pmr sailing

Thursday 17 October 2024

Capsizing

Learning to Sail: Capsizing – How to Turn a Scary Moment into a Learning Opportunity

Ahoy there! Welcome back to my sailing adventure blog, where I recount the ups, downs, and sometimes literal flips of learning to sail as a 65+ year old on the River Thames. Today, we're tackling something every sailor knows will happen at some point—capsizing. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a complete beginner, capsizing is an inevitable part of dinghy sailing, especially on the unpredictable waters of the Thames.

Now, while capsizing might sound like a nightmare, it doesn’t have to be. In fact, it can be a great learning experience—if approached with the right mindset and plenty of practice. Let’s talk about how to prepare, what to do when it happens, and why practicing capsizing in a controlled environment is so important.

The Reality of Capsizing

It’s a fact: sailboats capsize. It’s one of those things that feels a bit like a rite of passage for dinghy sailors. If you’re learning to sail, you’ll eventually find yourself unexpectedly in the drink—so you might as well get comfortable with it!

I did my capsize practice in the summer, and, of course, it was essential to have experienced sailors, instructors, and a safety boat nearby. You’ll want someone who knows what they’re doing to guide you through the process—someone who can prevent you from drifting off to France while you’re struggling to right the boat.

The instructor joked that he had warmed the water with a kettle just for us, which, as I gingerly dipped my toe in, wasn’t entirely believable—but it wasn’t too bad either. My wife bravely went first, capsizing our boat against a pontoon on the river’s edge. She was crew and rolled into the boat as the helm clung to the centreboard like an Olympic gymnast.

When it was my turn, we headed out into the middle of the river. Let’s just say my attempt at righting the boat didn’t quite go according to plan. Picture me wrapped entirely around the centreboard, my body more of a hindrance than a help, while the boat stubbornly refused to flip back upright. Meanwhile, we began our leisurely drift downstream—fortunately, with the safety boat blocking our path before we became an unplanned exhibit at the next riverside pub.

Safety First: Buoyancy Aids and Essential Gear

Capsizing can be made significantly less frightening by being prepared with the right safety gear. This means wearing a proper buoyancy aid at all times. No, it might not be the height of fashion, but trust me, in cold, flowing water, it becomes the most stylish thing you’re wearing!

Key Safety Items:

Buoyancy Aid: Always wear a well-fitted buoyancy aid. It helps keep your head above water and provides that extra support when you’re trying to climb back into the boat.
Appropriate Clothing: If it’s chilly, consider a wetsuit or drysuit. Cold water can quickly sap your energy, so you want to stay warm, even in the summer.
Whistle: A whistle can be a lifesaver, literally. If you’re separated from the boat or need help, it’s much easier to blow a whistle than shout yourself hoarse.

How to Capsize Safely (If That’s Even Possible)

Capsizing practice is best done with an instructor who knows the procedure like the back of their hand, and a safety boat close by to assist. Here’s what you should do when you find yourself in the water:

1. Stay Calm and Hold On

First things first: stay calm. You’re in the water now, and the boat isn’t going anywhere—hopefully, neither are you! The key is to hold on to the boat. You don’t want to get separated from it, especially with currents trying to sweep you downstream.

2. Climb onto the Centreboard

The key to righting the boat is climbing onto the centreboard. This is the long board that sticks out from underneath the boat, and when your dinghy capsizes, it’ll be sticking out of the water horizontally. The idea is to use your weight to leverage the boat back upright.

Now, this is where I struggled. The trick is to stay balanced on the centreboard, using your weight without going full “koala bear wrapped around a tree” like I did. With a bit of practice (and fewer desperate hugs), it’s possible to turn that centreboard into your best friend, using it to coax the boat back onto its feet.

3. Get Back In

Once the boat rights itself, you need to get back in—easier said than done, especially when you’re feeling like a wet sock. The trick is to use the ropes along the gunwale (the boat’s edge) to pull yourself up, kicking your feet for extra help. It’s not always graceful, but with determination, you’ll find yourself back in the boat before too long.

