Safety Boat Course Day 1

Safety Boat Course

 ​ It was great to out on the water again. The weather was typical for February, but the promised rain was very light and only occasional. Six of us and two instructors wrapped up for the cold set off up river to learn some safety boat procedures. Heading up stream the boats were in formation, testing the powerboat skills of the students as we had to keep 4 feet from the boat in front and then speeding up the river line abreast.

Three Safety Boats out on the River​

As we went up the river the lead boat with the instructors in weaved around and turned circles with the other two boats trying to keep up. ​The crew swapped over the helm position, and we repeated the manoeuvres for all the students.

T6 Becomes a bath tub

The three boats were in line abreast, T6 at the end. The Dory T8 to starboard of T6 accelerated away to move around the bow of T4 creating a large wake. The Helm of T6 released the throttle and T6 lurched to a halt and the bow dipped as the bow wave came over us and the boat immediately became a bath tub with water up to my knees. We started bailing with the one bailer and the other boats came along side giving us their bailers  so all three of us could bail.

​As fast as we could it still took us 20 minutes to empty the boat. My next pair of waterproof socks will be over the knee versions or preferably waders.

Getting a Tow astern.

​Safety boat crews must expect to get wet. Following our impromptu bath we carried out many man overboard drills, pick up tens of bodies in the water and learning how to tow a safety boat that has run out of fuel. We learnt the advantages of dropping the anchor when in trouble and after  a hard morning work we returned to the clubhouse for some lunch before heading out again to rescue an Oppi, a topper and reversing onto a beach using the anchor. It was a great day out on the river and fun too. It is so nice when you can have fun and learn at the same time.

Episode 10: All About Anchors

Episode 10: All About Anchors

Anchors are essential equipment for any powerboat, providing security and stability when you need to stay in one place. In this episode, we’ll explore the different types of anchors, their advantages and disadvantages, and the proper techniques for deploying and recovering an anchor from a small powerboat.

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1. Types of Anchors: Pros and Cons

Each type of anchor is suited to different seabeds and boating conditions. Here’s an overview:

1. Fluke Anchor (Danforth Anchor)

   • Best Use: Soft seabeds like sand or mud.
   • Advantages:
     • Lightweight and easy to handle.
     • High holding power in soft substrates.
   • Disadvantages:
     • Poor performance in rocky or weedy areas.

2. Plough Anchor

   • Best Use: Versatile, suitable for sand, mud, and weedy seabeds.
   • Advantages:
     • Excellent holding power.
     • Resets itself well if the wind or tide changes.
   • Disadvantages:
     • Heavier and bulkier than a fluke anchor.

3. Claw Anchor (Bruce Anchor)

   • Best Use: Mixed seabeds, including rock and coral.
   • Advantages:
     • Easy to set and reliable in a variety of conditions.
     • Stable under changing wind and tide.
   • Disadvantages:
     • Moderate holding power compared to plough anchors.

4. Grapnel Anchor

   • Best Use: Small boats, dinghies, and rocky seabeds.
   • Advantages:
     • Lightweight and compact, making it ideal for small powerboats.
     • Holds well in rocky or rough terrain.
   • Disadvantages:
     • Difficult to retrieve if it becomes lodged in rocks.

5. Mushroom Anchor

   • Best Use: Permanent moorings in soft seabeds.
   • Advantages:
     • High holding power over time.
     • Suitable for long-term anchoring.
   • Disadvantages:
     • Not practical for frequent deployment and recovery.
     • Ineffective on hard or rocky seabeds.

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2. How to Deploy an Anchor

Deploying an anchor correctly ensures it holds securely and doesn’t damage the seabed or your boat.

1. Choose the Right Spot:

   • Select an area with suitable depth and seabed for your anchor type.
   • Ensure there is enough room to swing safely if the wind or tide shifts.

2. Prepare the Anchor:

   • Attach the anchor securely to the boat’s anchor rode (chain or rope).
   • Check that the rode is free of tangles and knots.

3. Lower, Don’t Throw:

   • Slowly lower the anchor over the bow to avoid tangling or damaging the boat.
   • Allow the anchor to sink until it touches the seabed.

4. Set the Anchor:

   • Let out the appropriate amount of rode, typically 3 to 5 times the water depth.
   • Reverse the boat slowly to allow the anchor to dig into the seabed.

5. Check the Hold:

   • Gently apply reverse power to ensure the anchor is holding securely.
   • Use landmarks or GPS to confirm the boat isn’t drifting.

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3. How to Recover an Anchor

Recovering an anchor requires care to avoid strain on the equipment or injury.

1. Position the Boat:

   • Move the boat directly above the anchor using the engine to reduce tension on the rope.

2. Retrieve the Rode:

   • Pull the rode hand-over-hand or use a windlass if available.
   • Keep the rode clear of tangles and watch for strain on the line.

3. Break the Anchor Free:

   • Once the boat is directly above the anchor, apply gentle forward power or rock the boat slightly to break the anchor free from the seabed.

4. Clean the Anchor:

   • Wash off any mud, sand, or debris before stowing the anchor.

