Organisers of the British Leisure Show have unveiled plans for an inspiring FREE to attend Boat & Leisure Festival in Cowes, Isle of Wight, over the Jubilee bank holiday on Monday 4th and Tuesday 5th June 2012.

The Festival is designed to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and will feature live music, hospitality and a great display of British boats and outdoor leisure activities.

Internationally recognised as the home of world yachting, Cowes has been selected to host the Boat and Leisure Festival for a two-day extravaganza over the extended Jubilee bank holiday period.

James Brooke, Festival Director, commented, "We’re really excited to be celebrating such an historic occasion and delighted to be working closely with the Cowes community to make this memorable family event a great success.”

"We have previously organised major events at the Royal Windsor Racecourse and Earls Court and, for me, Cowes has to be the venue for such an occasion, given its historic links with our monarchy. It’s a perfect venue for an overtly British-themed event, and we’re proud that Cowes will be one of the most exciting places in the country to be celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee."

James Brooke is keen to get the marine industry to play its part adding, "This new event provides an exciting opportunity to generate additional revenue for companies trading within the marine industry as well as to play a part in making history. The Festival is being held at the home of world yachting, at the start of the Summer and the boating season."

For information about how to participate as a Festival exhibitor, visit the Festival website www.cowesfest.com or send your details in an email to: JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING .

Varied attractions and travel deals

Amongst the attractions for visitors will be a display of some of the finest British built yachts and motorboats, an exclusive preview of teams racing in the 2013 Cowes to Monte-Carlo Powerboat Race, a parade of fashion, and a range of outdoor leisure activities and accessories for families to see, try and buy.

Berthing will be available in Cowes Yacht Haven marina for visiting yachts, and visitors will benefit from special mainland ferry rates from Red Funnel, with vehicle crossings bookable via the Festival website: http://www.cowesfest.com .

Organisers will be promoting the Festival at http://www.cowesfest.com , through Red Funnel and other Festival partners as well as using social media.

The Boat & Leisure Festival takes place on Monday 4th and Tuesday 5th June 2012 at Cowes Yacht Haven, Vectis Yard, High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7BD.

http://www.cowesfest.com

The 18th century mill building at Birdham Pool Marina, Chichester Harbour, is to be sold by auction on 16th April 2012.  As one of the most significant and picturesque buildings in Chichester Harbour, this impressive Grade II listed property is truly a one-off.

Set beside the lock at the end of its own peninsula, the Mill offers an extraordinary restoration opportunity.  Most recently used as a store, the beautiful brick and timber building could potentially be converted to residential usage; either as one exceptional home or divided into three deluxe units.   Alternatively, with its prestigious waterside location and unparalleled dual aspect views across the harbour, it would make a fantastic restaurant subject to all the necessary consents being obtainable.

Sam Bourne of Castle Marinas, owners of Birdham Pool comments, "With access across the harbour lock and spectacular views over the marina, there can be few buildings in Chichester with such a sought after location.”

Birdham Mill will go to auction at the Hilton Brighton Metropole on 16th April 2012.  For more information about the property, contact David Adams, Henry Adams, on 01243 533633 JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING or Sam Kinloch, Clive Emson Auctioneers, on 0845 603 6614 JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING

The Fat Face Foundation, the charitable arm of the clothing company Fat Face, has sponsored a new sail each for Lord Nelson and Tenacious which are the only tall ships in the world designed to be sailed by mixed crews of able-bodied and disabled people including wheelchair users.

The two ships are operated by the Jubilee Sailing Trust, a charity whose mission is to enable people to take part in tall ship sailing whatever their level of physical ability. Disabled and able-bodied sailors alike work the ship side by side and handle the sails together. Lord Nelson has 18 sails and Tenacious has 21, all of which get considerable wear and tear since the ships are operated all year round. To maintain high standards of safety, the sails are replaced regularly through donations and sponsorship.

The Fat Face Foundation seeks to work with organisations that enable people to actively enjoy the outdoors and respect the environment. Rachel Follett, Director and Trustee of the Foundation said “We actively aim to make the outdoors more accessible for all, so sponsoring these sails fits perfectly with our ethos. It’ll be fantastic to think that the sails will be out there crossing oceans and helping to change the lives of people with a variety of disabilities”.

Sarah Davies, Marketing Manager of the Jubilee Sailing Trust said “I wanted to approach the Fat Face Foundation as a potential sail sponsor because I could see a natural fit and I was delighted when they agreed. Our charity is dependent on the generosity of sponsors and donors which enables us to keep our ships afloat and continue to offer what for many is a profoundly life-changing experience”.

Lord Nelson is currently in the Canaries and Tenacious is in the Caribbean. Both will return to Southampton in May when the new sails will be set ready for summer voyages in UK and European waters.

“Mojitos, Mambo and the Macarena!” Is the Theme for  Annual Boat Show Kickoff Fundraiser Benefiting Shake-A-Leg Miami

The Florida Yacht Brokers Association (FYBA) and Fort Lauderdale Mariners Club (FTLMC) have come together once again to support Shake-A-Leg Miami by co-hosting the second-annual Miami Yacht & Brokerage Show Kickoff Party. With a theme of “Mojitos, Mambo and the Macarena!”, the event will feature live music, drinks and appetizers. The fundraiser will be held on Wednesday, February 15 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. at the Show Management tent on Cocktail Barge #1 in the 4700 block of Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida.

