Yachting_Monthly_2016-01

JANUARY 2016 http://www.yachtingmonthly.com 3

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t this time of year, boat owners always used to ask each other ‘Are you out of the water yet?’ These

you coming out this year, or staying in?’ The answers are different, too. It used to be days we’re more likely to ask ‘Are

either a satisfied ‘yes’ or a shamefaced ‘no’. A boat still afloat in December was a clear case of neglect. Not any more. Most marinas

are half-full even in February and many boats only come ashore for a month. So what’s changed? Glassfibre hulls, alloy

masts and rot-proof gear have been the norm for decades. Insurers are more relaxed about a boat staying afloat, though they tend to insist

she’s kept in a marina, not on a mooring. afloat; in other ways she’s better off ashore.In some ways, a boat’s less prone to damage

for a yacht to spend the winter in her berth than on the hard. For a big boat in the Solent, Perhaps it’s about cost. It’s often cheaper

the difference can be thousands of pounds.up. Boatyards used to buzz with activity in I miss the social aspects of the autumn lay-

the months before Christmas. Friendships were forged, knowledge was shared, tools could be borrowed and help was on hand for

awkward jobs. It’s less fun these days. With fewer distractions I get a lot more done, but good advice is harder to come by.

nagging worry about stern gear, anodes and skin fittings that haven’t been seen for a year. The trouble with staying afloat is the

If she’s not coming ashore there’s a lot to be said for a quick haul-out and re-launch, if only for peace of mind. Even if you trust the

yard, it’s worth being there if you can – I love watching water, running a hand along her forefoot and Cleaver’s curves emerge from the

contemplating the miles of sea that have passed under her keel. I’d hoped to haul out in September, but I’m

glad I didn’t. We had a dismal, blustery summer but a warm, dry autumn stretched on for months and I was still sailing in

shirtsleeves in mid-November. at the back of the haul-out queue with a lot There’s a price to pay, naturally. I’m right

of work to be done. The early birds can enjoy planning next year’s summer cruise over the festive break, but

I’ll still be scrubbing the bilges on Boxing Day. Merry Christmas!

‘Are you coming out or staying in?’

PHOTO: BOB AYLOTT

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Kieran Flatt, [email protected]

VIEW FROM THE HELM

Whether a yacht spends the winter afl oat or ashore, it’s well worth checking up on her at least several times before next season. For tips, see p