There is always a little anxiety. The yacht, Wild Spirit, a Jeanneau 40 berthed in Lymington, well founded and with an excellent racing pedigree, is comfortable and handles well for teaching. The victualing done, with heavy duty tupperware (frozen bouef bourgignon, chorizo and bean stew, green Thai chicken curry…) safely stowed in the fridge after the drive down from London E4. They would surely satisfy the heartiest of appetites and warm us, body and soul, despite the persistent ice on the late December pontoons. And as for me – well I was prepared too.
The course candidates started arriving a little early. Peter and Debs from Birmingham, Gary a yachting novice, Hampshire gal Holly who is planning to crew her way off to the Caribbean and Terry, who shares a 60’ yacht in Turkey with his brother, needing the certificate more than the instruction.
The first day we had 17-18 knots from the south west to get us going. We hoisted and reefed the sails and everyone got a go at the wheel. They mainly helmed competently – always a relief to a yacht course instructor. We practised heaving-to, which impressed all – even Terry. It’s surprising how many yacht skippers don’t know or have forgotten how easy, calming and useful heaving-to is when the wind is up.
