RYA Member's Magazine - Winter 2011

RYA MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE

WIN DECK SHOES AND STYLISH FRENCH CLOTHING

WINTER 2011 www.rya.org.uk

MEMBERS’ MAGAZINE Winter 2011 £3 www.rya.org.uk

ON COURSE RACE TRAINING FOR THE FASTNET YACHTMASTER TO ROUND-THEWORLD SAILOR THE GREEN OLYMPICS HOW THE GREEN BLUE IS CLEANING UP FOR 2012 SANTA’S STOCKING GIFT IDEAS FOR CHRISTMAS

BOARD WITH CRUISING

50°51.26’ N 1°19.41’ W

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Winter 2011 Contents REGULARS

CRUISING

5 Editor’s letter

21 Regional cruising news

7 Your letters 11 Afloat & ashore

News, views and events

13 Yachtmaster quiz

Seaworthy or seasick?

26 Publications

Win a Henri Lloyd Shockwave jacket or £100 worth of Imray publications with RYA books

30 Sailability

The RYA Sailability Sunsail Regatta, plus other Sailability news

FEATURE 42 The trials of Socrates

Jeanne Socrates’ love of sailing sees her embarking on a non-stop solo circumnavigation

THE BRIEFING 35 Inland Waters The Canal & River Trust

takes over the management of the UK’s waterways

36 Environment

33 Competition

39 Competition

40 Current Affairs

Win a pair of Chatham Marine deck shoes Win French clothing from The Nautical Company

47 Perfect presents

Get Christmas wrapped up with our gift ideas

74 Astern Seafaring stats and

maritime musings

The Green Blue’s plans to minimise the impact of the Olympic Games on the environment, plus the latest Green Blue news The RYA and autumn political conferences

ON THE WATER 51 Racing Windsurfing and

winter programmes

52 Fastnet Race

51 56 Portsmouth Yardstick Scheme

59 Powerboating

57 The Team behind the Team

60 Windsurfing and cruising Want to combine a

58 Racing RIB and windsurfing

champions

Reasons for you to be a member As the freedom of boating comes under increasing threat, your support is vital. Your membership of the RYA helps to protect boating’s freedoms, directly supporting the RYA’s lobbying activity, which is aimed at resisting legislation or minimising its impact on you and the boating you enjoy.

RYA members are able to tap into the vast wealth of expert advice and information available from experienced and knowledgeable RYA staff, as well as take advantage of a wide range of membership benefits and rewards.

Benefits for you…

We’re constantly updating our members’ benefits, working with partners to offer you the best deals on equipment and services.

Here is a reminder of some of them: Free quarterly magazine Members’ Lounge at the London and Southampton Boat Shows Discounts on boat show tickets Discounts on holidays and travel service Online chandlery discounts Discounted private health insurance from Aviva Discounted insurance from Bishop Skinner E-newsletters

World record breaking

windsurfing holiday with cruising? Simon Bornhoft offers some advice

To contact our Membership Department, please call 023 8060 4159 or email member. services@rya.org.uk For an up-to-date list of member benefits, visit www.rya.org.uk or call 0844 556 9556 Information on our latest member benefits can be found on page 12

www.rya.org.uk rya.org.uk Winter 2011

3

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JOIN US AT THE RYA VOLVO DINGHY SHOW ‘SAIL FOR GOLD’ CELEBRATE THE 2012 OLYMPICS WITH US

WHO WORKS HARDER? WINDSURFER VS DINGHY SAILOR

BOATING WITH KIDS DISCOVER THE REWARDS OF SAILING WITH YOUNG CHILDREN

50°51.26’ N 1°19.41’ W

RYA SAIL AND MOTOR CRUISES

HOW TO SELL YOUR BOAT

REGIONAL NEWS

0 Cover spring11v1.indd 1

14/02/2011 10:49

Robin McAllister, sailing for the Pitsford Pirates at the Team 15 Champions Cup in October Paul Wyeth www.pwpictures.com

The official magazine of the Royal Yachting Association Editor Deborah Cornick Consulting Editor James Jermain RYA House, Ensign Way, Southampton SO31 4YA 0844 556 9555 the.editor@rya.org.uk www.rya.org.uk Published by: RYA Produced on behalf of RYA by: Think, The Pall Mall Deposit, 124-128 Barlby Road, London W10 6BL Tel: 020 8962 3020 Chief Sub-editor Rica Dearman Art Director Ian Hart Advertising Adam Lloyds (adam.lloyds@ thinkpublishing.co.uk) Managing Director Polly Arnold Printed by: St Ives Roche Plc, Victoria Business Park, Roche, Cornwall PL26 8LX. RYA Magazine is printed on 90gsm Finesse Silk PEFC. This paper was produced from a sustainable source and is PEFC chain of custody certified. It is whitened using an Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) process.

The views expressed by the individual contributors are not necessarily those of the RYA. Equally, the inclusion of advertisements in this magazine does not constitute endorsement of the products and services concerned by the RYA.

Winter 2011 Editorial

Hello

I think this issue really highlights the diversity of our sport, and just what can be achieved, not only by sheer determination, but with guidance and training from the RYA. In this country, we have the luxury of not having to take or hold a maritime qualification to participate in any type of boating.

This is largely due to the fact that most people take an RYA training course before they take to the water or refresh their knowledge when they feel the need.

The RYA believes it should stay this way, and realises that one of the great things about our members is their diverse range of interests and abilities; some have sailed for decades, building their confidence and knowledge over a number of years and experiences – happy to either sail or motor cruise or race without the need for training.

Others are new, maybe just starting out, while others want to spread their wings or challenge themselves.

Whatever your boating preference or requirements, the RYA is here to help you on your way. Two great stories in this issue highlight how RYA training gave two sailors the confidence to embark on their own personal challenge and adventure.

And, if all this gives you itchy feet or the need to swot up, why not use these cold days and dark evenings to either take your first course or build on your knowledge? We have plenty of details on our courses inside. And with Christmas fast approaching, you’ll find lots of gift ideas inside, too.

Deborah Cornick, Editor

rya.org.uk Winter 2011

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Sail-Explore-Experience

Have you discovered Malin Waters? This is the area defined by the shipping forecast which spans the shared sea and coastal areas of Western Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland.

Explore the unique waters around Scotland’s west coast and discover for yourself why this is considered world-class sailing.

If you’re looking for adventure, variety and an amazing experience, there’s nowhere else in the world quite like it.

To find out more and register for updates, go to visitscotland.com/malinwaters This project is part-financed by the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund through the INTERREG IVA Cross-border Programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body.

Your mail Your opinion, your comment

Your letters Email: the.editor@rya.org.uk Mail: The Editor, RYA Magazine, RYA House, Ensign Way, Southampton SO31 4YA

Precious rubbish

I did enjoy Tom Cunliffe’s article, Treasure Skip (RYA Magazine, autumn 2011), which reminded me of my early impecunious yachting days.

At a boat show many years ago, I had been in envy of the smart galleys showing the amazing new indestructible Corian® working surfaces, and the incredible price of this new material. Imagine my surprise some weeks later, whilst doing a refit at Shamrock Quay, to see the workers from the adjacent boat building shop throwing sizable pieces of this precious commodity into the skip. It was a rather large skip and completely hid me

we were the envy of our lesser Formica®-covered brethren.

Tony Vasey by email

Simple solution

Please tell us what you think

whilst I heaved out several large lumps, which together were sufficient to cover our entire galley. With the appropriate glue, the seams almost disappeared so that

I was interested to read the article in the autumn issue regarding MCZs (Environment, page 36) and the potential impact on the boat community. Surely some cooperation can be adopted whereby both ‘sides’ of the discussion can be satisfied?

As pointed out in the article, sea surface activity should not have an impact on these areas, but the seabed may be at risk because of anchoring activities potentially destroying, or at the least, disrupting sensitive marine life.

Can I suggest that where long-standing anchorages are affected that permanent mooring buoys are installed, thus negating the need to drop any anchors? As is already known, wrecks soon become thriving centres for marine life, so why not mooring weights and chains?

The minimal cost could be shared by the local authorities, nature conservation groups (putting their money where their mouths are) and other interested parties. It seems to me that this could be a simple solution that would satisfy all groups, and that the boating fraternity would be able to continue to enjoy the wonderful British Isles coastline.

Michael J Hagger, Norway by email

‘The RYA is right to participate in the study’

rya.org.uk Winter 2011

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RYA MEMBERS SAVE UP TO

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CALL 0844 463 6586 OR VISIT WWW.SUNSAIL.CO.UK/RYAMAG Terms & Conditions: 15% applies to low season dates and 5% in high season dates. Offer can not be combined with any other offers except 5% loyalty scheme. Offer is subject to availability and can be withdrawn at anytime. Offer is only available to RYA Members, cannot be applied for retrospectively and no cash alternative is applicable. Full booking terms and conditions as per 2011/12 brochures apply. Offer only applies to Sunsail Yacht Charter, Flotilla and Club products.

8 Spring 2010 rya.org.uk

What We Do! Yacht Charters Flotilla Holidays Beach Clubs Sailing Schools Skippered Charters Sunsail Racing Corporate Events

Where You Can Do It! Caribbean Bahamas Central America Mediterranean South East Asia Indian Ocean South Pacific

Your mail Your opinion, your comment

PRIZE LETTER

© Alamy

Congratulations to Tony Vasey, who wins an I-Zip lifejacket from SeaSafe Systems Ltd. The I-Zip offers ergonomic fit, soft-touch comfort neck, SOLAS-approved retro tape, antimagnetic stainless steel fittings and a standard SOLASapproved whistle.

This range of lifejackets features different specifications, including manual or automatic inflation, and a choice of plastic or metal fittings, including a full harness model.

Visit www.seasafe.co.uk to find out more.

The French Coastguard

Coastguard and semaphores

Having been away cruising for the past five months, I have been deprived, until now, of the ability to add my two cents’ worth to what now looks a done deal. With some 60 years of sailing behind me, I now sail mostly in French waters, and have a permanent berth in Brittany.

Knowledge of the French way of doing things is eye-opening at times. There are crucial comparisons that seem to have been deliberately ignored between the present muchlauded – but regrettably sometimes over-egged – performance of the Coastguard service in the UK, which is responsible for 31,400km of coastline, including islands and the equivalent in France.

About 30 years ago, nearly 900 full-timers were on the Coastguard payroll when a Parliamentary review determined that the service was substantially under strength. The Government of the day responded by slashing manpower by 20% to fewer

The best course is to check in with the closest semaphore to your landfall

than 700, and axing two-thirds of the watch stations.

Compare that with France, which has just 2,254km of coast, six Centres for Safety and Rescue, covering coastal and deep-sea areas, and 61 ‘semaphores’ or watch stations, all manned by personnel from the Marine Nationale, the French Navy. From the Belgium border to Spain, and in the Mediterranean, 47 ‘semaphores’ are manned 24/7 by ‘le Royale’. There are a further five daytime watch and eight other occasionally manned coast stations.

You don’t need a Masters in maths to work out the huge discrepancy between UK and French facilities, and the British

Government’s continuing neglect of its duty of care to those plying UK waters, whether for pleasure or gain, and which must seriously challenge Britain’s compliance with the Hamburg Convention of 1979 for the Safety of Life at Sea. France has, since 1958, had an integrated national maritime, aerial and terrestrial safety, search and rescue service with six Centres Regionaux Operationnels de Surveillance et de Sauvetage (CROSS) centres coordinating the resources of the Navy, customs, gendarmerie and voluntary French lifeboat service, and with some 4,000 full-time naval personnel in all.

Each coastal region is under the command of a naval admiral, entitled the Prefet Maritime.

The Semaphores Cotiere operators are bilingual and helpful, their principal duties

to offer navigational and safety assistance in their coastal zone, particularly to fishing and leisure craft – as comprehensive a service as your local UK CG station. In fact, more so, because you in the UK soon won’t have a local watch station to tell you what the sea state and weather conditions are like outside the marina.

So, when you file your passage plan with, say, Brixham Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre on VHF Ch16, and are told unhelpfully to report to ‘the relevant authority on your arrival in France’, the best course is to check in with the closest semaphore to your landfall. Your details will be pinged off to all the relevant authorities without further ado – and with a friendly ‘bye-bye’ sign-off from the watchkeeper.

Jeremy Greenaway Camaret sur Mer

AGM and Governance Restructure

Unfortunately, we had already gone to print by the time the AGM took place on 23 November. We will bring you a full report on this and the review of the RYA’s Governance structure in the spring issue.

rya.org.uk Winter 2011

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Untitled-8 1

04/07/2011 11:38

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AFLOAT & ASHORE News I Love Sailing, RYA Scotland Big Weekend, recycling envelope

is back

Our 2011 I Love Sailing Facebook competition was such a great success that we’ve decided to relaunch it

The competition called all sailors, windsurfers and budding film-makers to capture what they love about sailing on camera and share it with their Facebook friends. The competition proved very popular, with 113 videos entered.

This time we’d like you to share your favourite photos with us, as well as your video footage, to capture just what it is you love about the sport. From the adrenaline rush of blasting around on a windsurf board to soaking up an amazing sunrise somewhere offshore on a yacht, we’d love to see your photos and short films.

Each month we will select our favourite film or photo and the winner will receive £30 worth of RYA publications and DVDs. If you enter a winning photo, it might also appear in RYA Magazine!

There are also plans for an incredible 2012 ‘money can’t buy’ I Love Sailing prize; but you’ll have to wait until next year to hear more details.

To find out more about I Love Sailing and details on how to enter, visit www.ilovesailing.co.uk

Congratulations!

Chris Videlo was the winner of our first I Love Sailing Facebook competition. Chris’s entry consisted of a fantastic collation of footage from his previous sailing season at Waldringfield Sailing Club. Chris is now the lucky owner of a Go Pro Camera, a MacBook Pro with Final Cut editing equipment, and RYA vouchers worth £200 to spend on a sailing course.

The RYA aims to use the video footage from all entries to help promote the sport and encourage even more people to get out on the water and go sailing more often.

RYA Scotland Big Weekend

25-26 February 2012 RYA Scotland’s Big Weekend is a fantastic opportunity to catch up with everything sailing and windsurfing, and will offer something for everyone.

Being held at Inverclyde, Largs, the weekend will offer a number of workshops and conferences as well as a trade exhibition hall.

The packed programme includes: Yachtmaster Instructors’ Conference Race Coach Level 2 updates Continual Professional Development talks for instructors and windsurfing Presentations on RYA programmes, such as OnBoard, Team 15 and Olympic Activation Entry to the Trade Hall Free entry to the Our Sporting Life – Sail for Gold exhibition Tickets cost just £25 per day, but why not make a weekend of it?

Special offer We have 30 special weekend tickets available. Our unique £85 ticket offer will give you access to the Big Weekend both days, accommodation Saturday night and a place at the RYA Scotland Annual Awards Dinner on Saturday evening.

You can purchase tickets now at www.ryascotland.org.uk. Don’t forget about the limited weekend offer!

The RYA Scotland Big Weekend is supported by MalinWaters as part of the Sail West Project marine tourism initiative, part-financed by the European Union’s European Regional Development Fund through INTERREG IVA Cross-Border Programme.

Use our recycling envelope

…to help the environment and sailing for the disabled In this issue, we’ve enclosed a prepaid The Green Blue envelope. We’re asking you to donate your old mobile phones and printer ink cartridges to raise money for The Green Blue and RYA Sailability… and do your bit for the environment at the same time.

For every phone or cartridge you send, a cash donation will be made to RYA Sailability and The Green Blue, and your phone will be put to good use in the Third World. Ink cartridges will be remanufactured to be used again. All the proceeds of your donations will be shared equally between The Green Blue and RYA Sailability, and the amount donated could be anything from 25p to £50, depending upon the make and model of your phone or cartridge.

Simply pop your phone or cartridge into the envelope and put it in the post to show your support in a simple and environmentally friendly way.

For more information, visit www.thegreenblue.org.uk. If you require additional envelopes, please call 01635 876 900 or visit www.reclaim-it.com rya.org.uk Winter 2011

11

exclusive members’ benefits

Afloat & Ashore RYA member benefits

Members’ offers

Just some of the benefits you can enjoy as an RYA member Get up to 17.5% discount and a free tow bar when you buy a new Volvo

RYA members can receive a fantastic discount of up to 17.5% off the price of a new Volvo.

This offer is available to RYA members in support of Volvo’s sponsorship of the RYA Youth programme, the RYA Volvo Dinghy Show, RYA Volvo Champion Club programme and as bronze sponsor and Official car supplier for Skandia Team GBR. Volvo is also offering RYA members a free fitted tow bar with every new V70 ordered before 31 December 2011.

To take advantage of this offer, simply download the Volvo authority letter from the RYA website and take it, along with your RYA membership card, to your local Volvo car dealership.

For further details, visit www.rya.org.uk/ joinrenew/benefits

RYA Volvo Dinghy Show 2012 3-4 March As winter closes in and all but the toughest sailors pack away their kit for another year, it’s time to start looking forward to the 2012 season.

The RYA Volvo Dinghy Show is the perfect place to kick-start your sailing next year. Packed with free talks and workshops covering first steps through to the latest racing tactics and techniques, hundreds of boats, clubs, class associations and sailing schools, chandlery stores and the latest kit and clothing, it’s the place for advice and equipment.

The 2012 RYA Volvo Dinghy Show takes place on 3-4 March. Members can purchase tickets for just £9. Call 0844 811 0409, quoting your RYA membership number, or visit www.dinghyshow.org.uk

£25 off a subscription to the new-look Yachts & Yachting To celebrate its relaunch, Yachts & Yachting is offering RYA members an exclusive offer — subscribe to the magazine and receive 12 issues for just £35 (usually £60) and get an additional issue absolutely free.