A limited number of event tickets are available and can be purchased online for just $30 at http://www.fyba.org. Event sponsorships also are available.

Proceeds from the event will benefit Shake-A-Leg Miami, a charitable organization that helps disabled people of all ages overcome their handicaps by learning and engaging in the fun and rewarding discipline of sailing.

“This annual event helps Shake-A-Leg Miami continue its fine work of helping children and adults overcome their physical, developmental and economic challenges,” says Harry Horgan, Founder and President of Shake-A-Leg Miami. “Last year’s event was so well-received that these fine marine industry organizations have decided to host it again this year. We at Shake-A-Leg Miami thank them for their continued support.”

Sponsors to date include Show Management; The Triton Magazine; Yachting Experts, Inc.; Fowler White Attorneys at Law and Falvey Yacht Insurance. For more information about event sponsorship, please contact the following committee members:

Frank De Varona, JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING , (786) 228-8928.

For more information about Shake-A-Leg Miami, please visit www.shakealegmiami.org.  Information about event presenters is available at: www.ftlmc.org and www.fyba.org.

Correspondence with the Honorary Port Officer for Falmouth for The Little Ship Club has drawn attention to the revision of the tide prediction method and data for Falmouth in recent months.

The 2012 Admiralty Tide Tables and Reeds Almanac Tables for Falmouth have, for the first time, been produced using the ‘Harmonic Method’ of tide prediction.  This is scientifically and statistically more accurate that the ‘Non-Harmonic’ method, which has been in use for many years.  The refinement of data is based on 3 years of electronic tidal gauge readings collected by the Harbour Master’s team at Falmouth.

Heights of tide predicted by the new method are numerically lower than those calculated in previous years. The highest HW in 2011 predicted by the old method was 5.7m; the highest HW in 2012, which will reach a similar point on a post or wall, is predicted at 5.5m. In light of this, those sailors familiar with the port, and residents, who have memorable, ‘come in handy’, figures for key tidal heights should check them closely.

Why has this happened? The old predictions were based on a set of readings taken manually over a 3 month period many years ago.  The new much longer period of measurement has allowed the re-calculation of the accepted value of ‘mean sea level’ at Falmouth from 3.2m to 3.0m above chart datum. This fact combined with the new ‘harmonic’ constituents has resulted in the levels predicted for tides being lower than before. The new data was first used in Admiralty tide prediction software ‘EasyTide’ and ‘Total Tide’ and for a time in 2011 these products produced different predictions to those made using the tables. The tide tables and software now give consistent results.  

The Reeds Aberdeen Asset Management Nautical Almanac 2012 is now available and comes with a downloadable desktop version – the digital – service – free to purchasers of the Almanac. Once downloaded onto the user’s computer, all of the information within the Almanac will be available without internet access, so it can be used all over the world, wherever you are – at sea or in your office.

For further information please contact Naomi Webb, JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING

Six Australian policemen were dumped unceremoniously into the water when their boat overturned while searching for a missing boy. A large wave struck their RIB off Corrimal Beach in Wollongong, about 50 miles south of Sydney, while they were conducting a search for a missing boy.

The officers, all police divers, were rescued unharmed by a New South Wales Marine Rescue boat, but their diving equipment went to the bottom. Local surf lifesavers and State Emergency Workers meanwhile continued the search for the missing eight-year-old boy, who is thought to have been swept out to sea after being caught in a rip tide while swimming.

Brockenhurst College in partnership with Composite Mouldings (CML) will be launching a series of 5 day beginners courses in GRP Wet Lay-up using Hand Laminating Techniques, held at Composite Mouldings facility in Marchwood, Southampton. The first 5 day course will start on the 13th of February 2012.

Candidates will be able to see first hand laminating in action from the 32m2 purpose built mezzanine floor overlooking Composite Mouldings factory. Priced at just £400 Inc VAT, This College Certificate is an inclusive course devised for Industry, Professionals and Enthusiasts, who demand hands on skills for wet lay-up and repairing GRP.

The 5 day course will cover everything from Health & Safety techniques recommended to handling composite materials, identifying correct formulations of composite materials, resin to fibre calculations, moulding of own model boat hull to specification, GRP repairs and identification of defects. At the end of the course the candidates should be able to describe the methods and limitations of plug and mould manufacturing methods, candidates will also undertake a Brockenhurst College theory and practical examination, supported by a college certificate.

Brockenhurst College has a main site in the New Forest, Hampshire, England providing education in a wide range of courses for many different ages. The college has over 2800 full time students and over 10000 part time adult learners. The college has recently expanded their construction centre to include the marine sector. Lead by Gary Hales and a number of seasoned shipwright lecturers, the partnership with Composite Mouldings came about through a lack of space at the colleges Marchwood facility and an experienced composite company being neighbours. Both parties feel that the combined experience will be a real benefit to students and ultimately will provide a unique learning experience. Brockenhurst plan to further roll out college certificated courses in: Resin Infusion, Gel repairs, Vacuum bagging and prep-pregs.

More information:

Tommi Buckley

JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING

+44 2380 660770

A new charity which aims to get more people with disabilities on the water in power boats has received overwhelming support at its first event at the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show.