Safety Procedures for the Shore Crew and Safety Boat

While you’re busy floundering in the water, everyone else has a role to play too. Here’s what those on shore and in the safety boat should be doing:

1. Safety Boat Assistance

The safety boat crew are your guardian angels during capsize practice. Their job is to:

Keep You Safe: They stay nearby to make sure you don’t drift too far down the river.
Provide Assistance: If you’re really struggling to right the boat or climb back in, they can give you a hand or even haul you out of the water if needed.
Prevent Collisions: The safety boat ensures that other traffic on the river stays clear of your capsized boat—because the last thing you need is another boat complicating the situation!

2. Onshore Support

The folks onshore have their roles too:

Keep a Watchful Eye: They should be watching out for any signs of trouble. It’s important to have someone onshore who can raise the alarm if things go awry.
Help with Recovery: Once you’ve righted the boat and made it back to the dock, onshore support can help with recovery—whether that’s helping you out of the boat, offering a towel, or simply giving you a reassuring pat on the back.

Why Practicing Capsizing is Essential

Practicing capsizing in a controlled environment is crucial for building confidence and competence. Knowing how to handle a capsize before it happens in an unexpected situation makes all the difference. During practice, you can get used to the shock of the cold water, the mechanics of righting the boat, and the steps needed to get everyone safely back inside—all without the added stress of being alone or too far from help.

Plus, practicing with a bit of humour and a group of fellow sailors makes it less of a daunting task. After all, who wouldn’t want to capsize under the watchful eye of an instructor who jokes about warming the river with a kettle?

Final Thoughts: Capsizing Happens—Be Ready

Capsizing is part of the sailing journey. It’s not something to fear but rather a skill to master. With proper safety gear, a well-trained crew, and plenty of practice, you can turn a potentially nerve-wracking event into a well-handled maneuver.

So, next time you’re out on the water and your boat starts to tip, remember: stay calm, hold on, and find that centreboard. You might get a bit wet, but with the right preparation, you’ll be back at the helm in no time, hopefully with nothing worse than a few laughs and a great story to tell.

Until next time—happy (and hopefully upright) sailing!

Learning to Sail: Taking the Helm for the First Time on the River Thames

Welcome back to my blog where I navigate the twists and turns of learning to sail as a 65+ year old on the River Thames. After mastering tacking (well, mostly!), the next great milestone in my sailing adventure is something all sailors aspire to: taking the helm. That’s right—getting behind the tiller and becoming the master of the dinghy, steering it where the wind and water want to take you (hopefully where you want to go too!).

But before you grab the tiller and shout “helm’s a-lee!”, there are a few things you’ll need to know and some skills to develop. Taking the helm for the first time is both thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking, especially on the lively waters of the Thames. Let’s break down what you need to be prepared for and how to set yourself up for success when it’s your turn to steer the ship (or, in this case, dinghy).

Before you take control of the boat, there’s some essential knowledge you’ll need under your belt.

Here’s what you should be familiar with:

1. Points of Sail

Understanding the different points of sail is critical. These are the angles at which your boat sails in relation to the wind. You’ll need to know whether you’re on a beam reach (with the wind blowing from the side), a close-hauled tack (sailing as close to the wind as possible), or running downwind (with the wind behind you). Why? Because where you are in relation to the wind affects how you steer and how the boat behaves.

2. Wind Awareness

Wind is the invisible hand that dictates everything you do on a boat. Before taking the helm, practice identifying the wind direction by looking at flags, ripples on the water, or even the tell-tales on your sail. This knowledge will help you make quick decisions about steering and adjusting the sails.

3. Sail Trim

You’re not just steering the boat—you’re also working with the sails. You need to know how to trim (adjust) the sails depending on the wind direction. While the crew might be handling the jib, as the helmsperson, it’s your responsibility to communicate when the sails need to be tightened or loosened to keep the boat balanced and moving efficiently.

4. Basic Safety Rules

The Thames can be a busy place, with everything from other dinghies to powerboats, rowers, and the occasional swan flotilla to watch out for. You’ll need to know the right of way rules (when you need to give way or when other boats need to yield to you) and how to navigate safely in potentially crowded conditions.

