Author Archives: Don Gilzean

The Give Way Vessel

Posted on June 15, 2015 by Don Gilzean

A friend of mine came to me this morning with a complaint!  This gentleman is a long time member of Tradewinds.  An experienced sailor, who is well aware of the Rules of the Road, whom I have never know to intentionally … Continue reading →

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Sound Signals

Posted on May 11, 2015 by Don Gilzean

With VHF radios as common as they are, you don’t hear sound signals on boats very much anymore.  When you do hear one, it always seems to come as a shock, and sadly, it’s far to easy to have no clue … Continue reading →

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Reef Early … Reef Often … Reef Deep

Posted on May 4, 2015 by Don Gilzean

Summer is here!!  I know, the first day of summer is officially June 21, and we aren’t there yet, however, this week the San Francisco summer weather pattern seems to have established itself over the bay.  Here are few tips … Continue reading →

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Stay Safe on Deck – Part Deux

Posted on April 27, 2015 by Don Gilzean

I’ve never had an opportunity to re-visit a topic this quickly, however I think a second visit might be needed in this case!  In the last one week, two different people I know have ended up in the water.  One … Continue reading →

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Overnight on San Francisco Bay

Posted on April 20, 2015 by Don Gilzean

Summer is just around the corner and one of my favorite pastimes is coming up fast.  Late sunsets, mild overnight winds, and early sunrises seem to beg for an overnight stay on the bay.  I love to get off work at 5:00, hop on … Continue reading →

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Stay Safe on Deck!

Posted on April 6, 2015 by Don Gilzean

Those of you that have been in class with me know how paranoid I am regarding being safe on deck.  Some examples are; always kneel instead of standing, always stay put until the boat is done with whatever maneuver is in … Continue reading →

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Hypothermia

Posted on March 16, 2015 by Don Gilzean

Hypothermia on San Francisco Bay is a very real danger.  Sailing in the cold wet conditions of San Francisco Bay can and will result in hypothermia if proper steps are not taken.  Recognizing the symptoms and understanding first aid treatment options … Continue reading →

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Rule 16 vs. Rule 17

Posted on March 9, 2015 by Don Gilzean

  Please accept my apologies for this small “pet peeve” on my part.  Stand on means stand on … give way means give way! Rule 16 states “Every vessel which is directed to keep out of the way of another vessel … Continue reading →

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I Can’t Hear You!!!

Posted on March 2, 2015 by Don Gilzean

Sailing is such a peaceful and quiet sport … except when it isn’t.  Unfortunately, when it isn’t quiet nobody can hear anything!  For those situations, have hand signals set up.  At Tradewinds, everyone is taught to use hand signals while anchoring.  … Continue reading →

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Your First Few Sails

Posted on February 23, 2015 by Don Gilzean

Too often, the tips you read are directed towards experienced sailors trying to improve on their sailing skills.  It seems like tip writer’s forget about the new sailor.  Here are a few thoughts to consider during those first few very important … Continue reading →

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