YOA Yacht Crew’s Post

The agony or the ecstasy? I went scuba diving today, for the first time in 8 months. The last time I tried, I couldn’t for medical reasons. I’ve spent the intervening months trying to sort those issues out. So had a lot of lingering doubts in my head in the build up to today. To add to that, the dive site, “El Bajon”, was the only one that I have ever backed out of a dive from, after getting in the water. I often talk to clients about using mindfulness tools and they ask but what if what you fear is real. The truth is, I hate the term “irrational fears”, as it is never really accurate. We fear things for a reason, although at the exact moment in time, it might not be real, it doesn’t mean it’s without reason. From the moment I hit the water and probably long before it, if I’m being honest with myself. The anxiety kicked in, reaching its peak at that moment in time. When I put my face in the water, breathing through the regulator, looking down through 15m of water, to the pinnacle we were diving on, I panicked. Every urge in my body was telling me to go back. That I should never dive again. Thankfully I have the tools to allow me to tackle that anxiety. Ironically, using my breathing, is how I could bring it under control. Grounding myself in the water. Slowing everything down, till I could regulate myself and my thoughts. I was able to dive and experience the beauty and serenity that is the Atlantic Ocean and the fish that live in it. My abiding thought today was, well if I never get to dive again. I will savor every moment of this. Which helped keep me firmly in the moment and anxiety free. The ocean is a beautiful analogy of life. It’s vast and at times dangerous. It has strong currents, that can knock you off balance but if can stay focused on that one thing in front of you, it can be truly beautiful and enriching.

🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊🌊 I’ve always loved the sea—it’s my greatest passion. Sailing became a way of life for me many years ago. My journey to diving started simply: learning breath-holding and diving deep to free a stuck anchor of the sailing yacht. Over time, it grew into something much bigger. I even had the privilege of learning from Ukrainian world champion Alex Bubenchikov. Later, I decided to dedicate my life to the sea by participating in environmental or scientific projects. Unfortunately, the full-scale war disrupted everything. I must admit, there’s nothing more satisfying than the first breath you take after holding it for five minutes or more. People often speak of a sip of water in the desert as the ultimate relief. For me, it’s air. Of which is simply full around. When anything seriously goes wrong I always firstly advise people to keep breathing and drink some water. When free diving, you experience a series of distinct sensations. They are depicted on the graph. Here’s how it feels: * Initial Phase (0–30 seconds): Comfort and relaxation dominate, with no discomfort. * Rising Discomfort (30–60 seconds): CO2 builds up, and discomfort gradually begins. * High Discomfort Zone (60–90 seconds): The urge to breathe becomes more pronounced. * Critical Phase (90–120 seconds): Discomfort peaks, accompanied by involuntary diaphragmatic contractions. This is where the diver truly pushes their limits. * Recovery Phase (120–140 seconds): Discomfort gradually decreases to the urge-to-breathe threshold. * Stabilized Phase (140+ seconds): Discomfort levels off. While the diver still feels slightly unwell, they adapt mentally and physically. This state persists without any significant changes until the diver surfaces or experiences a blackout. Signs of an impending blackout are disorientation, narrowing of three-dimensional vision. In most cases, it occurs in the last ten meters before the surface due to a sharp drop in the partial pressure of oxygen Free diving is not just a sport; it’s an intense connection to the sea, the self, and the endless challenge of resilience. I highly recommend two movies: The Big Blue (1988) by Luc Besson, original title: Le grand bleu The Deepest Breath (2023) Documentary 🌊 To everyone who loves the sea or the ocean but is far from it now, I hope you find your way back soon. 🌊

