Sailing

Boats and sailing have always been an important part of my life.

I grew up crewing in Fireflies, International 14’s and Merlin Rockets. I raced Merlins until I started crewing on keel boots on the Solent.

I had the use of a Westerly Centaur for three years and then co-owned a Nicholson 43 wooden long keel sloop, and sailed the UK South coast and the French Brittany coast.

While living in the California, I was certified as a sailing instructor and a professional Coast Guard – a license enabling me to captain motor boats up to 50 tonnes and the opportunity to sail many different types of craft. My work has always involved travel so I have been able to sail in many parts of the world.

I enjoy coastal sailing more than racing and the older style of sailing using minimum energy; anchoring in small covers; enjoying knots; splicing and chart navigation. I follow the philosophy that people have power boats to go somewhere – when you step on board a coastal sailing boat you are already there.

I still love the moment when you can put up the sails, cut the noise of the motor, hear the swish of the wake, feel the acceleration and heal of the boat through the water. Seven years ago we purchased a 42ft (overall) Magellan Ketch. I have refurbished and equipped her, so I can enjoy her with friends or sail own my own. We moved the boat to Spain – her new home is in the fishing port of Carboneras.

I enjoy teaching sailing and talking about how to sail with little effort, anchoring, navigation and all things boats. Consequently, I am developing a coastal sailing guide for the area around Carboneras/ Caba de Gata.