Goodbye pirates, whale story,Beneteau Oceanis 45, HF or satphone, more

by Nancy Knudsen, Editor on 28 Jun 2012 For all cruising sailors with a heart, the biggest news of the week was the rescue – finally – of the two South African sailors who had been held captive by Somali pirates for 20 long months. Pallid photos of the two tell of their privations, but this means that, for the first time for several years, there are no cruising sailors being held for ransom by the Somalis. Let's hope it stays that way!

While we're still out there on the world's oceans, Jeanne Socrates is well on her way to another Oldest-female record. Once she reaches Victoria in Canada, she will be the oldest female to have circumnavigated via the Five Southern Capes – but not non-stop, and, at 70, that's her next gig.

The Californian solo sailor who lost his boat after colliding with a whale is back home and telling his story; Opsail tall ships spectacle is still making many an elegant splash down the east coast of America with a United Nations of tall ships, and there's a feature on the sailing dhows of Arabia and how they are resurging in popularity.

Closer to home, John Curnow tests out the Beneteau Oceanis 45, and now knows just why it was voted the European Yacht of the Year in the Family Cruiser category for 2012.

In practical matters, Carolyn Shearlock talks sense about what to stow in that critical locker behind the galley stove, John Jamieson talks about a basic skill that is useful in many situations – knowing your pivot point, and Allan Riches discusses the advantages and disadvantages of satphones and HF Radios at sea, and what makes the difference where YOU live.

Finally, read about yet another 90-year-old active sailor – this one is not only a regular sailor, he's held his class championship for the last ten years!

Sweet sailing!