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Singles Under Sail Member Orientation Package Revised May 2019
We welcome you to Singles Under Sail, Inc.
SUS members are required to meet certain education requirements. It is mandatory for all NEW members to have met the following requirements by their second membership renewal date: 1) To have completed the SUS Dockside Orientation Class (DOC), 2) To have passed either the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary's or the America’s Boating Club Basic Boating Course (8 hours minimum), OR provide proof of holding a U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s license, 3) To attend a SUS Member Orientation Class (MOC). See the SUS Bylaws (attached) for additional information.
In the Member Orientation Class (which lasts approximately 1 hours, we will review SUS policies, procedures and guidelines and give you an opportunity to ask questions about the club. The Dockside Orientation Class is up to 2 hours and given on one of the SUS Skipper’s (docked) boats. We encourage everyone to enhance SUS sailing activities with sailing and boating classes. We believe it is important for all members to become active, contributing, participants in SUS. In return, you can enjoy great sailing, programs and social events with some of the best people you may ever meet. This booklet contains all the information you will need to become an active participant in SUS. http://www.singlesundersail.org VISIT THE SUS WEBSITE, singlesundersail.org, for additional information and updates. The site requires a user name and password to access members’ only material. SUS members should follow instructions on the website for creating their logon and password. Non-members will not be able to create a logon.
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Table of Contents
SUS Mission Statement …………………………………………………. Page 3
SUS General Policies ……………………………………………………. Page 3
SUS Sailing Practices and Procedures …………………………………. Page 5
Sailing Activities ………………………………………………………. Page 5 Skippers and Crew Get Together ………………………………………. Page 5 Responsibilities of SUS Skippers …………………………….….…...... Page 6 Responsibilities of SUS Crew Members.…………….…………….…… Page 8 Facilities Onboard a Boat …….………….………………….…….…… Page 8 Dress Appropriately for Sailing – Personal Safety ……………….……. Page 8 Things to Think About Aboard a Boat ……………………….………… Page 9 Food Coordination on Day Sails and Weekend Sailaways ……….…... Page 10 Allocation of Expenses on a Sailaway …………………………………. Page 11 Final Clean Up at the End of a Sailaway ………………………….……. Page 12 SUS Cruise Guidelines …………………………………………….…… Page 12
Safe Boating Education ……………………….….……………………... Page 14
Sailing Schools in the Vicinity …………………………………………. Page 15
Introduction to Sailing and Cruising …………………………………… Page 16
The Basics ………………………………………………………………. Page 16 Roles of the Skipper, First Mate and Crew ……………………………... Page 18 Heat and Cold-Related Illnesses and Injuries, Seasickness ……………. Page 18 Use of Safety Equipment ………………………………...... Page 19 Overboard Procedure …………………………...... Page 19 Knots ………………………………………………………………...... Page 19 Getting Underway……………………………………………….………. Page 20 Underway………………………………………………………………... Page 26 Arriving…………………………………………………………………. Page 31
Appendix A – Singles Under Sail, Inc. Bylaws Appendix B – Personal Skills Assessment Appendix C – Skipper’s Checklist Appendix D – Ship Locator Outline Appendix E – Sailing Events Overview Appendix F – Guidelines for Crew Members
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SUS MISSION STATEMENT
Singles Under Sail, Inc. (SUS) is a non-profit organization of single people founded on April 4, 1987 and incorporated in Connecticut on August 30, 1990. The purpose is to bring together single people with an interest in sailing, boating, and related activities and to provide them with opportunities to share these activities.
SUS GENERAL POLICIES
Membership – The membership year runs from January 1 through December 31. Members are given a three-month grace period in which to renew, during which they receive the Masthead and pay members’ prices at club functions. Persons joining after September 1st pay a $50 membership fee, which will cover membership for the balance of the membership year and the three-month grace period. Dues will not be refunded unless membership is revoked as provided by the SUS Club Bylaws. In the case of a returned check for any SUS expense, a surcharge (currently $20) will be assessed and membership will be suspended until all monies due are received as collected funds. NOTE: Only members in good standing are eligible to apply for or participate in sailing events.
Sponsorship and advertisement – SUS conducts or sponsors only events that are in keeping with our purpose as a sailing club. With the permission of the Board, members may be allowed to make brief announcements at meetings or distribute literature for events that may be of interest to the membership.
SUS members are not to be subjected to selling pressures - No member is to use, or permit others to use, the membership mailing list for any commercial purpose, nor permitted to “work the crowd” at SUS meetings soliciting business of any kind. Members or guests who have an interest in promoting sailing or boating activities, equipment, services, et cetera, may make announcements at meetings only with the prior approval of the Board Member leading the meeting. Occasionally some program meetings may include scheduled opportunities for sharing information of interest to the membership. Written material related to sailing or boating activities may be displayed on the literature table at meetings only with the permission of the Board Member leading the meeting. Materials are not to be placed on other tables or distributed to attendees.
Use of SUS email, newsletter, letterhead and other SUS Communications – The Singles Under Sail email, The Masthead newsletter, and SUS letterhead may be used for official SUS information and communication purposes only.
Standard of Behavior – It is expected that all SUS members and their guests will conduct themselves with proper consideration and respect for all other SUS members. While differences of opinion may arise, behavior that is deemed threatening, anger provoking, vilifying, or otherwise disruptive to meetings or the general course of SUS business, is unacceptable. No SUS member should be subjected to disparaging emails or harassment by another SUS member. Any SUS members or their guests who display such unacceptable behaviors may be subject to actions as specified in the SUS Bylaws.
Use of Singles Under Sail Name in email and/or on Web or Social Media Sites – The Singles Under Sail or Singles Under Sail, Incorporated or SUS names are officially the name of our sailing club and our corporation. No one may use the name Singles Under Sail, or Singles Under Sail Incorporated, or SUS, or the SUS logo for any purpose as an email address or a designation on any social media or website without the express written permission of the SUS Board of Directors. That includes, but is not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Meetup. Our name, Singles Under Sail, and our logo are Service Marks registered with the State of Connecticut.
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The Masthead Advertising (SUS newsletter)
1. All advertising must be boating or sailing related.
2. Three types of advertising are accepted: classified, display and insert.
3. Classified ads (3-4 column lines) are exclusively for private bartering or sale of boating equipment. Members in good standing may insert a classified ad free of charge. The charge for classified ads for non-members is $5.00 per edition.
4. Display and Insert ads/flyers must be complete and submitted electronically, (inquire for pricing).
5. Ads for commercial ventures from members and non-members must be reviewed by the Advertising Committee. The Committee consists of The Masthead Editor, SUS President and another member of the Board of Directors selected by the President in March each year.
Recreational Drugs and Medications – In accordance with the U.S. Coast Guard’s policy of zero tolerance for drugs, SUS does not tolerate the use of illegal drugs on any boat during SUS sailing events or at or near SUS functions. The use of such drugs puts a boat at risk of seizure and the Skipper, Owner, and Crew Members at risk of arrest by the U.S. Coast Guard or other authorities. It will also result in revocation of the violator’s membership in SUS. Prescription drugs should be brought on board in the original container and marked by the pharmacy that issued the medication. If you are using medication that might affect your performance, you should bring this to the attention of the Skipper when you board the boat.
Alcoholic Beverages – SUS members generally participate in having alcoholic drinks during raft ups, but the excessive use of alcohol is strongly discouraged by the club. Even at anchor or dockside, Skippers and Crew should remain in condition to take necessary actions to secure the safety of their boat, as well as other boats nearby. At any time during SUS functions, drinking that compromises safety or causes participants to be disruptive is unacceptable. Please Note: Smoking and or drinking may not be permitted on some boats. Permission to do either will be at the discretion of the boat’s Skipper.
Sexual Harassment – Engaging in conduct or speech that makes SUS members uncomfortable is inconsiderate and unacceptable. Use good judgment even in moments of levity.
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SUS SAILING PRACTICES AND PROCEDURES
Welcome aboard! We hope you will become more skilled and learn more about sailing. Most sailors are eager to teach others. There is always more for each of us to learn.
WHAT SAILING ACTIVITIES ARE AVAILABLE AT SUS?
Day Sails – Destinations and schedule are Skipper’s choice. Each person is responsible for his or her own food and beverage for the day. Some weekday and weekend Day Sails are posted on the club calendar and Skippers list, both available on the SUS Website and club meetings.
Twilight Sails – These are held late afternoon into the evening, weather permitting. Information on dates and locations will be provided on the Skipper’s list available at meetings.
Weekend Sailaways – Over-night on board with a scheduled destination where SUS boats raft up, anchor, moor or dock to socialize. Meals are coordinated and expenses are shared. Some destinations may be suitable for dinners on shore and local sightseeing.
Club Cruise – Normally scheduled for two weeks, sometimes with alternative destinations and itineraries (optionally, the Club could select to have two nine-day cruises to alternate regions instead). Crew may arrange to go for one or more week(s) of the Cruise depending on the schedule.
HOW DO SKIPPERS AND CREW GET TOGETHER?
Please Note: Each SUS member, Skipper and Crew, must complete a Membership/Sailing Form as part of the initial Member application process. Once this form is completed, you may select dates for each sailing activity in which you wish to participate by sending your request to the Vice Commodore at [email protected]. Contact a Skipper directly only if noted on the Skippers’ list. Sailing event dates are available at club meetings and on the SUS Website.
You should list your availability for no more than one month at a time with the Vice Commodore. Information is given to or seen by Skippers who invite Crew directly. It is important to remember that the Vice Commodore serves a liaison function only. SUS does not take responsibility for verifying information provided by either Skippers or Crew Members. If you have signed up with the Vice Commodore for a specific sail date, you MUST notify the Vice Commodore when you have accepted an invitation so your name can be removed from the available list. Skippers will appreciate this too.
For safety reasons, it is recommended that each boat have at least one experienced person (First Mate) on board in addition to the Skipper. This may be a factor when choosing Crew. Skippers also try to give some preference to those who have helped work on their boat.
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RESPONSIBILITIES OF SUS SKIPPERS
A person may be considered a SUS Skipper if he/she has the use of a sail or power boat and makes it available to SUS members for SUS sailing functions. It is not necessary that the Skipper owns the boat but need only to have use of the boat.
Leadership – Club members on your boat expect leadership from you and will respond accordingly when it is given. It is important to give clear instructions to the Crew regarding your intent and to verify that the instructions have been understood. Repeat and/or clarify if needed. Please Note: The Skipper has ultimate responsibility for the safety of the boat and Crew and may refuse to allow a Crew Member to participate whose behavior is deemed to be unsafe or otherwise detrimental.
Participation – Skippers are expected to participate in the sailing activities of the club. This includes Skippers Meetings, Day Sails, Dockside Orientation Classes, Twilight/Sunset Sails, Weekend Sailaways, and Club Cruises. It is recognized that not every Skipper may be able to participate in every event. However, without Skipper participation, we would not have a sailing club. Skippers who do not participate over a long period of time may lose their rating as a SUS Skipper.