The Disabled Powerboating Trust held a party at Sunseeker International hosted by the inspiration for the charity, and its first ambassador, Geoff Holt MBE. Geoff, who is a wheel chair user, encouraged individuals and companies both in and beyond the marine industry to get involved. He revealed that, although there are many sailing charities for people with disabilities, this is the first charity to use powerboats.

The Charity’s board of Trustees includes Robert Braithwaite CBE, President of Sunseeker International; Chairman Ian Davies, Council member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales, Shelley Jory-Leigh, British Powerboat champion, Tracey Clarke, media specialist and Andy Fell, disability expert.

The Trust will raise money from individual and corporate donors, identify providers of suitable craft, make grants and provide information to those with disabilities who wish to access the water under power.

Speaking on behalf of the Chairman Tracey Clarke confirmed that the Trust’s first goal is to get at least 25 companies to adopt the Disabled Powerboating Trust  as their chosen charity for 2012.

Visitors to the all-new Karpaz Gate Marina (KGM), the only luxury marina in Northern Cyprus, can now benefit from a range of new services and facilities which have been added over the course of the past few months, following the soft-opening of the marina in June 2011.  The next phase of the marina development will soon be launched.

The marina is part of the Karpaz Bay Resort, which is being developed as a first class tourist destination which will allow guests to enjoy the range of activities of the local “Karpaz” Peninsula, an undiscovered cruising ground which has only recently been opened up to international visitors.

Visitors to the marina can now enjoy the sheltered marina with berths for 300 yachts, including 15 for super yachts and mega yachts. Access control and comprehensive CCTV security systems have been installed, and the stylish promenade has also been completed, offering uninterrupted views of the marina.

The new Hemingway’s Restobar is one of the main attractions at the marina, and is a lively and elegant restaurant offering formal and casual dining, both day and night. It has a spacious, bright and airy interior with stylish and welcoming décor, and an extensive outdoor terrace overlooking the marina. The restaurant is already attracting acclaim from locals and tourists alike, and hosts regular events and promotions which are proving popular, such as a weekly barbeque and themed nights.

A new 300 ton travel lift, which can service vessels of up to 10m beam, 4m draft and more than 45m length, including mono- and multi-hulls, is now operational. Also, laundry facilities and wireless internet access is available within the marina, and a Mini Market – selling everything needed for a comfortable stay at Karpaz is now open. Car rental is also available from various local vendors should visitors wish to explore the local region to visit tourist attractions and leisure facilities such as golf courses, and surrounding villages and towns.

Development at Karpaz Bay Resort is continuing in 2012. A stylish beach club and a lively commercial promenade with shops, fitness centre, restaurants and bars, including a ship chandlery and boat sales will soon be completed. A gas station for visiting yachts will also offer duty free fuel.

Karpaz Gate Marina’s expansive dry dock, which is the largest of its kind in the eastern Mediterranean, is also nearing completion. The workshops are being fitted out and several international marine brands have committed to taking space within these.

Itay Singer, owner of the marina management company Sea-Alliance Group said, “The marina has proved to be very calm and protected in every weather condition encountered since the breakwaters were completed. We are pleased to now be launching the latest additional facilities, and are delighted with the feedback already about the luxurious look and feel of the marina, and compliments about our marina staff.”

Press conference 23 January 2012 at 3:00pm

Conference room of the Underwater Pixel World in Hall 4

Nautical Channel is the only 24/7 global broadcaster dedicated to nautical programming, providing viewers with a fresh prespective on sailing and boating, and surfing sports in English, German and French languages. Nautical Channel reaches around 15 million subscribers  and is available on satellite, cable, ADsL TV, and 3G mobile phone in 27 European and four African countries.

At the Duesseldorf Boat Show 2012, Nautical Channel will announce its new distribution in Germany on five platforms: Unity Media, Kabelkiosk, Wilhelm.Tel, Willy.tel and Alice.

On 23 January at 3:00pm in the conference room of the Underwater Pixel World in Hall 4, Laurence Hopper – Nautical Channel CEO - who has worked in nautical-themed pay TV for ten years, will introduce the channel to the German public and the international press. "Germany is a crucial market for Nautical Channel, not only due to the large potential viewer base, but also because Germany is an important manufacturer of recreational, sports boats and accessories and is a center of global shipping. We believe that Germany can become more aware of the nautical world and we hope to bring the Nautical passion and excitement to the German viewers."

Nautical Channel has assembled an experienced international team focused on nautical sports and entertainment to bring the latest sailing, powerboat racing and surfing sports as well as plenty of lifestyle programming to a worldwide audience. Viewers will have frontrow seats to top sailing events such as: America’s Cup World Series, Volvo Ocean Race, Kiel Sailing Week, Palma Vela, Les Voiles de St. Tropez and much more.

Viewers will be able to feel the thrill of adventure and witness life on board both racing vessels and luxurious superyachts while visiting exclusive destinations. Nautical Channel won’t just cover the high-end of nautical sports, but also the surfers, ice-sailors and wind/kite surfers for a different kind of thrill on the water. Programming will include original shows, yacht clubs and indepth market analyses on the constant evolution of the boating world.