Although boasting a new format, Yachts & Yachting magazine’s bright, new look will continue to focus primarily on performance sailing,

12 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

global events and dinghies. It will bring you the biggest names in yachting, coverage of all the top international events and analysis of current developments in the sport.

To subscribe, simply call 01858 438 444, quoting ‘RYA1’, or visit www.subscription.co.uk/yachts/RYA1

Tullett Prebon London Boat Show 6 –15 January 2012, ExCeL This year’s show promises to be an action-packed day out and will offer visitors the chance to experience the best in boating, water sports and shopping.

There will also be plenty of great entertainment for both seasoned boating families and anyone looking to dip their toe into the water for the first time.

RYA members’ ticket offer RYA members can buy advance tickets, at the special discounted price of £12*, for any day, including Preview Day. To book your tickets, visit www. londonboatshow.com or call the ticket hotline on 0871 230 7140, quoting ‘RYA12’.

RYA expert sessions Our extremely popular series of talks from some of the top people in boating will be covering a wide variety of interesting subjects throughout the show, with something for everyone.

Special offers Members can receive 20% off the RRP of all books and other products on sale on the RYA stand. Members can buy the Reeds Nautical Almanac at the special price of only £27.50 (RRP £39.95).

Kids go free Up to two children, aged 15 and under, can enter free with a paying adult.

RYA stand — A412 The RYA stand will be located in the entrance to the N10 entrance just off the main boulevard.

We’ll be there to offer you information and advice on all aspects of boating.

RYA members’ lounge Take the weight off your feet and enjoy a well-earned rest in the RYA members’ lounge. Now located in the ICC Capital Suite at the east end of ExCeL, the lounge is easily accessible from the RYA stand and the main entrance. Hot and cold food and drink will be served all day and there will be a cloakroom located nearby.

2012 show features There will be almost 1,000 boats of all shapes and sizes to climb aboard, from entry-level wakeboards, costing as little as £100, to multimillion-pound sailing and motor yachts.

A range of shopping brands, featuring the best in marine and casual fashion clothing, books, DVDs and a multitude of gadgets.

The Watersports Action Pool will give you the chance to take to the water to try an exciting range

of sports such as wakeboarding, windsurfing, dinghy sailing, canoeing and kayaking. For the less adventurous, there will be live demos and professional championships by water sports experts.

Classic Boat attraction – experience a real slice of tradition and learn about the true 18th-century sailing warship HMS Victory, Nelson’s flagship vessel that took part in the Battle of Trafalgar.

The Knowledge Box – a great way to learn about all things nautical from top experts.

Visitors to the last four days of the show will also be able to use their ticket to gain free entry to the London Bike, Outdoors and Active Travel shows taking place at ExCeL. Opening times 6-14 January 1000-1900 Thursday 12 January 1000-2100 Sunday 15 January 1000-1800 For more information, visit www.londonboatshow.com or call the ticket hotline on 0871 230 7140. *A transaction fee of £1.75 will be included when booking in advance − this is per transaction, not per ticket. Calls charged at national rate.

15% discount on Bollé Marine sunglasses Don’t forget our fantastic members’ offer on Bollé sunglasses! With a 15% discount for RYA members, a shiny new pair of Bollé’s are the perfect Christmas gift.

Just log into the members’ benefits area of the website and follow the links to the Bollé offer. And now, RYA Instructor Members get an extra special deal � if you’re an instructor, just visit the Instructor Member pages on the RYA website and click through to the Bollé RYA Instructor offer for a great, extra discount.

YACHTMASTER QUIZ QUESTIONS 1 W hat is osmosis?

2 What weather characteristics would

you expect to experience with the approach of a warm front?

3 What unique advantage does a bilge keel yacht have over vessels with more conventional keels?

4 List five official means of signalling distress.

Answers on page 30

5 What is the purpose of having a length

8 A sailing vessel under spinnaker of chain between the anchor and the involved in a race is overtaking a poweranchor warp? driven vessel. Which is the ‘give way’ 6 What is the official definition of visibility vessel and what are its obligations?

9 In relation to a mainsail, what is of less than 1,000 metres?

7 A vessel manoeuvring in a busy an ‘earring’? harbour at night will issue sound signals 10 With regards to radar, what is meant by: to make its intentions known. How else EBL, VRM and CPA? may it communicate its intentions?

rya.org.uk Winter 2011 13

News RYA Active Marina Programme

Better boating Get more out of boating with the RYA Active Marina Programme Boat ownership is all about freedom and having fun, and the RYA’s Active Marina Programme is designed to help you do just that. The programme supports marinas in organising training opportunities, cruises and social events.

Following the launch of the RYA’s Active Marina Programme earlier this year, 12 marinas now run pilot programmes for their berth holders. The programme has received huge support from marinas – including groups such as MDL, Premier and Dean & Reddyhoff – from RYA training centres and, most importantly, from the berth holders. More than 40 marinas have already expressed an interest in becoming part of the programme in 2012.

Training opportunities

Through local RYA training centres and instructors, the programme provides boat owners with practical and shore-based workshops at their marina, aimed at increasing competence and confidence out on the water. The most popular have been Marina Manoeuvring and Berthing Workshops, and Ladies’ Days.

Queen Anne’s Battery, in Plymouth, ran its first Ladies’ Day in October. The day focused on mooring techniques, basic boat handling, MOB training and VHF radio operation, with the aim of increasing the skills and confidence of lady crews.

Participant Annette Maddison said, ‘We have been berthed in the marina for four years now, and I have never met the other ladies before; this type of activity really helps to introduce berth holders to each other.’

Sovereign Harbour, in Eastbourne, recently ran a second Marina Manoeuvring and Berthing Workshop day due to popular demand following the first.

14 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

Cruising and social

Cruising in company is a relaxed and enjoyable way to extend your cruising possibilities, alongside the camaraderie of a small flotilla. As well as benefiting from the experience and knowledge of others, it also gives you the opportunity to socialise with other boat owners and berth holders.

As the culmination to their 2011 Active Marina Programme, 33 boats from Woolverstone and Shotley Marinas combined for a cruise from the River Orwell to Woodbridge Tidemill Yacht Harbour on the picturesque River Deben on the first weekend in October. The cruise, organised by both marinas, with support from the programme and RYA Development Officers, culminated in a dinner hosted

by Woodbridge Cruising Club, with Tom Cunliffe as special guest. Tom was also able to join some of the boats during the day and the lucky ones had the benefit of Tom’s experience, sailing tips and humour during the cruise.

Marinas currently involved: MDL Woolverstone Marina MDL Torquay Marina MDL Queen Anne’s Battery Marina MDL Mercury Yacht Harbour MDL Port Hamble Marina MDL Hamble Point Marina MDL Sparkes Marina Premier Sovereign Harbour Premier Brighton Marina Dean & Reddyhoff Haslar Marina and Yacht Club Dean & Reddyhoff Portland Marina and Yacht Club Shotley Point Marina To find out more about the programme and whether your marina is involved, visit www.rya.org.uk/go/activemarina or email activemarina@rya.org.uk

Stunning marinas on the South Coast Portland l Weymouth l Haslar l East Cowes

Dean & Reddyhoff Marinas fully support the RYA’s Active Marina Programme

Portland Yacht Club www.portlandyc.co.uk members.sec@portlandyc.co.uk

Haslar Yacht Club www.haslaryachtclub.co.uk brian.dunton@talk21.com

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31/10/2011 4:50:05 PM

Afloat & Ashore RYA training

Bridging the gap Our new course will prepare you for your career in the professional marine world Each year, approximately 4,500 people apply to the RYA for a commercial endorsement in order to use their RYA qualifications professionally as skipper or crew. If you’re one of these people, read on…

You have passed a rigorous exam, and are confident in your practical skills. On top of that, you have been trained in sea survival, first aid and radio use, and undergone a medical fitness examination. But, is this enough to prepare you for your new role in the professional marine world?

SOLAS Chapter V, COSWoP, MARPOL, Flag State and Port State Authorities are all things that a commercial seafarer is expected to know about and comply with. You could be doing anything from delivering a new 35ft yacht for its owner to running a superyacht in the Mediterranean, complete with a large crew to manage. Whatever your job, in the commercial world you are a professional seafarer. As such, you are no different from the captain of a cruise liner – you have a duty of care to crew, passengers and other water users – and you will be held to account if things go wrong.

There have been huge developments since the first small commercial sailing vessel certificates were issued back in 1994: the development of the Workboat Code of Practice gave life to a whole industry of support and working vessels skippered by Yachtmasters® and Advanced Powerboaters. The Large Yacht Code gave a new route for Yachtmasters® to progress up the qualification ladder to skipper 3,000-tonne megayachts. Despite all these changes in the small commercial vessel environment, our commercial endorsement has remained largely unchanged.

The RYA has now developed a new course, Professional Practices and Responsibilities, covering the legal framework for your new status as a commercial operator.

Whilst we can’t teach the specific rules for every type of operation, we can help you understand and execute your duty of care, and give you principles, guidance and techniques to make the right choices and decisions. This new understanding, together with your practical skills, will let you dispense your professional responsibilities with confidence.

Professional Practices and Responsibilities Course

This new course will be available from April 2012, and will become a requirement for anyone applying for or renewing a commercial endorsement through the RYA from that time. It will be delivered online by recognised training centres, using the RYA Interactive e-learning website, www.ryainteractive.org.

More information will be available at www.rya.org.uk next year.

16 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

WINTER STUDY Why not take an RYA course this winter?

Long winter nights are the perfect time to brush up on your boating skills, giving you the spring to put what you learn into practice, and the summer to enjoy your newly acquired skills.

All of the RYA’s shorebased navigation courses and one-day specialist courses are perfect choices for the winter months.

So, what could you do?

Essential Navigation and Seamanship Course This course is offered online through the RYA’s Interactive e-learning site, www.ryainteractive.org, and is a great introduction to navigation and safety awareness for new, inexperienced or rusty skippers and crew. Find out more about this course on page 55.

RYA Day Skipper Theory; Coastal Skipper/ Yachtmaster Offshore Theory; RYA Yachtmaster Ocean courses Whatever your level, you can study either in the classroom in a series of short sessions or take an intensive week-long course. However, if you’re really in winter-hibernation mode, why not take the distance-learning option and study from home?

CEVNI test If you’re thinking of cruising around the French canals next season, this is the course to take. This test, also available online at RYA Interactive, allows you to obtain an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) that is valid in European Waters.

One-day courses

If you’re happy with your navigation skills and want to learn something new or just brush up on your knowledge, then how about one of the RYA’s specialist one-day courses? These enable you to expand your knowledge and skills in a specific area.

They are great as stand-alone courses, but also complement our various practical training schemes. Examples include: Diesel Engine Marine Radio Short Range Certificate Radar Sea Survival Offshore Safety First Aid Advanced Powerboat Course This course includes navigation by day and night, weather and other aspects of skippering a small boat on more challenging passages in coastal waters. The rougher winter weather and early dark evenings suit the course well.

Choose your course at www.rya.org.uk

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News London 2012

First Team GB sailors named Eleven sailors got closer to the road to 2012 glory in September when they were among the first British athletes to be officially selected to compete for Team GB at the London 2012 Olympic Games. They were confirmed by the British Olympic Association to compete at Weymouth and Portland in next year’s sailing events.

Sailing is the first of the 26 Olympic sports to have officially selected any of its athletes, with the 11 sailors revealed at the Old Royal Naval College, Greenwich, competing across seven of the ten Olympic classes and representing a mix of both

established Olympic medallists and first-time Olympians.

The sailors selected are: Ben Ainslie (Finn) – will race for his fourth Olympic gold in 2012. The triple Olympic gold and silver medallist is Britain’s most successful Olympic sailor.

Iain Percy (Star) – is aiming for a third gold in total and a second in partnership with best friend Andrew Simpson.

Paul Goodison (Laser) – will be looking to defend his Laser class crown on his home waters.

Nick Dempsey and Bryony Shaw (RS:X) – hope to build on their respective Olympic bronze medals in the Men’s and Women’s windsurfing events (Nick, Athens 2004; Bryony, Beijing 2008).

Lucy Macgregor, Annie Lush and Kate Macgregor (Elliott 6.0m Women’s Match Racing) – the 2010 World Championship-winning trio will race a new event on the 2012 programme, with Lucy and Kate the first two sailing sisters ever to compete for Great Britain at the Olympics.

Hannah Mills and Beijing Olympian Saskia Clark (470 Women’s event) – a whirlwind seven months after teaming up, and a string of podium finishes, have earned them the confidence of the RYA selectors.

The British Paralympic Association also announced the selection of the first athletes who will compete for Great Britain at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. The first sailing athletes named are: John Robertson, Hannah Stodel and Stephen Thomas (Sonar).

Alexandra Rickham and Niki Birrell (SKUD 18).

Selection trials are ongoing in the remaining three Olympic classes, the 470 Men, the 49er and the Laser Radial events – and one Paralympic class (2.4mR one-person keelboat event).

Olympic inspiration Helping unveil the first names of Team GB were 12 very excited OnBoard sailors.

The children, from Jubilee Primary School in the London Borough of Hackney, were invited to Greenwich to take part in the official photo shoot with the sailors, and watched the press conference as it was being filmed and broadcast live. They then joined journalists in a question- and-answer session.

Jubilee pupil, Angel, commented afterwards, ‘As a young sailor, I was inspired to meet Olympic sailors such as Ben Ainslie. It has made me even more determined to develop my sailing skills to be the best I can.’

Children from the school attend regular sessions at the

18 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

North London RYA OnBoard Centre based at Stoke Newington West Reservoir Centre. They are involved in exchange visits to the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy.

For many of the young people involved in the Central and East London OnBoard programme, the Olympic venue in Stratford is just a stone’s throw from their school, so the impact of the events around the Olympics in 2012 will be very much part of their community.

Next season, OnBoard clubs and centres will be involving their young sailors in 2012-themed festivals. These will tie in with the Sail for Gold events planned all over the country to coincide with the start of the Games, and

ensure that our next generation of sailors gets to feel the excitement and exhilaration of the competition.

OnBoard is an RYA scheme that introduces young

people of all backgrounds and abilities to sailing and windsurfing.

For more information on the scheme, visit www.rya. org.uk/programmes/onboard

Celebrate London 2012 With both the Olympic and Paralympic sailing events and Queen’s Diamond Jubilee taking place, 2012 will be a year to celebrate.

We want to help you hold events and activities at your clubs, centres and marinas for members and customers.

inspire

With the London 2012 Games now only eight months away and many of the sailors selected for Team GB, the excitement is building fast.

The London 2012 Games provides us all with such a great opportunity to promote sport nationally, and your club or centre locally, and for us all to have some fun.

More than 350 clubs and centres have signed up to the RYA’s Sail for Gold programme and are busy planning their Sail for Gold events. Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of it and sign up your club or centre today. We have a great programme of events to inspire you.

9 June 2012 − Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta medal race day Organise a Sail for Gold event or ‘have a go’ sessions at your club/centre to coincide with this exciting Olympic and Paralympic event.

May to July 2012 − Olympic Torch Relay Don’t miss the Olympic Torch Relay arriving in your region. Why not hold a special event at your club to join in with the celebrations? www.london2012.com/olympic-torch-relay May to October 2012 − Sail for Gold ‘Have a go’ sessions Get afloat nextto July celebrate Inspire people gettoout on the water at the start of the Games your venue.

21 July 2012 − RYA ‘Push the Boat Out’ day Taking place a week before the London 2012 Games commence, this is our chance to give the British Sailing Team a wonderful send-off. The day will be a great way to have fun on and off the water. Dress your club, centre or marina and your boats with flags and bunting.

Whether you’re a member of a club or marina or have a private mooring, everyone can join in Push the Boat Out day. Events on the water could include cruiser rallies, treasure hunts, dinghy pursuit races and a club sail past. Encourage as many of your club members as possible to get out on the water to make this a day to remember.

celebrate

2-5 June 2012 − Passage to Portland Passage to Portland is a unique event aimed at sail and motor cruisers. It will provide an exclusive opportunity to tour the Olympic and Paralympic sailing venue ahead of the Games, and a behind-the-scenes look at the Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta, as well as the chance to join in with celebrations for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Participants will make their own way by boat to Portland, where we have pre-booked berths for three nights at Portland Marina, before enjoying the activities of the long weekend.

If you would like to receive a registration pack, simply complete the online form at www.rya.org.uk/go/p2p Exhibition The RYA has been busy putting together our Sporting Life – Sail for Gold exhibition to celebrate our British Olympic and Paralympic sailing heritage.

Don’t miss your opportunity to see the exhibition at the following venues: London Boat Show (Members Lounge) – ExCeL, London, 6-15 January 2012 RYA Scotland Big Conference – Largs, Scotland, 24-26 February 2012 RYA Dinghy Show – Alexandra Palace, London, 3-4 March 2012 Crosby Lakeside Adventure Centre – Waterloo, Liverpool, 10 March to 10 April 2012

National Maritime Museum – Falmouth, Cornwall, 2 May to 24 June 2012 Weymouth – 27 July to 9 September 2012.

support

There are many ways in which you can show your support for the British Sailing Team.

Sign up your club or training centre to Sail for Gold and join in the activities that will be taking place across the country in the lead-up to the Games.