Planning and Coordination of Sailing Events – Each Skipper is expected to act as Lead Skipper for one or more sailing events during the sailing season and to participate on the Cruise and Sailing Events Planning Committees during the winter. Lead Skippers are expected to distribute to each participating Skipper a Lead Skipper Data Sheet and all other relevant information. The Lead Skipper should plan to arrive early at the destination to take up station, display the club burgee, monitor the fleet on Channel 72 and remain on the radio after rafting up, mooring, anchoring or docking to maintain contact with late arriving boats. Lead Skippers should also provide information on the planned sailing event to the Masthead Editor.
Spring Work Sessions – One of the purposes of the club is to get Skippers and Crew together. One way we do this is by having Crew sign up to work on SUS Skippers’ boats. This is an important activity for the club and allows Skippers to meet club members and determine the availability of future Crew. Signup work sheets are available at the Meet the Skippers meeting in April for members to sign up or can be obtained from the Commodore and then posted during any club meeting in March, April and May. Skippers should set up a work schedule by calling the people who have signed up to work.
It should be remembered that anyone who works on a boat should be given consideration for a Crew spot sometime during the season.
Day Sails and Sailaways – To facilitate getting Skippers and available Crew together, the club has a Vice Commodore who is a member of the Board of Directors of the club. A member’s availability for sailing may be sent to the Vice Commodore at [email protected] who then maintains a list of available Crew for each event. It is recommended that a Skipper seeking Crew call the Vice Commodore at least one week before the sailing event. Skippers can consult the club membership list for each member’s self-rated skill level, “Crew or Mate” ranking and if the member has a Connecticut Safe Boating Certificate. It is strongly recommended that Skippers try to use the Sailing Events Coordinating System whenever possible. Also, our new website has the capability of connecting Crew with Skippers thru the interactive calendar.
Education – Skippers and Crew are encouraged to take courses that improve their knowledge and seamanship skills and to share their knowledge with other Skippers and Crew. It is important to help members become more experienced Crew and to learn the SUS Personal Skills Assessment. We encourage all club members to take courses offered by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and/or America’s Boating Cub as well as hands-on sailing courses
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Safety – SUS Skippers are responsible for the safety of their boats and the Crew on board. They are required to ensure their vessel meets all the U.S. Coast Guard and State Regulations for operating a recreational vessel in the waters of Long Island Sound. This includes, but is not limited to, the requirements for life jackets, fire extinguishers, distress signaling equipment, first aid kit, person overboard retrieval devices, VHF marine radio and proper navigation equipment including charts. Skippers are expected to know the “rules of the road” and practice safe navigation and seamanship.
Skippers are expected to review the Skipper Checklist (see Appendix C) and to give a safety orientation to all Crew Members before any SUS sailing event. This should include the location of all safety equipment, life jackets, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, a review of person overboard (MOB) procedures and emergency use of life saving devices, operation of the head, marine radio, and engine starting and stopping procedures. Skippers may request information from the Crew regarding swimming ability, general physical health or disabilities and medication that might affect their performance.
Seaworthy Vessel – Skippers are expected to maintain their vessel in seaworthy condition at all times. This includes running lights, bilge pumps or bailing equipment, a working head and holding tank. The boat must be legally registered.
Insurance – SUS Skippers must maintain adequate boat insurance. In addition to hull insurance, Skippers must have liability insurance at least equal to the amount required by their state of registration for motor vehicles. The liability insurance maintained by SUS does not cover individual Skippers or their vessels for sailing events.
Expenses – SUS Skippers may not charge or in any way act as a vessel for hire. SUS does maintain guidelines for sharing expenses while Day Sailing, on Sailaways or during the Annual Club Cruise(s). Repairs for normal wear and tear and breakdowns are the Skipper’s responsibility. Skippers may ask the crew to pay for lost or broken equipment that resulted from the negligence of the crew.
Adequate Crew – It is the responsibility of the Skipper to obtain adequate Crew to ensure the boat has enough hands to secure the safety of the boat. It is recommended that at least one Crew Member be experienced enough to bring the boat back should the Skipper become incapacitated.
Skipper as Host and Facilitator – Whenever possible, the Skipper should try to take into consideration the feelings and concerns of the Crew when making decisions. Conflicts can and do arise and it is the Skipper’s responsibility to ameliorate if possible. Even in urgent situations, a calm explanation can help to obtain the necessary cooperation of the Crew. The Commodore or the Vice Commodore are usually available should there be a need for additional assistance.
Fairness – Skippers should try to ensure fairness with everyone on board. It should be understood that guests of the Skipper and club members should participate equally in the sailing activities and all the routine tasks that go with the activity.
Monitoring the VHF – When cruising as a club, Skippers are urged to stay in communication with the fleet by monitoring Channel 72 at 15 minutes after the hour. Any changes in plans should be reported to the Commodore or the Lead Skipper for the event as well as pertinent weather reports or hazards to navigation.
Raft Ups – When approaching a raft up, the Skipper joining should seek permission to raft up from the Skipper of the base boat and request instructions on how to approach the raft up. Some base boat Skippers may limit the number of boats who may join. This should not be interpreted as a rejection but rather a base boat Skipper’s decision based on size of vessel, number of boats already rafted, etc. 7 | P a g e
RESPONSIBILITIES OF SUS CREW MEMBERS
When you accept an invitation to sail, arrive at the requested time. Help stow personal gear and boat provisions and prepare to depart at the designated time. Understand that the return time is approximate and depends on weather conditions. Share in the activities of sailing and allow adequate time after docking to help clean the boat. During your time on board, it is critically important to follow the Skipper’s instructions regarding the facilities on the boat. Skippers may ask the Crew to pay for lost or broken equipment that resulted from the negligence of the Crew.
FACILITIES ON BOARD A BOAT
The Head – Marine toilets are prone to breaking down so it is very important to get instructions specific to the boat you are on. The head is designed to hold only bodily waste and toilet paper. However, on many boats paper is NOT put into the head and small plastic bags are provided and collected separately. Boats have holding tanks with limited capacity so it is common practice to use shore facilities whenever they are available. Preventing problems that could result in a non-working head is critical and a discussion of this topic is acceptable conversation on board.
Water Supply – Boats have water tanks which carry a limited supply of fresh water. Water must be conserved and used sparingly at all times. (e.g. wipe dirty dishes first with paper before washing; never allow water to run unnecessarily for personal wash-ups etc.) In warm weather, some boats have “sun showers” which are used on deck and while swimming, liquid Joy works well in salt water for a “quick bath”.
Electric Power is limited aboard most boats. The majority of SUS boats draw power for the lights and the communication and navigation equipment from the boat’s batteries. Use all lights sparingly and turn off any lighting not in use. Although the boat may be plugged into shore power while at a dock, always check with the Skipper before attempting to use an electrical appliance.
DRESS APPROPRIATELY FOR SAILING – PERSONAL SAFETY
Boat Shoes – Wear boat shoes or sneakers that have a sole designed to prevent slipping. This is for your own safety as well as protecting the surfaces on a boat. Bring a pair of socks should the weather become cooler than expected. DO NOT WEAR SHOES with BLACK SOLES that can mar deck surfaces. Clothing – Wear clothing that allows you to move freely and not get caught in the various lines, cleats and rigging on a boat. Even when it is warm, bring a jacket, windbreaker, sweatshirt or sweater appropriate for the time of year as it can become uncomfortably cool on the water. Foul Weather Gear – Bringing some form of rain wear should always be considered. Keep in mind that light-weight rain wear is more comfortable in the hot mid-summer months and heavier foul weather gear is needed for Spring or Fall sailing as well as any time when sailing off shore. Sun Protection – Bring appropriate sun protection which usually includes sunscreen, hat and sunglasses. To prevent hats or glasses from going overboard, consider using a retainer on either or both. Personal Safety – Sailing gloves protect hands when handling lines in heavy weather sailing. Also recommended is a rigging knife, personal life jacket and/or a safety harness. Loose jewelry should be avoided. Use of Cell Phones – Cell phones brought on board should be turned off during SUS sailing events. If there is an emergency need to make or receive a call, permission should be requested from the Skipper. If granted, please be considerate of others and make every attempt to have phone conversations away from the rest of the Crew.
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Moving from One Boat to Another – Crossing Another Boat at a Raft Up Before boarding another boat, always use the courtesy “Permission to board?” If responding to an invitation to “Come Aboard” proceed as directed. If invited to a gathering, it is usual to enter the cockpit or the shared deck space.
At all other times Do Not Cross Through the Cockpit when crossing another boat. Boats are usually the closest together at the middle of the vessel so cross in the safest place, then go forward of the mast and back amidships to the next crossing spot. Proceed in this manner whether at a raft up with friends or at a marina dock tied up five boats deep. There are good reasons for this courtesy:
▪ You are walking on the most appropriate part of the boat - the deck.
▪ You are not walking through private living space or on the cockpit cushions.
▪ You are respecting the privacy of others by not passing an open companionway.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT ABOARD A BOAT
Sharing a small space with others - Utmost courtesy should prevail at all times and this applies to your physical place in the space. Are you sitting in someone’s way such as in the companionway (every one’s favorite) or in the way of the helmsman? Are you sharing the only seat in the sun or shade? Are you ready to move out of the way when necessary? Can you honor someone’s private moment of solitude on the bow? Try to be aware of your own physical place in relationship to others while on a boat.
This applies to your belongings - Bring personal items (including sleeping bag or blankets if overnighting) and clothes necessary for all weather contingencies, making every attempt to minimize the volume you bring as stowage space is limited. Only soft duffel bags are permitted and never suitcases. Generally, several small bags work better than one large bag. Keep in mind you may be loading everything in a small dingy first before boarding the boat.
During the day, personal items such as sunglasses, sunscreen, cameras and clothing tend to get scattered around the boat. Try to keep them out of the way in the cockpit, in the main cabin and off the navigation station where charts and radio are located. Be prepared to collect your belongings in a hurry as situations change, e.g. sudden increased heeling, preparing to anchor etc.
Pay Attention to what is going on!!! - Curtail extraneous talking when decisions are being made e.g. approaching a dock, circling for an approach for rafting up, entering a narrow channel, changing sails, plotting the next course. Listen and watch what others are doing. There is much to learn by paying attention to what the experienced sailor is paying attention to!
Can you help? - If you offer to help and the answer is “thank you but no”, try to stay out of the way of others moving about the boat. If the response is “yes”, listen carefully to the instructions and ask for clarification if you do not understand. Do not proceed until it is clear what you are asked to do. If something did not go as expected, try to find out why at a later quieter time. Tense moments can and do occur while sailing, docking, rafting or anchoring. Sometimes tempers flare. Do your best to follow directions.
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FOOD COORDINATION ON DAY SAILS AND WEEKEND SAILAWAYS
Food and Beverage for a Day Sail Each member should bring their own food and beverage for the day. If it is to be kept cold, plan to bring your own cold pack as procuring ice is usually not planned for a Day Sail. It is the custom to bring something to share with the group such as fruit, cookies, or chips.
Food Coordination on a Sailaway You may be asked by the Skipper, or you can volunteer, to be the Food Coordinator for an overnight Sailaway.