Nautical Channel is pleased to be available in Germany, and invites everyone to join them on board and to play an active role in re-inventing the nautical and boating experience both for viewers who love the sea as well as those who have never been afloat.

www.nauticalchannel.net

TV Promo English: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t80HtUk9HWg

TV promo in German: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8U1lFIYFIkk

Press office contact

Studio Effeerre, Milan - Ph. +39 0233001100

Andrea Sculati JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING - Mob. +39 3463071216

Gloria Belloni JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING

It is clear that RIBs are playing the key role in ship to shore rescue activities involving the stricken liner, Costa Concordia. Both Valiant inboard propeller powered craft as well all-weather, water-jet powered, KNRM styled SAR vessels are being employed not only to support the rescue and recovery operation but also to serve as standby craft for the personnel working aboard the semi submerged ship. At present, the sea state has remained quite settled with only gentle to moderate swells and reduced chop, but even if the conditions do increase, the advantage of the RIBs with their inflatable or foam collars is their ability to fender right up against the ship’s sides and then hold station. Stability is also a key factor of these rescue craft – both at rest and underway. The larger RIB’s involved in the operation feature water-jet propulsion systems which in these relatively shallow waters is an advantage, plus the manoeuvrability of the water-jet affords the SAR helmsman total control at close quarters. If casualties where in the water, this form of propulsion would also avoid the risk of injury from lethal propellers. As the newsreel show, RIB’s clearly have an increasing and vital role to play in the saving of lives at sea.

HMS

Powerboat & RIB Magazine

Force 10 storm, zero visibility, 40ft waves, someone needs rescuing. It’s time to go to work.

Search and Rescue, the new blockbuster exhibition from National Maritime Museum Cornwall invites you to enter the world of the rescue services where ordinary people lead extraordinary lives, risking their life to save yours.

Opening on 16 March, the exhibition takes you on an interactive, stimulating and emotive journey into the role of the maritime rescue services, celebrating the work of the RNLI, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, HM Coastguard and other organisations.

Objects of epic proportions include a 70ft Sea King helicopter, kindly loaned by the MOD, one of the Museum’s most ambitious installations. Uniquely painted in the colours of both the Royal Navy and RAF Search and Rescue (SAR) services (red and grey one side and yellow on the other) it offers you the rare opportunity to climb inside, without having to be rescued. Dress as a pilot, listen to accounts from the crew and from those that have been rescued, explore their lifesaving equipment and discover the world of the Royal Navy and RAF SAR teams.

Revisiting rescues from the past, some well-known and some untold, this exhibition showcases the individuals whose job it is to head into the eye of the storm, when most of us would flee. The exhibition traces the evolution of rescue equipment from the early days of Henry Trengrouse’s rocket line to the cutting edge equipment of today and shows that although the equipment might have changed, the determination and grit of rescue men and women to save lives has never changed.

At the heart of the exhibition is an interactive coastguard operations room. Put yourself in the coastguard hot seat, make the life or death decision to bring in the right service for the rescue and begin your journey through the incredible work and lives of the coastguard rescue, air and sea rescue teams.

Get up close to one of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) Atlantic 75 inshore lifeboats and see a fascinating assembly of the charity’s collection boxes spanning 150 years. Take to the beach and become a virtual lifeguard, climb aboard a quad bike and take action to make sure the swimmers and surfers are between the right flags. See real seaside rescues and listen to accounts from volunteer crewmen and women.

Ben Lumby, Exhibitions Manager of National Maritime Museum Cornwall, says: “This is our biggest and most ambitious exhibition to date but more importantly it is the first time anyone has celebrated the maritime rescue services in this way.”

“Working with these incredible teams has been a true privilege; they have kindly allowed us to see inside their world and shown us they’re real people doing an amazing job. They belong to different organisations and charities but work as a team and you can be safe in the knowledge that if things do go wrong at sea, there’s a service that will be there for you.”

The new Search & Rescue exhibition at National Maritime Museum Cornwall opens on 16 March. Honouring the work of the heroic men and women who risk their lives at sea and around our coast, it invites you to be part of their world and shares their lives with you.

Throughout the two year life of the exhibition there will be a number of events including air sea rescue demonstrations, ‘meet the crew’ days and opportunities to climb aboard an RNLI all-weather lifeboat. To keep up to date with what’s on when, visit www.nmmc.co.uk

Anglers are being urged to avoid purchasing lead weights in sizes that are illegal for angling use. The call – made by the Angling Trades Association (ATA) – comes after it conducted research into the sale of lead shot on the internet and in ‘pound shops’. This revealed that some illegal weights are being offered for sale, leaving both the sellers and the users liable to prosecution.

Since 1986, lead fishing weights of between 0.06 and 28.35 grams (No.6 shot to 1oz) have been banned from sale and use for the purpose of weighting fishing lines in the UK. The legislation was enacted specifically to protect mute swans from accidental poisoning through the ingestion of accidentally discarded lead weights. A large range of non-toxic alternatives have been developed and these weights are in widespread use.

Despite the non-toxic alternatives being widely available, lead split shot in the illegal sizes are still being offered for sale on the internet. In most cases, the seller will point out the illegality of using the shot for weighting anglers’ lines in England and Wales but this is very often found only in the smallest of print at the bottom of the advert. ‘Pound shops’ occasionally offer illegal lead weights for sale, but the weights are invariably withdrawn from sale once the owners are alerted to any breach of the law.

