In modern times, yachting is considered a relaxing and interesting hobby, one could use it on weekend sailing getaways or for competitive racing. A yacht applies to two quite different classes of sea vessels, either sailing yachts or motor yachts. Yachts were generally distinguished from workboats primarily by their purpose, as yachts were fast and were the comfortable means of sea transportation for the rich and powerful.
However, it was not until the prevalence of steamships and other types of motorized ships that sailing ships began to be seen as luxury items. The modern usage of the term sailing applies to almost all sailing vessels other than sailboats, and is used for yacht racing or pleasure cruising.
Owning a yacht can be very exciting and enjoyable. The thrill of being on a ship, whether it’s a sailing boat or a cruising yacht, taking a sea excursion or simply island hopping with friends and family can be a truly priceless experience. These days, yacht and boat racing are familiar sports to entrants around the world, primarily where favorable wind conditions and access to logically sized bodies of water are available and within reach.
Competitive regattas would also be a perfect way to improve sailing skills as well as immerse yourself in the fun and competition. Most yachts today are made in saltwater, but smaller boats can be, and they are also raced on lakes and even large rivers.
Sailing on a yacht also evokes a sense of adventure and excitement, and could be a journey across the bay or across the oceans to the islands of the South Pacific. Safe navigation over long distances involves a high degree of self-sufficiency and a wide range of skills beyond ship handling. Long distance navigation skill involves knowledge of navigation, meteorology, mechanical and electrical systems, radio, first aid, sea survival, nutrition, and these are essential and can save lives when sail to distant shores.
In recent times, small to medium sized private yachts have evolved from fairly simple vessels with rudimentary accommodations to sophisticated and luxurious vessels that have the modern comforts of home. This is mainly due to the reduction in hull building costs brought about by the introduction of fiberglass hulls, increased automation and production line techniques for yacht building, especially in Europe and the United States.
In recent years, the amount of electrical equipment used on yachts has been further improved. Just 20 years ago, it was not common for a 25ft (7m) yacht to have electric lighting, and now all but the smallest and most basic yachts have electric lighting, a radio, and navigation aids such as GPS or navigation systems. Global Positioning.
Yachts with lengths around 33 feet or 10 meters have added luxuries such as hot water, pressurized water systems, refrigerators, etc. Navigational aids such as radar, echo sounder and autopilot are frequently added. The addition of modern boating technology and equipment has not only made boating an enjoyable or competitive pastime, it has also improved the safety of both boaters and their crews.
Yacht – http://yacht.line.us/