5. Stow Securely:

   • Secure the anchor and rode properly to prevent damage to the boat or injury during transit.

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Conclusion

Anchoring is a fundamental skill for powerboaters, and knowing the right type of anchor for the conditions is key to a safe and successful experience. Mastering the deployment and recovery process will give you confidence in keeping your boat secure in various situations.

Episode 9: Electronic Navigation Aids – Bridging Traditional and Modern Techniques

 

Episode 9: Electronic Navigation Aids – Bridging Traditional and Modern Techniques

In Episode 9, we dive into the world of electronic navigation aids, which serve as invaluable tools to complement traditional chart-based navigation. Integrating these devices with your existing skills allows you to navigate with greater precision and confidence. Let’s explore the various options, from advanced marine equipment to affordable solutions using everyday technology.

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1. Handheld GPS Devices

• Functionality: Handheld GPS units provide precise coordinates and help track your location on preloaded or custom charts. Many models offer waypoint plotting, speed tracking, and distance-to-destination features.
• Best Use: Ideal for small boats or as a backup to a larger system.
• Advantages:
  • Portable and easy to use.
  • Reliable in areas with limited phone coverage.
• Limitations:
  • Requires batteries or charging, so always carry spares.

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2. Compasses

• Functionality: The trusty compass remains a vital navigation tool for traditionalists and modern sailors alike. It doesn’t rely on power or signal, making it a reliable backup.
• Best Use: Essential for maintaining a bearing, particularly when electronic systems fail.
• Advantages:
  • Simple, durable, and always functional.
  • Works in all weather conditions.
• Limitations:
  • Requires practice and knowledge of magnetic variation to use effectively.

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3. Chartplotters

• Functionality: Chartplotters combine GPS technology with electronic charts, displaying your position, speed, and route in real time. Advanced models integrate with radar, AIS (Automatic Identification System), and depth sounders.
• Best Use: Perfect for medium to large boats where detailed navigation and real-time tracking are essential.
• Advantages:
  • User-friendly interface with detailed visuals.
  • Integration with other navigation tools for a complete system.
• Limitations:
  • Can be expensive and require professional installation.

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4. Depth Meters

• Functionality: Depth meters use sonar to measure the distance between your boat and the seabed. This is particularly useful in shallow waters or areas prone to shifting sands or underwater hazards.
• Best Use: Essential when navigating unfamiliar or shallow waters.
• Advantages:
  • Provides real-time updates on depth.
  • Can integrate with chartplotters for detailed mapping.
• Limitations:
  • Requires calibration for accurate readings in different conditions.

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5. Radar

• Functionality: Marine radar systems use radio waves to detect objects around your boat, including other vessels, land, and weather patterns.
• Best Use: Critical in low-visibility conditions such as fog, heavy rain, or at night.
• Advantages:
  • Provides detailed awareness of your surroundings.
  • Enhances safety by detecting potential hazards early.
• Limitations:
  • High cost and requires skilled operation.

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6. Digital Wind Speed Devices

• Functionality: Measure real-time wind speed and direction, providing critical data for navigation and safety.
• Advantages:
  • Help anticipate changes in conditions that may affect your boat’s handling.
  • Many models integrate with other systems like chartplotters and GPS for comprehensive environmental monitoring.
• Affordable Options:
  • Handheld digital anemometers are portable and accurate.
  • Smartphone apps with external wind sensors offer budget-friendly alternatives.
• Best Use: In open waters where wind direction and speed significantly influence navigation.

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7. Affordable Alternatives: iPads and Smartphones

• Functionality: Apps like Navionics and Garmin ActiveCaptain turn your devices into navigation tools.
• Advantages:
  • Affordable, versatile, and frequently updated with new features.
• Limitations:
  • Dependent on battery life and GPS signal strength.
• Best Use: As a backup or primary tool for recreational boating.

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Integrating Digital Wind Speed Devices with Other Tools

Wind data is especially useful when combined with chartplotters, GPS, and depth meters:

• Route Planning: Use wind speed and direction to adjust your course and speed.
• Docking and Anchoring: Monitor wind changes to avoid drifting or straining equipment.
• Safety: Detect sudden wind increases that may signal incoming storms or challenging conditions.

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Conclusion

By adding digital wind speed devices to your toolkit, you’ll gain even greater awareness of your surroundings and enhance your ability to adapt to changing conditions. Combining these tools with traditional navigation methods ensures a safer, more efficient boating experience. In the next episode, we’ll explore advanced techniques for anchoring and towing.

The Second Flood of the Autumn

The fog moves in over a frosted path The river is rising, approaching the path.

 The Second Flood and its still November

The river is bursting its banks again, and it is only November. The water flow seems to have reached its maximum of 148m3 per second, and because the flow rate cannot increase much beyond that, the water levels rise. Over the past few days, the waters have been rising and are now over the Thames Path.

A bright Autumn morning looking over the River Thames in flood. The water has risen about 2 ft and is now covering the Thames Path outside the Upper Thames sailing club. The water has a harmless glassy look and looks calm even though the water is racing beneath the surface. The trees on the opposite bank are reflected on the water's surface, but the pontoons next to the bank now look like they are in the middle of the river.