The Food Coordinator should check with the Skipper regarding the following:
• How many people will be on board? Get their names and contact info. • How many meals will be prepared on board? Is a restaurant meal planned? • What are the cooking facilities? Is there a workable oven? Is there a grill? Is it propane or charcoal? Do you need to provide the charcoal? • Is there a need to purchase bottled water? • Does the Skipper usually bring the ice or should Crew purchase it? Is there an additional cooler for cold drinks?
• What is predicted for weather? Is a hot or a cold meal more appropriate? • Are there any Skipper requests regarding what NOT to bring on board? • What paper items are needed such as paper plates, cups, napkins or paper towels? • What staples are already on board such as coffee, tea, or mustard and what needs to be purchased?
• Do any of the Crew have a food allergy, e.g. nuts, seafood, lactose intolerance?
Food Coordination with other Crew Members
When you have gathered the information, contact the other Crew Members to help with planning and purchasing of the food and any other supplies needed. Some suggestions that generally work well:
• Divide up meals by category when possible. Assigning 2 breakfasts or 3 lunches makes for more efficient planning and buying. The same for “Happy Hour” hors d’oeuvres. • If more than one supper on board is planned, enlist another person for the second one. • Assign the purchase of small extras such as fruit, chips, or paper items to one person to keep the duplication in buying to a minimum. • Do not bring difficult to stow items such as large cakes or casserole dishes that may not fit into the icebox. • Bring only plastic food containers on board and never glass. Use plastic bags and never paper bags from the grocery stores. • Keep planned meals simple and easy to prepare. Bring already prepared, cooked or washed foods whenever possible to minimize the fuss and clean up at mealtime.
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Beverages - It is important to keep well hydrated! - All Crew Members and the Skipper are responsible for bringing their own supply of preferred beverages, e.g. soda, iced tea, juices, and a sufficient supply for the duration of the trip. Water drinkers should bring their own supply if it is the only beverage planned for the trip. Larger bottles of frozen water provide additional cooling in the icebox, as well as an ongoing supply of cool water for the smaller bottles. Take care with those however, they can be hazardous.
Alcoholic Drinks - Happy Hour - Crew Members and the Skipper are responsible for bringing their own alcoholic beverages for Happy Hour as well as any mixers, if desired. Always check before adding wine or alcohol to food that is to be served. There may be non-drinkers on board. Drinking alcoholic beverages while underway is generally not permitted. Some boats do allow a beer with lunch but check with the Skipper first. Do not assume it is permitted. Responsible behavior when drinking on board a SUS vessel is expected.
ALLOCATION OF EXPENSES ON A SAILAWAY
Expected Cost for a Sailaway - For a two-day weekend with no meals on shore, Crew should expect a cost of at least $30-50 or more per person. For a three-day weekend expect at least $50-70 or more per person. Costs may vary depending on food selections.
Expenses for food, ice, dockage or mooring - These are shared by all Crew Members, including guests of the Skipper, but excluding the Skipper. Crew Members who leave a Sailaway before it is completed are expected to pay a full share of the total expenses for the trip.
Boat Expenses - The Skipper is responsible for providing boat fuel, stove fuel, sufficient water, toilet paper and holding tank pump-outs.
Restaurant Meals Ashore - It should be made clear to all in advance if a meal ashore in a restaurant is planned. Each person, including the Skipper, is responsible for paying for his/her own meal.
Launch fees - Each Crew Member and Skipper pays for his/her own fees (or tips) for launch service.
Final Tally - Cost Per Person on a Sailaway Everyone should save all receipts of purchase for food, ice, and paper supplies. One person will then add the total amount spent and then divide by the number of Crew and Guests (but excluding the Skipper) to determine the cost per person. Each person will then be reimbursed or pay-in according to the money already spent. Some suggestions to make things easier:
Total the amount for any docking or mooring fees and ice supplies paid for by the Skipper and divide by the number of Crew and Guests. It is easier to keep this separate from the total bill as the reimbursement goes to one person – the Skipper.
• Try to bring small bills to make change for the final tally which helps when eating ashore with the group. • Prepare the final tally long before you get back to the mooring or dock. This is a busy time with cleanup and off-loading. Handling numbers and collecting money adds to the confusion. A good time to finish the final tally and payments is shortly after the last lunch is finished.
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FINAL CLEANUP AT THE END OF A SAILAWAY
If you have not sailed on the boat before, you may need to seek guidance from the Skipper regarding what needs to be done. Please keep in mind that the final cleaning of the boat is the responsibility of everyone on board. Some of the tasks usually included in “closing the boat” are the following:
• Remove all food from the icebox. It is wiped clean and left open to dry. It may be wiped down with bleach if odor is present. • Remove any perishable food or open packages of food. • Wipe clean the counters, sink and stove in the galley. • Clean the sink, bowl and floor in the head. • Sweep or wipe down floorboards in the main cabin. • Remove boat cushions, flag, life ring and any equipment to be stowed inside the cabin. • Remove all trash to designated bins or take home for disposal when necessary. • Hose down decks and cockpit area with fresh water.
SUS CRUISE GUIDELINES
Schedule - Annual Cruise scheduling is prepared by Skippers early each year and is published in advance. Any Skipper who is not planning to stay with this schedule should make this clear to the Crew when inviting them. Weather and other conditions might make changes necessary. Skippers are encouraged to meet with Crew before the trip if possible and may invite Crew for a day sail the weekend before the Cruise starts.
Please note that Crew are expected to sign up for one or two-week durations. Skippers should not be asked to arrange changeovers at other times or places. Any Crew Member who is aboard for less than a week for any reason should be responsible for the full-week expenses.
Cruise boats may be joined by other SUS boats not on the Cruise during the first and last weekend for a regular Sailaway. The middle weekend will be spent in a port where Crew changes can be made. A designated person will act as the “Land Coordinator” to help with the arrangements for cars, ferries etc., for Crew changeover.
Expenses - Food Coordination - Budget - Final Tally on the Club Cruise Please read the previous sections on Responsibilities of Crew Members and Food Coordination, Expenses, Final Tally and Final Cleanup on a Sailaway. These sections are all applicable to the Club Cruise. The following information is in addition to the earlier sections and specifically addresses the two-week Cruise.
Expenses A boat may find it necessary to include the cost of fuel for Crew contribution. This should be stated in advance if this is expected. If there is less than a full crew, a Skipper may elect to contribute a crew’s share, which should also be stated in advance.
The itinerary may include several nights in port at a dock to allow easy access to bathroom/shower facilities, restaurants and food shopping. The cost for dock space is by boat length, charging $3.00-6.50 a foot per night.
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As an example, a 30-foot boat would cost $90-195 per night. Although the cost is shared by the Crew Members and guests, docking fees can add up quickly and affect the overall cost of the trip. Choosing a harbor mooring with launch service is less costly and an option the Crew might prefer. It is recommended that this be an open topic for discussion with the Skipper before or during the Cruise.
Money Management It is recommended that funds for each week’s expenses be collected and held in a “kitty.” A Crew Member will collect the money in advance and act as ship’s purser for the week. Generally, if the cruise is scheduled for two full weeks, expenses for week one includes the first departure Saturday to Saturday of changeover weekend. Week two includes Saturday or Sunday of changeover weekend to Saturday or Sunday when the Cruise ends. If extra Crew is on board changeover Saturday, they should contribute a share of the dockage or mooring fee. All expenses for dockage, moorings, ice, food and supplies are paid out of the kitty. Crew incurring expenses should be reimbursed from the kitty when receipts are received.
Budget It is recommended that each Crew Member and guest contribute $300 per week to the kitty fund. If expenses exceed the amount collected, each person contributes an equal share to cover the deficit. If there is money remaining at the end of the week, the surplus is divided equally among paying members. In addition, Crew should plan for several dinners and lunches on shore each week, plus launch service and personal shopping or activities.
Food Coordination for the Club Cruise The Skipper will arrange for a Crew Member to be the Food Coordinator for each week of the Cruise. It is recommended that the Skipper and Crew meet to discuss general food preferences and food restrictions. Accommodations can be made but they should be within reasonable limits. Although much of the provisioning will be done while on the Cruise, some items can be purchased in advance. As a group, decide what non-perishable items you would like to have on board e.g. coffee, tea, Parmalat milk, canned tuna fish, crackers, to save time later in port. Always include a non-perishable meal to be kept on board for the unexpected time when weather interferes with plans. Then plan some meals for the first few days out and assign the purchasing to Crew Members. A real bonus for everyone is an easy, already prepared meal for the first night out when everyone is getting settled. Also, a main meal may be prepared and frozen at home to be eaten several days later when everyone is tired. This may even qualify one for sainthood.
Please remember that when purchasing food there is a human tendency to think in very generous terms and overbuy. Everyone is occasionally guilty but over provisioning is wasteful and can create major stowage problems. It also creates hard feelings when there is overspending of the group’s money. There is also a tendency to load the boat with junk food, so try to get some agreement from the group before buying chips, cookies, pretzels, muffins, coffee cake etc. They all taste good, but they are pricey and not exactly from the major food groups.
Sharing the Work In addition to sharing the crewing and preparing meals, Crew are expected to help keep the boat clean. On Saturday morning of the changeover weekend, the icebox should be emptied and cleaned and the entire boat cleaned and ready for the next week’s crew. At the end of the Cruise, the Crew is responsible for the Final Cleanup as outlined above for FINAL CLEANUP AT THE END OF A SAILAWAY.
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SAFE BOATING EDUCATION
By their second membership renewal date, new members must have passed either the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary's or the America’s Boating Club (8 hours minimum) or hold a U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s license. See the SUS Bylaws for other ways to fulfill this requirement. Each new member must also complete the SUS Membership Orientation (MOC) and the SUS Dockside Orientation Class (DOC) within that timeframe. The SUS Website and the Masthead are updated regularly with class schedules, locations and contact information for these courses.
The SUS Member Orientation (MOC) Class and Dockside Orientation Class (DOC) are scheduled throughout the spring and summer months. Please check the club calendar for dates and locations. Members must sign in to get credit for attending. Members should sign up with the Vice Commodore to participate in both the Membership and Dockside Orientations.
The National Association of State Boating Law Administrators has established the National Boating Education Standards that the states follow. See www.nasbla.org for the Basic Safe Boating Course. This is the course you must complete.
After passing this course, you can apply for the Connecticut Safe Boating Certificate (SBC). SUS requires passing the course and getting a Safe Boating Certificate. Connecticut residents or property owners must have an SBC to legally operate a boat registered in Connecticut in Connecticut waters. Anyone at the helm is “operating” so therefore if you wish to steer you should have the CT SBC or your state’s equivalent. Make sure you bring your certificate in case you are boarded by marine police or the Department of Energy & Environmental Protection (DEEP). It’s comparable to a driver’s license. Connecticut has reciprocity with New York, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire so that a certificate from those states satisfies the educational requirements for issuance of an SBC.
A list of approved education providers is available from the Connecticut DEEP (http://www.ct.gov/deep/cwp/) which includes private providers, organizations, and community colleges. Lists of approved providers are also available in New York and New Jersey.
