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Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 Review – A Blast to Sail?

Large cruising cats have risen in popularity these days. The Athena 38 is yet another
entrant into the catalog of cruising catamarans from Fountaine Pajot, France.

The product of two renowned Olympic sailors, Jean-Francois Fountaine and Yves Pajot, the Athena 38 is the second smallest cat in their fleet of five cats.

The Athena 38 is designed for the rookie skipper. The catamaran was made to be a favorite for a rookie skipper thanks to its simple handling.

Fountaine Pajot cats are known for their well-thought-out designs and innovative tech, and this particular one is no different. Here is the Fountaine Pajot Athena 38 review to help you make the right choice for your sailing holidays.

Accommodation

The stern is 10 feet wide with a layout that makes it all seem like one big cockpit. The whole area is rimmed with comfortable bench seating, which can accommodate at least 12 people. At the port corner, you also have the six-person table, which makes for even more comfortable cruising while you enjoy the cockpit.

The hull and deck intersection is arguably the most eye-catching part of the whole
boat’s design. The Athena is not a typical cat since most of them go for a large freeboard, which almost always makes the topsides snobbish. For this boat, the sheer line is tucked due to a large radius that allows it to rise to deck level again.

It’s a styling concept that robs the boat of some deck space, but then you tend not to notice this once you see just how much deck space there is. The hull design is also meant to give the Athena an attractive sculpted design as it ends at the swim steps.

The 38-footer has enough space to accommodate the owner couple and 3 more couples
effortlessly. Though four double berth staterooms might feel like a little too much for a boat this size, the cabin placement makes the design workable.

Each cabin is placed on one end of the hull. Cabins are separated by the head shower. This symmetrical layout allows occupants all the privacy they need. Thus, the boat never feels crowded.

Interior

The Athena 38 has a low-maintenance interior that charter companies can make into
whatever they like in as little as a couple of hours, and another group of cruising fans can get on board.

The cast surfaces give the boat a delicate look which is just pacifying when you are in the waters enjoying a cruise.

The boat uses the little space it has excellently so that the salon seems like an extension of the cockpit. At mid-salon, you have a large table surrounded by a deep lounge that is semi-circular. The navigation station stands off one end.

On the other end lays the galley with a 3-burner oven, twin sinks, and a huge fridge fit to store enough beer for everyone.

Exterior

The exterior of the Athena 38 is curvaceous and part of the reason the boat is so inviting. Molded fiberglass for the exterior lines makes the transition from outdoor to indoor areas seamless. The thoughtful plan makes it easy to enjoy al fresco dining and still remain comfortable when you have to eat indoors due to foul weather.

The headsail is a ProFurl furling system. A loose-footed mainsail is hoisted and drops down through lazy jacks. When the mainsail is up, the cover stows firmly to roll around the internal battens.

The covers remain fastened to the boom boltrope groove of the boom. Keeping the mainsail down and flanked is quite straightforward since all it takes is tying the integral bungees and closing the zipper all the way to the end.

Undersail

The Athena 38 is not only about beautiful design. It also packs a punch when it comes to functionality. The two Yanmar sail-drive diesel engines have 18 horsepower, which is enough to turn Athena’s length yet purr quietly with minimal vibration when the RPMs reach the maximum.

The engines power the Athena at 71/2 knots on flat waters, giving out 2,600rpms. When the boat hits such rpm with double-blade props and fixed turning, the auxiliaries consume around 4/10 of a gallon.

With a fuel tank of 40 gallons, the Athena can take you on your choice of cruise with no worries. You can easily access the engines by removing the cabin berth cushion at the back and the underlying panel.

Comfort

O. Flahault Design proves that the boat was conceived to give the best when it comes to catamaran cruising. All the creature comforts you might think of on water are catered for. The cabins have the headspace to make them as comfortable as can be. This, accompanied by the interior that boasts exquisite materials, will have you feeling lost in a capsule-like paradise devised for two.

Why Charter the Athena?

Thanks to the ingenious design that steps away from the norm in pleasant ways, the boat is perfect for your sailing holiday expeditions, no matter what kind of cruise you have planned for yourself.

The Athena 38 outdoes itself both in terms of functionality and comfort. Each bit of the attractive boat is meant to maximize on your enjoyment once you get on board.