Naidre Werner, Chairman of the ATA, said: “Anglers have a long and proud record of environmental responsibility. Nevertheless, among the millions who fish each year will be some people who are unfamiliar with the lead weights legislation who might, through ignorance, break the law. The ATA is encouraging every angler to check his or her tackle carefully to ensure that it meets the regulations and to carefully check the small print on any online purchases that they make”.

Trading Standards have responsibility for enforcing the legislation on the sale of illegal lead weights, and the use of illegal weight is covered by the regional fishery byelaws, upheld by the Environment Agency (in England and Wales).

The ATA is contacting all 200 Trading Standards departments, run by local authorities, to ensure that officers are aware of the law and the need to prevent illegal lead weights being offered for sale.

Commenting on the initiative, Naidre continued: “Legitimate manufacturers and retailers support this initiative, particularly because it removes any trading advantage that some sellers may hope to gain by offering illegal weights for sale. This will also help prevent anglers inadvertently purchasing and using illegal equipment”.

A SOLAS approved Zodiac Pro 500 RIB, valued at approx £7,500, along with three Suzuki outboard engines, valued at approximately £12,750, are the subject of a generous donation by Southern Shipwrights Ltd (SSL) to the Tall Ships Youth Trust (TSYT) charity.

SSL’s link with the charitable trust is through SSL chairman, Chris Jeffries, a longterm supporter of the trust and its principles ever since he took a ‘holiday’ as crew member onboard the Trust’s 59m/197ft Brigantine Stavros S.Niarchos, back in 2007.

A personal donation by Chris has been used by TSYT to purchase equipment for their fleet, with SSL helping to maximise the charity’s budget by providing all four items at cost.

The brand new Zodiac Pro 500 Rib plus console and jockey seat will replace an 11 year old rescue tender onboard Stavros S.Niarchos. Experts at SSL’s dinghy and outboard centre at Sovereign Harbour, Eastbourne, put together a package specifically tailored to meet the charity’s requirements on size, weight, safety, performance and SOLAS compliance.

On 9th November the Zodiac and associated service and maintenance equipment was handed-over in person by SSL Managing Director, Will Jeffries, to Captain Darren Naggs and his delighted crew, as the Stavros S.Niarchos was lying in Southampton preparing to set sail with another compliment of sail-training volunteers of all ages.

Press release

Dominique Wavre and Michele Paret will cross the Transat Jacques Vabre start line tomorrow (Wednesday 2 November) at 15:00, destination: Costa Rica. Despite a delayed start, the first few days of the race are forecast to be rough.

Tuesday 1 November 2011 – The Transat Jacques Vabre start, scheduled for last Sunday, was postponed due to a storm. This weather system is currently situated over the Irish Sea, moving slowly towards the East and decreasing. The new start is scheduled for 15:00 on Wednesday 2 November. “The start is going to be rough despite the postponement,” said Mirabaud’s Dominique Wavre. “We are expecting gusts of over 35 knots and six metre waves, down from 10 metres, but tricky conditions nonetheless.”

The competitors will leave the port of Le Havre tomorrow afternoon for the second time to start at 15:00. The race committee has dropped the short coastal leg that was included for the benefit of the spectators, as the 300,000 people recorded on Sunday are not expected to travel to Le Havre again for the start tomorrow. Instead the 35 competitors will head straight for Costa Rica. “Our tactics haven’t really changed,” said Dominique. “The first challenge – after the start – will be crossing the busy English Channel shipping lanes. In the early stages, we will reach across towards the Irish Sea and when the wind shifts to the North, we will head south towards a new low-pressure zone. We expect to sail upwind for a few days, probably until about the 7 November and beyond that the situation is unclear right now, as the Trade Winds are not completely established yet.”The second half of the race will be fought out in much warmer climes, but the competitors will need to keep a close lookout for the dangerous tropical storms that still lurk at this time of year. The Caribbean Sea will be the final hurdle; the competitors are less familiar with this part of the world and there are plenty of potential surprises. Race yachts are expected to start arriving in Puerto Limon from the 16 to the 20 November, depending on weather conditions.

Boat insurance provider Towergate Mardon has picked up the Claims Service of the Year accolade at this year’s UK Broker Awards in association with Insurance Age magazine.

The firm’s outstanding claims service was officially recognised at an Award ceremony, held at The Brewery, London, on Friday 9 September, following scrutiny from a panel of judges.

Hundreds of brokers entered a range of categories, which as well as claims, included; personal and commercial insurance products, e-business, technology, customer service and marketing.

In its entry, Towergate Mardon explained how 90% of claims are handled in-house – unusual for brokers in this sector who usually delegate to third-parties.  It also highlighted its simplistic processes, such as the use of electronic claims handling, incident-specific forms and emailing of payment authorities.

These initiatives coupled with staff training resulted in 98% of customers rating TM’s claims service as excellent, which in the judges’ opinion, placed the firm ahead of the pack.

Judges described the TM entry as a ‘simple story, well told with straightforward statistics to provide evidence of the strategy’s successful delivery’.  They identified the winner as ‘a broker that seeks to understand their client’s passion and is willing to address their worries and concerns’.

For Managing Director Nigel Mills, Claims Service of the Year is the category to win as it recognises how the firm and those within the Towergate Insurance group continue to endeavour to deliver upon their insurance promise ‘to give help when and where it’s needed most’.

