Brush up on safety and sailing skills

The RYA are organising a sailor’s muster at Cowes Yacht Haven, Isle of Wight between 24-26 April, for yachtsmen to get together and brush up on vital safety and sailing skills before the summer cruising season kicks in.

The weekend event boasts sailing master classes, boat handling and taster sessions, as well as expert presentations and skill building activities. You’ll also have the opportunity to chat with industry experts about any issues you may have on your own boat on a one-to-one basis throughout the weekend.

This year’s line up of master classes and presentations includes:

Whipping and splicing techniques with Dave Aldridge, sailing and sailboat handling with Hamble School of Yachting, VHF Radio and DSC tips from ICOM, AIS and Radar in practice with Mendez Marine, Safety equipment checks with Ocean Safety and the RNL,Electronic Navigation from Raymarine, fault finding and “get you home tips” from Sea Start.

Other subjects include Abandoning ship with Ocean Safety and RNLI, Do you give a hoot?’ The COLREGs made fun, Live demonstration of safety kit including flares.

Sealine Sea School and Hamble School of Yachting once again provide boats for the ever popular boat handling sessions and skills master classes. You’ll have the opportunity to swap sail for power or power for sail and try out how the other half take to the water.

It costs £121 for a 32 footer. For full details, prices and to book your place email the cruising team at cruising.events@rya.org.uk or Tel: 0845 345 0370 or 02380 604233.