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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...

Essential yacht tender safety for skippers and crew

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Crewing skills, Preparation

Essential yacht tender safety – the dangers inherent in using a dinghy to get ashore from a moored or anchored yacht are all too easily underestimated. A recent experience caused me to have a serious think about essential yacht tender safety. Recently I faced...

Capsize – understanding the risks

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Emergencies, Preparation

A skipper should know how their boat will cope with rough seas. By working within known limits and understanding the risks, then the chances of a capsize occurring are much reduced. Safety is all about improving the odds. When considering the odds of a boat capsizing,...

Rig check – how to prevent failure at sea

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Boat Maintenance, Preparation

Regular rig checks prevent the risk of mast and rigging failure at sea. This includes regular rig inspections of the spars, rigging and fittings, especially before a major passage at sea. Most rig failures are caused by poor maintenance and breakage of the...

Anchoring – getting it right is not always straightforward

by Simon Jollands | Boat Handling, Crewing skills, Preparation

If you can set an anchor correctly with confidence and know your boat will be safe in a secure anchorage, then you can rest in comfort and will not need to rely on moorings and marinas when cruising. Anchoring is one of the most important boat handling skills. If you...