The Mariner

Join me 250 Nm west of Madeira as I negotiate my way through the Azores high on my qualifying passage on board the 80 ft yacht Osprey for the 2027 Global solo challenge round the world yacht race   If you would like to join me for many more deep dives on topic's like: MOB recovery, heavy weather tactics and offshore seamanship, check out:   Patreon & Youtube Membership    To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon where for $5 a month you can get access to all the extra content, including the narrated version of this video (concentrating on the seamanship, safety aspects & stories surrounding what is going on in this video), livestream Q&A's, free consultancy PLUS merch, and exclusive sponsor sailing trips with CSM.   Find it all at: https://www.patreon.com/themariner You can also join this channel on Youtube to get access to the same perks as on Patreon: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq6ye2Qd2WVPoun_Iks0qVg/joinA   #ocean #sailing #yacht #themariner

It’s been a while since I last recorded an episode. A friend put it perfectly the other night — I’ve been “down below, sheltering.” There’s been a lot to deal with, but I’ve come through it. Right now I’m lying alongside in Cherbourg, France, aboard Osprey — our 85-foot maxi — with a brand-new mainsail, surrounded by some of the best sailors and sailing service providers in the world. Ahead of us is a single, clear task over the next month: to sail solo to the Caribbean and, in doing so, qualify for the Global Solo Challenge. This episode is about getting caught up — where I’ve been, what’s happened — and setting the stage for what comes next. Because the story that’s unfolding now is, without question, the most interesting sailing story I’ve ever told.

In this episode you join me on deck as we enter the Needles Channel, en route to Southampton, to pick up the crew for the Fastnet Expedition 2025.  This comes at the end of a 3500Nm solo  transatlantic voyage, on the 80 foot maxi, Osprey. 94 days before, in Nova Scotia, sick and stuck on the mooring, I set myself the challenge to get Osprey into the Centenary edition of the world's most famous offshore race - in this episode you join me as that Dream starts to take on a shade of reality. You can own a piece of the mainsail that wouldn’t die as your own talisman of Tenacity, a reminder to you in the straits of your passion, that perseverance, persistence and sheer bloody-mindedness are the currency of personal growth and will bring your goals within your grasp. For a pledge of $100, you’ll get one of the hand-cut and signed sections from this legendary, 100,000Nm mainsail, with all the funds going directly to the new sail wardrobe and the Osprey Westabout campaign. If you believe in what I'm doing — the story, the struggle, the adventure —then this is your chance to own a piece of the mainsail of the mainsail that would not die and allow it to fuel all that comes after it's work is done. https://www.patreon.com/posts/own-piece-of-not-134326761?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link If you like joining me for these deep dives on topic's like: MOB recovery, heavy weather tactics & offshore seamanship please consider supporting the production of this material over on Patreon where for $5 a month you can get access to extra content, including: livestream Q&A's, free project consultancy and exclusive sailing trips on Osprey.   Get a better deal on your next boat insurance policy connect with our partner Edward William Insurance, to make marine insurance simple and straight forward; whatever your style of sailing.   FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON YOUR NEXT POLICY Quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off at checkout, or better still follow this link: https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT   To hear my personal research regarding this insurance broker who I also have a policy with, and the Q & A I had with their COO before making the decision to creating to partner with them; check out   The Mariner Podcast #118: https://themariner.podbean.com/e/120-marine-insurance-who-i-use-why #navy #shipping #ships #ocean #sailing #yacht #themariner  

