seminar being hosted by the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club early next month.

The one-day seminar, organised by experts in the field, will equip mariners with the information and skills required for sailing offshore, preparing boats, handling heavy weather, using recommended safety equipment and emergencies at sea.

Open to all cruising and racing skippers, crews and their families, recreational powerboaters and commercial fishermen, it will incorporate the latest techniques in each category.

Attendance at the event, which counts towards the Newport-Bermuda Race requirements of having at least two recent attendees of such a seminar on board, costs $50. It will be held on December 7 between 9.00 a.m. and 5.00 p.m. and reservations can be made by calling 295 2214.