A windy, chilly summer is ending. Some of those experienced in inland sailing and racing who have made their first ventures along the coast have found this an unpropitious season. Others, more experienced, have braved sea voyages — but the letter we publish in this issue probably echoes the thoughts of most of us: the crew will tire while the boat is still able to stand the conditions of sea and weather. Dinghy sailing is very hard work physically, and the safety of the boat depends on the stamina of the crew. One does not know what one can stand without trying; that is why it is better not to be too ambitious at first. Later, when the crew is sure of its strength, the sea may not look so vast and lonely as it is apt to do the first time one meets rough weather in a dinghy.

At this stage we seem to divide into those who like to try their strength in a light fast boat, enjoying the excitement of this kind of sailing, and those who prefer the relatively staid behaviour of a heavy, sturdy “tub”. Eric and Maureen Coleman describe in their article how a heavy beamy dinghy behaves at sea — and, incidentally, reveal the immense amount of careful preparation needed to undertake a sea voyage safely. Their account should prove helpful to others who are thinking of cruising beyond their own familiar coast.

The bulletin can be useful in this way by passing on experience gained. Perhaps others who have not had much experience of coastal cruising may also find it helpful to join with those who have been longer at the game. Rallies and cruises in company can give newcomers the confidence for their earlier ventures although we must not, of course, imagine that each boat taking part is in any way less bound to be independently seaworthy than if there were no other boats present!