Sign up to become an official supporter of the British Sailing Team at www.rya.org.uk/ skandiateamgbr Follow the sailors’ progress (see below) on the Olympic/Paralympic campaign trail through the RYA website as they compete in key Olympic and Paralympic events.

Calendar of events Keep up to date with Team GB’s progress by following these events: 2011 Perth 2011 ISAF Sailing World Championships – 3-18 December 2012 Skandia Sail for Gold Regatta – 4-9 June (Weymouth and Portland) Olympic Sailing Regatta – 29 July to 11 August (Weymouth and Portland) Paralympic Sailing Regatta – 1-6 September (Weymouth and Portland) For more information on all our events, visit www.rya.org.uk/programmes/ sailforgold

rya.org.uk Winter 2011 19

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CRUISING Portrush Harbour could gain marina facilities for more than 100 berths

Your news

Regional news from the Offshore and Coastal Consultative Panel Scotland Offshore renewable energy installations

There has been a huge upsurge of renewables activity in Scotland in a wide range of locations. Although there is continued interest in wind farms, particularly on the east coast, the focus has shifted to tidal and wave devices. For some years there have been experimental devices in Orkney, but now the first major tidal farm will shortly be installed in the Sound of Islay (well below keel depth) and there are many proposals for the Pentland Firth.

Wave farms are being proposed for Orkney, the Pentland Firth and Lewis.

The RYA is seen as an important stakeholder by Marine Scotland, and is being widely consulted.

Eastern East Coast

The East Coast is fortunate in having a number of upto-date websites, covering the coast. The website www. eastcoastrivers.com publishes surveys of the harbours with shifting entrances, while www. eastcoastpilot.com publishes corrections and updates to the East Coast Pilot book, obtained from its network of honorary port pilots, who are contactable by telephone.

There is now an additional site to add to the portfolio: www.eastcoastsailing.co.uk, a monthly web-based magazine.

Its news section has proved to be quick off the mark, even with national news items. The August issue featured ways to cross the Thames Estuary and changes to the buoyage into the River Crouch.

This online magazine produces a timely reminder when navigating outside the buoyed channels. The chart you buy may well be the most up to date available, however it is rare for surveys to be conducted outside the channels and the professionals have no requirement to cross sandbanks. The northern Thames Estuary chart shows that the contours and depth information outside the channels came from the Port of London Authority in 2003 to 2006. A 3.7m depth on the chart proved to be 15cm at low water, yet the grounding took place less than a quarter of a mile from deep water.

Bradwell power station walls

Work has now started on the project to remove the

Bradwell power station baffle walls. Scheduled to last three months, this is being done during the winter to minimise inconvenience to leisure boat users. The piles are being cut off 1m below the seabed. The trenches will be infilled on completion.

The central concrete platform is scheduled to be removed in 2014.

Foulger’s Gat

The temporary closure of Foulger’s Gat and Fisherman’s Gat during the past year has proved to be an obstruction to the free movement from north to south across the Estuary.

It is hoped access will be restored for 2012. The closures were necessary during the construction of a wind farm substation and associated cabling. rya.org.uk Winter 2011 21

Cruising Your regional news South East Beachy Head Lighthouse

Le Belle Tout, the lighthouse at Beachy Head, has had the range of its light reduced from 20 to eight nautical miles.

Brighton wreck

Notice to Mariners 3045/2011 has details of a wreck to the southeast of Marine Palace Pier, lying 50° 48’ 56N, 0° 07’ 83W +5m.

Littlehampton lights

Additional lights have been added to the west side pontoon. Notice to Mariners 3480/2011 has details of the amended chart.

Thames Estuary – Queens Channel

Three bunkering anchorages have been established at: Q1 51° 27’·30N, 1° 15’ 90E Q2 51° 27’·50N, 1° 17’ 70E Q3 51° 27’·70N, 1° 19’ 70E All three have a 400m radius centred on the above positions, limiting the anchorage area.

The Queens Channel Bunkering Anchorages are only for vessels engaged in bunkering operations, with the permission of London VTS.

South Yarmouth Harbour

Extensive development work to Yarmouth Harbour was completed in August.

Improvements include pontoons for dinghies in the main harbour, widening of the slipway, an electric winch for dinghies and a new security gate.

Completed with a grant from LEADER, this development is the first of four phases and follows other significant work, totalling £1.4m, completed in March. New walk-ashore pontoons were installed to provide greater accessibility for residents and visitors. A number of the new walk-ashore pontoons offer finger berths and all walk-ashore bookings will now be given finger berths, which offer greater convenience and privacy. The fuel berth has been moved near the harbour entrance and now 22 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

accommodates four yachts, rather than two. Additional improvements include greater electrical and water capacity, and improved Wi-Fi coverage.

Southern Poole Harbour Commissioners releases draft ‘Port Master Plan’

Following a request from the Department for Transport for all major UK ports to compile a ‘Master Plan’, Poole Harbour Commissioners has released the first draft of Poole’s own Port Master Plan for consultation.

The public has been invited to read the plan and provide feedback. The consultation period, which normally runs for 12 weeks, has been extended to 20 weeks to allow people as much time as possible to have their say.

Harbour users and local residents in particular are being encouraged to attend the local events, meetings and exhibition days being held.

Jim Stewart, CEO of Poole Harbour Commissioners, says: ‘We want as many people as possible to be involved in this process and to make it as accessible as we can to allow for a broad spectrum of views.

In the past year, we have been engaged in pre-consultation discussions and meetings with various stakeholders, but for the next few months, and until the consultation closes in January 2012, we are keen to hear from the public.

‘The Poole Harbour Master Plan will not just look at the commercial port, but will encompass the whole of Poole Harbour. As well as providing a background to Poole Harbour Commissioners and the Master Plan process, it will set out the existing status of the harbour and the port of Poole. The plan also explores current activities and explains the major environmental issues and sensitivities of the harbour.’

The final Master Plan, which will cover the next 20-30 years, will be compiled in early 2012, and will be reviewed on a regular basis.

New EU regulations could disrupt traditional oyster fishing in Falmouth

Anyone can obtain literature summarising the key points of the plan from Poole Harbour Commissioners’ head office in Poole. The full draft plan is available to view and download at www.phc.co.uk with a link to www.phc.co.uk/masterplan and a comments form for people to provide feedback.

South West Falmouth’s oyster boats and EU rules

Visitors to the Falmouth area may no longer be able to witness the magnificent sight of oyster dredgers working under sail.

The Fal oyster fishery is unique; operational since Roman times, it is the last in the world still fished under sail and the largest commercial sailing fleet in

Europe. However, this historic fleet, some say a national treasure, is now threatened

by EU rules.

Oyster fishermen in west Cornwall fear new EU regulations could spell the end of the centuries-old tradition.

The Marine Management Organisation (MMO) said it is committed to a sustainable fishing industry, but states that the current system is in breach of rules. Consultations under way with Falmouth oystermen could mean stringent safety checks for the boats and punts. Resultant costs are likely to be beyond the means of many of the fishermen.

An MMO spokesman said: ‘Following a review of our domestic legislation, it is clear that the current licensing

forward proposals for the next phase of Millbay’s regeneration – a mix of high-quality houses, apartments and ground-floor commercial space on land to the south of Millbay Road.

Work on the development began in the autumn, and will include 14 new houses and 34 flats together with 370 sq m of commercial floor space.

Northern Ireland Changes to buoyage

Irish Lights has installed a new port buoy on the north coast between Portrush and Benbane Head. It is well to seaward of the present Storks beacon and will assist safe navigation around both the Storks and Portrush skerries.

The new Stork buoy is five cables NE of the Large skerry, Portrush FI R 5s, AIS. A new top mark has been laid on the east coast, on North Rock off the County Down coast. This will benefit the many sailors who take the passage inside South Rock on their way between Belfast and Strangford Loughs.

New charts Yarmouth has a new and improved harbour

exemption for under-10m unpowered vessels is in breach of European regulations.

However, we are committed to ensuring the sustainable future of England’s fishing industry and will not charge for the licence.’

New marina at Plymouth Millbay

Earlier this year, Millbay’s lead developer, English Cities Fund (ECf), announced that it had selected and agreed terms with Sutton Harbour Group to build and operate a new marina at the heart of Plymouth’s most significant regeneration scheme.

The 190-berth marina will bring Millbay’s inner basin back to life – transforming it into a busy waterfront setting and creating an impressive focal point

for future phases of development on the surrounding docksides.

Work on the marina is expected to start at the end of this year, following on from Plymouth’s very successful hosting of the high-profile America’s Cup World Series, during which ECf and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) allowed Millbay’s quays and harbour to be used for the race village.

In 2010, ECf completed major infrastructure works to restore Millbay’s inner basin and its listed quay walls. The work was carried out following a £4.5m investment by the HCA and paved the way for the harbour to be brought back into use.

Last year also saw ECf win the backing of Plymouth City Council planners after bringing

The UKHO has recently published two new charts: Lough Swilly and Belfast Lough and Approaches. A new chart of Strangford Lough is due to be published in December – this will be the final chart for Northern Ireland waters to be updated to the WGS84 datum.

Portrush Harbour

A study of Portrush Harbour is being carried out by the RPS Group Plc, engineering and environmental consultants, to investigate the feasibility of creating marina facilities for between 100 and 200 berths.

The study is sponsored by the Sail West Project, which aims to promote sailing tourism between the west of Scotland and Northern Ireland, together with Donegal. Secure facilities in Portrush are seen as a key stepping stone to making the passage between the two.

The new Storks buoy will contribute to the proposed new infrastructure.

Your regional contacts SCOTLAND David Vass occp.scotland@rya.org.uk NORTH EAST Neal Hill occp.ne@rya.org.uk EAST MIDLANDS Nigel Pask occp.em@rya.org.uk THAMES VALLEY Andrew Bernstein occp.tv@rya.org.uk EASTERN Terry Corner (Chairman) occp.er@rya.org.uk SOUTH EAST Nick Jordan occp.se@rya.org.uk SOUTHERN Richard Brown occp.sr@rya.org.uk SOUTH WEST David Jolliff occp.sw@rya.org.uk NORTHERN IRELAND Maeve Bell occp.ni@rya.org.uk NORTH WEST Geoff Meggitt occp.nw@rya.org.uk WALES Susanne Newbold occp.wales@rya.org.uk WEST MIDLANDS Ken Tomlinson occp.wm@rya.org.uk YORKS & HUMBERSIDE Harold Ingleson occp.yh@rya.org.uk

If you have an offshore or coastal cruising matter that you think the OCCP should be aware of, please contact your regional representative, using the email address listed here. rya.org.uk Winter 2011 23

RYA VOLVO DINGHY SHOW IT’S A WINNER

reflecting all that’s great about British dinghy sailing AlexAndrA PAlAce, london

3-4 March 2012 Come to the RYA Volvo Dinghy Show the home of British dinghy sailing, and experience all that’s great about the sport.

From expert talks, demos and advice to being able to check out all the latest boats and kit, we’ve got it all under one roof.

Put the date in your diary now and we look forward to seeing you there.

www.dinghyshow.org.uk

Cruising Gold Anchor Scheme

Gold Anchor Scheme Following the relaunch of the Yacht Harbour Association in May, the RYA has been making sure the scheme benefits boat owners Although the Yacht Harbour Association (TYHA) has been operating the Gold Anchor Award Scheme for 23 years, it only inspected marinas against industry standards. Depending on how well they perform, marinas are awarded a Gold Anchor rating out of five in three categories: a berth holders’ survey, site audit and three mystery shops. In May, the TYHA changed the focus of the scheme to customer services rather than purely industry standards. Ratings now reflect the experience you might have as a berth holder or visitor. The RYA has played a key part in this change, representing the boat owners’ views and ensuring the scheme ultimately benefits them, not just marinas.

The Green Blue has also played a major part, making sure that every marina in the scheme is doing its bit for the environment.

Marinas are now awarded between one and five Gold Anchors.

One indicates that the marina meets the basic industry standards, for example, health and safety legislation, environmental standards and technical marina infrastructure. The higher the award, the better the service offered – five gold anchors indicate that a marina fully interacts with its berth holders and every aspect is operated to a very high standard.

The RYA has made sure the scheme includes the essential elements of the Berth Holders Charter and the new RYA Active Marina scheme.

Both of these elements create a social atmosphere at marinas and the sort of environment where sharing local advice, crew and equipment is commonplace. The concept of RYA Active Marina is to help both sail and powerboat owners get the most out of their yachts. One of the

most successful elements of this partnership is that Gold Anchor-rated marinas must now arrange regular cruises and training opportunities for their berth holders.

TYHA General Manager Gareth Turnbull said, ‘The RYA has helped the TYHA create opportunities for boat owners. We are now seeing more and more marinas building the confidence of their berth holders to go boating. This is a great thing and feedback so far has only been good. If your marina has not got a Gold Anchor rating or is not taking part in the Active Marinas scheme, then you should be asking, why not?’

Since the relaunch, the scheme has seen a great deal of interest in marinas with a lower anchor rating, as well as those with a rating of five gold Anchors, similar to the concept of three-star hotels. Any marina in the scheme offers a secure berth and quality assurance.

The Gold Anchor scheme was recently awarded Green Initiative of the Year 2011 by Practical Boat Owner magazine.

To view the assessment criteria, provide feedback on your marina or to find out which marinas have been rated, visit www.which-marina.com Read more about the RYA’s Active Marina Scheme on page 14.

rya.org.uk Winter 2011 25

Cruising Books

New RYA cruising books

Buy our new publications and you could win a great prize To celebrate the launch of two new books, RYA Publications is running two prize draws.

And to enter our draw couldn’t be simpler – all you have to do is buy one of our new books and you will be automatically entered.

Win a Henri Lloyd Shockwave Jacket and Hi-Fit trousers worth £525 when you purchase RYA Offshore Sailing.

RYA Offshore Sailing is the essential companion for anyone planning to make an ocean crossing for the first time, either individually or as part of an organised rally.

The book details how to equip the yacht to modern offshore standards and how to prepare for the particular requirements of cruising in the tropics.

Written by Dick McClary, the book provides practical information on safety, equipment, boat design and sails both for monohulls and multihulled boats. There is also excellent advice on how a skipper can make the journey as comfortable as possible for them and their crew.

RYA Offshore Sailing Members’ price: £14.44 (rrp £16.99) Order code: G87

Two lucky buyers of RYA Passage Planning could win £100 worth of Imray publications of their choice.

Any sea voyage should be adequately planned. As all experienced boaters know, there are many unmarked and deceptively hidden hazards, such as shallow waters and difficult ports.

Written by RNLI Sea Safety Manager Peter Chennell, RYA Passage Planning will help you make passage planning routine.

Passage planning needs to be as complicated as is required, as a two-mile ride in familiar waters will require significantly less attention than a 100-mile journey in unknown waters. This book aims to assist you in judging just how much passage planning is required for every situation.

Includes chapters on timing, traffic, hazards and day and night factors.

RYA Passage Planning Members’ price: £11.04 (rrp £12.99) Order code: G69

CHESAPEAKE CRUISE

The Sailing Club of the Chesapeake wishes to rekindle the spirit of goodwill experienced in 1976, when a number of RYA members joined them for a bicentennial celebration cruise. The club has now extended a formal invitation to RYA members to be their guests for a cruise to commemorate the bicentennial year of the war of 1812, to be called the ‘no hard feelings’ cruise.

The cruise will be of about seven days’ duration and approximate dates are 18-24 June 2012. Many club members would welcome RYA guests onboard and to host them for a few days before and after the cruise to match flights, etc.

There is also an excellent charter fleet in Annapolis for those who skipper their own boat.

RYA Cruising Manager Stuart Carruthers is acting as an informal contact for the sailing club, and anyone interested in taking part in the cruise should contact him.

For further details, email Stuart Carruthers at cruising@rya.org.uk or call 0844 556 9517.

To purchase an RYA publication, simply visit www.rya.org.uk/shop or call 0844 556 9518.

Draws close 31 December 2011. The winners will be selected at random. Only one entry per person.

Members receive a 15% discount off any RYA publications.

26 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

Cruising Flying kites

Flying kites Rumours, incidents and updates you should be aware of, or may be able to help us unravel

Foreign pleasure boats now have more scope for laying-up in Norway

Foreign cruising

Thank you to everyone who replied to our requests for information in the autumn issue. The information we received, particularly in relation to experiences in Greece and Turkey, is very useful.

GREECE

We are now in possession of a translated document, which confirms that the DEKPA (which is not required for boats less than 10m in length) must be checked by a port authority every 30 days. Despite having this document, our contributor’s experience (which matches others reported to us) is that there are still some port authorities which want the DEKPA to be stamped every time – hence the general confusion.

TURKEY

The subject of wastewater in Turkey remains unclear, with many different, and often contradictory, experiences reported. We will continue to monitor the situation and would appreciate continued feedback from anyone who has: been asked to purchase a Blue Card 28 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

had their boat checked for holding tanks (black water, grey water or both) experience of pump-out facilities in Turkey.

When providing information on any of the above, please include details of exactly where you were in Turkey. Initially, the Blue Card was introduced only in the Mugla region, and we are keen to establish whether this is still the case.

NORWAY New rules for laying-up

On 5 October 2011, the Norwegian Directorate of Customs and Excise announced that it would be amending its rules relating to the laying-up of foreign pleasure boats in Norway. Boat owners, whose permanent residence is outside Norway, may now leave their yachts unattended in Norway for up to 12 months, provided that the yacht owner applies to Norwegian Customs and Excise for permission beforehand.