What You Need to Be Able to Do

Now that you’ve got the theory down, let’s talk about the practical skills you’ll need when you’re holding the tiller for the first time:

1. Steer with Confidence

The tiller controls the rudder, which controls the direction of your boat. Unlike a car, where you steer in the direction you want to go, a boat tiller works in reverse: push the tiller right to go left, and left to go right. This can be a bit confusing at first, but with a bit of practice, it becomes second nature.

Top tip: Keep your movements smooth and deliberate. Oversteering leads to erratic course changes, while understeering can mean you’re not turning quickly enough. It’s all about balance!

2. Maintain a Steady Course

Keeping the boat on a steady course is easier said than done, especially with the Thames currents nudging you around. The trick is to pick a point on the horizon or a landmark and steer towards it, making small adjustments as needed. Constantly looking at your sails or staring at the tiller can throw off your sense of direction—keep your head up and focus on where you’re going.

3. Manage the Boat’s Speed

Speed control isn’t just about how fast you’re going—it’s about understanding when to speed up or slow down. On the River Thames, wind conditions can change quickly, so as the helm, you’ll need to anticipate gusts and lulls. If the boat starts heeling (tilting) too much, you may need to ease off or steer into the wind to slow down. Conversely, if you’re losing speed, you’ll want to catch the wind by steering slightly off the wind or tightening the sails.

4. Communicate with Your Crew

Taking the helm isn’t a solo task—you’re working with your crew to keep the boat sailing smoothly. You’ll need to give clear instructions, especially when tacking or jibing. A simple “ready to tack?” ensures everyone knows what’s coming and is prepared. Don’t be afraid to call out for help trimming the sails or adjusting the jib as needed. Teamwork makes the dream work, as they say!

What to Expect on the River Thames

Taking the helm on the River Thames adds a few unique challenges to your experience. The river has its own set of conditions that you won’t find on the open sea:

1. Strong Currents

The Thames can have strong currents depending on the tide and rainfall. Steering in a current requires a bit more attention to detail, as the water can push you off course without you even realising it. Keep an eye on your surroundings and adjust your steering to compensate for the current.

2. Navigating Narrow Waters

The river can get quite narrow in spots, meaning you won’t always have as much room to manoeuvre as you’d like. You’ll often need to tack more frequently to avoid obstacles, so being able to execute a quick, smooth tack is essential. And remember to keep an eye on the other traffic—it can get busy out there!

3. Avoiding Obstacles

From bridges and mooring buoys to rowers and the occasional swan, the Thames is full of obstacles you’ll need to navigate around. As helm, it’s your job to keep a sharp lookout and plan your course accordingly. Make sure to give yourself plenty of space to steer around anything in your path.

Your First Time at the Helm: What to Expect

Taking the helm for the first time is a thrilling experience. You’ll feel the power of the boat beneath you and the freedom of being in control. But, like anything new, it can also feel a bit overwhelming at first. The key is to stay calm, focus on the basics, and remember that it’s perfectly okay to make a few mistakes along the way (trust me, I’ve made plenty!).

With each outing, you’ll become more confident, learning how the boat responds to your movements and how the river behaves in different conditions. Taking the helm is one of those milestones that transforms you from a passenger to a sailor.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Adventure

Taking the helm of a dinghy for the first time is a huge step in your sailing journey. It’s where you start to understand the real magic of sailing—how a little bit of wind, some teamwork, and the right skills can turn a simple dinghy into your own adventure machine.

So, when it’s your turn to take the helm, remember: stay focused, communicate with your crew, and enjoy the ride! The River Thames awaits, and every turn of the tiller is one step closer to mastering the art of sailing.

Until next time—happy sailing, and may your course always be true!

Learning to Powerboat: Episode 1

Learning to Powerboat: Episode 1 - Navigating the Waters of RYA Powerboat Level 1 & 2

Ah, powerboating—there’s nothing quite like the thrill of zooming along the river with the wind in your hair, the water beneath your hull, and the slight hum of an electric motor. Well, in my case, it’s more of a gentle whirr, thanks to my shiny new Whaly 455R with its 3KW electric outboard engine. But before I get ahead of myself, let me introduce you to my first adventure on the quest to become a fully-fledged powerboating expert—also known as the humble beginnings of the RYA Powerboat Level 1 and 2 qualifications.