This episode tells the full story of the sail that’s been with me through it all — my old Open 60 mainsail, which, although it has impossibly high mileage (100,000nm!), has proven indefatigable, indestructable and faithful right through to the end. But, it’s about more than gear. It’s about the kind of grit and grace it takes to keep going when the world says you shouldn’t, whatever your passion may be. The first half of the episode dives into how this sail came to me, how I bent it on in the middle of the Atlantic alone over 20 hours, how it carried me through the Newport Bermuda Race in 2024 (when it was already over 20 years old!) and how it feels now to look up at it as it drives me one last time solo across the Atlantic to meet up with its successor . This episode is about our connection to supposedly inanimate objects — to the people for whom I make these podcasts, to the sea, and to the idea that life doesn't need to be easy to be good. Here is the Youtube playlist of my solo transatlantic voyage on the Open 60 'Falcon': https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEtiOvex8NBvt_ai1Megepf2zcPSPSHY&si=jFDPmyFtOvqiqx1R In the second half of the show, I walk through the details of the new mainsail — five reefs, batten choices, batten closures, reinforced reefing pointa, luff handles, hybrid Maxi/ Open 60 design — everything I’ve learned from decades of sailing distilled into one sail. This isn’t a luxury project. It’s a mission. It’s the very machinery I need to sail west, non-stop around the world and tell the real story of solo sailing — not “rich boy goes yachting,” but something raw, real, and meaningful, that everyone can benefit from. You can own a piece of the mainsail that wouldn’t die as your own talisman of Tenacity, a reminder to you in the straits of your passion, that perseverance, persistence and sheer bloody-mindedness are the currency of personal growth and will bring your goals within your grasp. For a pledge of $100, you’ll get one of the hand-cut and signed sections from this legendary, 100,000Nm mainsail, with all the funds going directly to the new sail wardrobe and the Osprey Westabout campaign. If you believe in what I'm doing — the story, the struggle, the adventure —then this is your chance to own a piece of the mainsail of the mainsail that would not die and allow it to fuel all that comes after it's work is done.   https://www.patreon.com/posts/own-piece-of-not-134326761?utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=postshare_creator&utm_content=join_link

Thank you to everyone who’s already signed up to receive a piece of Osprey’s mainsail—the same sail that’s carrying me toward the UK right now. Your $100 pledges at the 'solo' tier on Patreon, are going straight to my beautiful tnew 197 sqm /2150 sqft mainsail that was just finished, that we will be using for the Centenary Fastnet. https://www.patreon.com/themariner/shop/own-piece-of-mainsail-that-would-not-die-1996232 But the sail we’re saying goodbye to is no ordinary sail. It was originally built for Dominique Wavre’s IMOCA 60 'Temenos' in 2000, and it’s done more than 100,000 ocean miles—including two Vendee Globes wth Dominique, two solo transatlantic voyages with me, and the 2024 Newport–Bermuda race. Now, it’s taking on its final challenge: driving Osprey home across the Atlantic, one last time. Out of respect for its legacy, I’m not asking more of it than it can give. I’m reefed down through this last weather system, running a reaching headsail to keep the pace without flogging the main. I want it to finish this journey with dignity. If you’d like to be part of this story—and own a piece of it—you can. I’m cutting the sail into hand-sized 8-by-12-inch pieces to share with supporters once I make land fall. For a $100 pledge on Patreon, you’ll get one of those sections. A real piece of sailing history, a talisman of Tenacity, something tangible you can hold in your hands, or contemplate on the wall, as you chase your own dreams, whatever they might be. This isn’t just a fundraiser—it’s a continuation of a legacy. This old sail, through you, helps pay for the new sail, completed yesterday by the sailmakers in Italy, that will power Osprey, solo, non-stop, West around the world. Your support would be very much appreciated, whatever you can spare, Cheers, Chris Support the Mariner's solo, non-stop, West Around the World voyage on the 85ft Maxi 'Osprey' at: https//:www.patreon.com/themariner

Join me today on deck, onboard Osprey, my 85ft Maxi, as I complete my 33rd Transat, headed to England, to join the Centenary Fastnet Race and everything that lies beyond. You are not going to want to miss this one. The Mariner is BACK! Follow the story with DAILY videos over on the Mariner YouTube Channel Tenacity in Pursuit What if a piece of torn sailcloth could remind you what commitment looks like? This mainsail is on its final run across the Atlantic, flying torn and tired but still holding Osprey steady at 15 knots. It’s not a perfect fit—it’s 15 feet too short for the rig. But like me, it keeps going anyway. It’s done over 100,000 miles. It carried Dominique Wavre to a 5th and then a 4th place in the Vendée Globe. It saved my solo crossing in 2018 when my “new” mainsail exploded off Land’s End. You can watch that whole mess unfold on YouTube. In 2024, it stepped in again after Osprey’s big sail blew out just before Newport–Bermuda. Now, once it finishes this delivery and we hit the Fastnet start, I’ll retire it. I’ll cut it into signed 8-by-10 pieces, scars and all, and stick on a label with the story of every mile it gave. A daily reminder that things don’t have to be perfect to be powerful—they just have to keep going.   If you want one, join the $100 tier on Patreon for a single month & I’ll send it anywhere in the world. Let this scrap of sailcloth remind you what perseverance feels like.   Contact me through the website at https//:www.csmthemariner.com If you want to sail on Osprey    The open events for sponsors to join are: The Middle Sea Race in October 2025, then the Caribbean 600 in February 2026, and the Newport Bermuda Race in June 2026. Sponsorship to join an event : $3000USD