Previously, it was only permitted for such a yacht to be left unattended in Norway for up to six weeks during a 12-month period, and with no possibility for extending this

stay without paying temporary VAT and the Norwegian ‘horsepower tax’. This made it almost impossible for cruisers to lay-up their boats over the winter months with a view to continuing their cruise the following summer, without having to pay these substantial taxes.

At the biannual meeting of the European Boating Association (EBA) in Interlaken in October, the Secretary General of the Kongelig Norsk Baatforbund (Royal Norwegian Boating Federation), Mr Reidar Kjelsrud, confirmed the Norwegian Government’s announcement.

‘The guiding aim of the EBA is to promote leisure boating throughout Europe and keep rules and regulations to the minimum’

Wastewater in Turkey remains a murky subject

Mr Kjelsrud explained: ‘For a stay longer than the normal six weeks, it will be necessary to formally declare that you are leaving your boat in Norway, for which a form will be required, but once you have done this, you are free to leave your boat in Norway for the winter without the danger of financial penalty.

‘We are very grateful for the assistance of the EBA in our dealings with the Norwegian Government. I believe that the letter written by the President of the EBA to the Norwegian Prime Minister in support of the Royal Norwegian Boating Federation’s position was instrumental in securing this change to the rules,’ Mr Kjelsrud added.

The Secretary General of the EBA, Stuart Carruthers, RYA Cruising Manager, said, ‘I am delighted that this issue has now been resolved for the benefit of recreational boating in general. The guiding aim of the EBA is to promote leisure boating throughout Europe and keep rules, regulations or restrictions to the minimum, and the EBA was happy to support the Royal Norwegian Boating Federation in this way.’

Check several sources for a more accurate weather forecast

Closer to home

Changes to UK pet entry regulations

Defra has confirmed that the changes to the UK pet entry regulations from 1 January 2012 will not alter the requirement to enter the UK with an approved transport company on an authorised route (see www.defra. gov.uk > Wildlife and Pets > Travelling with pets > Pet Travel Scheme > Routes and transport companies).

The regulation that pet owners may not bring pets into the UK from a private boat or plane will remain in force. Pet Travel Scheme (PETS) rules for pets coming into

Defra dogged on PETS rules

the UK will change on 1 January 2012, when the UK brings its procedures into line with the European Union. Pet owners entering the UK before 1 January 2012 must comply with the current entry rules.

Contact the PETS helpline on 0870 241 1710, email Pettravel@ahvla.gsi.gov.uk or visit www.defra.gov.uk > Wildlife and Pets > Travelling with pets > Pet Travel Scheme

Weather forecasts

Following contact from a member highlighting that incorrect weather information was being displayed on the BBC website, giving a forecast that was dangerously different to the true forecast, the RYA would like to remind boaters of the importance of reviewing weather information from several sources in order to detect errors of this type.

Forecast accuracy, including that published by the BBC, is an agenda topic during the regular meetings between the RYA, the MCA and Met Office.

If you have information on any of these subjects, please let us know.

Email flying.kites@rya.org.uk or write to Flying Kites c/o Cruising at RYA House. rya.org.uk Winter 2011 29

Sailability

Raising money

RYA Sailability Sunsail Regatta – raising money for a good cause

HRH The Princess Royal attends Sailability Sunsail Regatta Held in September, the two-day RYA Sailability Sunsail Regatta saw 55 sailors from all sailing backgrounds and abilities enjoy some close racing whilst raising money for Sailability.

Racing took place on the Solent, with competitors racing in six teams on Sunsail’s new F40 racing yachts.

The sailors competed in three races, enjoying the Solent’s typical sea breeze. The day was rounded off with a three-course dinner, at the historic and exclusive Royal Yacht Squadron.

‘We had two fantastic days,’ said James Hester, who was competing for the Lloyds TSB

Commercial Finance team.

‘We are delighted to be able to support such a worthy cause.’

As well as presenting the prizes, HRH The Princess Royal congratulated teams for competing in the regatta and chatted to all of the sailors about their racing. She also praised Sailability for its work to enable people from all walks of life to be introduced to the sport.

The event was won by HPM Investments, who won all three races. Second place went to the Sunsail team, and the Hughes family team came a close third.

All proceeds from the event will go to RYA Sailability.

RYA Sailability Multiclass Regatta One hundred and fifty disabled and able-bodied sailors in 65 boats converged on Rutland Water in August to compete in the annual RYA Sailability Multiclass Regatta.

Coming from as far afield as Holland, France and Canada, as well as the UK, sailors competed in nine classes: Stratos, SKUD, Access, 2.4mR, Challenger, Sonar, SQUIB, Kinsman and Neo 495, a new class to the regatta.

Four races were sailed on Saturday, while Sunday saw all 150 sailors contesting the tworace prestigious Ken Ellis Trophy.

Twenty-two-year-old Amy Oulton from Ringwood Sailability, who suffers from a rare disability, was competing in an Access 303 at the regatta.

‘This event provides competitors with the chance

to sail alongside sailors of all abilities and experience. Some people have been sailing for years, whereas I am very new,’ said Amy. ‘The social side is fantastic, too, and I have met another lady with the same disability as me.

It’s a very special event.’

Wilma van der Broek, sailing in the Access Liberty fleet, was revealed as the overall multiclass champion and the winner of the Ken Ellis Trophy.

The multiclass regatta is part of the RYA Sailability national sailing and racing programme ‘Making Disability Plain Sailing’, which is funded jointly

by Sport England and the RYA Sailability Trust.

For more information, visit www.rya.org.uk. View the event footage at www.sailability.tv

NEW STARTER

Bob Scull, a retired policeman and co-founder of Dart Sailability in Dartmouth, has joined RYA Sailability’s south-western team as its second regional organiser. Bob will work with groups in Devon and Cornwall to develop a highly successful sailing group for people with disabilities.

Rudyard Sailability receives award

The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service was presented to Rudyard Sailability. This prestigious UK National honour recognises outstanding voluntary contributions and sets the national benchmark for excellence in volunteering, with the work of those awarded being judged to be of the highest standard.

YACHTMASTER QUIZ ANSWERS 1 Osmosis is also known as ‘fibreglass

cancer’ (a rather overly dramatic description). It occurs when water penetrates the gelcoat of a fibreglass vessel and forms small pockets that, if left untreated and in their most extreme form, can reduce the structural integrity of the vessel.

2 Clouds will gradually become heavier and lower, and as the warm front approaches, it will generally be accompanied by rain, and visibility will decrease as the warm front passes over.

3 A bilge keel yacht can dry out upright.

That is, it can be anchored or moored so that as the tide falls, the vessel will settle on its twin keels and remain upright.

30 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

4 EPIRB (Emergency Position

Identification Radio beacon)

SART (Search and Rescue Transponder)

VHF DSC alert

Red Parachute Flares

SOS (via torch or sound signal)

Displaying the flags N over C

Loud and repeated sound signals

(for example gunfire or ships horn)

Waving of arms up and down beside

the body (This is not an exhaustive list) 5 The chain weighs down the warp, ensuring that the pull from the movement of the vessel results in the anchor being dragged horizontally along

the seabed (which causes it to dig in), rather pulling vertically, which would cause it to pull free from the seabed.

6 Fog. 7 It may repeat the signals using a light.

8 The sailing vessel is the give-way vessel as it is overtaking. Its obligation is to ‘keep clear’ of the power-driven vessel until it is clear ahead of it.

9 An earring is an additional strop that is secured around the boom and through the reefing cringle of the mainsail. Its purpose is to act as a back-up in the event of the failure of the reefing line.

10 EBL – Electronic Bearing Line

VRM – Variable Range Marker

CPA – Closest Point of Approach

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A: Two-day guarantee B: Two-month guarantee C: Two-year guarantee Email your answer to competition@rya.org.uk or send your answer in on a postcard to: RYA/Chatham Marine Competition, RYA House, Ensign Way, Hamble, Southampton SO31 4YA. The closing date for entries is 3 February 2012.

For more information, visit www.chatham-marine.co.uk *Competition excludes Sloop and Schooner styles Terms & conditions: This competition is open to RYA members. Employees and family members of companies associated with this competition are not eligible to enter. Only entries received by 3 February 2012 will be entered into the draw. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

The winners will be notified by post or email. No cash alternative. Only one entry per person. The winners will be the first ten correct entries drawn. By entering this competition, you agree to receive offers and newsletters from Chatham Marine, by mail and email. If you do not agree to your information being used in this way, then either (1) do not submit an entry or (2) write clearly on your entry that you do not consent to your information being used for direct marketing purposes.

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New waterways charity named The Canal & River Trust is the new charity that will control the UK’s inland waterways The new charity being established to take over 2,000 miles of England and Wales’ canals and rivers from the Governmentowned British Waterways from next April will be called The Canal & River Trust (or Glandwr Cymru in Wales). Scotland’s waterways, currently managed by British Waterways Scotland, will be kept in the public sector and will not form part of the new trust.

In October, the transition trustees of the new trust published their first report since taking up their posts in May. It detailed their view on membership, governance, funding and management. It also provides greater detail, terms of reference and timetables for the appointment of the trust’s council and partnerships and its decision to seek three new trustees.

Initial council structure

The trustees propose to create a council that will have 50% of its members directly elected. The council will include seven members to be elected by boat licence holders, boating businesses and staff, with others nominated by different user groups and stakeholders in the built and natural environment, local government and volunteers.

Free and open

The trustees make it clear that the trust should not become a ‘shadow statutory organisation’ with only the outward appearance of a charity. It must operate freely, openly and on a level playing field with all other organisations in the charitable sector. They acknowledge that the funding contract from Defra will be key to the successful foundation of The Canal & River Trust and are hopeful that they can agree a viable arrangement before the end of the year.

‘We are encouraged by the skills and professionalism that the transitional trustees are bringing to the transition process,’ said Gus Lewis, RYA Head of Government Affairs.

‘The RYA has expressed a number of concerns over the future of the new charity, which we know the trustees recognise. We will continue to work with the trustees over the coming months in an effort to ensure that the new charity is placed on the best possible footing.’

RYA concerns include: The new charity must be financially and politically independent The constitution must facilitate the transfer of other inland waterways to the new charity in the future

The mission statement should emphasise the maintenance and availability of the connected waterways network and associated infrastructure for navigation The new charity must be seen by users of the waterways as being a user-led and user-governed organisation.

River Thames and Port Meadow, near Oxford

For the latest news on the new waterways charity, visit www.rya.org.uk/go/ currentaffairs rya.org.uk Winter 2011 35

Environment The Green Blue

The America’s Cup is one of the biggest sailing events in the world

Greening events

The Green Blue ensures events such as the Olympic Regatta and the America’s Cup have a minimal impact on the environment The Green Blue has worked with the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy to become the first Olympic and Paralympic Venue to have a fully certified Sustainable Event Management System (BS 8901), beating the likes of Wembley, Wimbledon and the Millennium Stadium, as well as any other sailing venue across the world. This work, to deliver a sustainable sailing event, caught the attention of the America’s Cup Event Authority, whom we have also advised.

Whilst these two events inherently use a lot of resources and create copious amounts of emissions from travel and support boats, the organisers have sustainability engrained into the event, which can only

be a positive thing. These regattas perhaps offer the two most highly sought-after crowns for any competitive sailor, and so the way they are managed has the potential to be hugely influential.

Dan Reading, RYA Sustainability Officer, has been involved with managing the sustainability issues surrounding these events. He said, ‘Normally the first question I get asked is “what does that mean?”

‘Sustainability covers a wide range of issues, but the ones common to all sailing events would be ensuring that no oil or fuel is spilt into the water, making sure that shoreside facilities offer places to recycle waste and ensuring that no rubbish makes its way into the water.’

‘Sustainability would be making sure that shoreside facilities offer places to recycle waste’

36 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

Considered the Formula 1 of the sailing world, the America’s Cup (AC) event means The Green Blue tries to cater for the clientele and manage the differing issues that may arise. For instance, at the AC World Series in Plymouth, we had facilities for teams to recycle carbon fibre from broken masts or other components resulting from the dramatic crashes that we have seen in this and similar classes, such as the eXtreme 40s.

One of the lesser-known issues is the spread of non-native invasive species – marine life brought into UK waters on the hulls of ships. These often have an economic impact on boating, fishing and aquaculture.

Making sure that the teams don’t bring any nasties to our sailing waters is high on the to-do list, as well as making sure the British team doesn’t spread the nasties already found in some corners of the UK. The Weymouth and Portland Sailing Test Event was a great success and it was rewarding to see how, by specifying environmental considerations in the procurement process, the suppliers were all helping to achieve some of the same goals.

The main objectives for organising a sustainable sailing event are: manage oil and fuel properly; ensure waste is effectively segregated; discard no litter into the water; ensure your vision is promoted through your supply chain; promote the use of pump-out facilities; reduce the amount of energy used; and prevent the spread of non-native species.

If you’re organising a sailing regatta, please get in touch and we can give you some free advice. Email info@thegreenblue.org.uk or call 023 8060 4227.

Government

The Green Blue news Scottish round-up

Funding from Scottish Natural Heritage has allowed The Green Blue to have a staff member in Scotland for the past two years.

Sarah Brown, Regional Advisor, has been able to engage with 29 marine businesses and clubs during this time.

Many sites have been environmentally audited and an action plan put in place, resulting in reduced environmental impacts, cost savings and projects. This has made the clubs and marinas more economically and environmentally sustainable.

The 29 sites accommodate approximately 4,000 boats, and have a membership in excess of 10,000 individuals. Some examples of its work include: Oban Marina audited its energy consumption, which led to a large reduction in energy use and a saving of £9,000 per annum.

Helensburgh Sailing Club examined its water use and accessed a grant to install a rainwater harvesting system, reducing mains water consumption and saving it more than £1,000 per annum.

An environment policy at Crinan Classic Boat Festival has been implemented, which has driven a sustainable procurement initiative.

Ardfern Marina has implemented a range of energy- and water-saving measures, saving thousands of pounds whilst accessing new markets by stocking a range of environmentally friendly products in its chandlery.

Cramond Boat Club successfully bid for a grant to buy a new wash-down system, which enables it to minimise water and chemical cleaner use, massively reducing its impact on the local environment and water quality.

Sail Training International invited TGBS to the Tall Ships event at Greenock. TGBS ran a wildlife competition for the crews and gave talks on seven ships. It also spoke to all captains and made them aware of their responsibilities regarding wildlife law whilst in Scotland.

TGBS has fully engaged with Scottish Natural Heritage on the issues regarding non-native invasive species, producing posters and doing awareness-raising talks and events. We have helped marina managers to amend their berth-holder contracts and maintenance schemes to help reduce the problem in Scotland.

To reach as many boaters as possible, we have worked with Welcome Anchorages to include environmental information

in their annual guide and, with Yachting Life, to ensure environmental issues are covered.

During the past two years, The Green Blue in Scotland has held conferences, organised meetings and participated in more than 30 events at which it has addressed in excess of 2,400 people. It has

Many sites have been environmentally audited and an action plan put in place, resulting in reduced environmental impacts, cost savings and projects

also worked with partners such as the WiSe Scheme to train sailing instructors on dealing with wildlife they encounter, and how to run their boats in a sustainable and lowimpact manner.

In terms of climate change, it works on the basis that, on average, they can save a large marina about £5,000 and a smaller club about £2,000, by following its advice. Using the Carbon Trust website, it can estimate tonnes of CO2 saved from the energy cost savings. The total estimated saving of £82,737 equates to an annual reduction of 890 tonnes of CO2 in Scotland alone.

An environmental audit at Oban Marina led to a £9,000 saving per annum

Scottish sailor receives The Green Blue’s individual Environmental Excellence Award Carol Gilles from Toward Sailing Club, Argyll, was presented with The Green Blue’s Inaugural Award for Individual Environmental Excellence at PSP Southampton Boat Show in September.

Always environmentally aware, Carol (pictured above, left) has implemented a number of environmental actions at Toward Club. Environmental awareness updates feature regularly in the club’s newsletters – 90% of which are now electronic. She introduced recycling to the clubhouse, which she monitors on a regular basis, and is active in encouraging members to dispose of rubbish in an environmentally friendly way.

The club has encouraged members to fill their outboards as far away from the shoreline as possible in order to prevent spills into the water. Throwing cans or bottles, far less any plastic rubbish, overboard is now unthinkable at the club.

The Environmental Excellence Award is presented to an individual within the UK recreational boating sector, who has been an inspirational leader or hardworking champion of sustainability within their organisation, club, training centre or business.

The Environmental Excellence trophy will be an annual award and was established to honour the memory of Sally Banham, who sadly passed away in 2008. Sally spent many years working to improve environmental awareness across the recreational marine sector, and was instrumental in creating The Green Blue.

rya.org.uk Winter 2011 37

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Email your answer to competition@rya.org.uk or on a postcard please to: RYA/Nautical Company Competition, RYA House, Ensign Way, Hamble, Southampton SO31 4YA. Closing Date: 3 February 2012

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rya.org.uk Winter 2011 39

Current Environment Affairs

Joining the party The RYA’s role at the autumn political conferences The RYA once again joined forces with the British Marine Federation (BMF), British Canoe Union (BCU) and Inland Waterways Association (IWA), under the umbrella of the Boating Alliance, at this year’s Labour and Conservative Party conferences.

Attending Party conferences is an important element of our public affairs work; it increases our visibility among politicians and enables us to meet new MPs who have an interest in our sector.