Splish Splash—The Ultimate Guide to the 10 Best Water Toys for Your Yacht Charter Adventure https://ift.tt/rbjzwPo I'll receive a commission if you buy something from the affiliate links on this blog, but you won't be charged extra. Hey there, my fellow sea lovers and maritime travel enthusiasts!⛵ Having logged endless hours navigating the vast expanse of open waters, I’ve come to appreciate the value of seizing every opportunity while aboard a yacht. Whether you’re a freelancer craving respite from the relentless demands of the digital world or a startup entrepreneur yearning to disconnect and recharge, there’s something undeniably liberating about gliding through pristine waters. The gentle sway of the yacht, the salty breeze caressing your skin, and the endless horizon stretching out before you — it’s a sensory symphony unlike any other. However, no maritime adventure would be truly complete without a selection of top-tier water toys to enhance the experience. After all, why settle for mere observation when you can actively engage with the aquatic playground that surrounds you? From inflatable stand-up paddleboards perfect for exploring secluded coves to high-speed underwater scooters that unlock a world of subaquatic wonder, these toys are the key to unlocking the full potential of your yacht charter. Essentially, whether you’re seeking thrills, relaxation, or a combination of both, it’s time to elevate your maritime escapades to new heights with the addition of these epic water toys. So, buckle up (or should I say, life jacket on?) as we dive into the top 10 water toys that will take your yacht charter experience to the next level!🌅 #1 Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP) Unlock the secrets of coastal exploration with the versatile and exhilarating experience of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) aboard your yacht charter. An inflatable SUP serves as your trusty companion, offering unparalleled access to secluded coves, hidden beaches, and untouched paradises that traditional vessels can’t reach. Its compact and lightweight design makes it a breeze to transport and store on your yacht, ensuring that you’re always ready to embark on your next adventure at a moment’s notice. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a first-time adventurer, an SUP is suitable for all skill levels, providing a stable and forgiving platform for exploration. As you glide gracefully across the water, you’ll find yourself immersed in the beauty of your surroundings, with every stroke of the paddle revealing new wonders waiting to be discovered. But stand-up paddleboarding isn’t just about sightseeing — it’s also a fantastic full-body workout that engages your core, improves your balance, and strengthens your muscles. Therefore, whether you’re seeking serenity, adventure, or a bit of both, an SUP offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation on the open seas. Just grab your paddle, inflate your board, and get ready to embark on an unforgett...

On comfort - one of the things Tony Robbins says quite frequently is that the quality of your life depends on what amount of uncertainty you can comfortably live with. I understood that kind of - but not really. Sure, the less scared you are of risk, the more experiences you will have, and hopefully they will be good ones, but turns out it goes deeper than that. "Certainty" also means comfort. And some of the most extraordinary experiences I have ever had were not just on the other side of risk - say ski racing, or scuba diving, or ski diving - but on the other side of discomfort - say the hotel was cancelled and I had to sleep in the car, or I spent years practicing piano or clarinet just to have some really, truly, special performances, maybe (in case of the piano) not even in the instrument. And was it these few performances that made it all worth it? No. They were great. But what it truly opened, was a world of experience. When I walk through a display like on Mainau today, I don't just see the display and hear the music - I remember all the spectacular experiences associated with these visuals and this music in my brain - pretty much ALL of which lay on the other side of some sort of deep practice, i.e. discomfort. If, today, I start a new sport, and I pick it up amazingly quickly with much less frustration than the person next to me, it's not because I am so gifted - it's because I meticulously practiced about 30 sports in my life and anything new I will start will share some of the same movements I practiced with great frustration long ago. If things go wrong on a train trip and it hardly bothers me, is that because I have such an even keel? No. It's just that I spent a year commuting to Frankfurt from 500 km away where I couldn't get myself get flustered by the journey and had to adapt to make it through the year in one piece. And if I had had millions of dollars each time I started over on another continent, I would never have made some of the very real and beautiful experiences I remember today, when I hear a song or see a sunset. Insisting on a 5-star + hotel is nice, but if you do that all the time, you miss life - and some of the best experiences you'll ever have. It's not about seeking danger or deliberately depriving yourself. It's about not stopping when things get uncomfortable or your ego is threatened. It's about seeking instead of making sure you are being saught. Because obstacles tend to be a sign that there is a treasure on the other side. If you dig in your heals and get demanding, you won't find it, and your further experiences will be flatter for it.

