Dear Krabby,
I have a problem. I don’t exactly share the same passion for life on the water as my significant other does. Our time on the boat is fun, but it can be boring for me. I often feel like I am in the way, which can lead to frustration for both of us, and arguments. I’d like our time on the water to be fun, more relaxed and rewarding. What can I do to learn more about and enjoy this lifestyle; that my partner has already embraced?
- Committed to the man; not the boat
“This must be a joke.” I said to the editor - “you want me to write ‘The Evolution of a Boat-Hater’ story? Do you remember the Story of Sally’s rebuild, ‘The Labor of Love’, I wrote about my relationships, forever driven up on a rocky leeshore? You didn’t want to print that last time, what’s different now?”
“This question is from a woman to avoid that scenario”, she said, “Krabby – you have seen so many boats and owners course through your many years on the water. Tell the readers how good seamanship, boat handling, and husbandry can make for happiness afloat.”
“Oh….good idea, that’s why you are the editor. Ok, but the first round is on you.”
Dear Committed to the man; not the boat,
Let’s start with seamanship, or in this case, lack thereof. One of my favorite pastimes while at anchor is watching a couple driving their boat into an anchorage. As I sip a rum & tonic, I sit back and enjoy the show. Captain Wonderful is typically at the cathead fumbling with the anchor, barking orders at his soon-to-be-Ex at the helm. As he attempts to make up for his lack of experience with loud angry words, the mate at the helm melts down. The anchor is let go and fouls – louder words – and then, full on mutiny. The anchor drags, the boat drifts out of the anchorage – and the yelling fades into the distance.
So, how do we learn seamanship to reduce the stress between Captain and Mate? The answer is lots of practice.
Here at SDYC, we are in luck. Want to learn to anchor and some handling tricks? Volunteer on the Race Committee boats. These folks know how to get anchored on station as good as anyone, and they might do it several times a day. They are always happy to help develop the skills of their volunteers. You will learn a few things about boat handling too.
You can test your sailing skills by talking one of our Juniors into letting you take a spin in their sabot. It may be a humbling experience, sailing a little barge like a sabot, but if you can master it, it will give you great confidence on a larger boat. The J22 Fleet is another great resource, get out there with this fleet, and you will learn a lot.
By learning together you will be more comfortable and confident on the water. When there is less stress you can focus more on fun while on board.
Happier Cruising,
Krabby