Category Archives: General

Some Thoughts About Docking with a Current

Here are a few figures for you.  1.7 feet, 2.5 feet, and 5 feet.  What do they represent?  How many feet are traveled in a one second period of time at 1 knot, 1.5 knots, and 3 knots. For a very long … Continue reading

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Is it “Fake” or “Flake”? – by Capt. Craig Walker

It’s funny how these two terms came up so much over the last two days. Right on the heels of a lengthy instructor meeting discussion on encouraging our students and members on the proper method for “flaking” sails, the question … Continue reading

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Thru the Eyes of a Five Year Old

We can all benefit from a lesson here.  The granddaughter of one of the boat owner’s provided him with a pre-cruise check list written from her perspective. In case you are having problems reading it, here is the list. Warm coats … Continue reading

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Leeward Side Tie Docking with a Bow/Waist Loop

Here’s a docking maneuver that is simple to do and works great.  Use it when making a side tie docking on the leeward side of a dock that is to the same side as your prop walk. Rig a line … Continue reading

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Why Can’t I Bear Away From the Wind?

There are few “universals” in the sailing world, however, one thing that comes close is the tendency of new sailors to over trim sails.  There are a number of results to over trimmed sails.  For example, sail shape isn’t as effective, … Continue reading

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Pre-departure Training for Non-Sailors

Quite often I am asked what skills should be taught to a non-sailor before leaving the dock for their first sail.  I am sure each skipper has a different list, however, here are a few of the things I personally … Continue reading

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The Give Way Vessel

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

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

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

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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