The Basic Safe Boating Course is 8 hours and given in one day. It meets our basic requirements, but to learn the most possible, we suggest you take a more comprehensive course such as the Power Squadron Boating Course, or the USCG Auxiliary Sailing Skills & Seamanship Course. These are usually America’s Boating Club Visit www.cgaux.org/boatinged for dates and locations convenient to you.
Multi-lesson Classroom Courses: Sailing Skills & Seamanship (SS&S), 8 – 13 sessions Weekend Navigator (NAV), 8 – 13 sessions
One Day Seminar Classroom Courses: About Boating Safely (ABS), 8 hours GPS for Mariners (GPSFM), 4 – 6 hours How to Read a Nautical Chart (HRNC), 3 hours Suddenly in Command (SIC), 4 hours
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America’s Boating Club offers courses at locations in our vicinity. Visit americasboatingclub.org, or call 800.367- 8777 for dates and locations convenient to you.
Multi-lesson Classroom Courses & Seminars: Americas Boating Course (ABC), 8-hour seminar
SAILING SCHOOLS IN OUR VICINITY
All sailing schools listed below are United Sates Sailing (USS) or American Sailing Association (ASA) affiliated. A course of 12 or more hours, or the “Keel Boat” course, successfully completed, is acceptable as satisfying your SUS Educational Requirement.
SUS does not recommend one sailing school over another. Please tell us about your experiences and recommendations so that we can pass them along to other members.
• Norwalk Sailing School 50 Calf Pasture Beach Rd, Norwalk, CT (203) 852-1857 www.norwalksailingschool.org • Sound Sailing School 54 Beach Rd., Norwalk, CT (203) 838-1110 www.soundsailingcenter.com • Longshore Sailing School 260 Compo Rd. S., Westport, CT (203) 226-4646 www.longshoresailingschool.com • Sailaway Sailing School Captain’s Cove, Bridgeport, CT (203) 209-3407 www.teamsailaway.com • American Sailing Academy 128 Howard St., New London, CT (860) 608-1393 www.americansailacademy.com • Oyster Bay Sailing School 1 West End Ave., Oyster Bay, NY (516) 624-7900 www.thewaterfrontcenter.org • Port Sailing School 22 Pelham Rd., New Rochelle, NY (914) 355-5400 or (516) 767-7245 www.portsailing.com • Croton Sailing School Inc. Senasqua Park, Croton on Hudson, NY (914) 271-6868 www.crotonsailing.com • Chelsea Sailing School Pier 59, Chelsea Piers, New York, NY (800) 221-4326 www.chelseapiers.com • Manhattan Sailing School 393 S. End Ave., New York, NY (212) 786-0400 www.sailmanhattan.com • Offshore Sailing School Pier 25, N. Moore St., New York, NY (888) 454-7015 www.offshoresailing.com
THE ABOVE INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE
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INTRODUCTION TO SAILING AND CRUISING
Words in bold, italicized are defined in NOMENCLATURE sections.
THE BASICS
A: NOMENCLATURE
Aft Toward the rear (stern) of the boat, or behind
Backstay A wire rigged to prevent forward motion of the mast
Beam The greatest width of the boat
Bilge The interior of the hull below the floorboards
Boat hook A staff with a fitting on one end shaped for use in putting a line over a piling, recovering an object dropped overboard, or in pushing or fending off
Boom A pole or spar attached to the mast used to extend the foot (lower edge) of a sail
Bow The forward part of a boat
Bulkhead A vertical partition separating parts of the hull
Cockpit The box-like well in the deck from which the boat is steered
Draft The vertical distance from the waterline to the lowest point of the hull
Fore and aft On a line from bow to stern
Forestay A wire rigged to prevent backward motion of the mast
Forward Toward the bow
Galley The kitchen area of a boat
Gunwale The upper edge of a boat's sides (pronounced -gun'1)
Hatch An opening in the deck fitted with a watertight cover
Head A marine toilet
Keel An appendage extending from the hull's underbody preventing sideways drift and providing stability
Lifeline A safety line fitted around an open deck supported by posts called stanchions
Mast A vertical pole or spar for spreading sails
Port The left side of a boat when looking forward
Rigging A general term for all the lines and fittings 16 | P a g e
Rudder A movable part, all or most of which is underwater, controlled by the tiller or wheel to steer the boat
Seacock A valve fitted to an underwater inlet or outlet
Shroud A wire rigged to control sideways motion of the mast
Sloop A single-mast vessel with working sails (main and jib) set fore and aft
Spreader A horizontal metal or wood piece attached at one end to the mast and at the other end to a shroud to prevent excessive mast bend
Standing rigging The shrouds and stays that support the mast
Starboard The right side of a boat when looking forward
Stern The after part of a boat
Tiller A bar or handle used to turn a boat's rudder
Wheel The steering wheel used to turn a boat's rudder
Figure 1 - Parts of a Sail Boat Figure 2 - Basic Standing Rigging
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B. ROLES OF THE SKIPPER, FIRST MATE, AND CREW There are many aspects to the role of the Skipper in law and tradition. Understanding a few aspects of the Skipper's role in relation to sailing activities should contribute to good communication, safety, and the enjoyment of all aboard during SUS sailing activities.
SKIPPER ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Equip vessel with proper safety equipment (all required Coast Guard approved equipment). • Operate vessel in a safe manner. • Decide whether to continue or abort a planned trip, change destination, dock or raft-up. • Direct Crew in operation of vessel. • Inform Crew of standards for neatness and cleanliness (these will vary from Skipper to Skipper). • Perform cruise check-out to acquaint Crew with location of all required safety equipment (See Skipper’s Checklist - Appendix C)
FIRST MATE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Main “official” duty is to bring vessel and Crew safely home if Skipper is unable to do so. • First Mate, as a competent sailor, provides assurance to Skipper and Crew (who may be new to sailing) of another experienced sailor on board. • At Skipper’s request provides orientation in SUS practices and procedures. • May be asked to direct operations such as lowering sails, docking, rafting, etc.
CREW ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES • Responsible for own safety, including notifying Skipper of any physical or other limitations on ability to perform tasks that may be assigned (provide same on cruise signup sheet). • Follow directions on operating the vessel. • Inform Skipper or First Mate if you do not understand the directions sufficiently to perform tasks. • Keep focused on accomplishing the tasks of the moment. • REMEMBER: Crew is invited guest of Skipper, act with that understanding.
Understand that the handling of a vessel occasionally creates tension and patience may run short. Do not take personally comments made at such times, or the manner in which they are delivered. Focusing on personalities at such times can adversely affect the safety of the vessel and those aboard.
C. HEAT AND COLD-RELATED ILLNESSES AND INJURIES, SEASICKNESS
Become familiar with competent medical advice on avoiding the following heat and cold-related illnesses and injuries: • Sunburn • Heat exhaustion • Hypothermia • Eye damage • Heat stroke • Remember: Above conditions are magnified when you are on the water. • Consult with your doctor or pharmacist for the most appropriate prevention practices. • Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, long sleeved shirt are a good precaution against the elements.
The sun’s effects are increased due to reflection. The wind on a warm day early or late in the season can produce a chill as it passes over the colder water. Temperatures drop quickly after sundown. Add a little extra to the protection you think you need until you have sufficient coverage. You should also protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses, especially those with good ultra-violet screening. A hat with a visor also contributes to eye protection.
The same principles apply to avoiding seasickness. The Sound can get choppy and, if one is susceptible, it can be very unpleasant. Dramamine is the old standby, but some prefer Bonine as one-tablet lasts for up to 12 hours. Wristbands which use acupressure principles are also available at boat supply stores. Behind the ear patches obtained by prescription are effective, but some people have reported serious side effects (confusion, hallucinations) and can be especially dangerous on a boat. A traditional remedy, ground gingerroot, has been shown effectiveness as well. Some sailors find that simply drinking ginger ale or eating ginger cookies relieves mild seasickness. Consult a health care professional to select what best suits your individual needs.
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D: USE OF SAFETY EQUIPMENT
You will have the opportunity to inspect safety equipment on board during your checkout. The Skipper or First Mate will acquaint you with safety equipment of the boat.
E: OVERBOARD PROCEDURE
A person overboard should be treated as a possible life or death situation. Certain things must be done to respond:
• Alert all aboard by shouting, "MAN OVERBOARD!" • Keep the victim in sight AT ALL TIMES by having one Crew Member point continuously at the person in the water. • Heave throwable flotation device(s) as close to the victim as possible without hitting him/her - this helps the victim remain afloat as well as marks their location. • Assist in bringing the boat under control to bring it back to the location of the victim. • Assist in getting the victim back on board.
F: KNOTS
There are many knots that sailors use for many different purposes. The following knots should be learned and practiced:
• Bowline (pronounced "bo lyn") – has many uses aboard a sailboat – critical to learn!
• Figure eight - (stopper knot)
• Square knot - (reef knot)
• Clove hitch - used to attach fender to lifeline
These knots can be found in any basic sailing text or Scouting Handbook. Instructions can also be found on several internet websites. Practice tying these and other knots while viewing interactive and animated web sites including the following: www.apparent-wind.com/knots Some great knots here! www.animatedknots.com/indexboating.php This site even has an iPhone app you can download.
WHICHEVER METHOD YOU USE TO LEARN KNOTS IS FINE.
JUST PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE!!!
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GETTING UNDERWAY
A: NOMENCLATURE
Battens Slats inserted in pockets in a sail to keep proper shape
Batten down Secure hatches and loose objects below
Bend on To fasten sails to spars or stays
Blocks Wheels (sheaves), encased in frames, which change the direction of lines or wires
Cast off To undo mooring lines in preparation for departure
Chock A fitting with an opening in the top through which lines are led
Cleat A fitting used to secure lines
Clew The aft, lower corner of a sail
Coil To arrange a line in loops
Cringle A ring in a sail through which a line or hook can be passed
Fender A device used to pad or cushion between a boat and another surface (dock, another boat, etc.)
Foot The lower edge of a sail
Halyard A line or wire used to hoist a sail
Hank A snap hook, including those used to attach a sail to the forestay
Head The upper corner of a sail
Helm The wheel or tiller by which the vessel is steered
Jib A triangular sail set on a forestay
Jib sheet A line attached to the clew of a jib and used to control lateral movement of the sail
Leech The aft edge of a sail
Luff The forward edge of a sail
Mainsail The sail set on the after side of the principal mast.
Main sheet The line used to control the lateral movement of the mainsail
Outhaul A line used to adjust the foot of a sail along a boom
Running rigging The lines and fittings used to adjust spars and sails
Shackle A fastener, closed with a pin or spring, used to connect things
Sheaves The wheels in blocks pronounced ("shivs")
Sheet A line used to control the lateral movement of a sail
Tack The forward, lower corner of a sail
Topping lift A line or wire used to hold up the boom when the sail is not set
Stow To put an item in its proper place
Winch A geared drum used to haul lines 20 | P a g e
Figure 3 - Parts of the sails (Main and Jib).
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Figure 4 - The Main Sail up close.
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Figure 5 - The Jib up close.
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Figure 6 - Jib sheets are lead aft to a Winch.
Figure 7 - Two different types of Cleats.
