Learn to sail in five words, from Michael Storer

Our boat designing and sailmaking pal Mik Storer has decided to share what he’s learned over the years about beating – arguably the most challenging and important point of sailing.

‘Many beginner sailors find sailing upwind more intimidating that it needs to be this explanation will give you an understanding that you can practice next time you go sailing – a basic lesson for beginners and some ideas that will also help intermediate sailors.’

A two-handed Julie skiff on Faversham Creek

The youngsters on Faversham Creek Trust’s annual Boat Camp programme have this year built a couple of two-handed Julie skiffs. Here’s one of them in action on the creek in a good headwind:

I’d say they were doing well despite their lack of rowing experience, and that the boat was doing well also.

Plans for the stitch and glue Julie skiff are available from the free plans page on this website. If you’d like the extra drawings for the two-handed version, email me at gmatkin@gmail.com.

Swale Smack & Barge Match, 10th August 2019