Engineless cruising

Follow creek-sailor Tony Smith’s tips for a slower, quieter pace of life

- Tony Smith

Sailing without an engine is not unusual. After all it takes place almost every weekend during the summer months at sailing clubs throughout the rivers and creeks of the East Coast. And at a guess, by thousands of very skilled sailors who will likely be able to turn a boat on a sixpence. However, there are generally a set of operating procedures in place and rescue boats standing by in case of emergency.

Now, to take a small dinghy or yacht away from this environment, to go cruising around the estuary, is another matter. Things change dramatically for the cruising sailor who sets off alone, as the danger level is automatically raised. No matter how many times you annoy the coastguard for radio checks and the sound of a human voice on Ch16, you are – for all intents and purposes – by yourself with the unknown just around the headland, or that sharp bend coming up as you head downriver.

So, now you’ve moved on from simply enjoying the thrill of sailing to having an experience of high adventure.

Getting started

Cruising is for everyone and boats can be adapted and customised to suit all shapes, sizes and levels of ability. As long as you’re strong and fit of mind, you’re halfway to becoming a successful engineless cruiser. Study the tide-tables, learn the chosen area – I’ve done many wintertime scouting visits to target destinations – and choose the weather wisely, not sticking too rigidly to a plan.

Learning to sail is easy enough and can be done in a safe and controlled way on any stretch of water on a calm day outside your club, be it on tidal water or on a lake.