As we approach the 2012 sailing season those of you who own boats are,
I hope, checking the seaworthyness of your craft. Rigging, both Standing
& Running, needs to be checked out whilst still in port so that it
does not fail & leave you in the lurch when at sea. Your hull should
also be prepared cleaned & antifouled before you sail. Check your
seacocks & make sure these & your log rotors are not blocked or
fouled with seaweed & pieces of plastic debris. Check your engines
to make sure the cooling system is operating & that it is charging
your batteries.
Check your gas system & leak
detector. Make sure your spare
cylinder is a full one before you set out on a long voyage. Sails should
also be checked for failing & worn stitching. Get it fixed before
it shreds. Remember a stitch in time saves not only 9 but also the cost
of a new sail . After you have taken all these precautions I wish you
fair winds & safe sailing in 2012.
For non boat owners like me we will be casting about to find for yachtsmen
seeking crews for the Summer. If you are fortunate & find one please
ask if you can help with the above checks. It may save you a spoilt voyage
or the need to call on the RNLI, this latter a service every yachtsman
& landlubber should support.
If you have even a passing interest in saling & want to know more
about the sea & places that yachtsmen visit on their trips why not
come along to one of our meetings. Your first visit will be free &
if you like it join as a member or come again as a paying visitor to the
talks which interest you. WHY NOT TRY IT. WE ARE A FRIENDLY LOT &
DONT BITE !!
Terry Jones
Chairman
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