In this episode we look at an MOB incident in the 2024 Round the Island Race in which a crew of five were inundated by a following sea off St. Catherine's Point, UK resulting in one tethered MOB, one MOB clear of the vessel with only a short distance to a lee shore... Oh and the skipper broke his leg in the knock down. Both MOB's were recovered without injury, but there is a lot to look at as I take this hot take on the actions taken by the crew and how things turned out. I'll be sharing insights as a professional sailor, examining what went right, what went wrong, and the crucial lessons we can carry forward.    If you like joining me for these deep dives on topic's like: MOB recovery, heavy weather tactics & offshore seamanship please consider supporting the production of this material over on Patreon where for $5 a month you can get access to extra content, including: livestream Q&A's, free project consultancy and exclusive sailing trips on my boat Osprey   Get a better deal on your next boat insurance policy connect with our partner Edward William Insurance, to make marine insurance simple and straight forward; whatever your style of sailing. FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON YOUR NEXT POLICY Quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off at checkout, or better still follow this link: https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT To hear my personal research regarding this insurance broker who I also have a policy with, and the Q & A I had with their COO before making the decision to creating to partner with them; check out The Mariner Podcast #118: https://themariner.podbean.com/e/120-marine-insurance-who-i-use-why/   #navy #shipping #ships #ocean #sailing #yacht #themariner

Today, we're diving into the Marine Accident Investigation Bureau's (MAIB) report on the 2006 Roaring Meg of Cowes incident, where two crew were seriously injured in two crash gybes that happened within minutes of each other. I'll be sharing insights as a professional sailor, examining what went wrong and the crucial lessons we can learn.  If you would like to join me for more deep dives on topic's like: MOB recovery, heavy weather tactics & offshore seamanship, check out: https://youtu.be/fb5t4PZ2Cqw Follow up the back story in this playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEtiOvex8NAVIih6tfWVd9wjVrPthROL   CSM: Iceland-Canada Footage Commentary Live-streamed narration of video from this voyage, with live chat responses from Patrons on all the seamanship details. Sign up at: https://www.patreon.com/themariner   Audio: Mariner's Library Podcast: #254 | 'The Southseaman' | Weston Martyr | Part 3 After reading so many sailing books from the past 120 years I am starting to recognize certain authors who I had never heard of before starting the Mariner's Library who were giants within the sailing community a life time ago. One of the most commonly referenced authors from the first half of the 20th century has to be Weston Martyr, and the book everyone compliments is 'The Southseaman'.  Available anywhere you stream podcasts: https://Themarinerslibrary.podbean.com/e/255-the-southseaman-weston-martyr-part-3/   Get a better deal on your next boat insurance policy.   Connect with our partner Edward William Insurance to make insurance simple and straight forward, whatever your style of sailing.   FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON YOUR NEXT POLICY Quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off at checkout, or better still follow this link: https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT If you chose to accept a policy with Edward William you will be supporting the Mariner with 10% of your policy payment. Please give me feedback on your interaction.   To hear my personal research regarding this insurance broker who I also have a policy with, and the Q & A I had with their COO before making the decision to creating to partner with them; check out The Mariner Podcast #118: https://themariner.podbean.com/e/120-marine-insurance-who-i-use-why/   #navy #shipping #ships #ocean #sailing #yacht #themariner

