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A sail is a three-dimensional curved surface that acts as an airfoil intended to move a boat or a yacht by being placed in a wind. There are three main categories when classifying modern sails:

• Mainsail
• Headsail
• Spinnaker or downwind sail

Modern sail makers make use of technology to design sails using a special computer-aided design (CAD) programs and feed the data to very accurate cutters to cut the sail?s panels. Most sails are made from synthetic materials such as nylon and Dacron made from exotic material yarns. These materials are essential for making low-stretch, low-weight and long-life sails. More sail makers use different weights of yarn to weave sails with exceptional properties for different use.
In Australia, each State and Territory has different laws regarding the licensing of commercial and recreational boats. Each State and Territory has different requirements that a boat operator needs to meet in order get the boat into the water and sail safely around the Australian coast.

Boat testing takes place on open waters and can last from a few hours to many days depending on the type and size of the vessel. Testing of small boats typically lasts for a few hours. Boat testing is conducted to determine the performance and general seaworthiness of the vessel by testing the speed, maneuverability, equipment and safety measures. Usually present in boat testing are the owners, the builder, and governing and certification officials. Successful boat testing would mean subsequent certification and commissioning of the vessel.

Boat licenses are an important requirement before a person can sail in Australia?s open waters. It is for the safety of the owner, the crew, the passengers, other boaters and the boat itself. It is best to obtain the proper boat licenses regardless of the vessel?s size and attending a course and license. Boat course and boat testing will provide the owner with valuable information on safe boating and navigation in Australian waters.
Sail makers also need to be qualified and have learned the art of the trade in order to produce sails with superior quality.

Recreational yachting tips

• Bring all the necessary items you need for your trip. You will be away from land for a time and there are no stores available lest you forget something.
• Always bring life jackets for you and your family and friends? safety aboard.
• When anchoring, consider the sea bed where you?ll drop anchor. Sand is the most ideal while rocks should be avoided. Think about other factors such as the wind and the tide when anchoring overnight.

Tips when hiring a boat

• Check that the boat has all the safety equipment that goes with it including foul-weather gear and lifejackets.
• Take as much as you can, you might stop at places where there are no cash machines.
• Have a good idea of the proposed itinerary and be clear about where you are heading on a chart.
• Have an alternative plan in case the weather does not cooperate.
• Bring medication in case you suffer from seasickness.
• Sensitive electronic equipment and gadgets do not mix well with sea water.