Thursday, December 27, 2007

Boating Information and Courses

Many boaters like to spend the off-season preparing for the next time they can go out on their boat. One way is to take courses or read boating information and magazines on the latest trends.

Gulf Islands Cruising School's website offers the following:

  • Coastal Navigation
  • E-books
  • E-lessons
  • DVD of Pacific Northwest
  • VHF Radio Operators
  • Power boat Courses
  • Sailboat Courses
  • Private Instruction

For the above and more information visit our site at www.cruising.bc.ca

Thursday, December 6, 2007

Gift Idea for Boaters - Georgia Strait Alliance

The Georgia Strait Alliance is dedicated to protecting the marine environment in the Strait of Georgia.

Information is provided on how we, as boaters, can help preserve the environment. As boating families we can become aware and involved in doing our part.

A gift idea for boaters is supporting The Georgia Strait Alliance by donating to or purchasing a gift from them. For information on their mission and gift ideas, visit by clicking here

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Gift Basket Ideas for a Boating Family

For the boating family on your list a gift basket can be created to include everyone.

A variety of containers can be used to hold gifts such as a cooler, duffel bag, backpack or a folding cart.

Card games, board games, audio tapes, personalized t-shirts, CD, DVD, are gifts to consider for the boating family. A gift certificate for a restaurant in their boating area could be included. Books on activities or places to visit in their area can help a family plan their next boating vacation.

For more ideas for boaters - captain, galley cooks, boating mom, visit Gift Ideas for Boaters



Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Happy Thanksgiving Boaters

Happy Thanksgiving to our boating neighbors in the USA.

Visitors to Sidney, BC, Vancouver Island this weekend will enjoy the Lighted Ships Parade passing by the end of our main street, Beacon Avenue. The event is scheduled for November 24, 2007 and coincides with a full moon. It's always a delight to watch the lighted ships and appreciate the hours boaters spend to decorate their vessels. Boaters and non-boaters alike enjoy the Lighted Ships.

Here's an article outlining craft ideas for Thanksgiving.

Teaching your Kids to be Thankful 

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to teach your kids about being thankful. Here are some ideas to teach your children how to appreciate the blessings in their lives.

Giving Thanks Placements

The goal of this craft is to create a collage filled with drawings and pictures of all the things your children are thankful for. Cut photos from magazines, or print some photos from your computer. Older children can write captions under the photos or draw their own. Be sure to put the child’s name and the year on it.

If you make this collage from two standard letter size pieces of construction paper taped side-by-side, you can take the completed collage to a copy shop when you’re done and have it laminated. It then becomes a placemat that you can use every Thanksgiving for years to come.

Thankful Paper Chain

Another way to remind your children of their blessings is to create a paper chain. This is similar to a regular paper chain – where you cut strips of paper and connect them together as loops, but there’s one difference. You write on the strips of paper before you connect them. Write the things you are thankful for with your children. For instance, “Grandma plays games with me” or “My teacher is nice.” The fun part of this activity is to make the chain as long as possible – showing all your blessings. If you’d like to keep this up during Christmas, just use green and white paper.

Thanksgiving Tree

This is another take on the idea above and works really well if you have several kids in the family. Get each child to trace their hand on yellow, red, or brown construction paper. Cut out the hand shapes and write (or have the child write) what they are thankful for on the hand shape. Cut a tree trunk shape out of brown construction paper. Glue it on a large piece of poster board. Let the kids add their hand shapes as leaves above the tree trunk, turning it into a beautiful fall colored tree.

Thankful Book

This idea is similar to the others, except it’s more of a keepsake. Purchase a photo album or scrapbook kit and make a “blessings” theme. Add photos of loved ones, including stories about why they are special to you. Also, include pages of your favorite foods, favorite stories, favorite movies and all the other things that make you happy. Any time your kids feel down, you can open your blessing book to see all the reasons you have to be happy – and thankful for the blessings in your life.

Wishing you a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

Monday, November 19, 2007

Audio Books and Boating Children

Occupying children and grandchildren while boating calls for creativity. I find it helpful to offer a variety of activities suited to the age of the child.



A quiet time set aside each day allows everyone time to renew and refresh themselves for the balance of the day. Reading is an excellent quiet time activity as are audio books to be enjoyed individually or as a family.



A variety of audio books for all ages can be purchased and downloaded online, loaded into an MP3 player for individual use or burned onto a CD for everyone to enjoy.



I use the following site for a large selection of audio books Kids - Young and Old

Tuesday, October 2, 2007

Thanksgiving Dinner on Board

This weekend is Thanksgiving in Canada and many boaters enjoy the time on board their vessels.

Having cooked many meals on a two burner stove, I have created a method for preparing an easy turkey dinner on board.

For the equipment required, shopping list, and preparation instructions Click here

Happy Thanksgiving to All.

Monday, October 1, 2007

Family Boating

Boating together as a family is an excellent way to connect with each other, enjoy nature, and get some exercise.