Join us in this episode as we delve into the nuanced art of headsail trimming, guided by the wisdom of Captain W.H. Illingworth's 'Offshore' (1948). We explore often overlooked aspects of headsail trim, including car positioning, halyard tension, forestay sag and more. Discover how these techniques can optimize your performance and elevate your sailing experience.   If you would like to join me for many more deep dives on topic's like: MOB recovery, heavy weather tactics and offshore seamanship, check out: Patreon & Youtube Membership To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon where for $5 a month you can get access to all the extra content, including the narrated version of this video (concentrating on the seamanship, safety aspects & stories surrounding what is going on in this video), livestream Q&A's, free consultancy PLUS merch, and exclusive sponsor sailing trips with CSM. Find it all at: https://www.patreon.com/themariner You can also join this channel on Youtube to get access to the same perks as on Patreon: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq6ye2Qd2WVPoun_Iks0qVg/joinA Travel Episodes Solo, on an 80ft yacht in the North Atlantic. ' After voyaging from Canada to the UK with a separate crew, CSM sailed the 80ft Gran Mistral 'Weddell'', single-handedly from Southampton to Reykjavik, Iceland. There he met a new crew. After sail repairs, provisioning and safety training, they set sail for St. John's, Newfoundland; 1700Nm away. It was September and heavy weather was expected. What we got was a 'Super Storm'. See the latest episode here: https://youtu.be/fb5t4PZ2Cqw Follow up the back story in this playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEtiOvex8NAVIih6tfWVd9wjVrPthROL CSM: Iceland-Canada Footage Commentary Live-streamed narration of video from this voyage, with live chat responses from Patrons on all the seamanship details. Sign up at: https://www.patreon.com/themariner or via Youtube membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq6ye2Qd2WVPoun_Iks0qVg/joinA Audio: Mariner's Library Podcast: #254 | 'The Southseaman' | Weston Martyr | Part 3 After reading so many sailing books from the past 120 years I am starting to recognize certain authors who I had never heard of before starting the Mariner's Library who were giants within the sailing community a life time ago. One of the most commonly referenced authors from the first half of the 20th century has to be Weston Martyr, and the book everyone compliments is 'The Southseaman'.  Available anywhere you stream podcasts: https://Themarinerslibrary.podbean.com/e/255-the-southseaman-weston-martyr-part-3/ Get a better deal on your next boat insurance policy. Connect with our partner Edward William Insurance to make insurance simple and straight forward, whatever your style of sailing. FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON YOUR NEXT POLICY Quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off at checkout, or better still follow this link: https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT If you chose to accept a policy with Edward William you will be supporting the Mariner with 10% of your policy payment. Please give me feedback on your interaction. To hear my personal research regarding this insurance broker who I also have a policy with, and the Q & A I had with their COO before making the decision to creating to partner with them; check out The Mariner Podcast #118: https://themariner.podbean.com/e/120-marine-insurance-who-i-use-why/ #navy #shipping #ships #ocean #sailing #yacht #themariner