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B: STOWING GEAR
• Stow gear only where instructed by Skipper or First Mate. • Gear used in the operation of the vessel is generally assigned a specific space. Ask where these items are to be stowed and make sure you understand response. Problems can result when gear is not in its proper place. • Items you will need during the course of the day should be accessible.
When stowing gear aboard a sailboat, remember that space is limited and some spaces are designated for special purposes.
An overriding consideration is that the boat will generally be on an even keel (mast straight up) when gear is being stowed. Underway, angles of heel from 15 to 20 degrees will not be uncommon. Keep this in mind when stowing gear.
C: CLEATS
• Used to secure lines and are mounted in a variety of locations. • Horn cleat - Jam cleat - Cam cleat • Ask how they are used. • Skipper or First Mate will show you methods of making fast (securing) to a cleat.
Cleats are mounted in a variety of locations and are used to secure (make fast) lines. They can be located on the mast to secure halyards; on the boom to secure lines used to adjust and control the sail; on deck to secure sheets, docking or mooring lines, and the anchor. The horn cleat is the kind most commonly used for a variety of purposes, but there are several other kinds you will encounter (Jam cleats, Cam cleats, etc.). When you do, ask what they are called and how they are used. There are several ways to make fast to a cleat. You will have the opportunity to see a variety of methods as you sail with different Skippers.
D: LEAVING THE DOCK OR SLIP
PERSON AT HELM • Dealing with several concerns simultaneously – e.g. winds, currents, other vessels, and operation of vessel. • Usually instruct Crew on expected tasks when leaving the dock.
CREW • Usually responsible for casting off. Be sure to understand your assignment. • Ensure that vessel avoids pilings, other vessels, dock. • Ensure that mooring lines are not looped around objects on the boat or dragging in the water.
SAFETY RULES
When you are responsible for assuring that the boat does not come in contact with pilings, the dock, or other boats (fending off), the following safety rules must be observed:
• Never get between a fixed object and a moving vessel (make sure you have room to move out of the way if contact cannot be avoided). • Keep your elbows bent when fending with your arms and knees bent when fending with your legs. • When fending with a boat hook, NEVER put a boat hook between your body and a fixed object. Always have the boat hook off to the side of your body.
When you fend off, the goal is to prevent contact between the boat and a fixed object or another boat. Do not use force beyond what is needed to prevent contact. If you do, you may change the direction of travel and possibly cause a collision on the opposite side.
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E: ON BOARD ACTIVITIES
Some operations you might be asked to assist with: • Use of winches • Prepare a jib for sailing • Lead lines through blocks • Make fast to a cleat • Raise sails • Coil lines • Heave lines
SAFETY MEASURES
• Operating winches: keep clothing clear of the moving parts. Serious injury can result. Many sailors find it beneficial to tie their hair back and leave their jewelry at home. • Sail should be free of obstacles or snags. The Skipper and Crew should be alerted if they are not. • Be observant when raising sail. • Familiarize yourself with ways of making lines fast. Ask if you don’t know.
When Sail is being raised, be observant. A sail caught under a shroud or snagged on a cleat while being raised could be damaged or cause a mishap. The sail should be free of obstacles or snags and the Skipper and Crew should be alerted if it is not. There are different methods for making fast to a cleat. Some lines can be made fast "hard" and others "soft" depending on how quickly they may have to be released. Ask the Skipper to show you how to do this and which type to use for which lines.
When rafting, or docking, it will occasionally be necessary to heave a line to someone on another vessel or on a dock. There area number of different ways of doing this. One adequate method for the short distances normally involved: Coil enough line to pass well beyond the distance it must be thrown, half again as far if that much line is available. The coils should be smaller than those used for other purposes such as handling lines or stowing them. Make sure the coils are even and not entangled. Then tightly hold the uncoiled end of the line in your non-throwing hand and throw the coil, as hard as you can, aiming above the shoulder of the person to receive it.
UNDERWAY
A: NOMENCLATURE
Some of the nomenclature presented here is best understood within the context of the specific subject to which it is related and can be defined most clearly using illustrations. In addition to the terms defined below, other terms are listed without definition.
Abeam At right angles to the centerline (an imaginary line, fore and aft, at the center of a vessel)
Bear off To turn away from the direction from which the wind is coming (also called “fall off")
Buoy A floating marker anchored to the bottom to indicate a position on the water
Chart A map for use in navigation
Come up into the wind Turn toward the direction from which the wind is coming (also called "head up")
Current The horizontal movement of the water
Ease To let out or slacken a line gradually (also called "pay out" or "ease- off")
Haul To pull
Heel The inclination to one side of a boat while moving under sail
Knot One nautical mile per hour
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Leeward Away from the wind (also "lee")
Lee helm The tendency of a boat, left to its own, to turn away from the wind
Luff up To come up into the wind so the wind blows across both sides of the sails causing them to flutter (also "luffing")
Navigate To guide a vessel from one point to another
Port tack With the wind on the port side
Starboard tack With the wind on the starboard side
Tide The periodic vertical movement of the water
Weather helm The tendency of a boat, left to its own to turn into the wind
Windward Toward the wind
Figure 8 - Sails should be "flaked" and covered at the end of each day.
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B: RULES OF THE ROAD
Crew must be alert to situations involving the danger of collision with another vessel. From time to time, Crew Members will be asked to serve as lookout or When Sailboats Meet helmsperson. Some basic understanding of the rules governing right of way will help to perform these roles.
These rules do not come into play until the possibility of a collision exists, however the lookout will inform the person at the helm of traffic in the area which may be expected to involve the possibility of a collision if both vessels maintain the same course and speed. This possibility can be determined by watching the bearing (direction or point on the compass in which the object is seen) either by reference to the compass or by sighting the other vessel over a fixed point on your own vessel such as a lifeline stanchion. If the bearing of the other vessel does not change relative to that fixed point (it stays on the spot over which you are sighting it), a risk of collision exists.
For purposes of these rules, the windward side is the side opposite that on which the mainsail is carried.
If a vessel has the wind on her port side and cannot determine with certainty whether a vessel to windward is on a port or starboard tack, she must keep out of the way of the other vessel.
"Rules of the Road" deals primarily with machine driven vessels (motorboats). These rules are important to sailors since a sailboat under motor, or under motor and sail together, must follow the rules governing motorboats.
Four Basic Navigation Rules for Sailing Situations
1. Port-tack boat gives way to the starboard-tack boat – upwind or downwind. If two vessels might come close or collide, the stand-on vessel maintains course and speed. The give-way vessel alters course and/or speed to pass at a safe distance. (See Situation 1 below)
2. Windward boat gives way to the leeward boat on the same tack, whether sailing upwind or downwind. (See Situation 2 below)
3. Overtaking boat gives way to the vessel ahead, whether a sailboat or powerboat.
4. Recreational power vessels generally give way to sailboats. It's true most of the time. Stay away from working power vessels, fishing boats, ferries, tugboats, barges, and ships, especially in navigational channels.
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Situation 1
Situation 2
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C: NAVIGATIONAL AIDS
The information on navigational aids is covered in Basic Sailing Courses.
D: POINTS OF SAILING, COMING ABOUT, AND JIBING
Beat Broad reach Close-hauled Close reach Come about Hard alee or helms alee Jibe Reach Ready about Run
Points of sailing or "sailing positions" are defined by reference to the direction of the wind relative to the position of the vessel. Review "Basic Sailing" section of this document.
Figure 9 - Points of sail and terminology.
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TACKING, COMING ABOUT • Bow of vessel passes through the direction of the wind. • Be alert for sails or sheets fouling on anything on deck or in the rigging.
Many sailors and books on sailing, use the terms "tacking" and "coming about" interchangeably. The maneuver is generally not difficult except in high winds or rough seas. Since the wind is passing over the front of the sails (luff), the sails flap in a controlled manner, blown aft from the forestay and mast. If the sheets are not under tension, the sails move from one side of the boat to the other without a problem in most cases.
JIBING • Stern of the vessel passes through the eye of the wind. • Movement of sails must be carefully controlled with the sheets.
When jibing, unlike coming about, the sails are generally set far from the centerline of the vessel before starting this maneuver. When the jib sheets are not under control, the wind blows the jib forward and the sail can wrap around the forestay. When the main sheet is not under control, the main sail can travel uncontrolled from one side of the vessel to the other with damaging force. For these reasons, when jibing, the movement of the sails from one side to the other must be prepared for and carefully controlled with the sheets.
COMMANDS • Intended to alert Crew to pending maneuver, give time to prepare, and coordinate activity. The usual sequence is: • • Helmsperson: "Ready about" or "Ready to jibe" or "Stand by to jibe" • Crew: "Ready" "Ready" • Helmsperson: “Hard alee” or “Jibe ho” or “Helms alee”
The commands or calls for coming about or jibing will differ slightly from boat to boat and may be varied depending on wind conditions.
In some cases, the helmsperson will precede these commands by alerting the Crew with "ready to come about" or "prepare to jibe" to give them time to get to the proper positions to come about or jibe.
From time to time a change in tack will be unanticipated. It could be due to a shift in the wind or distraction of the helmsperson. If the result is for the boom to start to swing across the deck, the helmsperson should shout "Jibe ho" to alert the Crew.
ARRIVING
A: NOMENCLATURE
Anchor A device shaped to grip the bottom
Anchor light An all-around white light exhibited forward where it can best be seen
Chain locker A forward compartment where an anchor chain and/or line is stowed
Ground tackle A term used to cover the anchor and its associated gear
Rode The anchor line and/or chain
Scope The ratio of the length of the anchor rode to the depth of the Water; e.g., 50' of line out in 7' of water and 3' of "free board" is a scope of 5 to 1
Spring line A line used in docking or rafting to prevent the vessel from moving forward or aft
Up anchor To raise the anchor (also "weigh anchor")
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B: RAFTING
TO RAFT OR NOT TO RAFT Types of Rafts: Small Linear - two or three vessels (sometimes awaiting instructions). Circular Raft - many vessels raft stern to stern to form a circle. Type of raft used is dependent on number of factors – weather, number of vessels, available anchorage room, how well anchors hold in the area. Designated Lead Skipper determines whether it is safe to raft, as well as, assembly and size of the raft. Each Skipper has final decision on whether to join the raft.
Several types of rafts are used on SUS sailing activities. They range from the small linear rafts (two or three boats) sometimes used to await instructions to enter the primary raft, to large circular rafts.
An individual Skipper is designated as Lead Skipper. The Lead Skipper decides whether it is safe to raft, what kind of raft to use, and whether or not the raft will be kept together through the night. The Lead Skipper also directs the assembly and size of the raft.
RAFTING • Crew must be alert to changes in wind, current and space between boats. • All lines - Bow line, Stern lines and two Spring lines (See - details below) – must be ready. • All fenders must be ready (See - details below) • Be prepared, at all times, to fend off if necessary.
A change in wind or current or the wake of a passing vessel can result in the sudden closing of space between boats when approaching the raft site, all lines and fenders needed should be made ready.
Four lines are used in rafting: bow line, stern line, and two spring lines. Each line should be prepared by having a loop in one end. The loop is used to attach the lines to cleats or winches on the vessel you are approaching (the receiving vessel). The end without the loop is used aboard your own vessel (the rafting vessel). This also makes it easier when the raft is breaking since looped ends are cast off and unlooped ends are taken in. (Occasionally, Crew must heave a line from one boat to another).