When taking your family on board, assign everyone a job. There will be a captain, first mate, galley cook, boat cleaner, etc. A book with the duties of each position is useful so the "crew" can refer to it if needed.

Choose a destination with a variety of activities to give everyone an opportunity to enjoy some time away from the boat.

Recommended Reading Family Boating
an information lens for the boating family.

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Boating Guests

Being invited as a guest by family or friends on a boating excursion, there are ways to make things easier for the host or hostess.

A great goodwill gesture is to bring food along. It is helpful to be aware of space on board such as size of icebox or fridge when deciding on your contribution to meals. For instance for a day outing a picnic lunch may be in order.

Offering to chip in for fuel will be appreciated by the boat owner.

Once the trip is complete, offering to help clean up will be appreciated. There may be many jobs such as taking the trash, washing off the boat, and helping organize the equipment.

Help out wherever you can, being sure to ask first.

An excellent resource for all first mates is Brenda Dawson's e-book First Mate 101

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Boating Information

Gulf Islands Cruising School Ltd. has added a free seven day e-mail boating information series including safety, knots, galley tips, buying a boat.

To subscribe, please visit our site at www.cruising.bc.ca

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Packing for Boating

A backpack or soft bag to pack belongings is useful to use on boats where space is usually limited.

To assist children, a checklist is helpful to ensure they have the clothes they need. Following is an example of gear to include either for a day trip or a longer boating vacation.

Items to include:

Two pairs of shoes - one for the boat, one for ashore
hat
toque
mitts or gloves
jogging suit
shorts
pants
warm jacket preferably with hood
short and long sleeved t-shirts
socks
sunglasses
swim suit
rain jacket and pants
rain boots
pj's, toiletries, underwear - for overnight trips

Once a list for a child's gear is established, it can be used whenever a boating trip is planned.

Monday, August 20, 2007

A Day at Sidney Spit

My sister was visiting from out of province and we treated ourselves to an afternoon at Sidney Spit. Arriving by ferry from Sidney we spent our time beach combing, relaxing, and exploring the island on the hiking trail.

Unfortunately, my sister scraped her foot. The incident sparked a conversation on the items we would have found handy to have in our pack or purse. Whether arriving by ferry or via your own vessel, here is a suggested list of "what to bring".

First Aid Kit
Band aids
Water
Sunscreen
Hat
Sweater or coat
Sunglasses
Towel
Allergy medication
Wet wipes
Snack
For children - shovel and sand castle building containers
Plastic bags to carry out your trash - no garbage containers on the island

The list applies anytime you are leaving your boat and going ashore to explore at anchorages or marinas.

Sidney Spit is a popular destination, so much so, we were unable to board the ferry we wanted back to Sidney as it was full to capacity. We waited 1 hour 45 minutes for the next ferry. This incident gave us time to further consider our "what to bring" list for our next visit to the island.

Being prepared is the key to a relaxing time on the island.

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Boating and Children

When boating with children, the experience can be fun for all of you. It is an opportunity for the children to learn about boats, nature, and more.

While underway from port to port, playing the 20 question game will occupy the young crew members for some time. By focusing on boat parts and your environment, children can become familiar with boating and have fun.

Each family member takes turns deciding on a part of the boat while the others try to guess the item asking a total of 20 questions only. From anchor to waves, the game could be played for a good length of time covering parts of the boat and your surroundings.

More Family Boating ideas on my lens.

Friday, July 6, 2007

Lunch Ideas

My experience boating, whether for a day or starting a vacation, has been no sooner the gear is stowed on board, we get underway then everyone gets the munchies. I find taking the extra time before leaving home to pack a lunch eliminates the need to start preparing food on board immediately.

Favorites for us include:

Buns with choice of meats, lettuce, pickles, etc

Wraps

Cold Pizza

Individual containers with meat, cheese, crackers

A vegetable tray with dip

Fruit

Homemade oatmeal bars or cookies

Choice of water, juice, etc - Color coded or name marked drinking containers with lids for each family member, filled before leaving home, saves trying to pour drinks while underway.

More recipes and articles at Easy Family Boating Recipes



Monday, June 11, 2007

Boating and Fishing

Boating and fishing are fun family activities to enjoy together. Fishing from the shore or from a boat is sure to bring hours of enjoyment.

Our teenage son is an avid fisherman and we've had several salmon meals from his catch.

Children of all ages can participate in fishing. Equipment suggestions and general information can be found here

Monday, June 4, 2007

Boating with Children

Boating with children can be an educational experience. The marine environment offers abundant opportunity to learn about sea creatures and birds. Building sand castles, walking on the beach, or exploring tide pools are ways for children to enjoy the marine parks.


For information visit http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/kidspage/kidstodo.html

Monday, May 28, 2007

Boating Safety

Summer vacation is approaching and taking your family out on the water is an ideal way to spend time together. Whether your vessel of choice is a power boat, sailboat, kayak, canoe or other, it is important to be equipped with the knowledge for a safe day on the water.