But first, a bit of background. I’ve been operating narrowboats since I was about eight years old, and I’ve captained pleasure craft on the Canal du Midi, so tiller and wheel steering are nothing new to me. You could say I’m somewhat of an experienced hand at the helm. However, when it comes to zipping around the Upper Thames in the club’s Dory, I’ve quickly learned there’s more to powerboating than meets the eye—and that’s where this adventure begins.

Meet the Boats

To give you a sense of the tools at my disposal, let me introduce the fleet at the Upper Thames Sailing Club. First, there’s the trusty Dory with a 20HP petrol engine. This beauty is lightweight, fast, and ideal for tasks like deploying buoys at the start and end of races. It’s also a favourite for safety boat duties, with a nifty steering wheel to give it a car-like feel on the water.

Next up, we have the less glamorous Ridiflex orange boat, equipped with a 15HP petrol engine and tiller steering. It’s... functional, let’s say. While it does the job, the seating arrangement is less than ideal, which makes it about as comfortable as a picnic bench at a gale-force picnic.

Finally, there’s another Dory, slightly older but still capable of planing on the water when balanced correctly. It’s an excellent option when you need a bit more speed, but as with any boat, it’s all about mastering the balance to prevent the dreaded nose dive.

Now, my own boat, the Whaly 455R, is in a class of its own. With a 3KW electric outboard and a 30Kg battery that we usually charge at home using solar power, it’s eco-friendly and, I must admit, rather quiet. No petrol fumes here—just the gentle hum of progress!

Dipping a Toe in the Water: RYA Powerboat Level 1 & 2

The club requires all its members to be qualified with RYA Powerboat Level 1 and 2 to use the powerboats, so naturally, I signed up. Let’s just say the course covers more than simply learning how to turn the key and go.

The first few chapters of the course are a bit like a boat anatomy class. You’ll learn about all the parts of a powerboat—engines, hulls, seating arrangements (take notes, Ridiflex), and the all-important propellers. Trust me, if you thought a propeller was just a spinny thing under the boat, you’re in for a revelation.

Then there’s safety and planning, which is where things get interesting. You’ll be taught to think ahead—not just about where you’re going, but how you’re getting there. Because, as it turns out, barging headlong into a situation without a plan is not ideal when you’ve got 20HP propelling you towards a buoy!

Launch, Recovery, and Other Mysteries

Next comes the practical side of the course—launch and recovery. Now, I’ve launched plenty of narrowboats in my time, but launching a powerboat is an entirely different affair. The idea of balancing the boat just right on the trailer while making sure the engine doesn’t scrape the ramp is an art form in itself. And recovery? Well, let’s just say I’m glad there’s an instructor on hand when I inevitably get it slightly wrong.

Boat handling is, of course, the meat and potatoes of the course. Here’s where my tiller-steering expertise comes in handy, though I did have to get used to the sensitivity of the steering wheel on the Dory. It’s a bit like going from driving a tractor to a go-kart—one minute you’re lumbering along, the next, you’re zipping around like you’re in a Bond film.

Docking Drama: Leaving and Coming Alongside

The final part of the first chapter is all about leaving and coming alongside, or as I like to call it, “the art of looking cool while docking.” Now, in theory, this should be simple—just steer the boat next to the dock and tie up, right? Well, throw in a bit of wind, some current, and maybe a rogue paddleboarder drifting past, and suddenly, it’s not quite as graceful as it seems.

I’ll admit, my first few attempts were more “drift and hope” than “expert manoeuvre,” but after a few tries, I managed to sidle up to the dock without looking like I’d lost control of the boat. Progress!

The Journey Continues

So, there you have it—the first leg of my journey to becoming an RYA-qualified powerboat skipper. It’s a blend of old skills, new challenges, and a few humbling moments along the way. But I’m nothing if not determined, and I’m looking forward to tackling the rest of the course and sharing my experiences with you, hopefully with more successes than near-misses!

Until next time, I’ll be practising my docking skills and trying to make peace with the Ridiflex seating. Wish me luck!

