Boat Safety Briefing: The Generator and GPS System
The GPS system is the brains of the operation on a sailboat (besides the captain and crew, of course!) The GPS isn’t just responsible for navigation—it also helps you keep an eye on tank levels, battery power, and the mechanics of the engine. The GPS is directly connected to house bank battery system and is DC power. To maintain power for the house battery bank when you charter a bareboat, you will want to check that the generator is working correctly. Here’s a look at how to avoid some common boat problems by knowing the fundamentals of the GPS and generator. GPS System The GPS system used on our ASA sailing courses or bareboat charters has a color display and touchscreen. Captains use this device to charter and navigate, but it can also help notify sailors about common boat problems…
Best Family Activities in the Virgin Islands
The Virgin Islands are a popular place for families to travel, and it’s no wonder why! Sunny days on the beach and epic sailing adventures offer fun for all ages. But what are some family-friendly activities in the VI you can’t miss? Let’s look at our favorite family activities in the Virgin Islands. Beaches We’ll…
Captain’s Log: Dreaming or Knot?
The Basics The boat: “The Happy Heifer”, 2023 FP Elba 45 Crew: Captain Trevon (instructor) and First Mate Stephanie ASA Students: Lori, Peter, Jill, Tyler, and William Courses Completed: ASA 101 (Basic KeelBoat), ASA 103 (Basic Coastal Cruising), ASA 104 (Bareboat Cruising), ASA 114 (Cruising Catamaran) Day 1: Boat Buying Aspirations The crew on…
Boat Safety Briefing: Mooring and Anchoring
Sailing in the Virgin Islands on a BVI or USVI itinerary gives lucky travelers a chance to island hop around some of the most scenic islands in the Caribbean. To experience the beauty of the land and sea, you will want to take advantage of the different islands and dive spots. That requires dropping anchor or visiting a mooring station in many cases. This article is a boat safety briefing on the tools you will need while mooring and anchoring. The goal is to help you locate the equipment and know how to operate each tool when you take ASA courses or charter a bareboat with Go Sail VI. Mooring and Anchoring Tools There are several tools you will want to familiarize yourself with when mooring and anchoring a sailboat. Here is a helpful look at some of the most…
How and When to Book a Bareboat Charter in the Virgin Islands
Whether you just finished taking sailing courses or have sailed for years, chartering a Virgin Islands bareboat requires some planning. Understanding how and when to book a bareboat charter goes a long way to ensuring that your trip to the Virgin Islands is smooth sailing. Here is a quick look at everything you need to…
Your Guide to Virgin Island Ferries
When you take sailing courses with Go Sail VI, we offer itineraries in both the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. If you plan to visit the BVI, the easiest way to get there is by taking a ferry—once you get to Tortola, you can meet your sailing course instructor at Nanny Cay…
Sailing Story: Dave Work
Dave Work started sailing about seven years ago and immediately fell in love. “I went with a buddy of mine, who took me on a charter, and then since that first charter I’ve just kind of gotten hooked,” he said. “I think it was love at first sail. I just loved it.” Since his…
Facts about Virgin Islands National Park
Facts About Virgin Islands National Park Virgin Islands National Park is full of adventure and fun! Here are a few things facts about Virgin Islands National Park that are worth knowing before you visit: This is no British Virgin Islands National Park The British Virgin Islands is home to a few different national parks but…
Best US Virgin Islands for Families
Many families dream of going to the Virgin Islands with their kids. It’s easy to see why, as it offers one of the most tranquil backdrops imaginable for family fun! Picture spending a week under the Caribbean sun, island hopping in USVI. Priceless. However, family travel in the Virgin Islands takes some planning, especially when…
Boat Briefing: Lighting the Stove and Grill
It might not be top of mind for all sailors, but when you plan a week-long liveaboard sailing trip, everybody needs to eat! When you take ASA sailing courses with Go Sail VI, we take care of many of the meals on board. If you charter a bareboat and sail on your own, you will…
5 Green Travel Tips: How to Equip Your Sailboat for Green Travel
Sailing is a popular eco-friendly travel option that allows you to see another side of the Virgin Islands that many people simply fly over. However, sailing sustainably requires some planning and understanding of what you need to bring along for the journey. Take a look at some helpful tips we put together so that you…
Boat Safety Briefing: How To Use a Dinghy
When you take a live-aboard sailing trip with Go Sail VI, you may spend more time than you think on a dinghy. What’s a dinghy? You’ve probably heard the term, but maybe you’re not all that familiar with the handy little boat stored on or next to a yacht. This small but mighty watercraft is…