Sailors Hints & Tips: Welcome Back to the Water!

As we get ready for the new season, here are a few handy reminders and tips for all our dinghy sailors returning to the water:

🔍 Pre‑Season Check of Your Boat

• Give your dinghy a once‑over before launching.
• Check rigging, foils, bungs, rudder fittings, and sheets for wear.
• Inflate buoyancy tanks and check for leaks if your boat has them.

🧥 Safety Gear

• Make sure your buoyancy aid still fits well and is in good condition.
• Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature — early season water can still be cold.

🌬️ Know the Conditions

• Take a quick look at the forecast before heading to the club.
• Gusty or shifting winds early in the season can catch anyone out — plan accordingly.

🧊 Ease Back In

• First few sessions? Don’t push too hard!
• Shake the rust off with some gentle sailing, a few tacks and gybes, and build up confidence again.

🛟 Safety Boat Cover

• Please post in the WhatsApp group ideally the day before (for Wednesday / Saturday sailing) and confirm that a safety boat volunteer is available to be on the water before launching.

🚰 Bring the Essentials

• Warm layers, gloves, a drink, and a snack go a long way on cooler spring days.
• A dry bag with a towel and change of clothes is always a plus.

😊 Most of All… Enjoy It! It’s great to see everyone back on the water — whether you’re racing, tuning up, or just having a gentle sail around the lake.