When a boat tracks, as well as the Athena, does even at 40 degrees, you will surely enjoy sailing. Under chute, the Athena 38 remains well-mannered even when the winds reach gusts of 25 to 30. At times you may even feel like she is slightly overcanvassed.

In Conclusion

In Athena 38, Fountaine Pajot has come up with an undemanding cruising cat that even the least experienced sailor can enjoy. The boat lacks nothing in the way of privacy or comfort, and the performance is commendable as well. At anchor, the boat is like a raft where you can enjoy some sun or dive. You can count on the Athena to attract holidaymakers no matter where it has chattered. Simple handling makes it about the adventure, which is a well-earned bonus. All you have to do is sit back and watch the water drift by.

Specifications

Manufacturer: Fountain Pagot
Length: 11.6m (39.8 feet)
Cabins: 4
Bathrooms: 2
Berths: 8
Beam: 6.3m
Draft: 0.95 m
Fuel Capacity: 180L
Water Capacity: 360-520L
Engine number: 2

Have you chartered the Athena 38? If so, you are welcome to share your experience in the comment below.

Daniella Wender

Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

Merrell Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Review – Worth Every Dime?

If you often find your shoes completely soaked during your outdoor excursion, then you certainly appreciate the value of water-repellent shoes. Maybe a walk on the beach leaves your shoes sodden with water. Or perhaps a brief walk in the rain leaves you with the discomfort of soaked feet.

Or it could be that your feet are prone to sweating, especially during summer excursions. If any of these situations seem familiar to you, then this Merrell Men’s All-Out Blaze Sieve Review could be the answer to your question. Here is all you need to know about these waterproof sieves.

Style

The shoe is very elegantly designed and comes in neutral colors. These include brindle & butterscotch, light brown and black & wild dove. In so far as style is concerned, you can wear the sieve to virtually any outdoor activity. The shoe’s cutouts give it the appearance of a puffed-up sandal. It might not be a fashion statement, but it certainly abides by many style rules.

Upper

The sieve’s upper part is made up of waterproof leather. This makes it hard for water to seep into the shoe thus ensuring that it remains dry at all times. Better yet, the upper part has a number of cutouts that help to keep water out.

This upper part also has a Neoprene Liner. This material repels water and also dries very quickly. These three factors ensure that the shoe’s interior remains stone-dry at all times, even when you walk in watery places.

In the event that some moisture does remain in the shoe, your feet will remain protected from bacteria and nasty smells thanks to the M Select FRESH Material used to make the interior of the shoe.

This material kills bacteria that are known to cause foot odors. With the sieve, you don’t have to worry about embarrassing smells emanating from your shoes once you remove them.

Outsole and Traction

The sieve is a shoe that is meant to be worn in wet areas and has an outsole that ensures stability. The outsole is made of TC5+ Vibram material which boosts its grip on the ground. It also has lugs that are 3mm long, which guarantee traction in any terrain.

The outsole also has a number of drainage holes that are used to drain water that gets into the shoe. Additionally, the outsole is made of durable material. The tile can actually withstand heavy use in wet areas with little strain.

Despite the lugs, the shoes may have less-than-perfect traction in very slippery areas. If you go hiking in very slippery areas, then you might need to look for extra stability apart from your shoes.

But given that these are shoes that are meant to be used in such conditions, you would expect that the traction would be better than average, wouldn’t you? The relatively poor grip that the shoes afford users in very slippery areas is, without a doubt, one of their greatest cons.

The Insole

The shoe’s insole is remarkably comfortable, especially for a shoe that greatly resembles a sandal. The midsole is made up of Uni-Fly material which is known for its great cushioning effect. In fact, so comfortable is the shoe’s interior that you can actually wear the Out Blaze Sieve for a long hike. Additionally, the midsole has holes that allow water drainage, thus keeping the shoe lightweight even when wet.

Comfort

There is no denying that this is a very comfortable shoe. Few things feel half as bad as walking in drenched shoes and squishing water around, especially when you can’t help walking in wet areas. This sieve saves you a lot of such discomfort. It has numerous drainage holes to empty water.

It is also made up of Neoprene material that repels water to keep your feet dry. The midsole cushioning also goes a long way in enhancing the shoe’s comfort. The shoe also has an elastic back and elastic laces, both of which make it easy to wear.

Breathability

One of the trademarks of a great shoe is its breathability, and this particular product is no exception. The shoe has countless drainage holes that not only drain water but also ensure that there is ample air circulation.

