This series of texts describes how to carry out a familiarisation inspection of a sailboat. The first text described how to think about inspecting three of the nine fundamental components of a sailboat: the hull, the engine and the rigging. The second text, this one, illustrates how I familiarised myself...
You arrive in the Caribbean and finally reach the marina where you’ve hired a yacht. Once the administrative formalities have been completed, you are taken to the docks and then onto the yacht. The first few minutes are exhilarating! You chat to your friends and dream about the week ahead!...
This text explains a fixing technique that is applicable on fast boats. It makes use of paper charts when there is little to no space for chartwork. The technique is useful if the chartplotter fails, or if checking the validity of an electronic fix is required. I learned the technique...
Good news for Royal Yachting Association (RYA) commercial certificate holders. Australia now recognizes RYA training courses for the purposes of obtaining commercial certificate in Australia. Holding a YachtMaster certificate does not automatically entitle the holder to an Australian commercial certificate (“Sailing Master Offshore NC”), but it is a prerequisite. You...
Two years ago, I bought two travel backpacks – big enough to make a weekend suitcase, but small enough to pass the airline “carry-on” test. I bought the Travel Pack from AER and the Mile One from Black Mile. Both impressed me as well-organized, discreet-looking bags (black, no visible markings,...
Officially entitled ” Captain, with restrictions, of a vessel of less than 60 gross tonnage “, the “Master 60” is a Canadian professional certificate issued under the Canada 2001 Shipping Act. It entitles the holder to engage in commercial sailing activities. It confers all the powers – and responsibilities –...
The techniques for adjusting standing rigging are as old as the history of sailing itself. Some consider it an art, while others prefer to leave it to the professionals. The prevailing view is that improper adjustment will slow the boat down and may even be dangerous. A few tips can...
I came across two videos on the Sailing Zingaro channel that describe relatively well the desirable characteristics of an offshore sailboat. The comments seem well-founded enough for me to say that these are two good reference videos. In particular, the impact of the hull shape on the boat’s maneuverability, the...
Setting the scene A ship leaves New York, USA, bound for Brest, France. Assuming it takes the shortest route, what will be its departure course? If it is sailing at 15 knots, how long will it take to reach Brest? The coordinates of the two ports are known (below). City...
Last season took its toll on one end of a mooring line on Jean-du-Sud. A repair was in order. I took advantage of the repair to make a short video on how to repair it. I show how to tie a backsplice and a crown knot. I’ll show you how...