Fender:
Once your position on the raft is assigned, fenders are attached to the lifeline on the side of the boat which will be tied up to the receiving vessel. For linear rafts, fenders are attached just forward and aft of the beam (the greatest width of the boat); for circular rafts, the fender are placed between the beam and the stern. They should be positioned so they will not ride up when squeezed between the two vessels. Generally, the top of the fender itself should be just above the gunwale (the upper edge of the boat's side).
Bow and Stern Lines:
On approaching the raft, the bow and stern lines should be coiled and ready for heaving. Your Skipper should be asked if the ends of the lines to be kept aboard your boat (the ends without the loops) should be made fast to a cleat. If the boat is going bow first into the raft (the bow of the rafting vessel approaching the stern of the receiving vessel), the first line to heave or pass is the bow line, then the stern line. When approaching the raft in reverse, the stern line is passed first. When passing the line, identify it; i.e. "This is the bow line", or "This is the stern line". As soon as the lines are passed, you and a Crew Member aboard the other vessel move to the positions at which the line will be secured. Make sure the line is kept outside all rigging and out of the water as you move forward or aft. The Crew Member on the receiving vessel will then make fast to a cleat and you will stand by to adjust the line before making fast to a cleat. Passing the line around the cleat and under one horn will give you the control you need.
Once the lines have been made fast on the receiving vessel, your Skipper will direct the adjustment of the lines. On linear rafts, the lines are adjusted so the centerline of the receiving vessel and rafting vessel are parallel, and so that mast and shrouds are not side by side (if they are, there is a danger they may become entangled or damaged).
On circular rafts, lines are adjusted so the sterns are brought close together and bows spread apart. There is enough space between masts on a circular raft so they can be side by side. The stern line is primary, for determining proper position. The bow line is adjusted according to the slack needed to get the sterns in place.
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Spring lines:
Spring lines are attached after the bow and stern lines are initially adjusted. They are lines set to prevent forward and backward shifting of the boats. They are set from near the bow on the receiving vessel to near the stern on the rafting vessel and vice-versa.
Once the lines are set, Skippers will check to make sure all lines and fenders are positioned properly.
Raft Courtesy Rafts are among the most enjoyable of SUS social activities. They provide an excellent opportunity to meet other members, to learn about boats and sailing, and to party in a pleasant environment. Following a few simple rules ensures this enjoyment:
Raft Courtesy RULES: • When moving from vessel to vessel, request permission to board or cross (especially when it affects others’ activities). • Cross at the bow, not through the cockpit (unless invited to do otherwise). • Use shrouds and grab rails to steady yourself, -NOT halyards, awnings, dodger or radio antennae. If necessary use lifeline, but do not put your weight on lifeline. • Do not go below in another vessel unless invited by the Skipper. • Never leave litter on decks of vessel you are visiting. • Be light of step when passing from vessel to vessel. • Respect others’ rest requirements; moderate the volume of conversation, music etc. • Be responsible for your own condition. Rafts may need to be broken at any time, be prepared to assist.
C: DOCKING
DOCKING • Procedures similar to rafting procedures. • Crew must be alert to changes in wind, current and available space. • All lines - Bow line, Stern line and two Spring lines (See – details above) – must be ready. • All fenders must be ready (See - details above) • Be prepared, at all times, to fend off if necessary.
At the direction of the Skipper, bow and stern lines with loops are passed over pilings or cleats on the dock and made fast to cleats on board. Fender are placed or adjusted to prevent contact. Spring lines are then secured, if necessary, to prevent forward and backward motion. If docking for a short time, such as when refueling, bow and stern lines can generally be secured at a sufficient angle to the pilings on the dock to make spring fines unnecessary.
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D: ANCHORING
ANCHORING • Crew usually asked to handle ground tackle. Know where it is stowed before approaching anchorage. • Make sure ground tackle, anchors, chain are not dropped on deck. • NEVER THROW AN ANCHOR! • Set anchor by lowering it into water. • Follow Skipper’s instructions on how much rode to let out for proper scope. • To weigh anchor, take in rode and bring vessel to position where anchor line is perpendicular to the bottom. Haul anchor rode to free anchor. If anchor cannot be freed, Skipper will provide instructions. • Clean rode and anchor as they are raised and brought on board.
The stowage of ground tackle varies from vessel to vessel and you should become familiar with where and how it is stowed before you approach the anchorage. Because of the variety of equipment aboard SUS vessels, only the general aspects of anchoring are covered here.
Be careful handling ground tackle, anchors, chain, and tong lines are heavy, especially when being lifted through the water. Make sure you use your arms and legs to control and lift the weight, not your back.
Anchors and chain are a principal cause of damage to decks. The anchor is NEVER THROWN; it is always set by lifting it straight from the bow of the deck or from its cradle, lowering it into the water, being careful not to hit the hull. The, Skipper will instruct you on how much rode to let out to set the anchor. Once the anchor is set, the Skipper will tell you how much rode to let out for the proper scope. Scope will depend on the type of anchor, the depth of the water, the weather and forecast, and distance from other vessels anchored in the vicinity.
To weigh anchor, rode is taken in and the vessel brought to a position in which the anchor line is perpendicular to the bottom. At that point, the anchor rode is hauled to free the anchor. If the anchor cannot be freed in this manner, the Skipper will instruct you further (generally, the anchor will be freed by making fast to a cleat and nudging the anchor free using the force of the boat under engine).
E: ON-BOARD ACTIVITIES
You will be expected to assist in rafting, docking, or anchoring. You may have the opportunity to assist in more than one procedure. When you have the opportunity, ask the Skipper any questions you may have about the materials related to all the procedures.
RETURN TO PORT –WRAP UP • Assist in clean up. • Have your own gear ready. • Ask Skipper what additional help is needed. • Return vessel to its condition prior to the cruise.
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Appendix A
SINGLES UNDER SAIL, INC. BYLAWS
ARTICLE I NAME AND PURPOSE
Singles Under Sail, Inc. (SUS, the “Corporation”) is an organization of single people founded on April 4, 1987 and incorporated on August 30, 1990. The purpose is to bring together single people with an interest in sailing, boating and related activities, and to provide them with opportunities to share those activities.
ARTICLE II GENERAL MEMBERSHIP
Section 1. Membership.
A. Membership and attendance at SUS activities are open to unmarried, widowed, legally separated or divorced people, or separated married people living apart from their spouse or between whom legal action has been instituted. Members of the SUS who subsequently marry may continue their membership and the spouse will be eligible to join.
B. The membership year is January 1 through December 31. Membership commences upon receipt by the Membership Committee of applicable fees and dues and is valid until the end of the membership year. Membership privileges continue through March 1 of the following year. Dues and fees are not refundable except when membership is refused or revoked.
C. Education Requirements.
1. Effective May 1, 2012, all NEW members must complete the Educational Requirements by their second membership renewal date to be eligible for renewal. The renewal date for all members is January 1 of each year. These Educational Requirements are as follows: A. Complete a SUS Member Orientation Class (MOC). B. Complete a SUS Dockside Orientation Class (DOC). C. Provide proof of successfully completing at least 8 hours of Safe Boating instruction provided by the USCG Auxiliary, America’s Boating Club, or any other safe boating course that is judged by the Board of Directors to be at least equivalent to those courses. I. If there is no certificate or proof available, a member may sign a SUS Educational Requirement Affidavit, witnessed by the Vice Commodore and Membership Director, which states the member has successfully completed one of these courses. II. The course requirement will be waived if the member can prove they hold a US. Coast Guard Captain’s license.
2. Extensions of time for completion of these requirements may be granted in some circumstances at the discretion of the Vice Commodore and Membership Director.
D. Membership may be refused or revoked by action of the Board of Directors for reasons including, but not limited to: ineligibility for membership, failure to meet financial responsibilities, violation of published policies of the organization, or behavior deemed by the Board to be detrimental to the organization or any of its members. Such action requires a minimum two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full Board. If membership is revoked, dues will be refunded on a pro-rated basis, provided all financial obligations to SUS have been met. If a Board votes to refuse or revoke membership, the terms of that refusal or revocation may not be altered or overturned by another later Board unless a minimum two-thirds (2/3) of the full Board votes to alter the terms.
When a SUS member believes they have been subject to behavior that is offensive or inappropriate, or has observed behavior that is offensive or inappropriate, which reflects negatively on the SUS organization, whether it is directed at a SUS member or non- member, they shall report the details of the incident, in writing, to a Board Officer. Upon receipt of the report, the Board Officer, or appointee, shall take the following action:
1. Contact the SUS member who has been accused of the behavior for the purpose of documenting the accusation.
2. Report the written incident, and the subsequent documentation gathered from discussion with the member to the Board for their deliberation.
3. If the Board, after deliberation, determines by a majority vote that the incident does violate SUS standards of behavior as spelled out by the Bylaws Article II, Section 1, Paragraph D, the offending member shall be so notified in writing. The notification shall state that a note of the Board decision will be placed on the member’s record. This notification will include a statement that three (3) such findings by the Board will result in revocation of membership immediately and banning of future membership.
4. In the event the accused member’s SUS membership is revoked, the entire membership of SUS shall be notified of the Board’s decision by general email, or other means deemed appropriate by the Board. Such notice shall be delivered not less than 24 hours, nor longer than five days, after the accused has been notified of membership revocation
Section 2. Dues, Fees and Donations. Membership dues and fees will be determined by the SUS Board of Directors. Membership in SUS shall include an electronic subscription to the newsletter The Masthead as well as free admission to general membership meetings and to some other events. Fees for general membership meetings and to special events and activities will be determined by the Board upon recommendation by the relevant Director. Donations received shall be allocated as per donor ‘s request and Board approval.
Section 3. Membership Meetings.
A. Regular Meetings. Monthly or semi-monthly meetings will be held for program and social purposes as scheduled by the Board of Directors.
B. Annual Membership Meeting. An annual business meeting of the membership will be held in March each year at which the Board of Directors will present reports on finances, programs, policies and goals of the organization. Notice of the Annual Meeting will be made to the membership in the February and March issues of The Masthead newsletter.
ARTICLE III BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Section 1. Board Composition. SUS will be managed by a Board of Directors, hereinafter known as the “Board”, consisting of five officers (President, Vice President, Commodore, Secretary, Treasurer) and six directors (Membership Director, Newsletter Director, Programs Director, Public Relations, Special Events Director, Vice Commodore).
Section 2. Eligibility. Only SUS members in good standing are eligible for election to or continued service on the Board. Only owners of cruising boats are eligible for election to the office of Commodore. Board Members may serve any number of terms.
Section 3. Terms of Office. Terms of office shall be for two (2) years beginning January 1. Terms of office shall commence in alternate years. In the interest of continuity, members leaving the Board in December will attend the January Board Meeting and participate in the Annual Membership Meeting in March where reports for the previous year are presented.
