I intend to introduce my grandchildren to the joys of sailing, in the hope that they derive as much pleasure and enjoyment from the sport as I have for the last 40 years.

I am also resolved to spend as much time as semi retirement allows, sailing my boat down the West coast of France to the wonderful cruising grounds around Ile de Re.

One resolution I should never have forgot........

Never try to tow another boat with from  a small inflatable using the bow painter . (originally intended to be passed to a stern cleat) 

Why..?. A passing vessel going too quick donated a hefty bow wave ...the dinghy became violent...I fell back and caught te throttle lever ... the dinghy accelerated...   being made fast ahead  the motor took the stern under the bow ...me with it and lo and behold Ilearned that the lifejacket inflated as predicted.   Learned a lot from that especially as the river was a bit on the cold side.

Hi JR,

Many thanks for your common-sense advise. I should not be surprised as my Son-in-Law is from Scotland too and also has a practical head on his shoulders.

Barry