Simon Jollands

Weather forecasting resources and tips

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Communications, Navigation, Preparation

All competent sailors need to have a good basic understanding of how to interpret a weather forecast. They also need to be able to interpret the actual conditions they are experiencing. Most weather forecasts present a general picture of what to expect in a given area...

Liferafts

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Communications, Crewing skills, Emergencies, First Aid at Sea, Yacht ownership

A liferaft is an essential piece of equipment to carry on offshore or coastal passages and should be regularly serviced by professionals according to manufacturers’ recommendations. Liferafts should be stowed where they are ready for immediate launching. All...

Narrowboating on the Kennet and Avon Canal

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Navigation

A recently cancelled sailing event I was due to take part in left us with a free weekend in the diary. Given that my wife and I were celebrating a bumper wedding anniversary and the weather forecast was for fine weather, we decided to hunt around for a last minute...

How to cope with an emergency at sea

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Communications, Crewing skills, Emergencies, Yacht ownership

We enjoy ourselves on the water knowing full well there are risks attached. The same applies to most sporting activities and many leisure pursuits, but this does not put us off indulging in such fulfilling pastimes. A safe skipper will be mentally prepared for all...

Engine failure at sea – common causes and how to avoid them

by Simon Jollands | Boat Maintenance, Preparation, Yacht ownership

Providing they are regularly serviced and maintained, modern marine diesel engines tend to be very reliable. However, they are by no means infallible and a large percentage of lifeboat rescues are to leisure vessels with engine failure. Fortunately, a handful of...