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Shanklin Sailing Club, Hope Road, Shanklin, Isle of Wight, PO37 6EA contactus@shanklinsailingclub.com 01983 721264
Next high tide: Thu (4.50m)

Launching in waves

The key to launching a Sprint 15 in large surf is to start from the right place, go at the right angle and drive the boat hard.

Look at the wind direction. If the wind is coming from the left as you look out directly to sea, start on a port tack, if it is coming from the right, start on starboard. If it is dead on-shore you have a choice.

Check your boat over. Make sure your rudders are on the right way, the sail is up, the connecting bar is connected and the main sheet is untangled.

If you are starting on port tack place the boat well to the left of the beach. If you are starting on starboard get away from the sea wall so if you have a refusal you don't end up with your boat in bits.

The direction that you leave is vital. The waves will tend to be coming in perpendicular to the beach. You must point your boat at least 30 degrees to leeward of this perpendicular and at least 50 degrees off the true wind direction. If you go straight out, waves could knock you into irons.

Place your boat on the water's edge, connect the main sheet. Put the downhaul on and set the traveller for the wind.

Hold the sheet and tiller. Jump on and drive the boat hard with main sheet well in. Don't worry about dropping the rudders until you are well clear of the surf.

Liam Thom



Shanklin Sailing Club
Hope Road
Shanklin
Isle of Wight
PO37 6EA

contactus@shanklinsailingclub.com

01983 721264
Shanklin Sailing Club burgee

Shanklin Sailing Club burgee
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