New Horizons Sailing Vessel

07/18/2024

07/18/2024

07/15/2024

Weekend trip in SF Bay

05/27/2024

🇺🇸 Honoring Our Heroes This Memorial Day🇺🇸

At New Horizons Charter, we take this day to remember and honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Their courage and dedication have shaped the nation we cherish today.

As we set sail and enjoy the beauty of our great waters, we carry the memory of our fallen heroes with us. Their legacy inspires us to appreciate the freedoms we have and to strive for a better future.

Today, let’s come together in gratitude and remembrance. Whether you're spending time with loved ones or participating in community activities, take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who have served our country.

Wishing everyone a meaningful Memorial Day.

Fair winds and following seas,

New Horizons Charter

05/15/2024

Ahoy, sailing enthusiasts and cherished community members!

Today, we join the world in celebrating International Families Day, a day dedicated to honoring the bonds that unite us and the love that keeps us strong. At New Horizons Charter & Media LLC, we believe in the power of family and the unique experiences that sailing can offer to bring families closer together.

Sailing isn't just about navigating the waters; it's about navigating life together. Every moment on a sailboat is an opportunity to connect, communicate, and create lasting memories. The teamwork required to manage the sails, the shared sense of adventure, and the beauty of nature all contribute to an environment where families can thrive.

We are thrilled to announce our upcoming initiative, the Hidden Treasure Sailing Club, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to making sailing accessible to middle-class and lower-income families. Our mission is to provide opportunities for families to explore the joys of sailing, participate in community outreach events, and engage in conservation projects.

Although we haven’t officially launched, we're eager to share our vision and gather interest from families passionate about sailing or curious to learn more. If you’re excited about the idea of bringing your family into the world of sailing, we’d love to hear from you!

Interested in learning more about our plans and how you can be part of this exciting journey? Reach out to us at 831-2576030 or email us at [email protected] for updates. We’re looking for families and individuals who share our passion for sailing and community to join us in shaping the future of the Hidden Treasure Sailing Club.

On this International Families Day, let's set sail towards new horizons and strengthen the bonds that make our families so special. Join us in making sailing accessible and enjoyable for all.

Fair winds and happy sailing,
The New Horizons Charter & Media LLC Team

05/15/2024

Mastering various techniques to manage different situations on the water is essential for sailors. One invaluable skill is heaving-to, a maneuver that allows a sailboat to effectively stop in the water. This technique can be used for taking breaks, making repairs, or waiting out bad weather. Understanding and practicing heaving-to can greatly enhance your confidence and safety while sailing.

Heaving-to involves setting the boat in a position where it makes minimal forward movement, maintaining a stable position relative to the wind and waves. This creates a calm area to leeward of the boat, which can be particularly useful during heavy weather or when you need to stop and take a break.

To heave-to, start by backing the headsail, trimming it to the windward side of the boat. The backed headsail will push the bow of the boat away from the wind. Simultaneously, turn the rudder hard to leeward to counteract the force of the backed headsail. The goal is to balance the boat so that it doesn’t sail off in any particular direction. Next, ease the mainsail to reduce its drive. The mainsail should be trimmed to help maintain the balance of the boat, countering the forces from the headsail and rudder.

Heaving-to can significantly enhance safety during storms. When facing heavy weather, heaving-to provides a much-needed respite, allowing the boat to ride out the storm in a more controlled manner. The boat will drift slowly, but the motion is significantly reduced compared to trying to sail through the storm. It also allows for taking breaks, making repairs, or simply resting without having to anchor. Additionally, in a man-overboard situation, heaving-to helps slow down the boat and creates a more stable environment to recover the person.

Practicing heaving-to is essential to perfect the skill. Try it out in various conditions to see how your specific boat responds. Start in lighter winds before attempting it in heavier conditions. Understanding how your boat behaves while hove-to will give you greater confidence in managing it when it truly counts.

Heaving-to is an essential sailing skill that can enhance your safety and comfort on the water. By balancing the forces of the sails and the rudder, you can bring your boat to a near stop, providing a stable environment to rest, make repairs, or ride out a storm. Regular practice will help you master this technique, ensuring you are well-prepared for any situation you may encounter while sailing. So next time you're out on the water, take some time to practice heaving-to. It could make all the difference when you need it most.

05/14/2024

Today let’s talk weather!

Staying informed about the weather is crucial for any sailor, from novice to expert. When planning a day out on the water, it's vital to have an updated weather forecast at your fingertips. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and being prepared is essential for ensuring both safety and enjoyment.