Additionally, the Neoprene material used to make the interior keeps the feet dry. This means that even sweat does not stand a chance of remaining in the shoe. The shoe is, therefore, ideal for long walks on the beach, hikes, and even sailing excursions.

Durability

The Out Blaze Sieve is made of superior-quality material, and this ensures its durability. The elastic laces, TC5+ Vibram sole, and Neoprene lining all boost its durability a great deal. The shoes can withstand heavy-duty use even in extraordinarily wet conditions.

Suppleness

The shoe is fairly flexible. It is not too soft, nor is it too stiff: it has perfect suppleness.

For Who is the Merrell Blaze Sieve?

The Merell Blaze Sieve is designed for walkers, kayakers, boaters, outdoor adventurers, or anyone who wants to have comfortable water shoes for hiking. These are awesome to walk on light terrains, wet trails, cross rivers as well as waterfalls, and much more. These are also perfect for those who are prone to sweating in warm weather. With the Merrel Sieve, you can walk in the summer and keep your feet well-aerated all day.

MERRELL Men’s All Out Blaze Sieve Water Shoes, Grey (Dark Slate Dark Slate), 12 M US

Pros

Easy to slip on and off
Very durable
Comfortable
Flexible
Breathable

Cons

Poor traction on slippery areas
Has little arch support
Uncomfortable in heavy mud and sand.

In Conclusion

On the whole, the Merrell All Out Blaze Sieve is a great pair of shoes so far as maintaining comfort is concerned. The cutouts and the use of waterproof leather and Neoprene material go a long way in keeping your feet aerated even in the hottest conditions.

It is also an exceptionally comfortable pair of sieves, thanks to its cushioned midsole. However, the sizing of the shoes could be improved to ensure a perfect fit and prevent the growth of blisters.

The lugs that make its outsole improve traction a great deal and give you unparalleled grip and stability as you walk in wet areas.

Have you worn the Merrell All Out Blaze Sieve? If so, you are welcome to share your experience in the comments below.

AMAZON AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE

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Daniella Wender

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

8 of the Best Places to Snorkel in Mexico – You Shouldn’t Miss!

Mexico is one of the most popular destinations for a little sun, sea, and sand. Some visitors are happy to spend their time playing in the surf and enjoying the world above the waterline.

Others will leap at the chance to see what lies below the surface. There are lots of different reefs, caves, and coves across the coastlines of Mexico. Each area has its charms and beauties. There are secluded areas with a diverse range of fish.

Then there are the weirder sites and artificial reefs that you cannot miss. Therefore, it can be difficult for keen snorkelers to pick the right destination for their trip. Here are 8 of the best places to snorkel in Mexico to help you plan your vacation.

1# Akumal Bay.

Some people will come to Akumal Bay for the landscape and sunshine. This is fair enough because this is a beautiful part of the country. However, animal lovers and keen snorkelers mainly come here for the turtles.

Green sea turtles love to visit this part of the Rivera Maya to feast on the seagrass. It is the perfect place for a close encounter because the animals are so used to visitors. However, you must remain respectful at all times.

This means limiting snorkeling times to between 9 am and 5 pm and keeping your distance. This is more than fair for a rare encounter with this endangered species.

2# Cancun Underwater Museum.

You may see this referred to as the MUSA or Museo Subacuático de Arte while in Mexico. Others simply call in Cancun’s underwater museum. The museum is an artificial reef created from more than 500 sculptures.

It really is a work of art and one that will develop over time as nature takes hold. To be honest, this one is a matter of taste. There is something both eerie and fascinating about these underwater figures encrusted in coral and sea life. Snorkelers with underwater cameras will have great fun capturing these figures from all angles.

3# Huatulco.

The beauty of the MUSA is the man-made art and human link to the reefs. The beauty of Huatulco is that it doesn’t seem as though man is here at all. This region is pretty much unspoiled. It is yet to become a tourist trap like other sites.

This means that you can be sure of clear waters and there are fewer visitors to the beaches. It is a spectacular spot for anyone that wants a more leisurely pace during their Mexican snorkeling vacation. Some sites are also teeming with fish, eels and all sorts of underwater gems.

4# Cenote Dos Ojos.