He comments: “We’ve always been very proud of our claims service and customer satisfaction rating and this Award confirms our position as an industry-leader.  As well as giving us a confidence boost, it’s reassurance for customers that they’re in a safe pair of hands if they need to make a claim.”

Notes to Editors

Towergate Mardon is a leading provider of boat insurance and part of the Towergate Partnership.   The business has over 30 years experience in the marine sector and its team comprises experienced sailors.

In keeping to support the communities it insures, this year the firm gave a young dinghy sailor – Scott Wallis from Hampshire -  £2000 worth of sponsorship and supported the Sigma 38 Class Association National Championships (30 April – 2 May) at the Weymouth & Portsmouth Sailing Academy, the RS Tera National Championships (July) at Hayling Island Sailing Club, Bassenthwaite Sailing Club’s annual Regatta (end July) and the Port of Dartmouth Sailing Regatta (20-28 August).

Towergate Partnership is Europe's largest independently-owned insurance intermediary offering over 200 specialist insurance products and employing more than 3500 people in 100 offices.

Who can complete a slalom course with a man overboard, 360^o reverse around a buoy, and a speed to the finish in 1.21.35 seconds…?

12 year-old Henry Hughes from West Kirby Sailing Club can!

Can you beat his time?

We’re inviting you to take part in the

Honda RYA Youth RIB Media Challenge

Friday 16 September 2011

at the PSP Southampton Boat Show

The Honda RYA Youth Rib Championship, sponsored by Honda and Ribcraft, is a National Championship in which 8-16 year old RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) drivers can demonstrate their boat handling skills in a race against the clock in the hope of winning a 5m Ribcraft or Honwave T40 for their club. The grand final is being held at the PSP Southampton Boat Show on Sunday 18 September 2011

To compete:

Email: JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING Tel: 02380 604208 www.rya.org.uk/go/hondayouthrib

Bank holiday Sunday (28 August) saw around 40 powerboat teams descend upon Cowes, Isle of Wight for the British Powerboat festival 2011. Seventeen teams took part in the gruelling 164nm race from Cowes to Torquay and back, that would test not only the boats capabilities but also the strength and stamina of the crews.

The other 18 teams took part in the shorter but just as testing Cowes Poole Cowes Race, including the P1 SuperStock fleet that would really have their racing skills put to the test in taxing conditions.

Cowes Torquay Cowes

It was the impressive team Cinzano that took the top honours in the Cowes Torquay Cowes Race after being the first boat to reach the half way mark at Torquay. The return leg saw Cinzano driven by Simon Wood-Power with Markus Hendricks on the throttles and Eric Smillie in control of navigation put under pressure by Powerboat Asia with Martin Lai, Chun Kit Siu and the races youngest finisher Tom Williams-Hawkes (29)on board.

Cinzano held their rivals at bay completing the race in 2hours 53 minutes and 44 secs beating Powerboat Asia by a mere 9 seconds to make them the only boat to have won the Cowes Torquay Cowes race four times in the races 51 year history.

Twenty-six minutes later it was the 40ft Buzzi RIB, Pippa, crewed by the experienced team of Rob Gray, Mike Bontoft, John Caulcutt and Stephen Hemsley who crossed the line to take 3^rd place.

Hazel Smith navigator for My Pleasure II with Driver Gordon Compton was the only female to complete the race after a gruelling 4hours and 51 minutes, powering home to take the finish in 9^th position and see Hazel awarded with the Ladies Prize.

Cowes Poole Cowes

In the shorter Cowes Poole Cowes race the Peters and May Race teams took both first and second places’ in the overall race results.

Peters and May Racing in the 38ft Donzi driven by Daniel Cramphorn, Kim Collins and Miles Jennings took the overall win and the first in class in the over 300hp category, completing the 34nm race in 42 minutes.

Taking second overall and first in the P1 Panther Class was the SuperStock Team Peters and May of Darren Hook and Dave Harwood completing the race in 43 minutes and 18 seconds.

Experienced endurance racer Darren Hook commented: “Through the first two buoys it was rough but the rest was alright it’s all about driving to the conditions”, said Hook.  “It’s our first race in this boat and we haven’t had much time in it so we’re pleased. Being a bigger race, navigation played a much bigger part than on short courses and we have a lot of experience in that – so that was a good advantage. It was great being invited to be in the Peters & May boat this weekend, it’s been a great weekend.”

Completing the overall Cowes Poole Cowes podium and second in class was Team Helvetia Wealth piloted by Shelley Jory-Leigh with navigator Dan Smith taking their first podium finish of the SuperStock season.

In the under 300hp category Me Too driven by Clive Prestidge and Michael Spinks were the only finishers taking 6th overall with Technohull 888 forced to retire from the race.

P1 SuperStock 150 Class

Top honours in the SuperStock 150 Class went to Hampshire based Team Purple, with husband and wife team, Stuart and Sara Cureton, extending their lead in the SuperStock Championship. Team Purple had originally finished the race third in class but navigational errors from Team Eclipse’s Rose Lores and Lucci Levi and Team Fox Martin Colligan and Liam McDermott saw them awarded time penalties for missing a buoy and demoted to second and third respectively and saw Team Purple promoted to the top spot.