Often, we have only a few minutes to engage an MP, so it’s vitally important that we are ready with a brief and succinct pitch. This year we were armed with our newly published RYA Manifesto, which was very well received by MPs. With the launch of the new waterways charity – the Canal & River Trust – that will take over British Waterways’ responsibilities just six months away, we were pleased to talk to Richard Benyon MP, Waterways Minister, who also has responsibility for marine conservation, and Gavin Shuker MP, the Shadow Waterways Minister.

The EBA aims to ensure boat users are informed about EU legislation

Richard Benyon MP

We also took part in a fringe meeting run at both conferences on the ‘Balanced Regulation of Sport’, organised by the Motor Sports Association, at which a number of leading MPs were present.

We promoted the RYA’s principle that ‘regulation of an activity does not of itself necessarily enhance safety nor prevent inappropriate or unacceptable behaviour’, a view shared among other sports.

What’s bothering Europe?

We were also able to talk to: Damian Green MP, Minister for Immigration, about the e-Borders programme; Maria Eagle MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Transport, and Jim Fitzpatrick MP, Shadow Shipping Minister, about the Coastguard reorganisation; Brandon Lewis MP, Great Yarmouth, about the Broads; as well as Sheryll Murray MP, South East Cornwall, about concerns over moorings in that area. We also chatted with Anne McIntosh MP, who chairs the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee, and Dr Therese Coffey MP, who sits on the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee.

40 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

The European Boating Association (EBA) aims to ensure boat users are informed and consulted about EU legislation and to make their views known to relevant European institutions.

The European Commission (EC) has commissioned a study to examine the impact of extending security measures contained in the International Maritime Organisation’s security guidelines for non-SOLAS shipping to recreational craft.

Currently, the security chapter of SOLAS applies only to cargo vessels weighing more than 500 gross tons and passenger ships on international voyages. The EC is becoming increasingly

concerned by the threat posed by terrorist attacks involving the use of recreational craft, such as the USS Cole, Limberg and the attacks in Mumbai, which resulted in death and injury, and, in future, may even close ports.

The EBA noted that one of the primary aims of the study was to examine the registration process for recreational craft and the maintenance of a centralised computer database.

EBA members unanimously agree that the emerging proposal for a European registry system itself would be disproportionate and ineffective in improving security within Europe, and that there is little or no evidence that such a system is needed. The EBA will resist such a proposal and will seek to influence the study.

Abandonment of boats For some time now, the disposal of abandoned recreational craft has been of great concern to a number of EBA members, particularly the Nordic countries.

Government

Current affairs round-up RYA challenges Belgian authorities over red diesel The RYA will be meeting with the EC in the next two months to discuss this matter. We will impress on the EC again our view that it is not lawful for the Belgian authorities to penalise boaters navigating in European waters, who have lawfully purchased marked red diesel in their fuel tanks.

Terrorist attacks, such as that on the USS Cole, is causing the EC increasing concern

The Canal & River Trust will manage over 2,000 miles of England and Wales’s inland waterways

Above: The security chapter of SOLAS applies to cargo vessels over 500 gross tons and passenger ships on international voyages Left: The RYA Manifesto Far left: Gavin Shuker MP

Recently, Stuart Carruthers, Cruising Manager, was invited by the EU Commission, as the General Secretary of the EBA, to attend an interim presentation on the recovery and disposal of abandoned vessels, which had been started in November 2010.

The EBA’s view of the preliminary findings is that there were serious deficiencies in the data presented by the consultants and that the study lacked clear focus on what it was trying to achieve. Regrettably, the consultant team had not spoken to the EBA or marine industry representatives and, as a result, showed a clear lack of knowledge or understanding of recreational boats, boat users, the ‘lifespan’ of a boat or how to deal with a legacy problem that could include six million boats already in service.

It is clear that a much more detailed study is needed to produce realistic proposals. The EBA will be seeking to ensure that this is done using the knowledge that EBA members and industry representatives can provide.

EU infringement proceedings against the UK over red diesel Justine Greening MP, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, has confirmed in a letter to the RYA that the Government ‘continues to believe that procedures in the UK comply with both the Energy Products Directive and the Fiscal Marking Directive, and we intend to reply to the Commission to that effect.’

Marine Conservation Zones The Joint Nature Conservation Committee and Natural England are currently reviewing the proposed MCZs for England put together by the four MCZ projects.

Round 3 wind farm development To date, Eneco is the only wind farm developer to have defined its proposed sea area for development: named Navitus Bay, off the Isle of Wight. Eneco has held a number of public information meetings, most recently at the Royal Yacht Squadron on the Isle of Wight.

New dredging consent requirement The RYA continues to talk with the Marine Management Organisation and has written to the minister in order to ensure that the new system of obtaining consent for dredging is not unduly onerous on clubs and training centres, either administratively or financially.

rya.org.uk Winter 2011 41

The trials of Socrates Jeanne Socrates entered the record books last May when she completed her first solo circumnavigation, via Cape Horn, at 68 years old. She is now preparing for her third non-stop solo circumnavigation attempt.

Jan Dodd caught up with her in South Africa

J

eanne Socrates discovered yachting in 1994, when she and husband George strolled into a Competent Crew course on the Solent. The couple had taken up windsurfing and dinghy sailing a few years earlier, and Jeanne thought yachting would be boring by comparison. By the end of the course, she was hooked.

‘It was way different from what I was expecting, often very exciting,’ Jeanne recalls. And the other aspects of yachting, such as navigation and living onboard, which she had not considered, simply added to the attraction.

Her initial enthusiasm was confirmed during a week’s flotilla holiday in Greece that summer. She then worked her 42 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

way up through the various RYA courses and qualifications, from Day Skipper to Yachtmaster Offshore in 1997.

It was during the summer of 1997 that Jeanne and George began early retirement and took delivery of their first yacht, Nereida, a Najad 361, built in Sweden. They sailed her back to England via Norway, Denmark and the Netherlands, and then began planning their next big adventure: sailing from the Hamble south to Spain and Portugal, before heading across the Atlantic in November 1999. En route, Jeanne completed her Yachtmaster Ocean qualification.

The next two years fulfilled every sailor’s dream, cruising up the coast of the Americas from the Windward Islands to Nova Scotia, then back to the Caribbean. In September

Victoria

Canaries Zihuatanejo

Caribbean

Panama Canal Bali Tahiti

Cape Town Falklands Ushuaia

Non-stop solo circumnavigation attempts Other circumnavigation voyages

rya.org.uk Winter 2011 43

2001, however, tragedy struck. George was diagnosed with Zihuatanejo again when disaster struck. Just before dawn cancer and, sadly, passed away in March 2003. on 19 June 2008, Jeanne was taking a short nap in calm But Jeanne wasn’t ready to give up sailing. She loved conditions while motoring a few miles off the coast, when the life onboard, exploring new places, the friends and an electrical problem caused her autopilot to stop working. the undoubted challenges. She decided to carry on alone.

Nereida changed course – and ran aground on a steep surf ‘It was quite a daunting task, getting to know the various beach in the middle of nowhere. Jeanne was woken by systems onboard Nereida and dealing with a variety of waves breaking over the boat. problems,’ she wrote later. But, with the advice and support Struggling to get the anchor up the beach to secure the of boating friends, in 2004, Jeanne plucked boat, she came close to drowning a couple of up the courage to set sail. As she headed times. ‘If I had not lowered the chain, so I was north to Fort Lauderdale, completing several able to hook my arm around it, I would have extended passages, she gradually gained been swept out to sea,’ she recalls. In the end, confidence, learning as she went along. she escaped with a few cuts and bruises, but ‘You have to be able to fix Nereida was doomed. But she had no thoughts things, or find another A string of disasters of giving up. ‘By the time I realised my beloved way… You might as well The next big step came in 2006, when boat was lost, I was already thinking about Jeanne joined the Singlehanded TransPacific the next one,’ she remembers. And, by midgive up if you can’t’ Race from San Francisco to Hawaii. The August, she was signing a contract for her three-week race was Jeanne’s longest solo next boat, a Najad 380. ocean passage, and a really good learning While the new boat – also called Nereida, in experience, she remembers. honour of her predecessor – was being fitted Later, as Jeanne sailed from Alaska down to Mexico, the out in early 2009, Jeanne wondered what to do next. She idea of doing a solo round-the-world trip began to take thought it would be fun to join the 2010 TransPacific, but hold. It was partly for the challenge and the chance to see how to get to San Francisco? Aware that she had narrowly so many places, but Jeanne also felt it was the right time. missed success in her first circumnavigation attempt and ‘My husband had died of cancer, and other friends, too inspired by the Vendée Globe round-the-world race, Jeanne had passed away, so I began to think, what if?’ she recalls. decided to try for non-stop this time.

As much as anything, a solo circumnavigation was simply After a false start from the Canary Isles, which she had something she wanted to do, to tick off the list. to abandon 61 days later in Cape Town to carry out urgent Jeanne embarked on her first attempt, from Zihuatanejo repairs, Jeanne eventually set off on an official non-stop in Mexico in March 2007, heading westwards via Tahiti, attempt from Victoria, British Columbia, in October 2010.

Australia, Bali, Cape Town and the Caribbean before This time she managed 75 days at sea, arriving in Ushuaia, transiting the Panama Canal. She was only 60 miles from Argentina, for repairs after being knocked down on 44 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

5 January, while lying hove-to about 100 miles west of Cape Horn, waiting for bad weather to pass. In winds of up to 40 knots and six-metre seas, a far bigger wave knocked Nereida on her side, before she slowly righted herself.

By a stroke of luck, Jeanne was below when ‘all hell let loose’. The knockdown snapped the boom in two, smashed the windscreen windows, broke the washboard, staysail furler and carbon pole, and ripped away the sprayhood. Everything was drenched and thrown into chaos.

‘It was devastating,’ Jeanne recalls. ‘Normally, I can cope with things, prioritise them, but in this case there were so many things that were really bad.’

Overcoming obstacles

Nevertheless, Jeanne picked herself up. The good news was that most of the instruments, radio and engine were still working. She also got a huge boost from being able to talk to the Falmouth Coastguard. Jeanne eventually sailed round Cape Horn under genoa and limped into Ushuaia.

After a couple of frustrating months getting Nereida repaired, Jeanne set sail again in March 2011, stopping briefly in the Falklands before heading to Cape Town. As she approached the city, Jeanne realised that she was going to cross her 2009 track from the Canaries to Cape Town, so completing a singlehanded circumnavigation, which she did on 6 May. Since then, Jeanne has been working on her boat, now moored in Simon’s Town, already preparing for her next solo non-stop attempt, which she plans to start from Victoria next autumn. In the meantime, she is making sure the boat is properly watertight, the instrumentation working well and everything stowed more securely.

From left to right: Jeanne on Nereida, preparing to leave Hamble; moored at Harberton, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina; at anchor after rounding Cape Horn, Chile; Nereida at Port Townsend, Washington, USA

But first, she has to get to Victoria. If all goes to plan, Jeanne will leave South Africa mid-January, sailing via Perth and Hobart and then on south, hoping to round the two Great Capes she has not yet passed by – those of Tasmania and New Zealand. On the way, she will work on improving her storm-weather tactics; she wants to continue experimenting with heaving-to under mainsail only, without using a headsail.

When asked what makes a good singlehanded sailor, Jeanne reckons determination is the number one criterion.

Being fairly petite, Jeanne has also learnt to anticipate situations; she also trusts her boat implicitly; planning is equally important, and Jeanne has found her RYA courses extremely useful. But perhaps the most vital attribute is the ability to cope with whatever is thrown your way.

‘You have to be able to fix things, or find another way through using lateral thinking,’ Jeanne says. ‘You might as well give up if you can’t.’ All her determination will undoubtedly be put to the test as she continues the quest to complete a solo non-stop circumnavigation, but Jeanne says she never thinks of giving up.

‘I will keep going as long as I can, as long as I am physically able,’ she asserts. Besides the challenges, every voyage brings its highlights, too, whether it’s ‘being exhilarated in the middle of the ocean, with the boat sailing beautifully’, or watching ‘a wandering albatross gliding by the boat, fixing you in the eye, as if to ask what you are doing there’. No doubt, the albatross will be keeping an eye on Jeanne as she heads for the record books once again.

You can follow Jeanne’s progress via her daily logs, posted on her website www.svnereida.com, and sign up to sponsor her in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care. rya.org.uk Winter 2011 45

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Reeds Nautical Almanac 2012 Members’ price: £33.99 (rrp £39.99) Order code: ZM22 The indispensable and trusted annual compendium of navigational data. Don’t forget about its sister titles, Reeds Channel Almanac (RRP £29.99) and Reeds Looseleaf Almanac 2012 (RRP £39.99).

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RYA Volvo Dinghy Show tickets The perfect present for dinghy sailors. Adult and child tickets available – with special discounts for RYA members. To order, call 0844 811 0409 or visit www.rya.org.uk/programmes/dinghyshow

Ordering couldn’t be easier. Order online at www.rya.org.uk or call 0844 556 9518. RYA members receive a 15% discount on all items and free p&p on all orders over £25 in the UK, and over £40 overseas. rya.org.uk Winter 2011 47

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Chatham Marine’s new winter footwear collection makes shopping for Christmas gifts much easier. The gorgeous men’s sheepskin deck boot – the Shawn G2 – is made from premium soft grained leather and is furry on the inside, offering the ultimate in comfort, whilst the ‘sticky’ recyclable rubber sole provides brilliant onboard grip. Perfect for the sailor in your life, the Cruz II (pictured) is a 100% waterproof sailing boot made of premium smooth leather.

It comes midway up the calf, looks great and will keep the water out this winter. Buy online (at www.chatham-marine.co.uk), from John Lewis stores, plus chandleries and independent retailers nationwide, or call 0845 2700 217.

As the season draws to a close, it’s time to reflect on the year’s successes. What better way than to serve ‘Winter Wight’ Champagne cocktails to friends and crew over the holiday?

Being seven times distilled, the award-winning Wight Vodka® can be mixed with cranberry juice and Champagne which, when served by the fireside, will certainly get the tall tales flowing! To secure a bottle for your yacht, contact the boutique brand owners at 50° North on sales@50degreesnorth.co.uk or visit www.wightvodka.com. And when enjoying your Wight Vodka cocktails on a cold winter’s night, remember the distiller’s tag line to Tack & Gybe Responsibly!®

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Innovative work from VisitMyHarbour.com (the pilotage website) gives members ‘fullscreen’ access to 1,667 official charts online.

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The free-standing Desk Calendar (25x15cm) is printed on both sides and features 12 different sailing pictures from the world circuit. £5.75 (+p&p).

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ON THE WATER

Mad about windsurfing? …sign up to Project Windsurf-UK

If you eat, sleep and think windsurfing, then you need to sign up to Project Windsurf-UK! Project Windsurf-UK is a brand-new RYA initiative dedicated to windsurfers across the country. It aims to promote windsurfing clubs and groups in the UK, and link individual windsurfers with these groups, encouraging windsurfers to take to the water more often and enjoy the social aspect of a club/group environment.

Simply by signing up as an online member, windsurfers old and new can share ideas through blogs and forum posts, and upload windsurfing photos and videos. Registered groups can further promote their activity through their own group’s pages, post events and link to their own website if they have one.

But, most importantly, the project aims to progress sailors from chatting online to

Winter programmes for clubs RYA Race Officials have been offering evening racing rules sessions to clubs for several years – these have been light-hearted

Take to the water with other windsurfers

getting out on the water, windsurfing with their group.

Project Windsurf-UK also provides new groups and clubs without a website, with a free template website tool, enabling them to develop their own website within a website; making it even easier for people to see what they have to offer and get in touch.

Gordon Roach who is part of the scheme, said, ‘Our club, Trent Windsurfing Club, is based in the Midlands, halfway between Nottingham and Derby, and we’re always looking for ways to get our members to be more active, and we think this will really inspire them. Project Windsurf-UK is also the perfect tool to put us in touch with potential new windsurfing members.’

Any kind of windsurfing group or club can register, providing their intention is to encourage regular windsurfing activity on the water as part of a social scene. So ‘virtual’ or roaming clubs can sign up, as can sailing

talks, concentrating on the rules that many sailors find difficult or misunderstand. These popular talks have now been extended to include many other aspects of racing, giving clubs more choice and enabling them to plan subjects for this winter’s evening activities.

Topics include: Training for your race officers Improving rules knowledge Training Rules Advisers to resolve rules disputes Training mark layers in the latest methods

clubs that have an interest in windsurfing, existing windsurfing clubs and ‘commercial’ windsurfing clubs attached to training centres, and the project provides an ideal lead-on for ex-Team15 sailors to create their own local group.

Visit www.projectwindsurfuk.org.uk

Learn to get the best out of your GPS The latest advice on safety at large dinghy events.

Other clubs have requested a day’s training on a particular aspect of organising racing.

Tailor-made and interactive, with video footage and quizzes, they provide a high level of learning and motivation.

Using grants from various sporting bodies, the RYA is able to provide these sessions at little or no cost to the clubs. The most any club will be asked to pay will

be the travel and accommodation if applicable, but this is capped at £80.

Seminars for regional or national RYA Race Official qualifications are also available, but these, mainly two-day events, cost £75 per person.

For more information, visit www.rya.org.uk/raceofficials.

For details on how to contact your regional coordinator for the club courses, contact Chris Watts or Jacqui Roberts at RYA House. rya.org.uk Winter 2011 51

On the water Offshore race training

From a hard place to a Rock

As RYA PR and Press Officer, Emma Slater is usually reading or writing about other people’s sea tales, but last year she decided to take part in her own challenging adventure

I started sailing back in 2009, after my boyfriend, Rab, introduced me to yacht cruising. He’s an RYA Yachtmaster Instructor and offshore racer, so I felt I was in good hands. It wasn’t long before I was quickly hooked, spending many weekends cruising around the Solent, taking sailing holidays and making longer passages, both for enjoyment and to enable me to work towards my RYA qualifications.