Planning a trip to Bali and the Gili Islands? Here are some quick travel facts and tips to help you make the most of your adventure: 🌦 Weather: Bali has a rainy season, so check the weather before booking your trip to ensure you experience its sunny paradise. 💉 Vaccinations: Stay safe by ensuring your vaccinations are up to date before you travel. 🦟 Bug Spray: No need to pack it—bug spray is widely available when you arrive in Bali. ☕ Kopi Luwak: Don’t miss out on trying Bali’s famous Kopi Luwak coffee, uniquely fermented in the digestive system of a civet! 🏖 Beaches: Bali boasts stunning pristine beaches, while the Gili Islands are known for their untouched beauty and turquoise waters. 🐢 Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Dive into the vibrant coral reefs of the Gili Islands—spot turtles while snorkeling or scuba diving! 🌊 Water Sports: Try stand-up paddleboarding or kitesurfing for a thrilling experience on the Gili Islands. 🏨 Accommodation: Looking for budget-friendly stays? The Gili Islands often offer cheaper accommodation options compared to Bali. ⛴ Ferry Ride: Traveling between Bali and the Gili Islands? The ferry ride takes anywhere from 1 to 5 hours, depending on the operator, route, and weather conditions. 🤝 Local Tips: Ask locals for recommendations—they’re a treasure trove of knowledge for hidden gems and smooth travel. 📅 Avoid Peak Times: Bali is a dream destination, but it can get crowded during peak seasons. For a more peaceful experience, plan your visit during the off-season. 🌟 Pro Tip: Whether you’re relaxing on Bali’s beaches or exploring the underwater wonders of the Gili Islands, plan ahead and immerse yourself in the local culture for a truly unforgettable trip! 📌 Have any more Bali or Gili travel tips to share? Drop them in the comments below! ⬇️

Expanding Horizons: My Scuba Diving Adventure in Cozumel 🛫 I look relaxed in this picture but I was actually on the verge of freaking out. As an intuitive business coach, I always push my clients outside of their comfort zone... that's why they call me, they need a little push into the unknown. Recently, I had a firsthand experience that illustrated this perfectly Let me take you on a dive into my story. From Fear to Freedom 🌊 I went on my first scuba diving trip to Cozumel, and... it was terrifying. I was shaking and crying before my first dive into 60 feet of Caribbean ocean water. My brain was convinced I was going to panic under the water and drown. Just a few days before, I had gotten my certification and had only dived in a swimming pool. The thought of diving in the ocean 60 to 90 feet below the surface was overwhelming. My Comfort Zone: Shattered 🛥 Standing on the edge of that boat, my comfort zone was no where to be seen. My heart literally pounded, my mind raced, and fear took hold. I did not want to jump off the edge of that boat. No... I did not. But then, something magical happened. As soon as I entered the water, my training kicked in. I found myself surprisingly relaxed, the fear dissipating with each breath I took. The Learning Zone: Embraced 🐠 The underwater world welcomed me with open arms. Colors and life I had never seen before surrounded me and it was the most beautiful and peaceful place I could ever imagine. Each dive was a new adventure. In seven days, I made ten dives, each one a step further into the Learning Zone. I dealt with the challenges, acquired new skills, and extended my comfort zone deeper than I ever thought possible. The Growth Zone: Discovered 🌴 By the end of the trip, I had expanded my comfort zone beyond my wildest dreams. I found a new purpose in the depths of the ocean, set new goals for my diving adventures, and conquered objectives I never thought I could. I used my newfound knowledge not just in diving, but in life and business. I found the courage to get out of my comfort zone and it paid off big time. Bringing It Back to Business Coaching 🤼 What I learned: I could do hard things... I could do hard things scared. I could do hard things scared with grace and ease (and a few tears.) This journey mirrors the growth we seek in our professional lives. Embrace the suck, trust in your training and experience, and push through the fear. You'll find yourself in uncharted territories, not just surviving but thriving. This is where true growth happens, where your potential is realized, and where you shine the brightest. I've been working with Reputyz Creators and they have helped me expand my comfort zone. I would love to hear your stories about breaking out of your comfort zone! #ComfortZone #GrowthMindset #BusinessCoaching #IntuitiveCoach #FaceYourFears