This is what the water level is like in flood and what it should be like.

The waters rise over a few days

Taking a look at the water starting to rise Monday to Wednesday after storm Bert came through

Monday morning sees the Thames over the Hrd and starting to eat into the grassy verge. Fluffy white clouds are in the sky.

A dark grey cloud looms over the River Thames, yet the rest of the sky is bright blue. The water is rising up the bank on this Tuesday morning and the black foot marker is half covered.

I'm watching the river rise on Wednesday. The water is moving up the grassy bank, and the black foot marker of the Pole has nearly disappeared.

No sailing for a while

 

Looking over the flooded River Thames this morning, I see that the path has gone, and I feel there will not be much sailing for a while.

A bright Autumn morning looking over the River Thames in flood. The water has risen about 2 ft and is now covering the Thames Path outside the Upper Thames sailing club. The water has a harmless glassy look and looks calm even though the water is racing beneath the surface. The trees on the opposite bank are reflected on the water's surface, but the pontoons next to the bank now look like they are in the middle of the river.

Episode 8: Introduction to Basic Navigation with Charts

 

Episode 8: Introduction to Basic Navigation with Charts

In Episode 8, we embark on learning the essentials of navigation, using charts to interpret the waterways safely and effectively. We’ll explore different chart symbols, learn to interpret map colours, understand tides and currents, and plot a journey across the Solent from the Hamble River to Cowes on the Isle of Wight. Let’s start by familiarising ourselves with the key elements of navigation charts.

1. Understanding Chart Symbols and Colours

Navigation charts, especially Admiralty charts, are filled with symbols that convey essential information about waterway conditions:

• Buoy Shapes and Colours: Buoys come in various shapes and colours, each indicating specific information about safe passage. For example:

  • Red and Green Buoys: Mark port (red) and starboard (green) sides of the channel.
  • Yellow and Black Buoys: Used as cardinal markers to indicate safe passing directions based on cardinal points.
  • Isolated Danger Buoys: Black with red bands, marking underwater hazards.

• Marks of Wrecks and Underwater Obstructions: Symbols on the chart indicate wrecks, rocks, sandbanks, and other underwater obstructions. Be sure to avoid these unless your boat’s draft allows it.

• Colour Coding on Charts: Colours represent water depth and land features:

  • White Areas: Shallow water or intertidal zones.
  • Blue Areas: Deeper water.
  • Green and Yellow: Indicate land or very shallow areas that dry out at low tide.

• Differences with Admiralty Charts: Admiralty charts often provide more detailed information for professional or commercial use and may include tidal stream data, lighting sequences for buoys, and additional depth details. Other charts, like recreational maps, may simplify this information.

2. Plotting a Journey: Hamble River to Cowes

With our chart basics in hand, it’s time to plan a short journey across the Solent. For this route, we’ll identify safe passage markers, estimated time, and use our tide tables to anticipate currents.

• Plotting the Route: Using your chart, mark the Hamble River as your starting point and Cowes on the Isle of Wight as your destination.
• Identifying Waypoints: Note key waypoints along the way, like navigation buoys and light markers, to keep you on course.

3. Introduction to Tides and Currents

Understanding tides and currents is essential for safe navigation and docking:

• What Causes Tides: Tides are primarily caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and sun. As the earth rotates, this gravitational influence creates regular rises and falls in sea levels.
• Types of Tides:
  • Spring Tides: Occur when the sun and moon are aligned, creating the highest and lowest tides.
  • Neap Tides: When the sun and moon are at right angles, resulting in less extreme high and low tides.
• Using Tide Tables: Tide tables provide information on daily high and low tides. This is crucial for planning, especially when navigating areas with significant tidal changes.

Example of Using a Tide Table

Suppose you are setting out from the Hamble River at 10:00 AM. By consulting the tide table for the Solent area, you’ll see the times of high and low tides, allowing you to choose the best time for safe passage and arrival at Cowes.

• Draft Awareness: Knowing your boat’s draft is important when navigating tidal waters, as low tides may expose hazards or make entering certain harbours challenging. Always check the chart and tide table to ensure enough depth for your vessel.

4. Plotting the Course and Timing with Tides

Finally, we’ll use the tide and current information to adjust our course. For example:

• Crossing the Solent with an Ebb Tide: If the current is moving out, you’ll want to account for drift, possibly angling your course slightly against the current to reach Cowes efficiently.
• Entering the Harbour: Aim to enter Cowes near high tide for adequate depth, ensuring your boat’s draft isn’t a limiting factor.

Conclusion

This episode introduces the basics of navigation from charts, covering symbols, buoy markers, tide tables, and plotting a practical journey. With these skills, you’re ready to take on more complex navigation challenges. In our next episode, we’ll look into electronic navigation aids to complement your chart-based skills, bridging traditional and modern navigation techniques.

Let me know if you’d like any specific adjustments, or if you’d like help with any particular part of the navigation exercises!

Sailwave

 Attempting to learn how to use the sailwave software https://www.sailwave.com/ I volunteered to help with the scoring and handicaps for the Upper Thames Sailing Club Races