Fleet Meeting
James McDonald, Director of Sales with Navis Marine Insurance Brokers attended Vancouver’s Fleet meeting, February 25. Attendance was good with 19 people attending, 9 online and 10 in person.
James presented an overview of the boat insurance market in 2026 including local and offshore and also discussed medical insurance. Many attendees were appreciative of the insights, and came with a long list of questions to help them think through their options and better understand this complex and very important subject. He covered local concerns and options, then explained the differences between offshore and local coverage.
Having a better understanding of differences and risks of choosing the ‘less expensive’ coverage was explained clearly and delivered without bias. James had examples and fielded many questions. He noted that sailors heading offshore can find it difficult to grasp, especially when there is concern for being sold versus informed. It is also important to understand there are areas where insurance is not available or worth the price.
Weather Group
February’s Weather class was attended by 10 hardy souls, still keen to understand the mysteries of the atmospheric universe. We talked about the trials and tribulations of the Intertropical Convergence Zone and how best to traverse it. During our group conversations we had a pop-quiz: What’s the difference between the doldrums and the horse latitudes? Can you answer? If not, feel free to join us for two hours every month – it’s never too late to jump in.
The second half of the class was devoted to the topic of GRIB files and how to access weather information while at sea. There seems to be two main aspects to this topic. The first is about the information itself, the GRIBS. The second is about what technology we can use to get it out there on the high seas. Conversation after the presentation was fantastic; many possibilities and ideas were shared, certainly for the benefit of all.
Homework this month is to learn about OpenCPN – either on our own, or by attending the upcoming talk being offered by Charlie Aram on March 4 from 7-9pm PST. Charlie and Heidi are BCA doers in Mexico. Charlie has agreed to take time from his heavy schedule of fruity drinks, body surfing, and boat maintenance in exotic locations to help the rest of us learn another great tool that will help us to safely join him in paradise. His presentation is open to the 2026 Fleet.
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