Stay tuned for Episode 2, where I’ll dive into the thrilling world of propellers, balance, and maybe a few misadventures along the way. Happy sailing (and powerboating)!

Learning to Powerboat: Episode 2 – Propellers, Balance, and the Perils of Going Too Fast

Welcome back to Episode 2 of my powerboating adventure! If you’ve made it through the first episode without laughing too hard at my missteps, I commend you. Today, we’re diving into the wonderfully whirly world of propellers, balance, and how not to make your boat do the aquatic version of a wheelie. Spoiler alert: balance is key!

Propellers: More Than Just Spinning Blades

When I first signed up for the RYA Powerboat course, I thought the propeller’s job was pretty straightforward: spin around and make the boat go. Oh, how naive I was.

Turns out, propellers are surprisingly complex little devices, and their placement, size, and direction all play a part in how your boat handles. Let me break it down:

Pitch and Diameter: These aren’t just fancy words to confuse beginners. The pitch of a propeller is the distance it would move forward in one rotation if there were no water resistance, while the diameter refers to the size of the blade. Bigger isn’t always better—unless you want to turn your boat into a low-speed tugboat.
Cavitation: Ah, cavitation—the bane of every beginner’s existence. This phenomenon occurs when the water around the propeller creates tiny bubbles, reducing the propeller’s efficiency. What causes it? Trying to go too fast, too soon. So, in the same way, you wouldn’t floor it in a car that’s stuck in mud, you don’t want to rev your engine too hard in shallow water. Lesson learned: be gentle with your throttle!

Now, before you start thinking of your propeller as some delicate flower that needs constant attention, just remember—properly trimmed and balanced, it’s your best friend on the water.

Balance: Keeping Your Boat on the Straight and Narrow

As anyone who’s spent time on the water can tell you, boats are finicky creatures when it comes to balance. Unlike a car that sits nice and stable on four wheels, boats are always ready to roll, tip, or lean depending on how they’re loaded and how the crew moves.

This is especially true when it comes to planing—the stage where your boat starts to skim along the water instead of pushing through it. As exhilarating as this sounds (and feels), it’s not without its quirks.

Here’s a little confession:

I had a moment—let’s call it a “learning opportunity”—where I got the boat going a little faster than I was comfortable with. The Whaly was feeling frisky, and so was I. But then I forgot about balance. When the boat suddenly lifted its nose like a proud peacock, I realised I hadn’t quite mastered the art of trimming the motor. A slight adjustment to the tilt of the engine and the boat would’ve been as sleek as a gazelle; instead, it felt more like a wildebeest stumbling into the river.

Trim Your Motor for a Smoother Ride:

When your engine is too far down, the boat’s bow (front) will dig into the water like it’s ploughing a field. Raise it too much, and suddenly your boat’s on its back wheels, so to speak, losing control and skimming at dangerous angles. Finding the sweet spot is the key to balance.

Bow Down: In certain conditions—like heavy winds—you might want the bow to stay lower to cut through the waves and keep you stable. That’s when trimming the motor down helps.
Bow Up: If you want to get into a nice planing position, gently trim the motor up so the bow lifts just enough to reduce drag and give you that smooth, thrilling ride.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to distribute weight evenly in the boat. Your crew’s positioning, gear stowage, and even where you stand can affect the boat’s balance and handling. You might feel like the king of the Thames, but you’re also the one responsible for keeping the boat level.

Speed and the Fine Art of Not Panicking

After my experience with the nose of the boat pointing skyward, I quickly learned that speed is both friend and foe in powerboating. The faster you go, the less time you have to react, especially in tight spots. And on the river, there are always tight spots. Remember that lovely Dory with its 20HP engine? It’s light and responsive—great for racing up and down the river, but also quite willing to turn sharply when you least expect it.

The Trouble With Speed:

When you’re going full tilt, any sudden movement of the steering wheel (or tiller) can send you careening off course. And while that might look cool in action films, it’s less than ideal when you’re trying to avoid a buoy or, worse, another boat.

To avoid this, the key is gradual movements. Think of yourself as a conductor, gently guiding the orchestra rather than a rock star smashing guitars on stage. Small, smooth adjustments to the steering wheel will keep you in control and help you avoid unintentional pirouettes on the water.