One effective strategy is to consult multiple sources for weather forecasts. Different weather services might use varying models or have slightly different interpretations of the data, which can give you a more rounded view of what to expect. This is especially important in areas where weather can be unpredictable or if you're planning to sail in unfamiliar waters.

You should also consider the timing of your checks. Weather updates can change significantly within just a few hours. It's a good idea to check the forecast several times leading up to your departure and even when you're out at sea if possible. This continuous monitoring will help you stay ahead of any adverse conditions that might be developing.

Understanding the specifics of a weather report is another key element. Knowing how to read and interpret wind directions, wind speed, wave heights, and tide times can drastically enhance your ability to make informed decisions. For instance, winds that might be favorable for a quick trip out might not be suitable for a return voyage if they are expected to change.

Additionally, it's useful to familiarize yourself with localized weather patterns. Certain areas might be prone to sudden squalls or shifts in wind direction that aren't as common elsewhere. Local sailors or maritime authorities can provide insights based on experience that aren't available from general forecasts.

By incorporating these practices into your sailing routine, you can ensure that you're not just prepared for the expected, but also equipped to handle unexpected changes in weather, enhancing both the safety and pleasure of your sailing adventures.

What is your favorite weather source?

05/13/2024

🌊 Daily Sailing Tip from New Horizons: Clean Boating Practices🌊

At New Horizons we're committed to protecting the beautiful waters of The Monterey Bay that we call home. Today, let's focus on a simple yet impactful clean boating practice: Proper Waste Management.

Keeping our oceans clean starts with us. Trash and waste improperly disposed of can harm marine life and pollute our beautiful waters.

Tips for Clean Boating:
1. Use Onshore Facilities: Whenever possible, dispose of your trash and recycling in onshore facilities. This prevents debris from accidentally falling overboard.
2. Secure Your Trash: Make sure all trash is securely stored in a covered bin while aboard. Winds can easily sweep lightweight items into the sea.
3. Plan Ahead: Reduce potential waste by avoiding disposable items. Opt for reusable water bottles, plates, and utensils.
4. Participate in Clean-ups: Join community efforts like beach clean-ups to help keep our shorelines and waters pristine.

Join Us:
Get involved in our next community clean-up event organized by the Hidden Treasure Sailing Club. Together, we can make a significant impact!

🌐 For more tips and updates, follow us and stay tuned for our next post. Let's sail responsibly and keep our oceans clean!

05/12/2024

Let’s talk about trip preparation…

Sailing is an exhilarating experience that demands thorough preparation and attention to detail. Whether you're heading out for a leisurely day on the water or embarking on a lengthy offshore adventure, having a comprehensive pre-departure checklist is crucial for ensuring both safety and enjoyment. Here’s how to gear up for a seamless sailing experience.

Start by prioritizing safety. Ensure every individual on board has a life jacket, and keep extras just in case. Equip your vessel with accessible fire extinguishers, up-to-date flares and distress signals, and a fully stocked first aid kit. Communication is vital, so verify that your VHF radio is charged and functional, and have an emergency tiller ready.

Navigation is your roadmap to successful sailing. Maintain a reliable compass and a set of backup charts and maps of your sailing area. A functioning GPS device is indispensable, along with a depth sounder to navigate shallow waters safely. Regular checks on these tools can prevent unexpected challenges.

Engine maintenance cannot be overlooked. Check your fuel and oil levels before departure, and ensure the bilge pump is operational. It’s also wise to have a basic tool kit onboard to handle minor repairs. This proactive approach keeps mechanical issues at bay, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sail.

Inspect your sails and rigging for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure that all hardware, including winches and cleats, are free from corrosion and operate smoothly. Regularly check your lines and halyards for fraying or kinks to prevent equipment failure under sail.

General boat maintenance is just as important. Conduct a thorough hull inspection for leaks or damage and ensure all seacocks and valves are functioning properly. Your anchoring system should be robust and ready, with a reliable anchor and sufficient rode.

Always review the weather forecast and understand the tides and currents of your destination. Stock up on adequate provisions, including water, food, and appropriate clothing for changing weather conditions. Lastly, inform a trusted contact about your sailing plans and expected return time.

A well-prepared sailor is a confident sailor. By following this detailed checklist, you ensure that every aspect of your boat is in prime condition, reducing risks and enhancing the pleasure of your journey. Remember, the key to a successful sailing adventure lies in meticulous preparation and an unyielding attention to detail.