The following terms shall begin on January 1 in odd-numbered years: Commodore Treasurer Secretary Programs Director Special Events Director Membership Director
The following terms shall begin on January 1 in even-numbered years: President Vice President Vice Commodore Newsletter Director Public Relations Director
Section 4. Elections. In order to fill expired terms new Board members, except the Commodore and Vice Commodore, will be elected in November from a slate of one or more candidates for each office presented by the Nominating Committee. The election will be by secret ballot of the current Board. The Commodore and Vice Commodore will be elected at Skipper’s meeting convened in October.
Should any Board member not complete a term of office, the vacancy will be filled using the above procedures. For any unfilled position, the President may appoint an Acting Director until the position is filled according to the above procedures. An Acting Director has the full responsibilities and powers of the position, including the right to vote.
In the event of a vacancy in the office of the President, the Vice President shall become Acting President until a special election can be held.
Section 5. Duties. The Board of Directors will act in support of the general purpose of the organization. It will review and approve the overall direction and affairs of the organization and assume responsibility for its sound fiscal and program management, for the formulation and implementation of policies, and for overall planning.
Each Director will fulfill the responsibilities and operate within the guidelines of such position as specified in the position descriptions appended to these Bylaws. Directors are expected to attend Board Meetings and to submit a report at each meeting. Reports may be submitted in writing prior to the meeting.
Each member of the Board of Directors will perform the duties of the position in good faith and in a manner, that is in the best interest of the organization. This includes duties as a member of any Board Committee on which the Board Member may serve.
Section 5A. Board of Directors Indemnification. Singles Under Sail, Inc. will indemnify directors and officers of the Corporation to the maximum extent permitted by law, including, without limitation, Sections 33-1116 through 33-1124 of the Connecticut General Statutes. SUS will purchase a Directors and Officers liability insurance policy to protect the Corporation and its Directors and Officers.
Section 6. Officers. The Officers consist of the President, Vice President, Commodore, Secretary and Treasurer.
A. President. The President is the Chief Executive Officer of the organization and oversees the direction of its affairs. The President prepares an agenda and presides at Board of Directors meetings. The President is also responsible for the Annual Membership Meeting agenda and will present a report at that meeting.
B. Commodore. The Commodore must be the owner of a cruising boat and is elected at the October Skippers Meeting in even- numbered years. The Commodore leads the development of the sailing activities agenda, runs the sailing portion of General Membership Meetings and the Annual Membership Meeting. The Commodore is also the liaison with other sailing and boating groups, represents SUS to the community at large and chairs meetings in the absence of the President and Vice President.
C. Vice President. The Vice President stands in for the President as needed and serves as a member and Chair of the Nominating Committee. The Vice President is responsible to secure locations for general and social meetings.
D. Secretary. The Secretary takes Board meeting minutes and conducts SUS correspondence as directed by the President, the Vice President, or the Commodore. They maintain the Book of Minutes, the Policies and Procedures Manual, a complete file of Masthead newsletters and other communications to the Membership, and a file of SUS documents including the Bylaws, incorporation documents, etc. The Secretary may appoint an Archivist to assist in collecting and maintaining archival materials and a Librarian.
E. Treasurer. The duties of the Treasurer are described in Article V, Fiscal Management.
Section 7. Resignations. A Board Member may resign at any time by giving written notice to the President. Unless otherwise specified, any resignation will take effect at the date of receipt of that notice and unless otherwise specified in that notice, the acceptance of the resignation will not be necessary to make it effective. A resignation is without prejudice to the rights, if any, of the SUS organization under any contract to which the Board Member is a party.
Section 8. Removal from the Board. A Board Member may be removed from office by Board action. Grounds for removal shall include failure to meet the responsibilities of the office or to comply with SUS Bylaws, Policies or Procedures, or other actions which in the opinion of the Board will harm, endanger or imperil SUS or its positive image or reputation in the community.
A motion for recall must be duly made and seconded at a Board Meeting. Notice of intention to move and vote on recall will be sent in writing to all Board Members at least one week in advance of the meeting. Recall will be by secret ballot and l requires a minimum two-thirds (2/3) vote of the full Board of Directors.
Section 9. Meetings.
A. Board Meetings. The Board will meet monthly (except in the months of August and December), and at additional times at the request of the President or one-third (1/3) of Board Members then in office to hear reports, discuss and determine matters of SUS policy, address concerns, and make decisions relevant to the betterment of the organization. No Board Meeting will be official or transacted business will be official or binding except when chaired by either the President, Vice President, or Commodore, with a quorum of the then existing Board in attendance. “Robert’s Rules of Order Revised” will apply.
B. Quorum. A quorum consists of the majority of the Board Members.
C. Voting. Except as otherwise required, all matters coming before the Board will be decided by a vote of the majority of the Board Members present. A Board Member may request that any vote be taken by secret ballot. Such ballots will be counted by the presiding officer and one (1) appointed teller. Proxy votes will not be valid in any case, but a Board Member who is unable to attend a Board Meeting may submit a written statement in favor of or against an issue to be voted on, which will be counted as a vote, provided there is a quorum present. The same procedure will be used to vote on the election of a Board Member or Members.
In addition, when necessitated by illness or because the member is out of the area when a Board Meeting is held, Board Members may also attend a Board Meeting through the use of audio or teleconferencing technology, which allows the member to hear and to be heard by all other Board Members present during a discussion of any matter where a vote will be taken. The member attending by remote means may clearly state their vote to those present or communicate that vote to the Secretary in confidence if the vote is by Secret Ballot. The Board Member who attends remotely will be counted toward a required quorum for official meeting purposes.
D. Minutes of meetings. The Secretary will be responsible for recording all business transacted. Such minutes will be maintained in a Book of Minutes and include verbatim all motions, amendments, resolutions, votes and policy decisions. Substantive discussions will be summarized. Minutes will be prepared and distributed to Board Members via email at least one week prior to the next Board Meeting. Additionally, all policy decisions will be maintained in a separate Policies and Procedures Manual and included in the Member Orientation Pamphlet (MOP) updated or changed as appropriate each year.
E. Action without a meeting. Any action required or permitted to be taken by the Board may be taken without a meeting if a majority of the Board Members will individually or collectively consent in writing to such action. Such written consent will have the same force and effect as any other of the Board vote.
ARTICLE IV COMMITTEES
Section 1. Nominating Committee.
A. Eligibility. All members whose dues are paid in full are eligible to serve on the Nominating Committee.
B. Selection. The Nominating Committee consists of the Vice President, who serves as Chair, one additional member and one alternate from the Board selected by the Board at the May Board Meeting. Four members and one alternate from the Membership-at-Large are elected by the membership at the June Social Meeting.
C. Term of Service. The Nominating Committee, both permanent and alternate members, serve a one-year term of service from July through June. The alternate members fill a vacancy of a permanent member in the respective area (i.e., Board Member or Member- at-Large). If a member of the Nominating Committee becomes a candidate for an open Board position, the member must be excused from serving while the position is under consideration. The temporary vacancy will be filled by the respective alternate members. The Board will appoint new committee member if a vacancy occurs.
Section 2. Advertising Committee. The Advertising Committee consists of the President, the Newsletter Director, and one other member to be named by the President, annually in March. The Committee will review and approve all proposed advertisements for commercial ventures submitted for the newsletter.
Section 3. Other Standing Committees. Each Director responsible for an area is empowered and encouraged to recruit, appoint and direct a committee to assist in that area, to be drawn from the membership at large. The relevant Board Member will serve as Chairman of the committee and report to the Board. A Director who is unable to attend a Board Meeting should, if possible, send a representative from the committee in that area to present a report.
Section 4. Ad Hoc Committees. Ad hoc committees may be appointed by the President to carry out specific responsibilities and report back to the Board. In each area of responsibility, a Director may appoint an ad hoc committee for a specific purpose in that area.
ARTICLE V FISCAL MANAGEMENT
Section 1. Fiscal year. The fiscal year of the organization will be from January 1 to December 31.
Section 2. Fiduciary Responsibilities. The Treasurer will have charge and custody of all funds of the organization. Toward that end, the Treasurer will compile and present an annual operating budget for approval by the Board at its November meeting. The Treasurer will ensure the safe handling and deposit of all funds in accordance with standard accounting practices; will make and/or authorize disbursements; render reports and account to the Board at each monthly meeting and as otherwise required; and discharge such other duties as pertain to the office.
Section 3. Authority to Spend SUS Funds. Each Board Member may spend or commit to be spent SUS funds within the limits of the budget adopted by the Board. Checks drawn on SUS funds must be signed by the Treasurer, President, or Vice President. Any decisions or contracts which would ultimately commit SUS to spend more than $500 in aggregate will be submitted to the Board for approval.
Section 4. Approval of Expenses. Expenses incurred by other members of the Board must be approved for payment by the Treasurer. Expenses incurred by the Treasurer must be approved by the President or Vice President.
Section 5. Expense Reimbursement. Certain expenses incurred in the conduct of SUS business will be reimbursable within the policies and guidelines established by the Board of Directors.
ARTICLE VI BYLAWS
Section 1. Enactment. These Bylaws will be in force upon a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the Board Membership.
Section 2. Amendments. Any proposed amendment to these Bylaws must be introduced in writing at a regular Board Meeting with electronic copies for each Board Member. Formal adoption may not take place until a subsequent Board Meeting, not less than one week following introduction of the proposed amendment. Such amendment will be enacted upon a two-thirds (2/3) majority vote of the full membership of the SUS Board.
Approved by the Board of Directors of Singles Under Sail, Inc.: November 7, 1990.
Amended: Mar 10, 1992, Feb 9, 1993, Apr 6, 1993, Jun 8, 1993, Dec 7, 1993, Jan 6, 1994,
Nov 10, 1998, Nov 7, 2000, Jul 9, 2002, Mar 11, 2003, Jul 1, 2003, Oct 16, 2003,
Mar 8, 2007, Oct 9, 2008, Apr 9, 2009, Nov 10, 2011, Sep 13, 2012, Jun 20, 2013,
Nov 14, 2013, Apr 18, 2016, Feb 8, 2019
Appendix B SINGLES UNDER SAIL, INC. PERSONAL SKILLS ASSESSMENT
Name Date______
SUS Skippers are always looking for crew at all levels. It is important that there is a mutual understanding of each other’s skill level. Everyone should be willing to help with the commissioning and or de-commissioning of yachts in the Club.
A Novice - Loves the water but considers themselves a beginner and is looking for opportunities to gain practical experience after taking basic sailing/safety courses as well as reading books on boating. A Crewmember has sailed before, is familiar with common boat terms and, with proper direction, can perform basic boating tasks. A First Mate has sailed frequently with SUS and/or other boats AND can sail/power a yacht back to the dock if the captain is incapacitated. A Skipper can handle his/her yacht in most conditions encountered on Long Island Sound. He/She keeps the yacht in good and safe condition, is capable/willing to demonstrate good and prudent seamanship and prepared to help improve the skills of the crew on board.
