YM Practice Day 2

Timothy Harkness

Docking practice focused on repeated approaches and departures using a bow spring. Completed six to seven repetitions, securing the boat alongside using engine and rudder before rigging a stern spring to spring off safely in the prevailing wind and tide. As the tide reached its peak, one approach required a ferry glide into the berth, providing useful experience judging lateral movement and clearance. Practised man overboard recovery under power using Bob, with successful recoveries by both crew. Completed several sail-on mooring buoy approaches in light winds, strong tide and with one reef in the main. Found that, in these conditions, making multiple short tacks into the tide gave better control and a more accurate final approach than standing away on a single tack. Also practised dropping and hoisting the mainsail while on the mooring, sailing off the buoy, returning to the marina, and completing a successful final berth.