Bitter End Yacht Club celebrates the 15^th anniversary of its annual Women on the Water Week on Virgin Gorda in the British Virgin Islands, January 6-13, 2007.

Combining exceptional hands-on instruction from world renowned sailing experts with exciting shoreside activities, this action-packed week is a one-of-a-kind experience that both novices and experts won’t want to miss.

Women on the Water Week allows participants to take lessons from big-boat cruiser Pam Wall; world-class big boat crew Martha Parker; and Betsy Alison, five-time US SAILING Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year, two-time Yngling World Champion, and coach of the U.S. Disabled Sailing Team.

“This event gives women of all skill levels a chance to experience sailing as it should be,” said Betsy Alison. “Instructors at the Bitter End’s Women on the Water Week are all accomplished boaters who thoroughly enjoy sharing their knowledge and empowering the women who participate. The unique sense of belonging to the greater sailing community that you get at The Bitter End is a one of a kind experience.”

Participants will start each day with an energizing fitness program, followed by a short information session or “chalk-talk” that will cover all aspects of skippering, sail trimming, sail changing, crewing and teamwork. Participants will also learn overboard recovery techniques, sailing smart, downwind sailing and racing. Treasure hunts, match racing, rallies and fleet racing will test participants’ newly acquired or refined skills; and a variety of additional activities – excursions, sunset cruises, and special parties – complete the week.

“This is all about empowering women to experience, enjoy and, if they choose to, compete in the sailing arena. At a young age, I was fortunate enough to be able to take the helm,” said Dana Hokin, Bitter End Managing Partner and Owner. “And now, I want to give other women that same kind of opportunity to learn from the best.”

Other sailing activities during this fun-filled week include the Bucket Regatta and Megayacht Rendezvous, Midwinter Regatta Week and the Longshore Caribbean Sailing Week (also January 13-20)

About Bitter End Yacht Club

Stretching along a mile of unspoiled beach on the North Sound of Virgin Gorda, in the British Virgin Islands, Bitter End Yacht Club is the ultimate Caribbean destination for the watersports enthusiast. The North Sound – one of the largest, most protected noncommercial harbors in the Caribbean – is a must-visit destination for boaters. And, the steady year-long trade winds make it the ideal destination for sailors, expert and novices alike. Bitter End has been owned by Chicago’s Hokin family since 1973 and retains the spirit of their family retreat.

www.beyc.com.

Last Updated ( Friday, 17 November 2006 )