of your boat. Look for any signs of corrosion, and apply water-repellant grease protector to all fittings.

* Boat Covers
Investing in a boat cover can prevent much damage that can occur as a result of exposure to UV rays and the elements. Consider picking up a used boat cover, you can save some money and extend the life of your boat.

Trust the Pros

As with anything, if you are new to boating, you may wish to seek out the advice and assistance of professionals. Contact your local boat dealer or broker to get referrals for qualified technicians you can contract to help you maintain your boat. You may wish to put your boat on a regular maintenance schedule and keep a close eye on all systems between visits.

About the Author

For great deals on boats for sale or to connect with a boat maintenance pro, visit BoatLeeg Boat Classifieds.

Article Source: Content for Reprint

When you first start looking at sailboats, you'll realize that there are a lot of options. There are so many different types of boats that it can be pretty confusing when you are first getting started. This article will help you narrow down your choices so you can find your perfect sailboat.

Length

How long a sailboat is will have a huge bearing on the price. However, this isn't the only thing you need to consider when looking at length. The actual length of a boat also determines things like how much mooring will be.

You see, you'll be paying per foot of the dock that you occupy, so the longer the boat, the more you'll pay on a monthly basis to keep your boat tied up at a dock. Some people, because of this, prefer to anchor out in the bay and keep only a small rowboat so they can get out to their boat and not have to pay huge moorage fees. However, if you plan to travel around with your boat, this is something to consider.

Price isn't the only thing in play here. How much room do you actually need? A very small sailboat can be nice for short outings or playing around. They are also quite popular for regattas, if you are interested in that sort of thing. However, the smaller boats also tend to capsize easily and are not stable enough for anything apart from slightly choppy water, which renders them quite limited.

A longer sailboat, 25-35 feet can actually include space for a home inside. If you plan to spend a lot of time on your boat, this is something to consider. It can be nice to have a spot to get out of the wind and make a cup of tea or lay down and relax while anchored. Having a living space means you can also take longer trips up and down the coast or out to islands . . . some people even travel continuously this way, living on their boat. Obviously, the more people that will be on the boat and the longer the time spent living there will affect how long you want it.

Keep in mind that the bigger the sailboat, the more difficult it will be to sail with just one person. Larger sailboats are either automatic or require two or three people to run it, something to remember when you are purchasing. How many people will you have to sail the boat with? Don't exceed the number unless you plan to hire extra hands.

Material

There are many different materials to build a sailboat from. You will likely have a preference based on looks already, but it's good to know a bit more about each sailboat material before you choose a used sailboat.

Concrete: This is not a very common boat material, but it does exist and should be avoided. Used concrete sailboats are usually a recipe for disaster and are too heavy and difficult to work with for a beginner.

Wood: Older sailboats are probably going to be made out of wood. This can be very beautiful, particularly when properly maintained. With the right woods, a sailboat can be lovely to look at. However, there are plenty of problems associated with wood.

Even treated wood will tend to rot away over time and it is something that also attracts insects and pests, both air and waterborne, which will destroy the wood. If you do opt to look at buying a wooden used sailboat, make sure you have a complete inspection done of the entire boat, above and below. Keep in mind that wood will require a LOT of maintenance and must be frequently painted or treated to keep it intact. This is not a great material for beginners or anyone who wants a boat they can use when they need it and leave it between times. Investing in a wooden sailboat is a bigger investment than the initial cost.

Fiberglass: This is by far the most common material for boats in general, including sailboats. Nearly all newer used sailboats will be built from fiberglass. It's resistant to corrosion and tends to be very durable. Make sure that there is no major damage to the finish, which could require some hefty repairs later. This includes gashes or gouges below the waterline, cracked finish or a very dull gelcoat that will require repainting, a costly endeavor.

Steel: While very hardy in construction, steel tends to be prone to rust which can render a great boat useless. Be sure to have a professional inspection if you are looking at a steel used sailboat.

Price

Buying a used sailboat is going to be your best bet for sticking to a budget. Brand new boats tend to be very expensive and while they do come in pristine condition, they don't come with sails, rigging, and all the gear that you'll need in order to actually sail your boat.

Usually, used sailboats will come with extras that you would otherwise have to buy separately. The sails and rigging will be used, as well, but if you take the time to look them over and make sure that they are in decent condition, this could be a very good deal. It saves a lot of money since you don't need to go out and find a set of sails and other extras, which can really add up.

Having your own sailboat, whether you just want a small one to have fun with close to shore or a larger boat that you can entertain on, is a great experience. You'll need to make sure that the maintenance is something that is kept up, or your beautiful boat can quickly turn into a money gobbling monster. Likewise, it's a good idea to have a used sailboat thoroughly inspected, no matter what material it's built from. You'll want to know just what you're getting and make sure that it is what you've paid for.

About the Author

This article was written for Jay Gaulard on behalf of BoatLeeg, a popular online boat classifieds website.

Article Source: Content for Reprint