The Misadventures of Docking at Speed

Now, let’s talk about docking. If you’re anything like me, you’ll have learned that trying to dock a powerboat at speed is like trying to parallel park with a herd of sheep watching. You’ll want to show off, but there’s a strong chance it’ll end in a mild disaster.

During my first few goes, I misjudged the distance to the dock. I approached a little too fast (OK, a lot too fast), threw the engine into reverse, and the boat shuddered as if it had just remembered how to breathe. The result was an almost comedic glide past the dock. Thankfully, the only casualty was my pride.

The Docking Formula: Slow + Steady = Success:

Docking is all about slow, controlled movements. Your throttle should be as gentle as a whisper as you approach, and the boat’s momentum should do most of the work. I learned quickly that boats don’t respond well to panic-fuelled bursts of reverse—easy does it every time.

And, as always, practice makes perfect. After a few (okay, many) attempts, I managed to sidle up to the dock like a seasoned pro… or at least not like a complete novice.

Wrapping Up Episode 2: Propellers, Balance, and Boat Ballet

So, what have we learned today? Propellers are magical, balance is vital, and speed must be treated with caution and respect. Powerboating isn’t just about gunning the throttle and hoping for the best (though, in my early attempts, that might have been my strategy). It’s about control, finesse, and understanding the delicate relationship between water, wind, and engine power.

With each outing, I’m getting more comfortable behind the helm, and the lessons I’ve picked up along the way are starting to sink in—unlike the boat, which, thanks to a bit of balance and speed control, remains pleasantly afloat!

Stay tuned for Episode 3, where I’ll tackle the intricacies of launching, recovering, and avoiding embarrassing mishaps at the slipway. Until then, happy powerboating—may your propellers spin smoothly, your balance be perfect, and your speed always be just right.

Mastering the Jib

Mastering the Jib: The Crew’s Role in Tacking on the River Thames

Welcome back to another thrilling instalment of my sailing journey as a 65+ year-old adventurer learning the ropes (and occasionally tripping over them) on the River Thames! In today’s entry, we’re diving into the art of mastering the jib—specifically, how the crew needs to work in harmony with the helm during a tack to keep the boat on course and maintain momentum.

I must admit, I’ve had my fair share of "learning moments" with the jib. Sometimes I’d pull it too soon, causing the boat to veer off in the wrong direction, and other times I’d leave it too late, and the boat would lose all its momentum. If you’ve experienced similar frustrations, fear not—you’re not alone! Let’s talk about how to get it right and why tacking is such a frequent (and essential) part of river sailing.

Why Tacking is Essential on a River

Before we dive into jib mastery, let’s quickly discuss tacking. For those new to the term, tacking is the maneuver where the boat turns its bow through the wind, changing the direction of the wind from one side of the boat to the other. This is essential when sailing upwind because, unlike those lucky sailors on wide-open seas, we river sailors often need to make frequent tacks to zigzag our way through narrow waters and shifting wind patterns.

On a river like the Thames, tacking happens more often due to obstacles (like bridges or bends in the river) and the confined space. The constant need to switch from one tack to another means the crew has to be on their toes—especially when handling the jib.

The Crew’s Role in Tacking

When the helm calls out that it’s time to tack, the crew’s job becomes crucial in ensuring a smooth transition. If the crew mishandles the jib, it can make the maneuver less efficient or, worse, steer the boat in the wrong direction. Here’s what should happen during a tack:

As the Helm Turns: The helm will initiate the turn by steering the boat’s bow through the wind. At this point, the wind will switch from one side of the boat (the windward side) to the other (now the new windward side).
Releasing the Jib: As the boat turns, the crew must release the jib from the side where the wind is leaving (the old leeward side). Timing here is critical—release too soon, and the boat loses balance. Release too late, and the boat loses speed.
Trimming the Jib on the New Side: Once the jib has been released, the crew must quickly trim it on the new windward side. This involves pulling the jib sheet tight to keep the sail filled with wind and aligned with the new course. Trim too early or too late, and you’ll either steer the boat off course or lose valuable momentum.