Wanting a challenge, and in a moment of madness, I pondered competing in the Rolex Fastnet Race. Before I knew it, I was signed up with a local crew and making preparations for training and qualifiers.

Getting started I found an RYA-recognised SEPT training centre base close to 2010 the Solent that was looking for crew for the race, and signed up for race training, a sea survival course, three qualifying races and the Fastnet itself, onboard a Sigma 400. Rab signed up, too.

First the training Time for sea survival and MAR heavy-weather sail training.

2011 We started by spending time rigging and de-rigging heavy-weather sails, and going through all the safety aspects of the boat before heading to the classroom for our RYA Sea Survival course. Although I was unable to make it, the others followed this by a session with a liferaft in the pool.

Our first opportunity to

EASTER get some miles under our

2011 belts as a team. We headed across the Channel to Cherbourg – my The Fastnet Rock, southern Ireland

52 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

first-ever Channel crossing. We cruised over, which gave us the chance to get to grips with spinnakers and introduce watch-keeping routines, before heading back across the Channel, racing in one of the JOG races to Cowes. Although this gave us the opportunity to practise racing, it didn’t count towards our qualifying mileage, which had to be in RORC-organised events.

Qualifying Our first qualifier – the MAY Cervantes Trophy – racing

2011 from Cowes to Le Havre with an estimated race time of one day, four hours.

Unfortunately, I got hit on the head by a fellow crew member’s elbow, giving me a mild concussion. I spent half the race below decks, but it was reassuring to know that we had crew onboard who were trained in first aid and could look after me. I realised how having an injured person onboard not only takes a person off the crew, but also means other people have to spend time checking on them and taking over their watches and duties.

Our next qualifier – the RORC Morgan Cup – a race 2011 from Cowes to Cherbourg.

We’d checked the weather reports and were aware there was bad weather heading our way, so we made preparations for strong winds.

Initially, there was an eerie calm as we headed east out of Cowes towards our first mark. With a late-afternoon start, it wasn’t long

JUNE

before it started getting dark and the weather started to turn.

By 2300 the wind was around Force 8-9 and the swell between three and five metres. This was the first time I had experienced weather like this, so when I was asked to head up to the bow to help set the storm jib, I admit I was pretty nervous.

After what seemed an eternity sitting waste-deep in water, holding on to the sail as it was hanked on and clinging to the mast, our watch was over and I could go below decks to get warm, dry and rested. There were several incidents onboard other yachts and, ultimately, due to the conditions, we retired from the race and headed back to Gosport.

Time for our final qualifier.

Due to our retirement from 2011 the Morgan Cup, we were a few miles short of the requirement for the Fastnet, so we had to ensure we finished this race. This was to be my longest race yet – the Cowes-

JULY

I had a big smile on my face as we passed through the gate to confirm we were here to race

Dinard-St Malo race, approximately 164 miles and estimated to take two days. This time, the weather was a bit kinder, with sunshine and a good wind that suited the boat.

I really enjoyed this race. Conditions were great, and I got to fully appreciate that feeling of being out of sight of land with just the sea and horizon ahead. My sailing skills were also definitely improving and I was feeling a lot more confident moving around the boat. I was looking forward to the Fastnet race.

Finally � the race I had a big smile on my AUG face as we passed through

2011 the gate to confirm we were here to race, with storm jib, boat name and number all set. There were definitely a few butterflies, too, but I couldn’t wait to get started.

It wasn’t long before we were in our routine watch pattern, sorting meals, trimming the sails and taking in the scenery.

There were some spectacular sunrises and sunsets, and seeing the dolphins playing in the bow wave was amazing. I even heard them squeaking to each other as I lay in my bunk with my ear pressed on the hull. Another great moment was when a pilot whale surfaced just in front of the boat as we neared Land’s End. As we headed across the Irish Sea towards The Rock, the weather remained fair, but when we were just two or three miles from it, the wind dropped and we only managed two

rya.org.uk Winter 2011 53

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On the water Offshore race training TAKE THE COURSE

If you’re new to racing or sail or motor cruising, you’ll enjoy it a lot more if you feel competent, useful (no one wants to be just ballast on the rail!) and, of course, safe. The RYA has a course for all ages and ability, so set yourself up by taking one of the following courses:

Competent Crew

This ‘hands on’ course is perfect for beginners and anyone who wants to be an active crew member.

Experience living onboard and really get to know the boat. By the end of the course you should be able to steer, handle sails, keep a lookout, row a dinghy and assist in all the day-to-day duties onboard. You should also have visited some interesting places and had an enjoyable holiday. This is a fiveday course and no previous course experience or knowledge is necessary.

Essential Navigation & Seamanship miles in three hours! I was off watch at the time, so slept through it, but well done to my fellow crewmates who stuck with it and kept the boat moving.

Thankfully, when I came back on deck, the wind began to fill in again. The Fastnet Rock itself is quite a sight, not really what I had expected, although, thinking back, I’m not sure what I expected.

Heading for the finish

Once around The Rock, we had the long push back to Plymouth. We rounded the Pantaenius mark and headed for home. As we made our way towards Lizard Point, we were amazed how many boats were around us. As we crept closer, yet more boats came into view.

But by the time we reached the Lizard, the wind dropped, so we all bobbed around together, looking for gusts in each other’s sails, wind shadows in the distance and any kind of tactical advantage we could find.

We were now heading into the early hours of Friday morning and we found ourselves near the front of some 90 boats, all making the slow crawl to the finish. Rab was on the helm as we crossed the finish line. It was 0130 and we had been at sea for five and a half days.

After mooring up and enjoying a celebratory glass of Champagne, Rab and I made our way over to the crew party.

It was great getting together with fellow racers to share stories, adventures and celebrate what we’d all just achieved. Our result was a very respectable 32nd in our class and 150th overall.

It would be safe to say that I now officially have the sailing bug and I am racing regularly with the crew of Marta, a Sigma 38, who we met in the bar after the Fastnet. Who knows where the wind will take me next?

This popular classroom course is now available as an online course as part of our RYA Interactive e-learning site, www.ryainteractive.org. It offers a great introduction to navigation and safety awareness for new, inexperienced or rusty skippers and crew or anyone interested in sailing, motorboating, sea angling or diving.

The classroom course is taught over 16 hours, with exercises to complete along the way. It can be covered as a series of short sessions or over two full days. The online course will take around six hours, but with the added bonus of being able to work through it at your own speed, whenever and wherever you like.

First Aid

Aimed at anyone who goes afloat, our one-day course covers all the usual first-aid subjects, but from a boating perspective. In a medical emergency, a little first-aid knowledge and immediate action can save lives, especially in remote locations.

RYA Sea Survival

It is a well-proven fact that, in the event of an emergency at sea, people with training are more likely to survive.

The RYA Sea Survival course is a one-day course for anyone going to sea.

It provides an understanding of how to use the safety equipment onboard your boat, and could be a genuine lifesaver.

An important part of the course is a practical session in a swimming pool. Experience first-hand the problems of entering an uncooperative liferaft and assisting others while fully kitted out in wet-weather gear and a lifejacket.

For more information and to book a place on one of our courses, visit www.rya.org.uk/coursestraining

rya.org.uk Winter 2011 55

On the water RYA Portsmouth Yardstick Scheme

PYS is turning 60 The Portsmouth Yardstick Scheme is used by clubs around the world Since 1952, the Portsmouth Yardstick Scheme (PYS) has been key is that in the background the RYA is starting to slice up the data into in enabling the RYA to provide clubs with a platform to race finer portions in order to offer more specific advice to clubs. boats of different types against each other fairly. In 2012 the PYS Previously, there has been an amalgamation of the data regardless hits a major milestone in its life, celebrating its of water type or class variation. With the data being 60th anniversary. It has come a long way from sent via the website, the RYA now has the ability its origins in Portsmouth Harbour, catering for to look at a boat’s performance in different water a handful of dinghies. conditions, as well as its age, via its sail number.

Today, the PYS is used in races up and down This will enable the RYA to filter out some of the The scheme has the country, used by clubs sailing on small inland anomalies with development classes, such as the adapted, turning gravel pits to open-water clubs and key winter Merlin-Rocket, whose boats have got faster as time events such as the Bloody Mary. It has branched goes on. to technology out from dinghies into cruiser racing as well as Last performed in 2006, a water type-based to capture and multihulls, and has spread throughout the world, analysis is currently being conducted, with a being adopted in format in the US, Singapore, decision being made shortly as to whether to evaluate data Hong Kong and Australia. publish separate lists or not. Bas Edmonds, RYA Developments have predominantly been led by Technical Manager, comments, ‘The only reason the sailing public, which has constantly pushed why the RYA would publish separate lists would for the scheme to remain relevant to how boats are be if there was a clear and consistent trend or actually sailed and the technology available. Carbon masts, laminate adjustment that could be linked across a variety of classes. We would sailcloths and moulded hulls have all led to changes in the boats certainly not publish this if there were conflicting trends across raced under the PYS. To counter this, the scheme itself has adapted, water type or classes, as this would cause more confusion and put turning to technology to capture and evaluate data. the clubs under greater pressures from their sailors. It certainly has A key step in this was the development in 2008 of the RYA Race turned out to be an interesting process and the data sent in via the Results Analysis website, which collates club race results and offers website is turning out to be invaluable in helping the Portsmouth suggested amendments back to each club. What is not widely known Yardstick Group analyse the data.’

Website development As part of the scheme’s 60th anniversary, the RYA Technical Department is looking to reinvigorate the Portsmouth Yardstick, with the RYA Volvo Dinghy Show being the key

56 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

launch event. The website is undergoing major development work over the winter and the support documentation is being completely rewritten. On top of this, the Technical Department plans to spread the word via talks to sailing clubs and

associations to show off the Portsmouth Yardstick’s capabilities to the full.

If you are interested in this or the scheme itself, please contact the RYA Technical Department on 023 80 60 4200 or email andy.wibroe@rya.org.uk

On the water The team behind the team

Using analysis to help Britain’s Olympic sailors In a case of role reversal, Simon Briscoe found himself on the couch when we dissected his role as Performance Analyst for Skandia Team GBR Explain your role…

Well, my equivalent in football is the guy who codes the video into each individual pass, tackle, corner, etc, and makes it available for the coach at half time, does the stats on them to give a report to the manager afterwards, etc.

Of course, in sailing we don’t have the luxury of nice fixed camera positions, so we have to be a bit more inventive. We use technologies like GPS to help us out where possible. In essence, my job is to constantly push the team forward by using the feedback evidence.

At times, that means me gathering and delivering information, and at other times, it’s a case of enabling the coaches and sports science team to up their game.

How did you get into the job?

Not the usual way! I was an engineer by trade. My jobs before this have been in Formula 1 Vehicle Dynamics (Jordan Grand Prix) and developing engines for Ford.

I always used to race big boats at the weekends, whenever I could, and always used to bug a good friend of mine on the team (who was the previous meteorologist), asking her why they didn’t measure ‘x’ because then you could calculate ‘y’ and optimise ‘z’ from that… Getting sick of me bugging her, when she found out my predecessor was leaving, she told me to put my money where my mouth was. Five years on, here I am.

hours when the sailors are out, but these times are few and far between and often I am asked out on the water to ensure we get good data.

Will your role change now it’s t-8 to the Games?

It becomes focused on a specific group of people – the chosen sailors to represent Great Britain. It’s about delivering their goals over the next eight months. Frankly, all other requests are a big second on the priority list.

Top and above: Simon Briscoe is Performance Analyst for Skandia Team GBR Below: Upping the game – Simon’s analysis is crucial to push the team forward

What will be your role during the Olympics?

Gathering feedback information for the coaches, from TV feed to results analysis. At the Olympics everything is closed down much more than a ‘normal’ regatta – and because of that, gathering evidence on performance to base an objective debrief around becomes hard. Objective debriefs are essential to remove emotion and assumption from the process as much as possible and get to the real key points of the day.

Any tips for the average sailor?

Keep your mind and your eyes open, and measure everything you can. The better you can objectively understand everything about your sailing, the quicker and more reliably you can learn from it, improve the bad things and repeat the good things.

Everyone’s opinion and thoughts are worth hearing.

What’s a typical day for you?

As most people will tell you, there is no typical day in our team! The only thing typical is early mornings to make sure set-up work is done and late nights to get analysis done. Occasionally, sanity is able to reign for a few short rya.org.uk Winter 2011 57

On the water Racing

Young champions Whether it’s power or sail, youngsters have been showcasing their skills at RYA events during the past few months Windsurfing warriors

One hundred young windsurfers, from nine teams across the UK, took to the water at Pitsford Reservoir in October to compete in the 2011 Team15 Champions Cup. After dominating the regional heats throughout the season, and despite fierce competition, West Kirby Warriors from the West Zone dominated the national final and were crowned this year’s Team15 (T15) champion of champions.

Sailing in four different classes – the 3.5m, 4.5m, 5.8m and Techno 6.8m – the young competitors sailed two courses, competing in nine different races and one fun race to round up the weekend.

Tadhg Al-Hassan (11) from the Oxford Zoomers, who was at the event for the first time, said: ‘I would recommend windsurfing as a sport for other kids to do. It’s a lot of

fun, you go fast – all you need is a board, and as long as there is water and wind, you can go!’

West Kirby Warriors were the lucky winners of a BIC Techno board for their club.

The event is supported by Tushingham/ Starboard, Boards magazine and Neil Pryde.

T15 was set up by the RYA to help make windsurfing more accessible and appealing to youngsters at a grass roots level. Fun and informal training sessions take place at T15 clubs all over the country for kids up to the age of 15, which are run weekly by specialist RYA coaches.

To get involved with Team15 and find your nearest club, visit www.team15.org.uk or call 0845 345 0400.

In September, 800 of Britain’s young rising sailors competed across nine venues during the RYA Volvo Zone and Home Country Championships 2011.

Racing took place across the nine RYAsupported junior dinghy and windsurfing classes, including the Mirror, Optimist, Topper, RS Feva, Cadets and the windsurfers on the Bic Techno using the open 4.5 and 5.8 rigs, and the Techno 6.8s and Techno 7.8s.

The championship proved to be one of the biggest and most popular events on the RYA racing calendar, and it traditionally marks the end of the junior racing season.

West Kirby Warriors − champions

Records broken at Coniston Powerboat Records Week The 41st Annual Coniston Powerboat Records Week proved to be the most successful and highly attended records week ever.

Some 191 record attempts were made, records were set and re-set 46 times, resulting in six world and 16 national record times up for ratification.

Held at Coniston Water in Cumbria during 31 October to 4 November, the week saw competitors take to the water in a bid to set new RYA national records and stake claim to highly sought-after world records.

58 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

RYA Volvo Zone and Home Country Championships

The grey clouds, rain and wind at the start of the week did little to dampen the spirits of the drivers waiting at the pits at 6.30am on the first day. With improved weather conditions and the optimum flat water, the week churned out record after record.

At a breath-taking 125.36mph, Ian Wright literally flew into the history books as he claimed the S2000 class World Record.

He now joins the prestigious K7 Club, an exclusive club for those who break the 100mph barrier.

Powered up Youth speed enthusiasts win big and blast world records

The number and variety of sailors and supporters gave competitors the chance to experience big regatta racing without having to travel far from their home sailing clubs. This year’s championships also welcomed competitors from current RYA National Junior and Zone Squads, plus many new club level racers, venturing out onto the competitive circuit for the first time.

The young sailors also had the chance to meet and chat to Skandia Team GBR and Team Volvo for Life sailors about their sailing careers.

Visit www.rya.org.uk/racing/youthjunior for a full list of results.

Following on from his success at the British, European and World Championships early in the year, powerboating whizz kid Ben Jelf has been at it again, claiming new national and world speed records.

In a bid to become the fastest elevenyear-old on water, Ben joined a host of other racers at the 41st annual Coniston Powerboat Records Week in Cumbria in October.

Racing in the GT15, Ben was hoping to beat the current world record of 40.92mph set by Sweden’s S Rothman in 2008. On his first day on the water he achieved this, setting a new record time of 40.76mph.

A few days later he was back out on the water to clinch another national record in the KFFORC S250 class, with a speed of 31.36mph.

But his main focus was that world record, and he achieved it, rocketing down the course to set a new world record at 42.92mph.

‘I feel really overwhelmed at the moment, he told us: ‘At one point I was going to give up, but I just kept on trying. It takes lots of concentration when you’re speeding along, but it makes me really excited, too. I’m so happy with what I’ve achieved today.’

Not content with one new record in a day, Ben also went on to improve on his

A double RIB victory It was a clean sweep for Parkstone Yacht Club, as two of its young RIB drivers powered their way to victory at the Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship in September.

Twelve-year-old Harrison Faull and 16-year-old Ben Edwards fought off 26 other powerboating regional finalists from across the country to win their age group categories. Both boys skilfully manoeuvred a Ribcraft 4.8m RIB around the tricky and testing course, which included a slalom run, 360° reverse around a buoy and a stop exercise whilst also battling a variety of weather conditions.

By clinching the 8-12 age group title, with a winning time of 1 min 11.15 sec, Harrison won a Honwave T40 RIB with BF20 engine for Parkstone Yacht Club. Ben’s winning time in the 13-16 age group of 1 min 20.75 sec meant that the club also has a Ribcraft 4.8m RIB with BF60 engine.