This site is one for both animal lovers and snorkelers after something a little different. Most snorkelers are used to heading out to reefs and taking note of all the fish species. But bats and birds? It is true that snorkelers need to look up as well as down here.

There is indeed a Bat Cave in this area that is home to a wonderful colony of bats, as well as birds and even some iguanas. This is a rare treat for vacationers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Cenote Dos Ojos snorkeling spot in Mexico

5# Cozumel.

Some of the sites in this guide refer to the best-hidden coves or little beaches. Here you get a whole island to explore at your leisure. Cozumel is surrounded by a beautiful coastline with lots of interesting reefs to explore.

This is a great place for anyone trying to tick off lots of must-see sea life. The butterfly fish and seahorses are sure to capture the imagination. Furthermore, the locals are well aware of the island’s reputation, and there are plenty of dive shops dotted around.

6# Isla Espiritu Santo.

There are three uniquely different sides to a marine adventure on this little Mexican island. The first is the boat ride from the mainland. You may cross paths with a passing ray, whale, or pod of dolphins.

Then there is all life to be found under the water on the reefs and shores. Like many of the snorkeling spots in Mexico, there are lots of colorful fish and seahorses to look out for. Then there is the third gem. The island is also home to a friendly sea lion colony. This playful gang is sure to entertain visitors.

Isla Espiritu Santo snorkeling area in Mexico

7# La Paz.

As you can see, there are different sites that are better suited for specific animals. If you have a specific creature in mind, it is best to check the snorkeling sites with the best views.

For example, if you want to share the water with a whale shark, the best option is to head to La Paz. There are boat trips from La Paz that head into the whale shark’s feeding ground.

There is also a good chance that you might see whales, too, as blue whales, humpbacks, and greys are often seen in the area.

8# The Sea of Cortez.

Last but certainly not least, there is the infamous Sea of Cortez. This is a great place for anyone that is new to Mexico. You can find lots of dive sites and shops around the sea, with lots of treasures to explore.

The Sea Of Cortez snorkeing spot in Mexico

Many come for the calm, clear waters and relaxing reefs. Others take advantage of the proximity to the California Peninsula and seek out sea lions. Experienced snorkelers revisiting Mexico may prefer somewhere less popular.

In Conclusion

The list above is just a taster of the many snorkeling spots that you can enjoy in Mexico. There is something for everyone here. Some of the more accessible, simple coves are great for first-timers.

Then there are the stranger reefs and caves for the more adventurous. Some travelers will prefer to stay on the mainland, while others venture to one of the little islands. Then there is the option of choosing based on the wildlife.

Do you want to see the tropical fish, play with sea lions, or encounter a sea turtle? The choice is vast and you are sure to find somewhere that suits your needs.

Want More Snorkel Spots?

Have you already snorkeled in Mexico? What was your favorite place? Feel free to share your experience in the comments below.

Daniella Wender

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

Palm Cay Marina Review

Website: Palmcaymarina.com Features: 194 slips, Electricity, Gaz, Water, Wi-Fi, Monitor VHF-16, fish cleaning station, boat cleaning services, 24-hour security. Amenities: Restroom, Laundry, Shower, Hotels, Beach, Pool, Tennis, Restaurants, Car rentals, Ship store Accommodation capacity: Yacht/ …

Nothing is better than having refreshing drinks on a hot summer day while being active in the outdoors. It keeps you cool no matter what you do and where you are!

So…You would agree that for this you need a cooler that is easy to transport everywhere on your back. The Ice Mule backpack cooler has all the features you need to make your trip more enjoyable than ever. This innovation bag can hold ice for more than 24 hours.

Furthermore, it can provide you with cold drinks and food all day long. Your stuff inside will be cool as ice, and your pleasure on the trip will be complete. If you seek a sturdy built cooler to keep all your beverages cold during your trip, then you should check out the Ice Mule Pro Cooler review.

Insulation Capacity

Thanks to its materials, the insulation capacity is ensured. The Ice Mule backpack cooler is made of rugged fabrics called PolarLayer, making the cooler completely waterproof inside and outside.

On the inside, there is MuleSkinEV and the main character is visible. It is the endurance level of the fabric that provides excellent insulation capacity. You can rest assure that the Ice Mule will keep all your beverages cold for a long time.

Whether you go on a sailing trip or on a long hiking expedition, the Ice Mule is a fantastic gear for you to have. You can hold it on your back without any uncomfortable feeling of coldness or sweating. Its fantastic insulation guarantees you the best experience while on the go!