Common Mistakes When Handling the Jib

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably made a few of these mistakes while learning. Here are some of the most common pitfalls I’ve encountered:

Pulling the Jib Too Early: If the jib is pulled too early, it can act like a second helm and steer the boat in the wrong direction—totally undoing what the helm is trying to achieve. This can send the boat off course or slow it down as it fights the wind.
Trimming the Jib Too Late: On the flip side, waiting too long to trim the jib means the boat loses its forward momentum just when you need it most. The wind escapes from the sails, and instead of a smooth tack, the boat can stall or slow to a crawl.

The Art of Timing: How to Nail the Perfect Tack

So, how do you get the timing right? Here are a few tips I’ve picked up (often the hard way):

Listen to the Helm: Communication is key! When the helm calls “ready to tack,” get ready to release the jib, but don’t jump the gun. Wait for the cue as the boat’s bow begins to cross through the wind.
Watch the Wind: Keep an eye on the jib as the boat turns—when you see the sail begin to luff (flap), it’s your signal to release the jib from the old side and prepare to trim it on the new side.
Quickly, But Smoothly: As soon as the helm has made the turn, be ready to trim the jib on the new windward side. The faster you get the sail set, the quicker the boat can regain speed and continue on its new course.

Why Tacking is Tricky on Rivers

Rivers add an extra layer of complexity to tacking. With limited space, you need to tack more frequently and with less room for error. The wind can also be unpredictable, shifting direction depending on the surrounding landscape (buildings, trees, and bridges). As a result, river sailors need to be extra sharp with their timing and coordination during each tack.

On top of that, rivers tend to have strong currents that can work against you. This makes it even more important to keep the boat moving efficiently through each tack. If you lose momentum during a tack on a river, the current could push you off course, making it harder to recover and requiring yet another tack to get back on track.

The Theory Behind Tacking

Why do we tack, anyway? It’s all about sailing upwind. A boat cannot sail directly into the wind, so instead, we sail at an angle to it (a point of sail known as close-hauled). By tacking back and forth, we gradually work our way upwind in a zigzag pattern.

Think of it as trying to walk up a hill in a windy storm. You can’t walk straight into the wind without getting blown over, so you walk at an angle—first to the left, then to the right, and repeat—until you reach the top. Tacking works the same way on a sailboat, except the boat does the zigzagging while we try to keep from tipping over!

Wrapping It Up: Practice Makes Perfect

Mastering the jib during tacking takes time, practice, and, in my case, a healthy dose of trial and error. But once you and your crew get the hang of it, it’s incredibly satisfying to execute a smooth tack, maintaining momentum and keeping the boat on course. Just remember to communicate with your helm, time the release and trim of the jib carefully, and keep your eyes on the wind.

So, until next time—keep practicing those tacks, and may your jibs always fill perfectly with wind!

Happy sailing!

7 Knots to master

Learning to Sail at 65+: The Essential Sailing Knots You Need to Know

Welcome back to another entry in my ongoing series, where I, a 65+ year-old novice, navigate the joys and challenges of learning to sail on the River Thames at the Upper Thames Sailing Club. This time, we’re delving into a crucial skill every sailor must master: tying knots. Whether racing down the Thames or just tying up your boat after a leisurely sail, knowing your knots is essential to keeping everything shipshape (and not drifting downriver unexpectedly!).

Today’s entry is dedicated to some of the most important knots for sailing, from securing your boat to joining two lines together. And since knots can be tricky to describe with words alone, I’ll include videos to demonstrate each knot as I fumble—er, gracefully tie them. Don’t worry. If I can teach you these, you can too!

Why Knots Matter in Sailing

Before we jump into the knots, let’s talk about why they’re so important. Knots in sailing aren’t just decorative; they’re practical tools that keep you safe, help you control your boat, and allow you to adapt to the ever-changing conditions on the water. A well-tied knot can mean the difference between a secure boat and an afternoon spent fishing it out of the river. No pressure!

Each of these knots has a specific purpose, and knowing when and how to use them is as important as learning the knot. As we go through each one, I’ll explain when you’ll need to use it while sailing. If any unfamiliar terms, don’t worry—just click on them, and you’ll be whisked away to my 75 Sailing Terms Guide, complete with handy definitions and illustrations.

