Mid-Island Sail Training event at Mark Bay

by Bluewater Cruising Association on 25 Mar 2015 The Bluewater Cruising Association Mid-Island Group is proud to host the second annual MIST event in Nanaimo, May 2 and 3. MIST is dedicated to the development of traditional sailing skills by practice in the “great water laboratory” at our doorsteps rather than by theory in a classroom setting. This is an excellent hands-on training experience on its own or in addition to V.I.C.E.

On Saturday, May 2 (starting at 9:00) we are privileged to have Tony Gooch (solo-circumnavigator 2002-2003) as our special guest and mentor. Tony will focus on heavy weather: equipping the boat before you leave, what to do when heavy weather is forecast and techniques to employ as a storm develops. Other topics will include: non-electronic wind and boat speed determination, weather prediction and examples of gear failure (bring broken gear of interest for display and discussion). We will moor at the Newcastle Island Provincial Park docks to encourage boat visits/inspections and conversation.

Lunch is on your own but there will be ample time to socialize on Saturday evening when we hold our usual BURP (BCA Unofficial Rendezvous Potluck) at Rob and Grace Dodge’s place on Protection Island. If you are new to potlucks; bring one dish with enough food to feed at least everyone in your crew.

On Sunday, May 3, we will sail out to the Strait of Georgia. Underway, we will evaluate and test equipment and techniques for dealing with high winds. We hope to deploy drogues and sea anchors and to test reefing techniques. We will discuss best sailing strategies when weather becomes really ugly. The exact agenda depends on the weather but may include: MOB procedures, heaving to, mast climbing, windvanes, dead reckoning, VHF radio nets, etc.

MIST is a free event, but it will be limited to ten BCA boats. Advance registration is required. There is no crew limit per boat. Boat-less sailors who wish to participate as crew can also register and we may be able to find a host boat and accommodation. Skippers are encouraged to bring a mentor along with them. Request one when registering or search under Resources/Mentors on the BCA website.

Please register on the BCA website or contact Rob Dodge 250-753-1245, nanamuk@hotmail.com, Suggested moorage: Newcastle Island dock or mooring buoys, or anchoring in Mark Bay.