I am not someone that deals well with being limited by circumstances; to feel like I can’t achieve what I want - what I’m truly capable of - for things beyond my control. And I’m generally determined to rally against arbitrary restrictions; to seek out and stay close to those who offer solutions instead of blockers; who ask what you need and how they can help. It’s one of the reasons I bang on so much about #flexibleworking. Flexible working means I can work. It means women like me can work. It means those who are nothing like me, but have their own circumstances to factor in, can work. So it matters. It matters that employers ask how they can support you to achieve your potential (and they can benefit from the wonder of you through that too!). But I also need it in my personal life. Specifically, my holiday life. Those who know me well, know I’m a passionate scuba diver (surfaced after 58mins with circa 130 bar today, for those in the know). Since the advent of overseas holidays with my daughter being a thing, I’ve tried to figure out a way to combine my love of diving with solo holidaying with her. Mixed success: I’ve only managed 4 dives with her since 2022. I was determined this holiday was going to be the game changer. I brought all my gear to further motivate me to push this through. I chose Sharm el Sheikh for shore diving potential. Selected a hotel with a wide range of kiddie activities and reported to have a brilliant house reef. Then I arrived. Kids club slots short, at random times, and the hotel won’t recommend babysitting services for wraparound. Then it turns out the house reef is a 15-20 minute drive away, and you can’t leave the resort with a child in kids club. I will admit to being disappointed. But not defeated. I called a contact in Dahab for advice. No dice, unless I wanted to travel 100km to Dahab. But then the hotel dive centre came through for me. “Bring her”, they said. Someone would watch her in the dive centre when I was doing shore dives, someone would snorkel and colour with her whilst I did boat dives. I explained she was 5 and my whole world. Fine. They would guarantee the safety of my whole world. This may seem an obvious move by the dive centre, but it isn’t one I have regularly seen. And it was exactly what I needed to make sure that I could have some time to just be me. And for my daughter to see me do it. Loyalty forever to Aquarius Divers! As I was leaving the dive centre at the house reef hotel yesterday a lady stopped me: “you were on the coach from the airport with me the other day. I’m so happy you managed to make your diving plans work”. It seems she’s a single mum and waited until her kids were a lot older. “You’re an inspiration” she said, “I wish I’d done it sooner”. I beamed. If me being me, and showing what is possible (with support), helps others continue to strive for their dreams, and those who can help strive to do so, then that’s fanstastic. #careerdevelopment #singleparent

Guide to Yacht Chartering in Ibiza: Essential Tips Ibiza, renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class nightlife, and crystal-clear waters, is an ideal destination for yacht charters. To ensure a memorable experience, follow these essential tips. 1. Choose the Right Yacht Select a yacht that matches your group size, budget, and preferences: • Motor Yachts for luxury and speed, allowing you to explore multiple destinations quickly. • Sailing Yachts for a traditional, relaxed experience, perfect for those who enjoy the journey. • Catamarans for stability and ample space, ideal for families or larger groups. 2. Plan Your Itinerary Ibiza offers diverse destinations, from bustling beach clubs to serene coves: • Formentera: Just a short sail away, this island is famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and turquoise waters, ideal for a day trip. • Cala Jondal: Home to the iconic Blue Marlin Ibiza, a must-visit for luxury beach club vibes. • Cala Benirrás: Experience the bohemian spirit with sunset drumming sessions on this unique beach. • Es Vedrà: Sail around this mystical rock formation, one of the most magnetic spots on Earth. • Cala Conta: Known for its spectacular sunsets, it’s a perfect spot to anchor for an evening. 3. Book Early Ibiza’s peak season runs from June to September. To secure your preferred yacht and dates, it’s crucial to book well in advance. 4. Budget Wisely Be aware of additional costs beyond the base rental fee: • Fuel: Motor yachts consume more fuel, which can be a significant expense. • Mooring Fees: Popular spots like Ibiza Town charge fees for docking. • Crew Tips: A 10-15% tip is customary for excellent service. • Provisioning: Plan for food, drinks, and any special requests. 5. Consider a Skippered Charter Hiring a local skipper can enhance your experience, offering in-depth knowledge of the best spots and safe navigation. 6. Enjoy Ibiza’s Top Restaurants and Nightlife Ibiza is famous for its dining and nightlife. Don’t miss these top spots: • Lío Ibiza: A glamorous cabaret-style restaurant where dinner turns into a show and dancing. • Pacha Ibiza: One of the world’s most iconic nightclubs, offering a classic Ibiza nightlife experience. • El Chiringuito: Located on Es Cavallet beach, this spot offers high-quality cuisine in a relaxed beach setting. • Nobu Ibiza Bay: A luxurious restaurant offering world-class Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine. • Destino Ibiza: A stunning open-air venue that combines dining, live music, and clubbing. • Amante Ibiza: Nestled in a cliffside overlooking Sol d’en Serra, perfect for a romantic dinner. • Ushuaïa Ibiza Beach Club: Known for its daytime parties with world-famous DJs. • Hï Ibiza: Iconic nightclub, world-class DJs. • Cipriani Ibiza: Classic Italian fine dining, offering impeccable service and cuisine. Safe travels and enjoy your Ibiza adventure!

