Anyone owning a yacht knows that apart from the cost of purchase, annual ongoing fees for moorings, repairs and general upkeep are considerable. Add to that the, in some cases, significant depreciation and one can understand why for most people, the option of chartering remains the only viable way to spend time afloat. Rates vary according to the size and specification but, spread amongst a few friends, a weekend aboard a bang up to date boat, fully loaded with the latest equipment all ready for you to step aboard, can be enjoyed for less than the cost of a new set of oilskins.
Whilst boats can be had all over the UK is isn’t hard to understand why Solent yacht charter remains so popular. Still the Mecca for yacht enthusiasts, this area of the south coast has so much to offer. Cowes may be the epicentre but nearby, other, more tranquil moorings can be found that still offer superb cruising options for the charter skipper. Bucklers Hard on the Beaulieu River is only some 45 minutes upstream from Cowes and here you will enjoy a less frenetic pace but still have the benefit of all the modern marina facilities. Personally, I find that mooring at these upstream locations gives each voyage a natural start and finish, allowing time to get everything shipshape in a relaxed environment rather than being pitched straight into the open sea or before arriving at the marina after a challenging sail.
Cruising options are limited only by time and tide but Newtown Creek, Cowes and Yarmouth are all within a morning’s sail. Whilst the Isle of Wight is a natural choice for a day sail, weekenders may choose to head off to Poole, Weymouth or Portsmouth. The Channels Islands and the north coast of France make an ideal long weekend destination.
One option often overlooked by yacht owners is the need to address the increasing number of family groups wanting to charter. Child friendly boats are hard to come by so look for one with adequate safety features, it will make for a more relaxing trip. One such boat that I came across, Ameley, a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40.3 ticked all the boxes. Added to a top specification, twin wheel positions add to the helmsman’s comfort and all round netting should ensure that any young children remain on board. Whether bareboat or skippered, yacht charter from one of the many marinas across Hampshire offers plenty of options.
It has to be the best time of year for winter enthusiasts. Who could ask for anything better than a nice fresh powder to ski or better yet, snowboard through? Hundreds of dollars are spent on boards and boots, even cool outer wear, but what about snowboarding goggles? The most important thing to protect on your face is your eyes, and snowboarding goggles are designed for that purpose. So why do so many people just wear sunglasses or no eye protection whatsoever when they really should be wearing snowboarding goggles while enjoying their favourite winter sport?
Types Of Snowboarding Goggles
Sure there are lots and lots of snowboarding gogglesto choose from. There are brand name goggles like Oakley snowboard goggles, there are mid range priced snowboarding goggles that are manufactured by companies specializing in winter eye protection solely, and then there are knock offs and budget snowboarding goggles. Of the previously mentioned types, you need not yet be concerned with the prices. Look at the major component of the snowboarding goggles first. Snowboardinggoggles should offer these types of basic important protective elements to the wearer. Shatter resistance, anti-scratch coatings, UV protection, anti-fog coating, and adjustability. If you are a snowboarder then you know the importance of wearing snowboarding goggles while enjoying your sport. If you are new to snowboarding then you do not want to risk trying to snowboard without snowboarding goggles, only to find that you buy a pair not suited to your needs at an inflated price at a pro shop in a spur of the moment impulse buy.
What’s In A Good Pair Of Snowboarding Goggles ?
Really decent snowboarding goggles are not cheap, but they are not super expensive either. The key is to make a list of what you want and then shop. Interchangeable lens, different lens colors, brands that you like or trust or wish to co-ordinate with your current hardware. Snowboarding goggles are often on sale at the end of a season or at the end of a model line, at huge price discounts. Great snowboarding goggles will openly boast all the features we named like anti-fog, anti-scratch, and dual layer lenses. There will be descriptive instructions on fitting and trying them. The company manufacturing the snowboarding goggles of high quality will have a good warranty and allow you to try them on. Be comfortable with your choice.As these snowboarding goggles will bring you many hours of protection and comfort, allows you to enjoy your sport to its fullest potential as safely as possible.