“The first bit was rough but it wasn’t too bad, I've had worse conditions!” reflected Sara Cureton. “The Sat Nav kept disappearing, it has an anti-shock thing so it keeps cutting out navigation is vital in a race like this. The start was difficult, some people were just steaming past then we’d pass them when they broke down.

“I’m tired and my neck hurts from the jarring – I think it must be two inches shorter than before! We didn’t go out to win this one because we knew we only have two weeks before the next race, we wanted to be competitive but keep it all in one piece but we will be going for it In Liverpool.”

Congratulations

The RYA Powerboat Racing Department would like to offer their thanks and congratulations to all involved with the event for their hard work and commitment in creating a successful and safe race.

An event of this magnitude takes a lot of preparation and these events wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of officials, support crews, racers and safety boats. We would also like to thank the Harbour Masters, Coast Guard and Lifeboat Crews in the areas covered by the race for their support, assistance and co-operation.

View full race results for the Cowes Torquay Cowes and Cowes Poole Cowes races at

http://edit.rya.org.uk/newsevents/news/Pages/RacewithCinzanoandracewiththebest.aspx

? Full HD (1920 x 1080)2 video recording with stereo sound

? Up to 20x magnification3 (DEV-5)

? SteadyShot Active Mode optical image stabilisation for clear viewing and recording

? Minimal ‘stealth’ design with ergonomic controls

? HDMI® connection to HD television or 3D TV

? Geotagging with GPS (DEV-5)

1 Based on AVCHD recording capability at the time of announcement (19 August 2011)

2"Full HD video with 1920 x 1080 pixels" refers to video recordings with 1920 pixels in the horizontal direction and 1080 pixels in the vertical direction. Video recording in 2D progressive scan format (1920 x 1080 / 50p).

3 When shooting 2D video. Image quality is reduced when recording 2D video at magnification higher than 10x with digital zoom ON. Model DEV-3 does not have digital zoom function.

For the first time ever yacht owners and crews can capture maritime moments in full HD and 3D using the new Sony DEV-3 and DEV-5 video binoculars.  The DEV-5 and DEV-3 from Sony are the world's first1 digital binoculars that record Full HD video2 with stereo sound at the touch of a button. There's also a 3D record mode that captures the detailed ocean scene as thrilling stereoscopic video footage to enjoy on your 3D BRAVIA® TV (NB: maximum magnification 5.4x in 3D mode).

As an additional refinement, the DEV-5 includes an on-board GPS receiver that automatically geotags video clips as you travel. Tagged clips and images can be viewed after shooting in online maps (requires compatible software).Variable zoom on both models lets you scan a wide area at low magnification before zooming in seamlessly to pinpoint your subject, such as a distant port or vessel.By turning on digital zoom at magnification settings over 10x, the DEV-5 boosts total magnification range from 0.9x up to 20x3, rivalling many high-powered conventional binoculars. The DEV-3 pulls objects in the horizon closer with a maximum magnification of 10x.

Unlike traditional binoculars, electronic autofocus keeps your subject sharply resolved at all times, even while it's moving. A comfortably positioned dial also allows fingertip adjustment of manual focus. It's ideal for focusing selectively on your subject, rather than other obstructions in your field of view.Electronic autofocus allows both binoculars to focus cleanly on subjects as close as 1cm away when recording in 2D (min. 80cm when recording in 3D). This gives the extra benefit of magnifying close-up subjects as well distant observations.Separate images for left and right eyes are captured by a matched pair of precision G Lens optics by Sony with Exmor R CMOS sensors and powerful BIONZ processors. Independent electronic viewfinders provide clear, detailed images for left and right eyes, offering a 3D viewing experience that's comfortable, natural and highly immersive.

The DEV-5 and DEV-3 are digital binoculars with optical SteadyShot (Active mode), the optical stabilisation system that's found on Handycam camcorders and Cyber-shot cameras by Sony. Optical SteadyShot keeps images clear and stable, even when you're viewing at high magnifications. It's also effective when recording video to enjoy later on your HD TV. Either onboard or once you disembark, connect the binoculars via HDMIR to your BRAVIAR or any HD television for big-screen sharing. 3D videos can be enjoyed on 3D-compatible BRAVIAR models. There's also a USB terminal for transferring video clips to your PC for storing, editing and sharing.Comfortable to hold for extended periods, both binoculars feature an ergonomic grip area that's coated with an elastomer material for sure handling and stable operation. Top-mounted controls allow easy operation with gloved fingers, while dual buttons are provided to start recording instantly with either hand.

Both binocular models come supplied a high-capacity rechargeable battery pack (NP-FV70) that allows up to approximately 3 hours of 2D recording on a single charge. Remaining battery time (minutes) is displayed in the electronic viewfinder to give confirmation of record time remaining.

The DEV-3 and DEV-5 also include a battery charger/adaptor, A/V connecting cable and USB cable for connection to a PC for uploading video files. In addition, the DEV-5 comes supplied with lens cover, finder cap, large eye cups, a carrying case and neck strap. Available through professional sales channels, the DEV-5K offers the same technical specifications at the DEV-5. It also includes the AC-VQV10 high-speed AC adaptor/charger, plus a high-capacity NP-FV100 battery.

The new DEV-5 and DEV-3 digital recording binoculars from Sony will be available from the beginning of November 2011.

