First time on a big boat

[Sailing_Matt]

Went a a comp crew course in the Bristol Channel over the weekend. Only done a minimal amount of sailing on wayfarers prior to this. Saturday we had a lovely sunny journey from Cardiff to Bristol under power in a Bav 37 , persuaded SWMBO to come along too. Pity there was no wind though. Loved going up the river Avon to park in the city centre, reminded me of Amsterdam with all the canals and pubs along the side.

The next day had a baptism of fire when going back to Cardiff. Had to goto windward all the way in a force 6. Heeling a lot. Would have been okay except for the very choppy rough state of the waves. Some hairy moments there. SWMBO was frightened but held her composure.

Next day done some MOB and anchoring drills with others on board learning Day Skipper practical just outside Cardiff. It was a force 7-8 but the sea was much calmer and the boat didn't feel scary (we had 3 reefs in the main). It was fun. Met some great people too. Very relaxed atmosphere throughout the weekend.

Back to work now for a few days then the second half of the course this weekend. Hoping for sunny weather the weekend coming with a nice force 3-5 with no lumps!

I know all you salty dogs have been doing this sailing lark for years now but just thought I'd give you a different perspective from a newbie, its a lot different from dingy sailing. /forums/images/graemlins/ooo.gif

 

[powerskipper]

its great to hear things from a first times perspective, reminds us why we enjoy it so much, thanks

 

[badman]

Heavy weather can be fun for a while but it wears down if goes on for a long time.

 

[Slow_boat]

Glad you both enjoyed it.

A little advice that may not be wanted; I'm glad to hear SWMBO enjoyed it but if she's only doing it to please you don't try to push her.

BTW, most of us, myself included, are fair weather sailers. I don't sail into anything with a 6 in it unless its falling. Sounds like you had a baptism of fire!

 

[Sailing_Matt]

Your right, SWMBO is a reluctant sailor. I'll bear in mind your advice.

I think I agree with you that if I had my own boat I wouldn't touch a 6 with a barge pole! Suprised how friendly you boaty people are in general. Had lots of waves from other passing boats inluding MOBOs. Lots of beeps and waves from passing motorists and pedestrians when motoring up the river Avon too.

 

[Sailfree]

Great to read your experience and see the enthusiasm shinning through.

In contrast we got our Wayfarer Dinghy back into the water racing last weekend after an absence of 3 years and loved it. Racing and sailing dinghys at a sailing club is such fun.

Apart from accepting the need to avoid bad weather I can't think of many things that are such fun as spending time on the water whatever the length of boat (or even windsurfer!).

Trouble is as always limited holidays. Intended sailing down to Brittany in August but I can see it coming "wouldn't it be more fun to live on the big boat in the Marina and race the Wayfarer for Poole week in August!" I may still be able to sail a Wayfarer but could I keep up with the alcohol content after 3 years away? Oh well I will just have to go into serious training.