The skill required to operate and navigate a vessel
13
votes
4answers
200 views
When sailing, how do I rescue a man overboard?
If someone falls overboard from a sailboat, it is firstly imperative not to lose sight of the person since finding a man in water, especially when there's waves, can be very difficult.
What ...
13
votes
2answers
228 views
Can I sail a raft on a European river with commercial traffic?
I'm thinking about sailing a part of the Danube, alone, on a self-built raft. I have no experience sailing rivers on any serious basis.
I'm considering a raft for a number of reasons:
It's cheap.
...
11
votes
4answers
187 views
How to minimize sea sickness?
I love sailing, and my wife loves the ocean, but she gets sea-sick often.
Any advice on how to avoid sea-sickness in people prone to it?
I'm looking for advice in terms of foods that are less of an ...
10
votes
2answers
99 views
Sailing with an infant
My wife and I are thinking about sailing with our ~ 6 month old baby boy.
We understand this is not something to take lightly, and we're planning either a canal/river sail or a sail in a very calm sea ...
10
votes
1answer
292 views
Techniques for building a raft from wood
What are some good techniques to use (materials, knots, etc.) for building a raft by gathering wood in the local area? I'm talking about something to sail on still or slow moving bodies of water, not ...
9
votes
1answer
264 views
How to sail a packraft
I would like to use the wind to propel my packraft on passages over lakes. Are there any lightweight and/or improvised sail systems?
Especially: how do I erect a mast on the packraft without it ...
8
votes
1answer
51 views
Sailing with a child
Inspired by this question on taking an infant sailing, as it is quite different when they can move, I thought I'd ask the same question in respect of a toddler or child.
What essential safety ...
7
votes
1answer
160 views
When stranded at sea, should I not ask for a tow?
I've been told that you should never ask for a tow when you are stranded at sea. The reason given is that the person towing can claim a huge share of the stranded boat, potentially all of it if it's ...
7
votes
2answers
119 views
How should I check the anchor is secure when I anchoring a small yacht off unfamiliar land?
When sailing I may anchor in a different bay each evening and take a dinghy in to land to sleep in a tent overnight.
I always worry that when I wake up in the morning the boat may no longer be ...
5
votes
3answers
76 views
How would you evaluate sailing lessons for adults?
I am lucky enough to live within an hour of several cities (or large towns) on Lake Ontario, and near "cottage country" which is full of lakes. I'm considering a learn-to-sail program this summer. A ...
4
votes
1answer
71 views
Changing the shrouds, how would I know how far if I need to?
I have a lelievlet and want to add a lignite and a mizzen mast. Therefore I need to know how much I need to change the shrouds, anyone can help me by explaining how?
edit:
What data do I need to ...
3
votes
2answers
49 views
Things to consider when choosing a sailing club
Apart from the obvious like price and location(s) what should I look for when choosing a sailing club?
Some of the things are difficult to assess, tips on assessment are welcome.
I want this question ...
3
votes
1answer
158 views
Crew requirements for sailing a ketch
When sailing a traditional twin mast ketch, what are the recommended crew requirements?
Let's assume the following for simplicity:
Captain has 6-pack maritime license.
Captain and passengers ...
1
vote
1answer
37 views
Additional boating rules in addition to COLREGS?
I had a sailing test a few weeks ago and in it I was presented with the B flag and was asked what it means and what would be the applicable light at night.
I know the answer is "carrying dangerous ...