https://ift.tt/A3L9R4J Best Christmas gifts for sailors: 39 top picks in 2023 Stuck for gift ideas for the sailor who has it all? Yachting World is here to help with some great ideas as we list our best gifts for sailors Are you wondering what to get the sailor in your life for their birthday, for Christmas or for any other celebratory occasion? Here is our pick of the best Christmas gifts for sailors that would make a perfect present for the keen boater in your life. We appreciate everyone is on a different budget, so we’ve sectioned this piece by price. Hit the links below to jump straight to the price bands. Best gifts for sailors under £25 Best gifts for sailors £25 – £100 Best gifts for sailors £100 – £200 Best gifts for sailors £200 – £500 Best gifts for sailors £500+ Editor’s choice Christmas gifts   1 / Hattiers Premium Reserve Rum Synonymous with sailing since the mid 17th Century, rum continues to be the yachtsman’s favourite tipple. This south Devon firm, which currently sponsors our Letters pages and has also teamed up with Spirit Yachts, produces some dangerously good sipping rums. A personal favourite is its premium reserve blended Egremont rum – wow!   2 / Victorinox Skipper Swiss Army Pocket Knife This Victorinox has been by my side for years and got me out of some scrapes as well as helped me to fix a few things on the go. The built in additional tools make this more than just a knife. So yes, it’s a bit heavier and fatter than a knife that s solely a knife. Probably the best knife I ever used on a boat and a gift that keeps on giving from my dad years ago. for more sailing knives have a look at my guide to the best sailing knives 3 / Standard Horizon HX890E VHF handheld marine radio Best handheld VHF on test With features like a large screen, built-in GPS receiver and DSC capability and great battery life, it’s easy to see why it comes in amongst our top editors choices. The handheld radio floats with a highly visible strobe light activated when in the water and is fully waterproof with an IPX8 rating. It comes with an additional battery tray, which can use 5 x AAA standard disposable or rechargeable batteries, in addition to the set’s main rechargeable battery.   Looking for more options? Check out our guide to the best handheld VHFs. 4 / Sealskinz Bacton waterproof Beanie This waterproof Sealskinz beanie is warm dry woolie hug for your head. It is water and stain repellent, with a three layer construction for warmth, durability and waterproofing. The waterproofing will keep your head dry. The breathability will help to let the steam out even if you’re working hard.   Looking for a different style? Check out our guide to the best sailing hats on the market. 5 / Red 40lt Kit Bag This waterproof bag is stylish and lightweight, with smooth zips designed not to snag, and the best part is that it’s made out of recycled plastic bottles (TPU). And the zips and seals really work too. We tested a...

For me festivals and camping are what summer is all about. Packing up the car to the brim, piling the kids in, packing the pillows in around them and setting off for an adventure. So how do you live your best life with a baby? Here are my tips. 💤 First thing is to ensure that they are able to sleep well. There will be some babies that right from day 1 will sleep anywhere, if this isn’t your baby and they fight sleep then teaching them to sleep independently gives you, and them (and the rest of the campsite or hotel) the best possible chance of a good night’s sleep. 🛏️ Secondly ensure they have somewhere safe to sleep. Ideally a travel cot so they have their own space, but if you are co sleeping ensure the mattress is safe - you can not have an under 2 on a lilo as it isn’t safe and can be a suffocation risk. 🥰 Also ensure you take home comforts - their sleeping bag, a sheet form home, music or white noise to play, their comforter. The more familiar it is the easier they will find it to sleep. ❌ Forget about routines or timings when away. I remember Henry when he was 2 saying ‘I love festivals as I go to sleep when the sun does’. This is the beauty of camping and holidays, you throw away the ‘normalities’ of home life. They can have a longer nap the next day to catch up and then enjoy the evening listening to music or sitting watching the evening entertainment ✅ Finally enjoy - the more relaxed you are the more relaxed your little ones will be. Have a comfortable pram or festival trolly (or baby carrier) for naps, take LOTS of snacks, sun cream, water and have the best time and make some amazing memories. Then when it’s time to get back to work, you know they can sleep anywhere and you can get the rest you need to be focused.