I consider myself a competent Long Island Sound: Novice Crewmember First Mate Skipper
I consider myself a competent Offshore: (Non-LIS) Novice Crewmember First Mate Skipper
Sailing Education Completed*:
America’s Boating Club Date US Coast Guard Auxiliary Date Other Courses Date
America's Boating Course About Boating Safely
Boat Handling (Seamanship) Boating Skills & Seamanship
Marine Navigation (Piloting) Sailing Skills& Seamanship
Adv Marine Nav (Adv Piloting) Navigating with GPS
Offshore Navigation (Jr Nav) Weekend Navigator
Celestial Navigation (Nav) Weather and Boating
Weather Lines & Knots
Sail Your Boats Radio
SINGLES UNDER SAIL, INC. PERSONAL SKILLS ASSESSMENT (continued)
Name Date______
Do you have a CT Safe Boating Certificate? Y N #______Date Issued______Please attach a copy to this application.
Do you have a USCG License? Y N #______Type______Date Issued______Please attach a copy to this application.
Emergency Skills (i.e. CPR, First Aid)
Boating, Navigation, Sailing Experience:
Singles Under Sail Experience
Past Participation Boat(s)
SUS day/twilight sails: ______
SUS overnight Sailaway: ______
SUS Cruises: ______
Sailing Preferences Yes No
Are you available for weekday sailing? ______
Are you available for weeknight twilight sailing? ______
Are you available for a weekend day sailing? ______
Are you interested an overnight sail away? ______
Are you available for club cruises? ______
Are you interested in offshore sailing? ______
Appendix C
Skipper's Checklist
While it is the ultimate responsibility of the individual Skipper to ensure the safety and seaworthiness of his vessel and the safety of the Crew, we recommend that each SUS Skipper review the following items before leaving the dock or mooring with each new Crew member. SUS Crew members should feel free to ask the Skipper to review any or all items before or during their stay on the vessel.
The location and use of all fire extinguishers on board the vessel. The location and use of all Coast Guard Approved life jackets. The location of First Aid material on board the vessel. The location and operating instructions for each VHF radio on board the vessel including the location of the MAYDAY instruction card. The location and operation of marine toilet facilities including holding tank operation. Review the Person/Man Over Board (MOB) emergency procedure and the use of life saving devices such as LifeSling (it is suggested that MOB drills are conducted at least once on every Sailaway weekend or Cruise). Starting and stopping procedure for the engine (this should include blower motor switch for a gasoline engine, water shut off locations, choking, and location of kill switch for a diesel engine). Fuel port and grade of fuel used. Location and proper use of cooking equipment and fuel handling, alcohol, propane, butane, or other fuels.
➢ Crew ability: SUS Rating. Swimming ability. Physical handicaps or limitations. Allergies, medication or other confidential information that would be important for the Skipper to know in case of an emergency.
Prescriptions and other medication should only be brought aboard an SUS member’s boat in the original properly labeled container. Do not repackage in unlabeled containers. This would be a violation of the US Coast Guard Zero Tolerance Drug Policy.
➢ Running rig: The location of all halyards, jib and main. The sheeting of jib and main. Traveler operation, boom vangs, and preventers. Winch handle locations and proper handling. Stowage locations of dock lines and fenders. Anchor location and deployment, use windlass (if available). Proper handling of docking lines leaving the dock. Proper handling of docking lines arriving at dock.
ppendix D - Ships Locator Outline
Legend Please locate the following items by letter on the drawing:
A. Life Jackets B. Fire extinguishers C. First Aid Kit & book D. Flares E. Thru-hull locations F. Wooden plugs for thru-hulls G. Cooking fuel cut-off H. Engine fuel cut-off I. VHF radio J. Horn K. Bell L. Whistle M. Tools N. Battery switch O. Engine stop P. Navigation lights/switches Q. Emergency steering tiller R. Bilge pump switch S. Manual bilge pump & handle T. Other U. Other V. Other W. Other X. Other Y. Other Z. Other
The ships locator outline is for important boat equipment and stores. It could be used as a basic locator to expedite familiarizing new crewmembers with locations of critical items such as seacocks, battery switches, and fire extinguishers as well as ships store items such as canned foods, drinking water, and bedding.
Boat Name:
LOA: Draft: Beam: Rig:
Appendix E
SAILING EVENTS OVERVIEW
Welcome to SUS and the New Sailing Season!
At SUS, Skippers and Crew get together for sailing and fun on the water.
If you are asking the question - How do I get invited to sail?? Here are a few ways to make it happen.
GET TO KNOW US - come to the SUS meetings, gatherings and parties: SOCIALIZE!
INTRODUCE YOURSELF to the Skippers, Vice Commodore (or anyone who will listen!) - Tell us about you and your crewing aspiration • Skippers are always asking questions about new Crew. Let us know you and your interests so that we can direct you to that elusive Skipper.
VOLUNTEER TO WORK ON THE BOATS • Boat preparation is all part of the SUS experience. We don’t ask you to get on your knees to sail, but it helps at the beginning of the season during boatyard time! Sign up to help.
CONTACT SKIPPERS WHO ARE WILLING TO BE CONTACTED DIRECTLY FOR CERTAIN SAILS. You can find a list of those Skippers and the guidelines at the Membership Desk at meetings, and from the Vice Commodore.
SUS ACTIVITY CALENDAR - The Skippers & Board of Directors have put together an exciting year of sailing and other activities. You can find the SUS Activity Calendar on the SUS website.
TYPES OF SAILING EVENTS
DAY SAILS – Weekdays, Saturdays, or Sundays from various harbors in Connecticut and New York.
TWILIGHT SAILS – scheduled weekdays - various locations in CT and NY. Get out onto the Sound and experience some magical sunsets. They are a great introduction to SUS sailing and getting to know other members and finding your skills as Crew.
The schedule of participating Day & Twilight Sail Skippers and their contact information is available on the SUS website and as a handout at the meetings.
DOCKSIDE ORIENTATION CLASS (DOC) – Scheduled three times during the sailing season and an ideal way to learn more about sailing skills while having fun learning. If time permits, a short sail may be available in which you will be able to practice some of the skills that you have learned. It’s important to let the Vice Commodore know three or four days before the DOC if you are planning to attend, space is limited. If you have any questions, please contact our Vice Commodore.
SKIPPER INVITATIONAL SAILS:
WEEKEND SAILAWAYS - Sailing experiences to a variety of destinations with overnight on board. Black Rock, Port Jefferson, Oyster Bay, Huntington, Greenwich, Stamford, Port Washington, and City Island are always favorites. Memorial Day, Labor Day, and sometimes Independence Day are all Sailaway weekends. Experience rafting up, anchoring, and exploring the Sound.
CLUB CRUISE - Two full weeks sailing in July & August on Long Island Sound and beyond with stops along the way. The middle weekend is at a port convenient for Crew changeovers (optionally, the Club could select to have two nine-day cruises to alternate regions instead).
AVAILABLE TO CREW?
The easiest way to start sailing is to contact the Vice Commodore using one of the following options:
• Call the Vice Commodore (see Board Member listing in Masthead) to speak or to leave a message. Review the club’s Activity Calendar and let the Vice Commodore know when you are available to crew. mailto: • Email the Vice Commodore at [email protected]. Messages are checked regularly. Leave a message with your availability to sail and the Vice Commodore will get back to you. http://www.singlesundersail.org
QUESTIONS? Please contact the Vice Commodore or visit the Sailing Events table at meetings.
Appendix F
GUIDELINES FOR CREW MEMBERS
The following are guidelines for SUS members when contacting Skippers to make arrangements for crewing on boats.
The SUS MEMBERSHIP There are many members in Singles Under Sail, and a number of them are skippers who own boats and take other members sailing with them. The Skippers and their boat names are listed in the SUS MEMBERSHIP LIST that is available to SUS meetings and events..
MEMBERS MEETING SKIPPERS, SKIPPERS MEETING CREW It is generally up to the member, especially new members, to introduce themselves to Skippers at the social meetings and program meetings or at the various SUS social events to get the Skippers to know who you are and what your previous sailing experience may have been. The name tags that each of our members’ wear at our meetings indicates who are Skippers. They’re happy to meet new potential Crew Members.
CONTACTING SKIPPERS Crew Members are encouraged to directly contact Skippers and request invitations to crew on their Twilight Sails or Day Sails.
Generally, Crew Members may not contact Skippers for weekday overnight or weekend overnight Sailaways of two, three, or more days unless by prior arrangement or invitation or unless they have sailed on the Skipper’s boat on a regular basis and are considered part of the Skipper’s regular crew.
Sailing on an Annual Cruise is by invitation of the Skipper only. Skippers usually invite Crew Members that have sailed with them extensively or at least frequently before to ensure that their Crew for the Cruise has boat- handling skills, competence in other boat related matters, and, above all else, will be compatible with the other Crew Members.
THE INVITATION TO SAIL A Skipper shall be responsible for contacting a Crew Member that has contacted him or her by any means and respond to them in a reasonable period.
When discussing a possible sailing event, the Skipper reserves the right to respond to a potential Crew Member that they are welcome to come, that there is no more room on the boat for that particular event, that the Skipper was not intending to go on that particular date or is no longer going on that date if there had previously been some discussion of sailing on that date. Members sail on boats at the discretion of the Skippers.
ARRANGEMENTS If invited to sail, the Crew Member should confirm with the Skipper the location of the boat, how to get there, at what time they are expected to arrive, at what time the boat is leaving and what food, drink, or other supplies they are expected to bring with them, and if known, when the boat will probably return. The Crew Member should ask the Skipper, discuss, and then strictly comply with their instructions for making follow-up calls or follow-up emails to the Skipper to confirm the arrangements that have been discussed.
PERSONAL CREW EQUIPMENT & CLOTHING Crew is expected to own and bring their personal sailing gear with them and must not rely on the Skipper to provide clothing or equipment that they do not own or do not have with them. A list of personal crew equipment should be reviewed with the skipper. In addition, Crew should always carry with them the SUS Membership List indicating the Skipper’s cell phone number and their own cell phone for use in any emergency situation.
CANCELLATION The Skippers may at their discretion and possibly on short notice, choose to cancel any sailing activity for any reason whatsoever, including technical problems with the boat, weather-related issues, illness, or lack of adequate crew for the event. In such cases, the individual skipper shall expend his or her best efforts to contact the Crew Members to notify them of the cancellation.
If an alternate date has been selected, the Skipper will usually notify the Crew of that date and inquire as to their availability and interest in sailing on that alternate date. However, a Skipper who cancels a sailing event shall have no responsibility to schedule an alternate date.
CONTACTING THE VICE COMMODORE Contacting the Skipper directly will save time and effort but Crew Members can also contact the Vice Commodore by phone or email to make arrangements to sail on particular boats or on individual days or on alternate dates.
You may also ask for your name to be added to the list on other dates during the season when you would like to sail.
If you contact the Vice Commodore and subsequently make arrangements to sail with a particular Skipper, please notify them so they can remove your name from any list maintained for sailing on that date.
SINGLES UNDER SAIL - SKIPPERS AND BOATS The SUS Skippers List indicates which Skippers can be contacted directly for either Twilight or Day Sails. The list will be available at meetings. It may be updated and modified as required from time to time.
For reasons of privacy and security, Crew Members should refer to their current copies of the SUS Membership List for the telephone numbers and email addresses of the Skippers.
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