The Honda RYA Youth RIB Challenge allows youngsters to demonstrate their prowess as expert boat handlers and improve their skills in a safe, controlled

national UKFFORC S250 record, increasing it to 31.92mph.

In one final push to finish off the week, Ben blasted his way to improving his world record time set the day before, increasing it to an impressive 43.11mph, more than two seconds faster than the existing 2008 World record.

Alongside all his speed records, Ben also raised £1,900 for the Everyman Cancer Campaign. ‘If I can help raise awareness and money while setting a new world record, then that’s great!’ commented Ben.

Harrison Faull and Ben Edwards show off their medals

environment. To ensure safety at all times, each child is accompanied in the RIB by a competent adult/instructor.

The Honda RYA Youth RIB Championship is sponsored by Honda and Ribcraft. For more information, details on how to get involved and a list of results, visit www.rya.org.uk and click on the youth section. rya.org.uk Winter 2011 59

On the water Board with cruising

Cruising and windsurfing… the perfect combination Simon Bornhoft explains the best way to combine windsurfing and yacht cruising Whether you have a preference for sailing or windsurfing, blending the serenity, safety and amenities of a yacht with the adrenaline rush of windsurfing is a fabulous way to spend time on the water. This is true whether you’re a sailor looking to windsurf or you’re a keen windsurfer looking for a far-away destination, or to sneak your board onto a friend’s yacht.

What is the best type of boat?

I once helped train Richard Cooper to windsurf around Britain.

His main support vessel was Tracy Edwards’ ex-round-the-world racing yacht, Maiden – at 60ft, you’d think she would be ideal, but considering her draft was nearly 12ft, they were extremely limited as to where they could anchor and seek shelter at night. So it’s not length that counts, but width and a short keel, so you get stability and can access shallower water, which is often where decent windsurfing can be found. The ideal choice is a catamaran, because it also offers a large rigging area on the foredeck or trampoline.

Storage

If the boat is large enough, both boards and rigs can be stored against bulkheads; alternatively, use roof-rack straps to lash the board in its bag to the inside of the guard rails. But make sure all the running gear is free to move. Always take the fin off, so that lines, feet and hands don’t get caught.

Rigging up

The ultimate dream, which is very possible on a large open-deck catamaran, is to rig on the boat. But you must make sure you’re at anchor and I strongly suggest making it a two-man job to avoid catching your board on the plethora of deck fittings.

The secret is to use non-cam sails (they lie flatter when being rigged), put the boom on at the last minute and always keep hold

What is the best type of board?

This depends a lot on your level. If you’re on a family holiday, with beginners, take a large beginner’s board – one of those paddleboards that accepts a windsurfing mast base. So, when you’re not windsurfing, they can also be used for paddling. For the more experienced windsurfers, there is nothing stopping you taking your normal kit. However, you need to bear in mind that you might be launching in more sheltered waters, so always have enough volume to uphaul. But be warned: if you own a lightweight board, it won’t like being knocked and bashed against cleats, winches and railings, so make sure you keep it in the board bag whenever it is on deck.

60 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

Catamarans offer a longer rigging area

Location, Location, Location

Do your research to find sheltered flat-water windsurfing locations with low-lying headlands.

You want a flat-water anchorage for the yacht, but with clean wind for windsurfing. Tacking out of a tight estuary, for example, isn’t easy on a board.

So, here are some recommended sailing/windsurfing locations with suitable anchorages worth checking out.

Best UK locations

of the rig. If you’re restricted for space, near a shoreline or it’s very windy, go for the simpler option of putting the kit in a dinghy, heading to shore and rigging there – it’s less hassle and reduces the chance of dropping that mast extension or fin off the boat, or the rig getting caught under the yacht in a current. If there’s no current or it is very sheltered, you can rig up off the stern, but make sure you secure deck plates, extensions and two-piece masts whilst rigging, as they have a habit of being dropped!

These anchorages are known for great sailing and windsurfing: Channel Islands Chichester Harbour (East Head) Poole Harbour Swanage Tiree, Scotland Weymouth Harbour

Launching

Safety considerations

You always want the yacht to stay at anchor and have someone onboard who is ready to pop out in an RIB/dinghy should something break. The other factor is fully understanding and knowing the tides and currents before you take to the water, so you’re totally confident of returning to the boat. Always have a stern line with a buoy attached to it, so you can tie up easily to rest and pull yourself back to the boat.

Also, always sail to good windsurfing locations with decent anchorages nearby, rather than yachting marinas or crowded moorings, as windsurfing amongst anchored yachts is a minefield.

Finally, never try to rig up and windsurf mid-crossing or in exposed rough waters. Should something go wrong, getting you and the kit back onboard will be very difficult, dangerous and often costly.

So, with a little more preparation and thought given to getting rigged, you can enjoy the amazing experience of being based on a yacht, then blasting back and forth, before tying up astern to pop onboard for a rest or some sustenance from the galley. On all the courses I’ve done that combine windsurfing and sailing, everyone says that it’s one of the best windsurfing experiences they have ever had.

Best overseas locations

Flotilla sailing companies are often not set up for experienced windsurfers wanting planing conditions, so make sure they know what kit you need and that you want anchorages with a close proximity to decent, clean wind. Your priority is a good windsurfing location with suitable anchorages.

British Virgin Islands – stunning, easy sailing, kit hire locally and fabulous anchorages with big sail-blasting between islands. This is the home of the HIHO, which is a fabulous windsurfing race, where you live aboard yachts Cape Verde – Sal and Boa Vista Greece – Vassiliki, Karpathos and Prasonise Hawaii – Downwinders between islands for experienced sailors followed by a fast catamaran St Lucia – north-west Tobago – Pigeon Point Turkey – Bitez

rya.org.uk Winter 2011 61

© Alamy

You’ll see videos or photos of people connecting board and rig together and then just chucking it off the side, but this is precarious, risky and you don’t want to lose the kit if the tide is running. So the best way is to tie the board off a stern line and connect the rig in the water. But use a ‘long pin’ UJ to do this, otherwise it is almost impossible to connect the board to rig.

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Sailing Holidays in La Gomera

INTERCONTINENTAL RYA TIDAL COURSES

CostaBlanca_RYA_Summer2011.indd 1

“Excellent week, very good course and friendly, efficient service throughout.”

PRACTICAL • THEORY • CRUISES

28/07/2011 12:32

- Will

La Gomera

GIBRALTAR - SPAIN - MOROCCO

Superior Service Outstanding RYA Training Amazing Location

www.canarysail.com/viewQuotes.jsp Email: info@canarysail.com Tel (UK): 01438 880 890 Skype: canarysail

HERCULES_RYA_AUTUMN2011.indd 1

Contact Mandy at info@gibraltarsailingschool.com www.herculessailing.com 00350 200 64126 / 00350 60606860 / 0034 606299120 skype: sailhercules

21/07/2011 11:14

RYA Classifieds Schools & Courses

To advertise contact 020 8962 3020

Come Sail With Us In The Warm Sunny Climate of Lanzarote Shore Based/Theory RYA Tidal Practical

- Competent Crew - Day Skipper - Coastal Skipper Course Completion - Yachtmaster Coastal Preparation and exam - Yachtmaster Offshore Preparation and exam - Cruising Instructor

Skippered Charters

- Visit wonderful anchorages - Snorkel/swim off the boat or just relax in the sun - Look for dolphins

- Basic Navigation - Day Skipper Theory - Yachtmaster Coastal/ Offshore Theory - Yachtmaster Ocean - VHF Short Wave Radio Certificate of Competence - RYA First Aid Certificate

Combination Courses - Basic Navigation & Competent Crew - Day Skipper Practical and Theory

Fast Track Courses

- Well structured fast track modules - Superb location for Sailing year round - Included in course price First Aid Course and VHF short wave radio course

www.endeavoursailing.co.uk stephanie@endeavoursailing.co.uk Tel: 0034 628478400

Plas Menai Ads:RYA Magazine 15/06/2011 10:33 Page 1

Endeavour_RYA_Autumn2011.indd 1

RYA BASIC NAVIGATION COURSE RYA Day Skipper Course RYA MCA Coastal Skipper Yachtmaster Course RYA MCA Yachtmaster Ocean Course Home of RYA Distance Learning, 40 years experience.

Bespoke practical power and sail training www.nmcs.org.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1625 262365

01/08/2011 NMCS_RYA_Autumn2011.indd 09:06 1

RYA Training Courses Beginner to Advanced Sailing, Windsurfing, Powerboating, Cruising, Youth

National Watersports Centre, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1UE

ow h S t e Boa r Cod e Off 2011 BS

01248 670964

www.plasmenai.co.uk info@plasmenai.co.uk

26/07/2011 17:47

RYA Classifieds Schools & Courses

To advertise contact 020 8962 3020

30

scan for details

Instructor Training 2012

School of Yachting

Professional Sail Training 17 Week Modular Course To Yachtmaster Offshore RYA Courses All RYA practical and shorebased sail & motor courses covered Speciality Courses Yacht Maintenance, Cruising Instructor and ISAF offshore safety courses MCA/STCW Courses Gift chers u o v ble availa for all es cours

E LC 2 386 PROVIDER NUMBER

Smartphone scan for more information

GIRLSFORSAIL

Feb 13; Apr 2,9: Jun 4; Jul 9,16,23,30; Aug 6,13,20,27; Oct 8,29

RYA Senior Instructor

Feb 13; Apr 9; Jun 4; Sep 3; Oct 29

RYA Pre-entry Assessment & Training Weekends

Feb 11; Mar 31; Apr 7; Jun 2; Jul 7,14,21,28; Aug 4,11,18,25; Oct 6,27

Instructor Preparation Week

Feb 13; Apr 2,9; Jun 4; Jul 9,16,23; Aug 6,20,27; Oct 1,29

RYA First Aid

Feb 18; Apr 7,14; Jun 9; Jul 14,21,28; Aug 4,11,18,25; Sep 1; Oct 13; Nov 3

RYA Powerboat Level 2

Every Thursday-Friday & Saturday-Sunday

RYA Safety Boat

Feb 11; Apr 7; Jun 2; Sep 1; Oct 27

RYA Powerboat Instructor

Mar 6; Nov 6

RYA Start Windsurf Instructor

Apr 30; Oct 29

rockleywatersports.com 01202 677272

Tel: 023 8045 2668 • hamble.co.uk

RYA 115x88 ad.indd 1

RYA Dinghy Instructor

26/10/11 00:09:51

RYA Recognised Training Centre

“the friendliest, most professional sailing school in the country” Beginners to Commercial Yachtmaster Offshore SAIL & POWER

Navigation, ICC Tests, Radio, Sea Survival, First Aid etc CHARTER - Bareboat or Skippered Yacht Haven Quay Breakwater Road, Plymstock, Plymouth PL9 7HJ

01752 493377 school@plymsail.co.uk T

www.plymouthsailingschool.co.uk

“Excellent instruction in a really calm encouraging way” Emilie RYA Day Skipper 2011 We’ve been encouraging women to sail with skill and confidence for over 10 years! With a base in Cowes on the Isle of Wight we sail in the UK Plymouth_RYA_Spring2011.indd and St. Lucia, Caribbean. Our excellent, permanent, instructors coach you how to do everything yourself, at your own pace in our calm encouraging way. Just because you are a girl, doesn’t mean you can’t do everything on board. We will show you how – with confidence and safely!

Sailing is an amazing sport- join us and learn the ropes, and have some fun too!

March 31st weekend sail for just £199 www.girlsforsail.com +44 (0)1983 28 28 67 info@girlsforsail.com

1

25/01/2011 16

RYA Practical & Theory courses

RYA Classifieds Schools & Courses

To advertise contact 020 8962 3020

The Smarter Charter

Bareboat or skippered, private or corporate... .....everything to make your yachting enjoyable and exhilarating • RYA tuition tailor-made on your choice of yacht • alternatively see our website for scheduled RYA course dates • superb Solent location with tides and many harbours • all yachts superbly equipped and presented • charter management - add your yacht to our fleet

Tel: 023

Maxi Najad Arcona Gibsea Dufour Bavaria Oceanis Sun Odyssey Hallberg Rassy

8045 7110

info@yacht-charter.co.uk

www.yacht-charter.co.uk

RYA Motor & Sail Cruising Courses All RYA Shorebased Courses International Certi�icate of Competence Charter our Luxury Motor Cruiser Gift Vouchers Available

For friendly advice and information visit our website, call or email Tel: 01758 701379 www.offshoreseaschool.com mail@offshoreseaschool.com

with Rob Gibson author of the RYA’s ‘Sail Trim for Cruisers’ and ‘Boathandling for Power and Sail’ books.

15-16th October 2011 19-20th November 10-11th December 21-22nd January 2012 18-19th February 17-18th March

algarve sun

Tel/Fax (Spain): +34 959 321 824 Tel Mob (Spain): + 34 609 759 109

www.poolesailing.co.uk

E-mail info@poolesailing.com

Tel: 01202 770933

Email info@farosailingschool.com Web www.farosailingschool.com

03/08/2011 09:47

We offer all levels of powerboating training from beginners to advanced.

International certificates of competence.

Own boat tuition.

VHF/SRC Marine radio course.

Give Andrew a call on 07944 092072 or email us: seawise@rya-online.net www.seawise-power.co.uk

Equipment

Faro_RYA_SPring2011.indd PooleSailing_RYA_Winter2011.indd 1 02/09/2011 09:56 08/11/2011 12:24 RYA Shorebased courses Chart Check provides a unique in Cambridgshire visiting service which covers:

Tel: 01480 861381 or 07889 535371

SEAWISE Powerboat School

Expert RYA instruction Friendly atmosphere

OSS_RYA_Winter2011.indd 1

www.eastcoastoffshoreyachting.co.uk

1

Londons Premier Site • •

in the

EAST COAST OFFSHORE YACHTING Intensive Courses Day Skipper Coastal Skipper Yachtmaster offshore One day courses VHF Radio Diesel Engine Maintenance 1st Aid Practical Courses Based on the River Orwell Deliveries & Own boat tuition

AL

RYA PWC and Powerboat Courses Children’s Courses - “RIB’s 4 Kidz”

D TI

Pwllheli Marina, North Wales.

Unit 5, Marina Workshops, Gwynedd LL53 5YT

Master classes in Sail Trim HamblePoint_RYA_SPring2011.indd and Boat-handling

Nautical Chart Safety Checks Nautical Chart Update Training Expert Chart Advice Individuals or Groups Sailing Club Visits Shore Time is Chart Time-Make it Count Don’t let your next voyage be your last

For more info: www.chartcheck.net T:+44 (0) 79660 39826 E: bdgreen@talktalk.net Chart Check Ltd, 23 Birch Road, Wellington, UK, TA21 8EP

1

Seawise_RYA_Spring2011.indd 1 25/01/2011 12:06

LIFERAFT HIRE

25/01/2011 12:21

Liferafts available to hire for the leisure cruiser or racer by the week, season or year.

We can supply any and all safety equipment required by the charter code of practice including Solas B pack liferafts for hire by the season or year. Liferaft, Dinghy & Lifejacket Servicing also available.

Send for our free info pack and depot list.

0800 243 673 or www.liferafts.com info@liferafts.com | fax: 01621 785 934 Liferaft House, Burnham Business Park Burnham on Crouch, CM0 8TE

Equipment PremiumLifeRaft_RYA_Spring2011.indd 1

EastCoastOffshore_RYA_Spring2011.indd 0 17/11/2011 ChartCheck_RYA_Autumn2011.indd 10:57 1 SPRING NORTHERN

BOAT JUMBLE

Sunday March 18th 300 metres from Junction 18 M6 Cheshire, CW4 7LN

02/08/2011 OUTBOARDS-DIRECT

Pre-Christmas Sale

SAVE £££s ON NEW 08/09/10 MODELS

PRESTON BOAT JUMBLE Bank Holiday Monday 7th May at St Micheals on Wyre

YAMAHA n JOHNSON n SUZUKI MARINER n SELVA n EVINRUDE 2.5hp-350hp, 4-strokes & DFI 2-strokes ALL ENGINES CARRY MAKERS FULL WARRANTY

AUTUMN NORTHERN BOAT JUMBLE

ESTABLISHED 55 YEARS. FREE UNBIASED ADVICE BASED ON EXPERIENCE

For further info Tel. 07974 753 123 or 01270 522 251

OAKLEY MOTOR UNITS LTD. EDWARD STREET, BRIGHTON, BN2 0BA 01273-603322 / 604432 sales@outboards-direct.co.uk www.outboards-direct.co.uk

Sunday March 9th 300mts from Junction 18 M6 Cheshire

14:12

Buy or Sell Unwanted Chandlery, Boats and Engines.

The Boat Jumbles Association

36 Shows in 2011

Inflatable tender packages available

We deliver worldwide

BJPromotions_RYA_WINTER2011.indd 1 07/11/2011 Oakely_RYA_Autumn2011.indd 12:56 1

25/01/2011 16:37

Norwest Marine Ltd

Life Raft hire from £265 complete with solas B pack 3 year hire contracts not required ISO 9650-1 APPROVED LIFE RAFTS Full range of MCA approved safety equipment available.