05/10/2024

Today, let’s talk about docking. Docking a boat is often seen as one of the more nerve-wracking aspects of sailing, especially in busy or unfamiliar marinas. Mastery of docking not only enhances safety but also boosts the sailor's confidence. Here's how to refine your docking skills with precision and care.

Success in docking begins long before you reach the dock. It starts with a thorough assessment of the conditions you're facing, including wind, current, and marina traffic. You'll need to decide in advance which side of the boat will be nearest to the dock and get your fenders and dock lines ready on that side. Communication is key, so ensure that everyone on board knows their role, from handling lines to managing fenders.

Approaching the dock requires a slow and controlled pace. The adage "Slow is pro" really applies here. The idea is to maintain just enough speed to ensure maneuverability without sacrificing control. This often involves gentle and intermittent applications of power to adjust your speed and heading.

Wind and current can either be your allies or obstacles when docking. Ideally, approach the dock with these forces pushing you slightly from behind, making it easier to slow down and stop at the desired spot. If the wind or current is pushing you toward the dock, you should approach at a shallower angle to mitigate the speed of approach, allowing for a smoother and safer docking process.

Handling dock lines is crucial. Have your bow and stern lines ready for quick deployment. Employing a midship line can also provide additional control as you near the dock. If possible, throw lines to someone on the dock; if you're solo, you might need to quickly but safely step off with the lines to secure the boat.

Regular practice in different conditions and at various types of docks (such as floating versus fixed) is invaluable. Each scenario will teach you more about how your boat behaves in close quarters and help you adjust your approach accordingly. If feasible, practice with an experienced sailor who can offer immediate feedback and advice, enhancing your learning curve.

After successfully docking, make sure to adjust your fenders so they're positioned correctly between your boat and the dock. Secure all lines, taking into account any changes in tide or current. Properly tied, your boat should be able to shift slightly with these changes without becoming too loose or overly taut.

With a solid understanding of these techniques and sufficient practice, docking can become a less daunting and more enjoyable part of your sailing experience.

05/09/2024

Today's sailing tip is about the importance of keeping a clean bilge. A clean bilge not only prevents unpleasant odors but also ensures that your bilge pump operates efficiently. Regularly checking and cleaning the bilge can help prevent buildup of oil, grease, and other debris, which can lead to mechanical problems and environmental hazards. Make it a routine part of your boat maintenance to inspect and clean the bilge, ensuring that your vessel remains in good condition and minimizes its environmental impact.

05/08/2024

Today’s tip is on the importance of maintaining a proper lookout while sailing. It's essential to constantly be aware of your surroundings, including other boats, potential obstacles, and changes in weather conditions. Use both visual and electronic means to monitor the area around your vessel. Regularly scan the horizon and not just the immediate area to anticipate any changes that could affect your course or safety. This practice is not only a crucial safety measure but also a requirement under the rules of the road for boating.

Proper scanning while sailing involves a systematic method to constantly check your surroundings for other vessels, navigational hazards, and changes in weather conditions. Here are some tips on how to do it effectively:

1. **360-Degree Scan**: Regularly perform a full 360-degree visual scan. Begin at the bow and sweep your gaze around the horizon, finishing at the stern. This helps ensure you don’t miss anything that could be approaching from any direction.

2. **Use Binoculars**: For distant objects, use binoculars to get a better view. This is especially useful for identifying buoys, markers, and other boats that are far away.

3. **Check the Instruments**: Along with visual scanning, regularly check your navigational instruments such as the GPS, compass, radar, and AIS (Automatic Identification System) if available. These tools can help you detect and track other vessels, even in poor visibility.

4. **Look and Listen**: In addition to using your eyes, use your ears. Sometimes, especially in foggy conditions, you might hear another vessel before you see it.

5. **Regular Intervals**: Set a routine to scan your surroundings at regular intervals. In busy areas, you might need to scan more frequently. A good rule of thumb is to do a full scan every 15 to 20 minutes and a more frequent partial scan depending on the density of traffic and visibility conditions.

6. **Weather and Sea Conditions**: Pay attention to changes in weather and sea conditions. Adjust your scanning frequency and method based on visibility. For example, in foggy conditions, slow down and scan more frequently using all available senses and instruments.

7. **Involve Crew Members**: If you are not sailing alone, involve your crew in the scanning process. Assign different sectors for them to monitor, which can increase your overall situational awareness.

Adopting a thorough and disciplined approach to scanning while sailing will enhance your safety and make your sailing experience more enjoyable and less stressful.