Spinnaker poles have three bits of rigging holding them in place we all know that, but it often comes as a shock when sailors realize they have been missing the third (and arguably the most important) piece of rigging on their main boom. Preventers save lives- it's just that simple. Please take time to listen to this podcast and update your knowledge on preventers and check out the Mariner Youtube channel for even more tips and details. https://youtu.be/pvT7Pfpt_J4?si=JPa_RkH6SZYHFpUm   If you would like to join me for many more deep dives on topic's like: MOB recovery, heavy weather tactics and offshore seamanship, check out: Patreon & Youtube Membership To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon where for $5 a month you can get access to all the extra content, including the narrated version of this video (concentrating on the seamanship, safety aspects & stories surrounding what is going on in this video), livestream Q&A's, free consultancy PLUS merch, and exclusive sponsor sailing trips with CSM. Find it all at: https://www.patreon.com/themariner You can also join this channel on Youtube to get access to the same perks as on Patreon: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq6ye2Qd2WVPoun_Iks0qVg/joinA Travel Episodes Solo, on an 80ft yacht in the North Atlantic. ' After voyaging from Canada to the UK with a separate crew, CSM sailed the 80ft Gran Mistral 'Weddell'', single-handedly from Southampton to Reykjavik, Iceland. There he met a new crew. After sail repairs, provisioning and safety training, they set sail for St. John's, Newfoundland; 1700Nm away. It was September and heavy weather was expected. What we got was a 'Super Storm'. See the latest episode here: https://youtu.be/fb5t4PZ2Cqw Follow up the back story in this playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEtiOvex8NAVIih6tfWVd9wjVrPthROL CSM: Iceland-Canada Footage Commentary Live-streamed narration of video from this voyage, with live chat responses from Patrons on all the seamanship details. Sign up at: https://www.patreon.com/themariner or via Youtube membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq6ye2Qd2WVPoun_Iks0qVg/joinA Audio: Mariner's Library Podcast: #254 | 'The Southseaman' | Weston Martyr | Part 3 After reading so many sailing books from the past 120 years I am starting to recognize certain authors who I had never heard of before starting the Mariner's Library who were giants within the sailing community a life time ago. One of the most commonly referenced authors from the first half of the 20th century has to be Weston Martyr, and the book everyone compliments is 'The Southseaman'.  Available anywhere you stream podcasts: https://Themarinerslibrary.podbean.com/e/255-the-southseaman-weston-martyr-part-3/ Get a better deal on your next boat insurance policy. Connect with our partner Edward William Insurance to make insurance simple and straight forward, whatever your style of sailing. FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON YOUR NEXT POLICY Quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off at checkout, or better still follow this link: https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT If you chose to accept a policy with Edward William you will be supporting the Mariner with 10% of your policy payment. Please give me feedback on your interaction. To hear my personal research regarding this insurance broker who I also have a policy with, and the Q & A I had with their COO before making the decision to creating to partner with them; check out The Mariner Podcast #118: https://themariner.podbean.com/e/120-marine-insurance-who-i-use-why/ #navy #shipping #ships #ocean #sailing #yacht #themariner

This episode we learn key elements the skipper of a vessel in heavy weather should keep in mind, to keep his vessel sound & her crew safe. Capt. Illingworth was a submarine commander in WWII as well as a racing skipper, and therefore had a better measure than most as to the thoughts uppermost in a skipper's mind in heavy conditions. I hope my communication of his ideas into this new medium does not distract too much from his message. If you would like to join me for many more deep dives on topic's like: MOB recovery, heavy weather tactics and offshore seamanship, check out: The Mariner Podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/the-mariner/id1710667118 Patreon & Youtube Membership To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon where for $5 a month you can get access to all the extra content, including the narrated version of this video (concentrating on the seamanship, safety aspects & stories surrounding what is going on in this video), livestream Q&A's, free consultancy PLUS merch, and exclusive sponsor sailing trips with CSM. Find it all at: https://www.patreon.com/themariner You can also join this channel on Youtube to get access to the same perks as on Patreon: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq6ye2Qd2WVPoun_Iks0qVg/joinA Travel Episodes Solo, on an 80ft yacht in the North Atlantic. ' After voyaging from Canada to the UK with a separate crew, CSM sailed the 80ft Gran Mistral 'Weddell'', single-handedly from Southampton to Reykjavik, Iceland. There he met a new crew. After sail repairs, provisioning and safety training, they set sail for St. John's, Newfoundland; 1700Nm away. It was September and heavy weather was expected. What we got was a 'Super Storm'. See the latest episode here: https://youtu.be/fb5t4PZ2Cqw Follow up the back story in this playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNEtiOvex8NAVIih6tfWVd9wjVrPthROL CSM: Iceland-Canada Footage Commentary Live-streamed narration of video from this voyage, with live chat responses from Patrons on all the seamanship details. Sign up at: https://www.patreon.com/themariner or via Youtube membership: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq6ye2Qd2WVPoun_Iks0qVg/joinA Audio: Mariner's Library Podcast: #254 | 'The Southseaman' | Weston Martyr | Part 3 After reading so many sailing books from the past 120 years I am starting to recognize certain authors who I had never heard of before starting the Mariner's Library who were giants within the sailing community a life time ago. One of the most commonly referenced authors from the first half of the 20th century has to be Weston Martyr, and the book everyone compliments is 'The Southseaman'.  Available anywhere you stream podcasts: https://Themarinerslibrary.podbean.com/e/255-the-southseaman-weston-martyr-part-3/ Get a better deal on your next boat insurance policy. Connect with our partner Edward William Insurance to make insurance simple and straight forward, whatever your style of sailing. FOR A 10% DISCOUNT ON YOUR NEXT POLICY Quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off at checkout, or better still follow this link: https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT If you chose to accept a policy with Edward William you will be supporting the Mariner with 10% of your policy payment. Please give me feedback on your interaction. To hear my personal research regarding this insurance broker who I also have a policy with, and the Q & A I had with their COO before making the decision to creating to partner with them; check out The Mariner Podcast #118: https://themariner.podbean.com/e/120-marine-insurance-who-i-use-why/ #navy #shipping #ships #ocean #sailing #yacht #themariner

