Mast floats

[Dreadnought]

Can all the novice sailors please make sure they never go out without a mast float if the wind is, or is forecast to be, more than a force 3.

There are several floats in the sail room with Shanklin Sailing Club written on them, as well as one with my name on it you can use.

[ChrisR]

The problem could happen to any boat that is capsized, what we need to also look at is how to seal the masts to stop water ingress in the onset. How about expanding foam in the top section? Weight would not be a problem, the only problem I can see is the foam taking on water over a period of time or excess of capsizes (in Ian's case).
When the mast plug is inserted at the joint a foam plug in the top and bottom section to stop water should be inserted. Could this be the cause? are they missing.
Are the rivets holding the hook on sealed?

All these need checking.
But in the meantime use the floats.
Or we could get Pip to make various shapes and sized bolt on floats tailor made for the individual

[Dreadnought]

They will all take on water if they are upside down long enough. If they have a mast float they won't be upside down.

[simongiles]

Mast Floats is the answer. Pure and simple, Henry weighs very little and righted the cat in seconds a few weeks back with the mast float on.

Also it has neglible effect on performance, especially in wind F3 or above and will allow you to sail more often and with more confidence.

Finally with no boom one of the only possible dangers of our boats is entrapment in an inversion. Not possible with a mast float.

[Dreadnought]

Please can you put the mast floats back in the sail room when you have finished with them - unless they are your own property.

There are only two hanging up at present.

[simongiles]

Having been a supporter of more proactive use of mast floats in the club, and also having accidentally left them lying around after derigging the boys boat . I am happy to make a donation to the club of a couple more to ensure we have plenty in stock.

I will order them.

[Dreadnought]

Thanks Simon, but already got three more so that should be plenty. All have now been gathered in from blowing about in the boat yards.

They made a huge difference on Sunday. Plenty of people went over but there was no drama.