Starting To Race Yachts?

Written by Robin Milledge Wednesday, 16 March 2011 21:56

Why Race?

There are those that race and those that cruise, so the adage goes. True to some degree, but those that do, know that racing is a great way to enjoy your sailing in an environment that tests all facets of our sailing skills, from boat handling, sail trim and tactics to knowledge of the weather and tides.  A little knowledge of the Racing Rules of Sailing is important, but you don’t have to be an ‘A’ grade student, you’ll learn as much from experience on the water as from studying the rule book.

Racing provides the opportunity to improve your overall sailing skills and to meet and learn from other sailors.  After racing you can retire to the club bar having had the satisfaction of sailing your boat to its full potential around the course and maybe even pick up some silverware in the process as a reward for your efforts.

What about my insurance ?

Racing will normally attract a premium over and above your basic but many of us have found that if we only wished to do the occasional fun club race then insurance companies are often happy to give a dispensation at no extra cost for a specific race. Races such as the Hamble Scramble or across the Channel are not intensive close quarter racing, they can be  an enthusiastic cruise in which you are disqualified if you put your engine on. So do not be out off speak to your insurance company and explain what you would like to do.