Sailing Ships
Powered by wind, sailing ships have the longest history in the annals of navigation. Before the invention of the steam engine, the combined power of wind and oars was the only one that propelled the vessels. Nowadays, sailing ships are recreational vessels or boats that are ideal for cruises and coast explorations enjoyed by holiday makers and passionate sailors. Despite the large diversity of sailing ships models, there are common features that appear in every design. The hull, the rigging and one or more masts are always present as the basic elements, and they are maintained by the crew that are responsible for the performance of the vessel.
On sailing ships, the crew used to work in traditional four-hour long watches, a period during which each member was responsible for a certain number of tasks. One other specificity element encountered on wind-powered ships was the old time-telling system by the ship's bell. Thus, the bell was rung every half hour during the watch and eight times at the end of the the four hours. The beauty and the challenge of cruising sailing ships is that the journey can last for months. However, most holiday makers usually choose sailing ships manned along the coast lines with the possibility to stop in ports and visit the different local touristic attractions.
When booked for family vacations, sailing ships could accommodate just one group of people, or, depending on the size of the vessel, more voyagers could be taken aboard. Though relying on all natural propelling systems, sailing ships are nevertheless equipped with the most modern navigation equipment. The use of sails is actually a personal pleasure of the owner that takes a liking in the traditional sailing ways. Sometimes, the vessel could also include an engine that is only powered under special circumstances. Whichever be the case, the people in charge of sailing should know everything about the manning of the vessel.
Sailing classes are often held on sailing ships, since the real boats are the place to help trainees acquire the skills necessary for individual navigation. Very often, there is personnel on board that has the adequate qualifications to teach passengers the basics of navigation. Such classes are optional and you can enjoy the beauty and leisure of cruises on sailing ships without having to decode the working principles behind the boat's mechanisms. This is all about personal preferences. Have fun!