Now, onto the knots!

1. Figure of Eight Knot

Purpose:

The figure of eight knot is often used to stop the end of a line from slipping through blocks or fairleads (which, in sailing terms, are those little devices that help guide your ropes). It’s quick, easy to tie, and prevents those frustrating moments where your line disappears out of reach.

How to Tie It:

Make a loop at the end of the rope.
Bring the tail of the rope around and through the loop, forming the shape of a number eight.
Pull it tight, and there you have it—an elegant little stopper!

[Video demonstration here]

2. Clove Hitch

Purpose:

The clove hitch is a handy knot for temporarily securing your boat to a post or rail. It's simple to tie and untie, which makes it great for quick stops—like when you're docking at the club for a cup of tea and need a swift tie-up.

How to Tie It:

Wrap the rope around a post or rail.
Cross the working end over the standing part of the rope.
Bring the working end under the post again and tuck it under the rope where it crosses.

This knot holds well under tension but can slip if not under constant strain, so don’t leave your boat tied with just a clove hitch for long!

[Video demonstration here]

3. Sheet Bend (and Double Sheet Bend)

Purpose:

The sheet bend is ideal for joining two ropes, especially if they’re of different thicknesses. It’s a strong, reliable knot that won’t come loose easily, even under load. The double sheet bend adds an extra wrap for extra security.

How to Tie the Sheet Bend:

Form a loop in one rope (the thicker one, if applicable).
Pass the working end of the second rope through the loop.
Wrap it around the loop and tuck it back under itself.

How to Tie the Double Sheet Bend:

Simply wrap the working end of the second rope around the loop a second time before tucking it under.

[Video demonstration here]

4. Bowline

Purpose:

Ah, the bowline—possibly the most famous knot in sailing. It creates a fixed loop at the end of a rope that won’t slip, no matter how much strain is put on it. It’s incredibly useful for tying a line to a mooring or securing something on deck. You’ll hear people say, “If you can only learn one knot, make it the bowline.”

How to Tie It:

Make a small loop in the rope, leaving enough of a tail to work with.
Pass the tail end up through the loop (this is where you pretend it’s the rabbit coming out of the hole if you like a good knot-tying story).
Bring the tail around the rope's standing part (around the tree).
Finally, pass the tail back down through the loop (back into the hole), and pull it tight.

[Video demonstration here]

5. Reef Knot

Purpose:

The reef knot is perfect for tying two ends of a rope together, and it is often used for reefing sails (hence the name). It’s a simple knot but very effective when securing something quickly.

How to Tie It:

Cross the two ends of the rope over each other as if you’re tying your shoes.
Bring the ends under and over again in the same way and pull tight.

Like tying a bow, the reef knot is quick, easy, and effective.

[Video demonstration here]

6. Round Turn and Two Half Hitches

Purpose:

This knot is used to tie your boat to a post or mooring. It’s more secure than a clove hitch and won’t slip under load, making it ideal for leaving your boat safely tied up.

How to Tie It:

Pass the rope around the post twice (this is the “round turn”).
Take the rope's working end and tie two half hitches by wrapping the end around the standing part and tucking it through the loop created.

[Video demonstration here]

Putting It All Together

Knots are essential to sailing, and learning to tie them properly takes a bit of practice and patience. Each of these knots has a vital role, from securing your boat to joining lines or adjusting sails. So, grab some rope, watch the videos, and practice tying them at home. It’s much better to fumble on land than out on the water!

Remember, if any terms leave you scratching your head, head to my Sailing Terms Guide to refresh your memory. And as always, stay tuned for more tales of my sailing adventures as I learn the ropes of this wonderful new hobby.

Happy knot-tying, and until next time, may your knots be tight and your sails full!

Friday 4 October 2024

Challenger of a Lifetime

Congratulations to Ineos Britannia. They are now the official challenger of record for the America's Cup, breaking a 60-year drought by beating the Italians. Now, to beat New Zealand, the current holder. #AC37 #ChallengeofaLifetime