05/01/2024

Today lets talk about tacking!

Tacking is a fundamental sailing maneuver that involves turning the boat's bow through the wind to switch the wind from one side to the other, which is crucial for effective sailing. This technique not only allows sailors to change direction but also plays a vital role in managing sail power and boat speed in varying wind conditions. To execute a tack smoothly and efficiently, a sailor must be well-prepared and understand both their boat and the sea conditions. Here’s a guide on how to refine your tacking technique for a smoother sailing experience.

The process begins with proper preparation. Before initiating a tack, ensure that all crew members are aware and ready for the maneuver. Communication is key; inform everyone on board about the upcoming tack to ensure they are prepared to perform their roles effectively. It’s also important to secure all loose items aboard to prevent any mishaps when the boat shifts sides.

Entering the tack with the boat close-hauled, or as close to the wind as possible while still maintaining good speed, is crucial. This optimal approach angle helps maintain momentum as the boat turns through the wind. The helm's movement should be smooth and firm; jerky movements can cause the boat to lose more speed than necessary.

As the boat’s bow crosses the wind, the jib, or the front sail, will begin to flap or luff, indicating it's time for action. This is the cue for the crew handling the jib to release it from the original side and pull it in quickly on the new leeward side once the boat completes the turn. Executing this quickly is crucial as it helps the boat accelerate back up to speed efficiently.

Maintaining control and speed during the tack is essential. Keeping the boat as flat as possible by minimizing heeling (tilting) reduces drag and allows for faster acceleration post-tack. Adjusting the crew's weight distribution can help stabilize the boat. Watch your speed throughout the maneuver to prevent the boat from stalling and ending up in irons, where it's pointing directly into the wind and unable to move. The key is to minimize the time spent in the no-go zone, where the boat faces directly into the wind.

Practicing tacking in different conditions is invaluable. Wind strengths and sea states can vary greatly and will influence how a boat should be handled during a tack. By practicing in various conditions, you will learn how your boat reacts and how to adjust your tacking technique accordingly.

Mastering the art of tacking is not just about knowing what to do but also about when and how to do it efficiently. Whether you’re racing or cruising, improving your tacking skills will enhance your sailing performance and enjoyment. It's a skill that, once honed, will serve you well on the water, making your sailing both safer and more enjoyable.

04/30/2024

Managing the heel of your boat is essential for both performance and safety while sailing. Heel refers to the angle at which the boat leans to the side under the force of the wind. While a certain amount of heel can be beneficial, helping the boat to slice through the water more efficiently and reduce drag on the hull, excessive heeling can lead to increased drag, reduced speed, and a loss of control.

To keep the heel at an optimal level, sailors should start by focusing on sail trim. If the boat is heeling too much, easing the mainsheet can help spill some wind from the sail’s top, which is the most powerful and effective part of the sail in many conditions. Additionally, tightening adjustments like the outhaul and backstay can flatten the mainsail, making it less powerful and more manageable in strong winds.

Another key strategy is to reef the main sail early when strong winds are expected. Reducing the sail area not only lowers the center of effort but also decreases the degree of heel, making the boat easier to handle as conditions grow more intense.

Crew positioning is also vital. Shifting crew weight towards the windward side of the boat can counteract excessive heel, providing a quick balance adjustment that doesn't involve changing the sail settings. This method is particularly useful during sudden gusts or when the boat needs to be stabilized quickly.

Finally, the storage of gear and supplies plays a crucial role in managing heel. Heavier items should be stowed as low and centrally as possible to maintain a low center of gravity, which helps improve the boat's overall stability.

By carefully managing heel through these techniques, you can maintain better control over your vessel, optimize its speed, and ensure safety for everyone on board. Each boat has a particular heel angle at which it performs best, so experimenting with different settings and conditions can help you find the perfect balance for your specific sailing environment.

04/29/2024

When sailing, it's crucial to understand and effectively use the "points of sail." The points of sail refer to a boat's course relative to the wind direction. Knowing these points—like close-hauled, beam reach, broad reach, and running—helps you optimize your sail settings to make the most of the wind you have. For instance, if you're close-hauled (sailing as closely into the wind as possible), you'll want your sails to be tightly trimmed. On a beam reach (wind coming from the side), your sails can be let out more. Mastering these points can significantly enhance your speed and efficiency on the water.

04/26/2024

Windy day on the bay today!

04/12/2024

Welcome to Horizons!

04/12/2024

04/08/2024

One step closer to being sea worthy. Made the discharge placards and navigation rules book