Usability

This Ice Mule backpack cooler handles weight extremely well. It can hold up to 18 cans! Pretty amazing, right? You can finally go on your journey with cold beverages at your disposal, ready to drink.

The Ice mule is very easy to use and is a real breeze to carry on the back thanks to its padded shoulder straps and its well ventilated back panel. If for whatever reason, you don’t need it anymore, you can roll it up and store it in another bag.

Portability

In term of portability, nothing beat the Ice Mule. This is by far the best cooler to carry on a long distance trip thanks to its extra padding on the back of the Ice Mule.

Need it? great! Fills it with food and beverages and put it on your back. Don’t need it? Fine, then roll it up and store it!

The portability is additionally ensured with quality straps that are comfortable and very easily adjustable. You can move them for a better comfort because the usage is very simple.

You just need to find an ideal length and your experience will be complete. This kind of portability makes the backpack very easy to handle, which is especially important on long trips. No matter how far you need to carry the backpack, the special design ensures excellent portability.

Durability

Come on…you know about these backpacks that last for decades. Don’t you? Well, the Ice Mule backpack cooler is one of them! This soft cooler is extremely well-designed, thus you can count on it to last for years to come.

You no longer need to worry during your outdoor trips. This backpack is strong enough to withstand any conditions.

The durability is ensured with quality fabrics that prevent leakage and external damages. You surely know how difficult some trips could be, especially in the heat. And when you are thirty the only thing you want is a refreshing drink to cool you down. That is why you need a backpack like this one. Without a doubt, your trip will be better with the Ice Mule backpack cooler.

How to Use It?

It’s really simple! You just need to fill the Ice Mule with all the items you want to carry. These, of course, will be ice bags, beer cans or any other beverages you want to bring. This cooler feature a wide mouth roll-up closure, making it comfortable and easy to put all your beverages inside.

It also comes with a vent air valve that enables you to add air to the layer for additional insulating capacity. It also allows you to take the extra air out to minimize the size and help secure the cooler.

Once you have placed all the content inside, roll down the top a few times and secure the cooler with the clips, and you are good to go! This way, you ensure a fantastic insulation.

The features of the material will keep the coldness of the cans inside, so you can use them afterward. It is easy to use the backpack, even if you are a first-time user.

Who is the Ice Mule For?

The Ice Mule backpack cooler is perfect for outdoor lovers that want to keep all beverages completely cold and have a refreshing drink within reach during hot summer days!

It is also for those who want to protect their belongings from water since it is waterproof.

Whenever you need something cold, put it in the backpack and enjoy your time outdoors. It is ideal for hikers, fishermen, mountain climbers, campers and all other outdoor lovers.

Why Should You Buy It?

You should buy the Ice Mule backpack if you want to keep your drinks cold for a long time, whether on your boat, on the road, on the beach or anywhere else. It will make any trip to the nature more enjoyable, especially if you are going with your friends and family.

The quality of materials is exceptional and that is why you should consider buying this backpack. All the characteristics like high durability and easy of usage speak for themselves, and these features add the value to the product.

ICEMULE Pro Large Collapsible Backpack Cooler – Hands Free, 100% Waterproof, 24+ Hours Cooling, Soft Sided Cooler for Hiking, Camping, Fishing & Picnics, 23 Liter, Fits 18 Cans + Ice, Realtree Edge

Pros

No ice leakage for 24+ hours
Very high-capacity cooler
Back pads for additional comfort
Completely insulated design
Waterproof

Cons

• If you open it often, it will reduce the insulation capacity.

In Conclusion

Your trip outside will be comfortable with the Ice Mule backpack cooler. It is not only a portable carrier; it is also a real lifesaver. You can place inside huge amounts of ice and cold drinks, all with the intention to make the trip more enjoyable.

You can be sure that no leakage will occur for 24 hours of usage, which is a big plus. With this backpack, the insulation is complete and adequate comfort is ensured.

Material: MuleSkinEV
Weight: 3.5 pounds
Can hold: 18 cans
Style: Backpack
Dimensions: 19 x 9.5 x 8.5 inches
Warranty: 90-Day Warranty

Do you own the Ice Mule backpack? If so, what do you think about it? You are welcome to share your experience in the comments below.

Daniella Wender

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

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