Tidelines: Training opportunity with a difference

The chance to gain an internationally recognised qualification while putting in some special sea time is possible from next month. Henk Haazen, who has been operating his purpose-built 15m steel yacht Tiama on adventure and research charters from New Zealand to the Antarctic for seven years, has launched the fifth Royal Yachting Association practical sailing school here. Training berths are available on coastal passages between the yacht's southern voyages. Ph (09) 372 3105.

Talent and experience in new design team

Two members of the in-house design team at Formula Cruisers, Grant Senior and Rob Brown, have formed a company, Seaclass Marine Design. The qualified boatbuilders bring years of experience and a host of proven designs to the operation. As well as producing new designs, customising existing ones and managing boatbuilding projects, the two will continue to work at Formula, where Senior is general manager.

First beginners' session draws big turnout

The first expert-advice-for-beginners session at Smart Marine drew a standing-room only crowd of 160 to Westhaven to discover the secrets of anti-fouling. The turnout took the chandlery company by surprise and they will ask people to RSVP for the next sessions so enough seating can be provided. Bruce Duncan talks fishing on October 13, Hutchwilco does safety on November 16 and the December 7 subject is gamefishing.

Water-watch

The racing programme is between seasons this weekend, but the rum races resume during the week with Ponsonby Cruising Club out on Thursday and the Squadron and Bucklands Beach on Friday. Other action:

Saturday: Spring Regatta Round-Waiheke race (Richmond SC).

Saturday and Sunday: Winter championships conclude (Murrays Bay SC).

Sunday: Association Day, Davidson 28, Lotus, Magic 25s etc W/L (Richmond YC).

Clubs and organisations planning events should register with the ARC on (09) 366 2000. The 24-hour response number for the ARC maritime unit is (09) 362 0397.