1 Based on AVCHD recording capability at the time of announcement (19 August 2011)

2 "Full HD video with 1920 x 1080 pixels" refers to video recordings with 1920 pixels in the horizontal direction and 1080 pixels in the vertical direction. Video recording in 2D progressive scan format (1920 x 1080 / 50p).

3 When shooting 2D video. Image quality is reduced when recording 2D video at magnification higher than 10x with digital zoom ON. Model DEV-3 does not have digital zoom function.

Key technical specifications

Model name DEV-5 DEV-3

Video recording format 2D/3D:MPEG4-MVC/H.264 AVCHD™ Ver2.0 format

Video resolution 2D HD: 1920x1080/60p, 50p (PS), 1920x1080/60i, 50i (FX,FH),

1440x1080/60i, 50i (HQ,LP)

3D HD: 2x 1920x1080/60i, 50i

Still Image Max. Effective 7.1 megapixels

Still Image Size (Photo Mode) 7.1 megapixels (4:3) (3072x2304)

5.3 megapixels (16:9) (3072x1728)

1.9 megapixels (4:3) (1600x1200)

307K pixels (4:3) (640x480)

Lens Dual G Lens F1.8 - F3.4

Minimum focusing distance (approx.): (Video Mode): 80cm(Wide), 7.5m(Tele)

(Still Image Mode): 1cm(Wide), 80cm(Tele), 25cm(Tele Macro)

Image sensor: 2x 1/4 type (4.5mm) back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS Sensor

Image stabilisation: Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilisation with Active mode [wide(3D)/ wide to tele (2D)]

Viewfinder Diopter Adjustment: Yes (-3.5 - +3.5)

Apparent field of view: 35.6°(16:9)

Interpupillary distance: 55– 75mm

Magnification (Movie Mode) * x0.9 - x10(2D:Digital zoom is OFF) / x0.9 - x20(2D:Digital zoom is ON) / x0.5 - x5.4(3D) x0.9 - x10(2D) / x0.5 - x5.4(3D)

Magnification (Photo Mode) * x0.5 - x20 (16:9) / x0.3 - x15 (4:3) x0.5 - x10 (16:9) / x0.3 - x7.5 (4:3)

Minimum Focus Distance Movie Mode:

2D: Approx. 1cm (Wide) / Approx. 80cm (Tele)

3D: Approx. 80cm (Wide) / Approx. 7.5m (Tele)

Photo Mode: Approx. 1cm (Wide) / Approx. 80cm (Tele) / Approx. 25cm (Tele Macro)

Magnification range:

(3D) 5x (2D) 0.9x – 20x

(3D) 5x                  (2D) 0.9x – 10x

Audio recording format Dolby® Digital 2ch Stereo, Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator

Recording and Playback Times (32GB Memory Card)(2ch):

2D HD PS: Approx. 2h30m

2D HD FX: Approx. 3h00m

2D HD FH: Approx. 4h05m

2D HD HQ: Approx. 7h20m

2D HD LP: Approx. 12h50m

3D HD 3D: Approx. 2h30m

GPS: Yes (without map display) -

Interfaces (HD video) HDMI® output (mini) /Component Video Out (SD video) A/R remote (Composite / Component / S video out USB Type A, mini-AB/USB2.0 Hi-speed Headphone (stereo minijack) / microphone (stereo minijack) (Power supply) DC-IN

Compatible recording media:  Memory Stick PRO Duo ™ (Mark 2) / Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo™ SD/SDHC/SDXC (no internal memory)

Weight (approx.): Approx. 1.2 kg (body only)

Dimensions (approx.): Approx. 219(W) x 155(H) x 88 mm(D) (Body only including protrusion)

Battery type: InfoLITHIUM® with AccuPower™ Meter System (V Series)

Power Consumption in recording: 2D HD: 4.2W (FX) - 3D HD: 4.8W

Power Requirements: 6.8V (battery pack); 8.4V (AC Adaptor)

Recoding time 2D:

Approx. 3h05m NP-FV70:(fully charged battery)

Approx. 6h10m NP-FV100:(fully charged battery)

3D:

Approx. 2h40m NP-FV70:(fully charged battery)

Approx. 5h20m NP-FV100:(fully charged battery)

Playback time 2D:

Approx. 4h50m NP-FV70:(fully charged battery)

Approx. 9h40m NP-FV100:(fully charged battery)

3D:

Approx. 4h20m NP-FV70:(fully charged battery)

Approx. 8h35m NP-FV100:(fully charged battery)

Supplied accessories: Rechargeable Battery, Pack (NP-FV70), AC adaptor/Charger AC-L200C(D), Power Cord, Large Eyecup, Lens Cover, Finder Cap, Neck Strap, Carrying Case, A/V Connecting Cable, USB Cable, CD-ROM (Video Camera Application Software), Operating Guide Rechargeable Battery Pack (NP-FV70), AC adaptor/Charger AC-L200C (D), Power Cord, Neck Strap, A/V Connecting Cable, USB Cable,CD-ROM (Video Camera Application Software), Operating Guide

For further information contact;

Emma Leeder at Beige

+44 (0)20 7404 3000 / JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING

Aimee Lake at Sony UK Limited

+44 (0) 1932 816451 / JLIB_HTML_CLOAKING

Alternatively please visit: http://presscentre.sony.uk