LIFE RAFT SERVICING FROM £60 For more details contact tel: 0151 207 2860 | fax: 0151 207 2861 Email: info@norwestmarine.co.uk Website: www.norwestmarine.co.uk

www.boatjumbles.org.uk

26/10/2011 Chaddock_Fox_RYA_Spring2011.indd 12:06 1

27/01/2011 NorthWestMarine_RYA_Spring2011.indd 16:04 1 24/01/2011 15:50

RYA Classifieds Equipment

To advertise contact 020 8962 3020

NO SUCH THING AS A FREE MEAL

100% NOT TRUE OUR FOLDING TRAPS AND CREELS ALLOW YOU TO CATCH YOUR OWN LOBSTERS, CRABS, LANGOUSTINE, PRAWNS, FISH ETC

Originally designed and marketed for those with limited space and stowage – some of our lobster pots and traps fold up to the diameter and thickness of a dinner plate or less.

Just think – no more falling over that that great, heavy, gangling, deck stored ‘D’ hoop Norwegian style creel while you are sailing.

Ideally suited for those who sail or cruise seriously, or for those who just ’mess about in boats’.

Oh! And they keep kids of all ages occupied too!

See our website www.interextrading.com for more details and prices.

Unobtrusive in storage, could be a lifeline if you need to anchor up for any unexpected reason.

• Pontoon Hire and Sales • Brownell’s Boat Stands • Jet Ski & PWC Drive on Ports • Roodberg Cranes & Boat Handling Equipment • Hereford Hoist – Disabled lift

• Inflatable Tenders • P&D Cube system pontoons • Safety Ladders • AirBerth boat storage systems • Sublift Slipway Hoists • Dredger Sales

www.pontoonanddock.com sales@pontoonanddock.com.

Tel: 01283 208891

DON’T SET SAIL WITHOUT ONE Telephone 01546 886230 to place card orders.

Pontoon&Dock_RYA_Autumn2011.indd 1 18/04/2011 16:14

interex_RYA_Summer2011.indd 1

London Boat Show Stand F135

25/05/2011 12:08

For all your Mast, Spar & Rigging requirements.

Ask about the Scott Boomlock!

Stainless Steel and Aluminium Fabricators Sailspar.co.uk 01206 251348 Award Winning Boat Support Systems

Sailspar_RYA_Winter_2011.indd 1

Craft-E-Cradle

31/10/2011 10:02 Tennamast manufacture a complete range of boat cradles and trailers including: Fixed, Modular, Stackable, Undercover cradles and prop stands

Fixed base folding leg RHS type

Prop stands

www.tennamast.com

Tel: 01505 503824

Fixed base folding leg Channel type

email: sales@tennamast.com

81 Mains Road, Beith, Ayrshire, KA15 1BW

Tennamast_RYA_Winter2011.indd 1

25/10/2011 17:44

RYA Classifieds Equipment

To advertise contact 020 8962 3020

Protect your boat in under 30 seconds!

Plug & play instant protection.

Safeshore make it easy!

Colour & shine restorer Teak cleaner and restorer Brilliant wax & glaze systems Effortless high speed polisher, only £36

Visit web site for supplies and loads of useful information

*Install a galvanic isolator in under 30 seconds! *Simply plug into your existing shore power lead *Protect your boat from both stray & galvanic corrosion *Install on the boat or the marina pedestal *Sell the boat? Unplug and take it with you! *2 years warranty *70 amp isolator*Next day delivery *Suitable for UK/ European shore power outlets *Leave shore power connected ; Protects anodes, skin fittings, shafts , props, outdrives & hulls.

Safeshore inline isolator only £99.99 ! + p+p £5.95 Tel 01977 513607 email :safeshore.marine@virgin.net Online ordering : www.safeshoremarine.com

Free information pack available by post or email Safeshore Marine, Millmoor House , Low Common, Methley, Leeds, LS26 9AF Yorks UK

BoatSheen Limited 01780 755490

EPIRB BATTERY EXPIRED? Quarter Page Class.indd

LEATHER WHEEL 25/10/2011 COVERING KITS

1

Have you checked the date on your EPIRB or PLB lately? Sartech is the leading independent specialist, offering affordable servicing for all makes and models.

MCA Registered. We can arrange collection and delivery to your home or marina. £50 cashback if you upgrade to a new model.

• For all wheel sizes and sprayhood grab rails • Leather Spinnaker pole covers • Handy Pull Tags to open Shackles • Suppliers of Marine Leathers to Sailmakers & Riggers

Call us for expert advice.

Clyde Marine Leather www.clydemarineleather.com T. 01418814558

SARTECH ENGINEERING LTD Tel +44 (0) 1737 372 670 Email rya@sartech.com

www.sartech.com

Services MARINE&INDUSTRIAL ENGINEERS Sartech_RYA_Spring2011.indd 1

25/01/2011 13:49

Reefer Blazer 450g Pure New Wool Side vent. Manufactured by Magee We stock the UK’s largest range of genuine Volvo Penta spares.

Plus a full range of accessories.

Sizes 38-46- £259 +P&P 48-52- £280 +P&P Short - Regular – Long

c all volspec now on freephone

0800 731 4824

A.Epsey_RYA_Winter_2011.indd 1

renovation specialists

ALAN ESPEY DEPT. STORE 02891454700 or online

www.alanespey.com

■ boat hatches ■ windows ■ port lights ■ ■ windscreens ■ washboards ■ ■ cruisers ■ sports boats ■ yachts ■ Mobile: 07761 882626 Office: 01622 205837 www.seaclear.co.uk ■ sales@seaclear.co.uk Established workshop ■ Maidstone ■ Kent

26/10/2011 09:30

13:00

RYA Classifieds Equipment Services

To advertise contact 020 8962 3020

g LS R A lin als ou ri TE DE tif ate IN E W G An t m A on en K C nt m PA ou ce sc la di rep % k 10 coc us ea Pl S d an

 J-Class Regatta 2012 Molson Coors Double Handed Series Doyle Sails Frostbite Series Year Round Cruising Programme Shore side Facilities at 2 Clubhouses Social Calendar

16 TON HOIST 20 TON BOAT MOVER YACHT CRADLES FULL SERVICES AVAILABLE

Boat collection on River Hamble Boat length

2011/12 Winter Package Deal

6-6.9m

£607.23

7-7.9m

£700.65

8-8.9m

£749.96

9-9.9m

£838.19

10-10.9m

£926.42

11-11.9m

£1074.33

12-12.5m

£1167.75



Prices include VAT Terms & conditions apply

(01752) 482588

BATT SAILS made

16 TON HOIST 20 TON BOAT MOVER YACHT CRADLES FULL SERVICES AVAILABLE Boat collection on River Hamble

S g ulin ials ER AL tifo ter NT E DE An t ma WI AG t on en CK un em PA co lac dis rep % k 10 oc s ac Plu d Se an

Book now

Berths available

Deacons Boatyard, Bursledon Bridge, Southampton, SO31 8AZ Tel: 02380 402253 E-mail: info@deaconsboatyard.co.uk

www.deaconsboatyard.co.uk

WINTER LAY-UP 2011/2012

info@wilsonsboatyard.co.uk 023 9246 4869

Lay-up charges held at 2008 rates for packages invoiced and paid by 30.11.2011

Maximum draft 2m (6’6’’), LOA 12.75m (42’) & 12 Tons Free transport back to your car (Chichester and Portsmouth Harbour areas)

www.rsyc.org.uk rsyc@rsyc.org.uk 02380 223352

To include lift out & scrub off, 3 months ashore & Launch

Free collection of boat from any mooring in Chichester Harbour

www.wilsonsboatyard.co.uk

in

Bosham

Quality yacht sails Racing keelboat and dinghy sails Nationwide sail servicing / valeting +44 (0) 1243 575505 sales@battsails.com www.battsails.com Surveyors

Situations Vacant

Hamble Marine Surveys Julian Smith BSc. AssocIIMS Surveyors of Yachts & Motorboats Pre-purchase, Condition & Damage Surveys

No charge for local travel UK & Abroad

Tel: 0755 488 3606

All experience levels welcome Yacht owners register free

Join online today!

www.crewseekers.net

Julian@hamblemarinesurveys.com

www.hamblemarinesurveys.com JulianSmith_RYA_Winter_2011.indd 1

Crewing opportunities now!

Tel/Fax: +44 (0) 1489 578 319

25/10/2011 17:40

RYA Classifieds Situations Vacant

To advertise contact 020 8962 3020

ALL ABROAD!

Longleat Forest, Wiltshire Whinfell Forest, Cumbria

more to life at...

NEILSON ARE NOW RECRUITING FOR SUMMER 2012

Center Parcs is the natural choice for passionate team players and natural communicators. And we’re looking for more. More people like you to help us deliver a truly memorable guest experience. If you’re looking for an outstanding job opportunity, we can promise a more inspiring environment, more rewarding challenges and more unique benefits.

Watersports Instructors Outdoor Pursuits Instructors Watersports Assistants Full time and seasonal positions starting early 2012

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Please note that due to the sensitive nature of these roles, successful applicants will be required to apply for disclosure with the Criminal Records Bureau. This disclosure, together with other selection information, will need to be satisfactory to the Company for employment to commence.

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We offer full training and flexible working arrangements for most positions, plus a great range of unique benefits including pension, annual bonus, discounted holidays, retail products and health and beauty treatments and free use of the gym, pool and other village facilities. A limited number of rented staff accommodation is available at Whinfell Forest only.

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V6896

We’re recruiting now for our summer 2012 yachting season. If you are a qualified engineer, trainer, skipper or mate then why not give it a go.

You could be spending this summer in the Med with the number one yachting holiday company. Hey – it’s a tough job but someone’s got to do it.

Untitled-37 1

For more information on the above vacancies and to apply online, visit www.centerparcs.jobs Alternatively please telephone the relevant Recruitment Hotline to discuss any current or future opportunities: Longleat Forest on 01985 848343, Whinfell Forest on 01768 893041.

ENGINEERS n YACHT TRAINERS n SKIPPERS n MATES

Visit neilson.co.uk/jobs or call 0844 879 8160

www.centerparcs.co.uk

WORK’S A BEACH!

NEILSON ARE NOW RECRUITING FOR SUMMER 2012

SEAS ON AL W ATERSP OR TS INS T RUCTORS £9.59 per hour -­‐ Average 37 hrs per week (March to October or May to September)

We are seeking dedicated Seasonal Watersports Instructors to assist the Senior Instructors in leading our great watersports team to also assist with developing the Centre and programme.

The successful candidates will have relevant experience of working at an RYA or BCU accredited site, hold a minimum of 2 RYA and/or BCU Instructor qualifications, preferably at least one at a senior level. You will enjoy instructing all levels of age and ability.

Hours will be determined by the service and will involve regular evening, weekend and Bank Holiday working on a rota basis.

PAR T-­‐T IME W ATERSP ORTS I NS TRU CT ORS up to £6.68 per hour -­‐ As and when required

We are seeking to part-­‐time Watersports Instructors / Assistant Watersports Instructors to assist with the delivery of the activity centre programme.

The successful candidates should have relevant experience of working at a RYA accredited site, hold a minimum of RYA, BCU or an appropriate national governing body qualification and be able to provide instruction to all ages and abilities.

All Instructors’ posts are subject to Criminal Records Bureau disclosure.

For an information pack and application form phone the 24 hr Recruitment Line on 01707 357299 or download an application form from our website at www.finesseleisure.com/careers

Closing Date: 9th December 2011

Are you an RYA certified windsurfing or dinghy sailing instructor?

Or a qualified waterskiing, wakeboarding, kayaking or canoe instructor?

Then we could have the perfect (and most amazing) job for you.

We’re recruiting now for our summer 2012 Beachclub team.

So if you fancy this summer in the Med, we’d love to hear from you.

WINDSURFING n DINGHY SAILING n WATERSKIING n WAKEBOARDING n KAYAKING n CANOEING

Visit neilson.co.uk/jobs or call 0844 879 8160

05/09/2011 14:56

RYA Classifieds skipper ad 1-4 page oct 2011

20/10/11 10:35 Page 1 To advertise contact 020 8962 3020

Situations Vacant

skippers wanted

THE CLIPPER ROUND THE WORLD YACHT RACE IS ALWAYS ON THE LOOK OUT FOR POTENTIAL RACE SKIPPERS. WITH RACES RUNNING EVERY TWO YEARS AND A BRAND NEW FLEET FOR CLIPPER 13-14 MAYBE IT'S TIME YOU SHOULD APPLY.

Have you got what it takes to lead a team of non professional sailors around the world?

Do you have: • An RYA Yachtmaster Ocean or IYT Master of Yachts Ocean?

• Have excellent instructing, interpersonal, team and leadership skills?

• Have experience, endless energy, drive, determination and commitment?

• The highest levels of safety and seamanship?

Then Clipper Ventures wants to talk to you! If you wish to apply to be a Clipper Race skipper and you think you have what it takes please visit www.clipperroundtheworld.com/raceskipper for an application.

We offer an18 month contract, highly competitive tax free salary* and additional race finish bonus. *depending upon personal circumstances Call 02392 526000 or visit www.clipperroundtheworld.com

Fellowship Afloat, serving a variety of groups in a unique and lively Christian residential outdoor centre, seeks to appoint a

RYA Instructors

Quarter Page Class.indd 1

Wanted!

RACED BY PEOPLE LIKE YOU

Qualified Dinghy Qualified Dinghy &&Windsurf Windsurf 02/11/2011 Instructor positionsavailable available Instructor positions inin Wales, Spainfor forthe the Wales, France, France &&Spain 2012 season 2011 season.

12:52

Come and join Acorn Adventure, the UK’s leading provider of adventure camps for schools and families.

Chief Instructor

Competitive seasonal package with training & NGB qualification opportunities.

RYA Senior Instructor You’ll need to have proven leadership skills and be an effective team member; RYA Powerboat Instructor and GNAS Archery leader an advantage. Start February/March 2012.

Details from: Andrew Eastham, CEO, Fellowship Afloat Charitable Trust, The Sail Lofts, Woodrolfe Road, Tollesbury, Essex, CM9 8SE. Tel: 01621 868113. email: andrew.eastham@fact.org.uk

Call us now on 0121 504 2066 jobs@acornadventure.co.uk www.acorn-jobs.co.uk

Properties For Sale ACORN_RYA_WINTER2011.indd 1

01/11/2011 12:45

Poole Harbour £449,950

www.fact.org.uk | Reg. charity No. 1059143

A spacious garden apartment in award-winning marina on Poole Harbour. Two double bedrooms, two bathrooms, large living space, garage, 11m berth.

Capital and Coastal 01202 217091 www.capitalandcoastal.co.uk

RYA FACTCI ad v2.indd 1

31/10/11 16:13:46 Capital&Coastal_RYA_Winter2011.indd 1

07/11/2011 14:26

What happens at the end…

Astern

Relax, put your feet up and discover some more fascinating seafaring facts

Taken aback

Derivation: A very real danger for a sailing ship was a sudden shift in the wind or an unexpected squall striking the ship from a different direction. The sails could be blown back against the masts, resulting in serious damage, possibly even leaving the ship helpless.

The longest continuous mountain chain known to exist in the universe resides in the ocean at more than 40,000 miles long.

Sail-in cinema

More than 100 boats moored up to enjoy the world’s first-ever sail-in cinema, hosted by Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week this year. With a 12.5x6.4m screen erected off Cowes Esplanade, boaters were treated to a unique screening of the fitting picture Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World, courtesy of Talisker whisky.

50-80%

An estimated 50-80% of all life on Earth is found under the ocean surface, and the oceans contain 99% of the living space on the planet.

1900

The year in which women were first allowed to participate at the (second) modern Olympic Games.

To comment on the magazine or submit pictures, please email the.editor@rya.org.uk or send post to The Editor, RYA Magazine, RYA House, Ensign Way, Southampton SO31 4YA 74 Winter 2011 rya.org.uk

Expert advice from the marine insurance specialists • Specialist advice and cover for

boats of all shapes and sizes • Discounts for RYA qualications • Special discounts for RYA

and RNLI members • Additional benets for

RYA Gold Members • Online quotes for dinghies • Specialist marine travel insurance • Third party and windsurfers • 2.5% of RNLI member premiums

will be paid in support of the RNLI Proudly supporting

bishopskinner.com

0800 783 8057 Bishop Skinner Marine is a trading name of Bluen Insurance Services Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Payments are made to RNLI (Enterprises) Ltd (which pays all its taxable prots to the RNLI, a charity registered in England and Wales (No. 209603) and in Scotland (No. SCO37736). Charity number CHY 2678 in the Republic of Ireland. Photo courtesy www.onabrown.com.

W

W ha

t ha

uman eye the h se

es

mal camera s t a ther ees

The power to see in total darkness The same scene. Two very different views – the human eye and a Raymarine thermal camera image. The new Raymarine TH24 and TH32 Thermal Cameras give boaters the power to see clearly in total darkness in a compact, handheld easily accessible format.

The TH24 and TH32 Thermal Cameras make pictures from heat, not light, helping you see landmarks, bridge abutments, and other vessels clearly in all light conditions from daylight to complete darkness. Thermal night vision improves your ability to see rocks, buoys, floating debris, and even helps you find people in the water, vital when just a few minutes makes all the difference in the matter of survival.

The new TH Series Thermal Cameras from Raymarine

Range Detection Guide TH32: ~4,200ft. (1.23km) TH24: ~2,940ft. (895m) TH32 ~1,476ft. (450m) TH24: ~1,050ft. (320m)

TH24

240 x 180 RESOLUTION

TH32

320 x 240 RESOLUTION WITH 2× DIGITAL ZOOM

London Boat Show Stand A120 I n n o vat I o n • Q U A L I T Y • T R U S T

RADAR • NAVIGATION AIDS • SONAR • INSTRUMENTS • AUTOPILOTS • THERMAL CAMERAS • COMMUNICATIONS • SOFTWARE • SYSTEMS