Boat owners, crews and visitors alike turned out to enjoy an informative and fun event at Emsworth Yacht Harbour on 18 March, braving the rather blustery weather.

The day was supported by the RNLI, who invited boat owners to bring along their lifejackets to get checked over to make sure they were properly in date and ready for any eventuality.  The RNLI also gave a CPR demonstration, with the emphasis showing visitors how important the initial rescue breaths are in the event of drowning emphasising how the few minutes of the rescue can make the difference between life and death.

Barry Locke from Thornham Marina-based Barry’s Reefing and Rigging Repair Service was there to offer a useful insight and plenty of hands on practice using a variety of rig cutting devices commonly carried on boats.

His demonstration served as a valuable reminder of how to overcome the difficulties of separating the rig from a vessel in the event of a dismasting if using the standard scissor action devices, and the speed with which a battery operated grinder with steel cutting disc can accomplish the same task. Boat owners were shown the benefits of investing in the right cutting equipment.

Lorna Tiffany, Office Manager of Emsworth Yacht Harbour, who managed the event said: “There is always a great sense of community and friendliness amongst the berth holders here.  I think we have had a chance to show why our harbour has a waiting list of some 50 boats!”

A boat jumble and raffle took place while volunteers from the Emsworth Cruising Association were on hand to inform those who are not already members of the many rallies and events that they could get involved in on their boats that were starting in Emsworth this coming season.  Non-members are invited to come along and try one out before they decide to join.

The upcoming events at Emsworth Yacht Harbour include  7 May Open Boat 11am to 1 pm;  Pontoon Picnic from 1 pm;  13/14 May Cruise in Company;  24 June Try a Boat 10 am to 3 pm; and then on the 15 July  Summer Party 12 noon to 3 pm.

The Emsworth day is also part of the RYA Active Marina Programme which aims to encourage boat owners to get more out of life with their boats by gaining the confidence and skills to leave their berths and get out on the water more often.  It was also a great way for berth holders to get to know each other.

The Active Marina programme encourages and supports increased berth holder activity by partnering with marinas, RYA recognised training centres, berth holder groups and yacht clubs to establish or enhance a programme of training, cruising and social opportunities.

For more information about the RYA Active Marina Programme visit www.rya.org.uk/go/activemarina

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