Masterclass Articles

Decoding the Art of Rigging: the Essentials of Load Pins in the World of Yacht Racing and Cruising

Load pins, ubiquitous and enduring tools gracing the world of sailboat racing since the 1980s, continue to prove their mettle onboard yachts, specifically those stretching beyond 50ft. While there’s an array of load sensing contrivance present today, the kingpin - quite literally - is still the load pin, a frontrunner particularly where plug-and-play solutions like smarttune fall short.

Modern load pins offer enviable flexibility, connecting seamlessly with a wide spectrum of instrumentation brands and diverse apps and software platforms offering detailed analytics. Regardless of where they are fitted within a rig, their primary goal is to boost performance while ensuring safety and comfort. They offer various forms of data output — from analog and digital to wireless.

15-06-2025

An In-Depth Exploration of How Motor Boat Trim Systems Aid in Optimising Boating Performance and Experience

Navigating a motorboat through the waves is an exhilarating adventure that can be greatly enhanced by correctly using trim systems. These devices, invariably electro-mechanical, attach to the transom and support the skipper in controlling and optimizing their boat’s running trim, or attitude. The varying sophistication levels of these systems significantly affect boats’ dynamic behaviour on water, whether large or small. Beyond being effective stabilizing mechanisms, trim systems can resist strong crosswinds that induce unwelcome heels, which in turn affect visibility, steering, and handling.
29-05-2025

The Unsung Heroes on the High Seas: Exploring the Exciting 2025 UK Firefighters Sailing Championship

Sailing the vast blue seas, the 2025 UK Firefighters prove their courage isn't limited to land as they showcase masterful sailing skills in this year's championship.
28-05-2025

Ditch the Ordinary, Sail a Tasar: A Simplified Instructional Odyssey

Dive into the intriguing world of Tasar sailing and discover the ultimate joy of conquering the waves with ease.
24-05-2025

Dive into the Spectacular ILCA Women's Sailing Coaching Weekend at King George Club

A weekend of sail coaching at King George Sailing Club for women who embrace speed and spray. With SailingFast and Wildwind joining forces, this event was nothing short of fabulous.
20-05-2025

Riding the Waves of Empowerment: ILCA Women's Coaching Programme Sets Sail Internationally at Wildwind

The groundbreaking International Laser Class Association's (ILCA) Women's Coaching Programme sets its sights on global waters, holding a week of instruction at the renowned Wildwind.
16-05-2025

Unearth the Enthralling Possibilities of Thawing the Seemingly Frozen Yachts

Can the elegant, majesty of yachts maintained in their frosted splendour be successfully revived? Let's discover the nautical truths that lie beneath frozen yachts.
29-04-2025

Dylan Fletcher Ignites Passion for Sailing at Prestigious Northampton Sailing Club

Sailing superstar Dylan Fletcher leaves an inspiring impact on the sailors at Northampton Sailing Club, cultivating an invigorated passion for the water.
29-04-2025

Upping Your Sailing Game: An Exclusive Training with Renowned Coach Adam Bowers

Get ready for an engaging sail training experience with none other than Adam Bowers, using the classic 505 as our vessel.
14-04-2025

Delving into the Intricate World of Transat Paprec's Masterful Skippers

A deep dive into the fascinating dynamics and personalities of the seasoned mariners from Transat Paprec.
03-04-2025

Navigating the Sea of Legalities: A comprehensive guide to understanding marine contracts.

From buying a new yacht to embarking on a charter or navigating boat maintenance, the sea of contracts you'll need to understand can be daunting.
02-04-2025

How Grant Dalton OBE Finds the Perfect Vessel for His Son's Sailing Intro

Champion yachtsman, Grant Dalton OBE is known for his sailing prowess. Now he's nurturing his son's nautical journey with the RS Quest.
24-03-2025

Invoking the Timeless Spirit of Graham Allen: An Unmatched Maritime Enthusiast

Paying tribute to Graham Allen, the much-admired force in the world of sailing, whose influence continues to ripple across its vast expanse.
12-03-2025

Take Control of Your Nautical Journey: How Mastery of Leadership Transforms Your Time at Sea

It's time to take the helm, to embrace the art of leadership on the open sea, transforming your sailing experience entirely.
10-03-2025

Adventurous Sailors Augment their Skillsets with Elite Safety Training at Annual Seminar

Rustling waves and caressing winds exude a mysterious allure for seafarers, but safety remains paramount. The Annual Safety-at-Sea Seminar grants sailors elite safety training opportunities.
06-03-2025

Experience Intense Training in the Merlin Rocket Class at the Surreal Hayling Island in March 2025

Join the next generation of seamen as they unlock the secrets of the Merlin Rocket at Hayling Island's renowned sailing course.
06-03-2025

Witness the Rally of Champions in the Thrilling UK B14 Sailing Season 2025: An Exciting Preview

Embrace the exhilarating winds as we dive into the impending UK B14 sailing season for 2025. The anticipation soars as high as the grandiose sails.
21-02-2025

Globally Inspired Albacore Stand Dazzles at the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show 2025

The Albacore stand at the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show 2025 promises an exciting mix of international appeal, featuring visitors from around the globe, fascinating sailing insights, and a stunning yacht showcase.
20-02-2025

Ferretti Group and University of Bologna Unveil Master's Degree in Nautical Engineering: Bridging Academia and the Yachting Industry

In the cutting-edge world of the yachting industry, the Ferretti Group collaborates with the University of Bologna to offer a Master’s Degree in Nautical Engineering. This innovative venture promises to mold the future builders of fine pleasure boats.
12-02-2025

Cruising Yacht Club of Australia Dominates in 2025 Helly Hansen International, Securing Joy Ride Perpetual Trophy for the Second Time

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) emerged victorious in the 2025 Helly Hansen International regatta, winning the prestigious Joy Ride Perpetual Trophy for the second consecutive time.
28-01-2025

Triumph Against Odds: Andrew Dolly Divola Conquers the Waves at 2025 Vaikobi Australian Windsurfer Nationals

Andrew 'Dolly' Divola, a living legend in the Australian Sailing Community, made waves at the 2025 Vaikobi Australian Windsurfer Class Nationals, undeterred by health struggles, and with pure aquatic finesse.
27-01-2025

Bracing Winter Winds Drive Spirited Youth Race Training at Paignton Sailing Club

Avid young sailors at Paignton Sailing Club defied winter's chill in a captivating weekend filled with sailing strategies, camaraderie, and triumphant tacks.
15-01-2025