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Fred going it alone!
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The first fact that must be faced is that single-handed sailing can be dangerous. The need for sleep is a fact. The fact is that daylight is a much safer time than night. ColRegs demand that a sharp lookout is kept at all times. Faced with all this why do some of us persist in taking our pleasure solo?
Well another fact is that the satisfaction and the feeling of privacy found on a boat at sea is for many a seductive sailing prospect. Let's talk here about a single-handed coastal cruiser rather than the ocean adventurers who circumnavigate the globe. In our case the cruising sailor can choose his time and place, therefore avoiding the problems of sleep deprivation. The same with day or night sailing. And any sailor worth his salt will keep a good watch at all times.
Solitude has other benefits. If you have no other person to share your experiences and impressions then you are likely to feel these emotions more keenly as you have only yourself to share them with. An essential quality is self-reliance. We are all aware of a boats ability to surprise us with a sudden problem. It is even more important we be aware of our vessels limitations, to know how far she can be pushed. What are her vices, and her vices? A heightened awareness will develop until it becomes second nature. The sound of your boat will talk to you with no interruption, and you gradually become aware that you are not alone and your companion is the boat you sail.
To steer or not to steer?
The invention of the self-steering wind vane, made single handed sailing not only popular but possible. If your boat can take care of herself you can leave her to take care of the myriad tasks waiting for you below. There is something wonderful about leaving the helm and becoming a passenger free to relax, read a book, or make a brew, safe in the knowledge that your new found friend, who you didn't know you had, is up there in command and happy to be so. Now you have time to plan the next stage. No-one else is demanding your time, it is all yours.
How quickly time passes
An essential task is to keep up your log up-to-date. If you are equipped with both electronic and paper charts you will find it beneficial to seek verification through using both. And don't forget the many opportunities for further confirmation. A ferry crossing your path heading for a known destination. Ships on a known sea route. Shore bearings, DR position. All the skills of traditional navigation including the depth of water beneath your keel. After a time your intuition will become sharper perhaps improved by your solitude.
Threats from shipping
Coastal shipping is restricted to shipping lanes; you have the option of moving into shallower water. Fishing boats are a greater hazard. They travel fast and if they are not keeping a proper lookout then remember that you might be accused of the same thing yourself. Even buoys are easy to run into. Watch your drift, have you allowed enough space to pass it safely? In other words you can't afford to let up on keeping a good watch.
Why would we want to sail alone?
There are possibly as many answers to that question as there are lone sailors. The single-handed racer is a competitor who wishes to test himself against others on the same terms. Some seek some personal solace or proof of their own character and strength. Some simply want to explore and find it difficult to tempt crew to come with them. Whichever you are, the sea will treat you equally.
One thing is certain; whoever you are you will return a stronger seaman and a better person.
An invitation
Let us have your thoughts on single-handing. Do you favour or oppose it? What are your experiences? 600 words for an article or short comments on the Forum. We all need to know.