The mandatory equipment required on a vessel can be found in the Safe Boating Guide at http://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/TP/TP511/menu.htm

For information on selecting and using life jackets and PFDs visit http://www.wearalifejacket.com/

Courses, books, e-books, e-lessons are ways to increase boating knowledge. A range of courses and information is offered at http://www.cruising.bc.ca

Tuesday, April 24, 2007

Boating and the Environment

Today's children are environmentally conscious from watching us parents and the teaching they receive in school. As boaters we can do our part as families to help preserve BC's beautiful cruising grounds.

The Georgia Strait Alliance is dedicated to protecting the marine environment. They provide information on how we can be green boaters. To see how our families can help click here

Monday, April 16, 2007

Sidney BC, Vancouver Island

Sidney has been home for 25+ years and has been a lovely place to raise a family and operate a business. The population is over 11,000. Vancouver Island is accessible by air or sea.

Located approximately 45 minutes drive north of Victoria, B.C.'s capital city, Sidney is a popular starting point for boating vacations. There are many marine related businesses and marinas in Sidney.


More information at www.sidney.ca

Thursday, April 12, 2007

Boating Information for Families

Boating as a family is a great way to have fun together.

There are coves and marine parks to explore in B.C.'s Gulf Islands only accessible by boat. Fishing, observing marine life, having a picnic on board, or staying overnight are a few activities for families to enjoy.

If you have a boat or are considering boating as a hobby, visit www.discoverboating.ca

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Pleasure Craft Operator Card

The Canadian Government regulations state as of 2002, any person operating any powered recreational vessel less than 4 metres (including personal watercraft) must provide proof of competency.

As of 2009 any person operating any powered recreational vessel must have proof of competency.

Children 8 - 12 years of age have a separate test.

There is an exemption for non-residents of Canada under certain circumstances.

Further details on the PCOC click here

Monday, April 9, 2007

Galley

The galley can be one place on a boat where cleanliness is of vital importance.

For information on cleaning, storing, and cooking I recommend reading the article called Kill the Uninvited Guests.

Tuesday, April 3, 2007

Galley Tip - Ice

Reuseable Ice

Galleys with iceboxes can use ice blocks as one option of keeping contents cool. A method I find useful is to fill a plastic water container partially full of water and freeze it. There is little water in the icebox from melting and the container can be removed and refrozen for the next trip.

Add a Steamer

An addition to a double boiler to expand its use is a steamer. I personally use a stainless steel double boiler which has a steamer insert with handle.

On board a boat the above three piece arrangement works well if your galley has a two burner stove. For instance, for dinner potatoes can be boiled in the bottom, and your favorite vegetable steamed in the steamer. The top of the boiler can be used for warming rolls, sauces, or heating an already prepared side dish.

The steamer can double as a colander eliminating the need for a separate strainer on board.

Feeding the Crew-Breakfast

Making breakfast for a crew can be challenging using two burners, a fry pan and a double boiler.

A few of the items on the five day menu plan for Learn to Cruise vacations were:

Pancakes and bacon
- Use the fry pan to cook the bacon. Drain and place in top of double boiler to keep warm.

Note: A can on board is handy for drippings such as bacon grease.

- Cook pancakes in fry pan to serve with the warm bacon.

Muffins, cheese and fruit
- Use the double boiler to warm muffins

Pancakes and scrambled eggs
- Cook pancakes and keep warm in double boiler
- Scramble eggs in fry pan

The hot water in the bottom of the double boiler can be used for dish water, rinse water for dishes, or to heat the thermos before filling with hot water for the day.

More recipes and articles on Easy Family Boating Recipes

Outfitting the Galley

My first experience with outfitting a galley was in 1980 when Bruce and I started Gulf Islands Cruising School Ltd. We were offering five day live aboard Learn to Cruise vacations with a maximum of four students plus instructor on board.

The boats we used were C &C 26' and the galley consisted of a sink with cold water only pump, two burner alcohol stove and an icebox which fortunately was large.

The following equipment and utensils were placed on board to provide meals for the instructor and crew:

Pots and Pans
- non stick fry pan with spatter screen
- stainless steel double boiler
- tea kettle
- one small, one large stainless bowl

Dishes
- Six place settings/non breakable
- Unbreakable glasses

Cutlery
-place settings for six
-one small, one large stainless steel knife

Miscellaneous
-top quality can opener
-tongs
-flipper
-vegetable peeler
-oven mitts
-thermos

Space on board was very limited, therefore, only the bare necessities were provided.

Monday, April 2, 2007

Galley Tip

A good thermos is a valuable addition to your boat's galley. To enjoy a morning coffee break while boating, fill the thermos with coffee before leaving the dock or anchorage. If coffee is not for you, a thermos of hot water gives the crew an option of making coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or hot iced tea. A full thermos eliminates the need to light the stove while underway.