I started this series of Advanced Seamanship Notes (Episodes 115-117) to bring to light specific areas of sailing knowledge which are A. difficult to locate in sailing resources on-line or off, and B. provided by a Mariner who is recognizably a 'Master' - in the true sense of the word.  Captain J H Illingworth was considered the 'father of offshore sailing & racing' in postwar Britain. He started the Junior Offshore Group in the UK, acted as Commodore for the Royal Ocean Racing Club , but also was the instigator of the Sydney to Hobart Race in Australia, in 1945. That alone could be pedigree enough for my purposes- but add to that the fact that he was also a decorated submarine Captain in WWII, and suddenly you may realize, as I did; that what Capt. Illingworth did not know about waves and the upper layers of the ocean and their effect on a sailing boat is little more than chafe on the wind. Come take a knee, as I have, at the hand of a Master Mariner- and let's learn some more about Ocean Racing Strategy Youtube Video Episode - Available 8 hours after the episode appears on podcast streams Come watch the carnage in person! https://youtube.com/live/FVFp0SCwzJA?feature=share   The Mariner's Library Podcast If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by me an actual sailor, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955   Finally, to support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner   Edward William Insurance. Please visit https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT Remember to quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off your premium.

I started this series of Advanced Seamanship Notes (Episodes 115-117) to bring to light specific areas of sailing knowledge which are A. difficult to locate in sailing resources on-line or off, and B. provided by a Mariner who is recognizably a 'Master' - in the true sense of the word.  Captain J H Illingworth was considered the 'father of offshore sailing & racing' in postwar Britain. He started the Junior Offshore Group in the UK, acted as Commodore for the Royal Ocean Racing Club , but also was the instigator of the Sydney to Hobart Race in Australia, in 1945. That alone could be pedigree enough for my purposes- but add to that the fact that he was also a decorated submarine Captain in WWII, and suddenly you may realize, as I did; that what Capt. Illingworth did not know about waves and the upper layers of the ocean and their effect on a sailing boat is little more than chafe on the wind. Come take a knee, as I have, at the hand of a Master Mariner- and let's learn some more about Waves & wave riding. If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by me an actual sailor, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA Finally, to support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner   Edward William Insurance. Please visit https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT Remember to quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off your premium.

I started this series of Advanced Seamanship Notes (Episodes 115-117) to bring to light specific areas of sailing knowledge which are A. difficult to locate in sailing resources on-line or off, and B. provided by a Mariner who is recognizably a 'Master' - in the true sense of the word.  Captain J H Illingworth was considered the 'father of offshore sailing & racing' in postwar Britain. He started the Junior Offshore Group in the UK, acted as Commodore for the Royal Ocean Racing Club , but also was the instigator of the Sydney to Hobart Race in Australia, in 1945. That alone could be pedigree enough for my purposes- but add to that the fact that he was also a decorated submarine Captain in WWII, and suddenly you may realize, as I did; that what Capt. Illingworth did not know about waves and the upper layers of the ocean and their effect on a sailing boat is little more than chafe on the wind. Come take a knee, as I have, at the hand of a Master Mariner- and let's learn about Waves & wave riding.   If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by me an actual sailor, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA Finally, to support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner   Edward William Insurance. Please visit https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT Remember to quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off your premium.

L is for many things at sea, but as always, I wanted to find something that would make us stop & think maybe and see things afloat from a new angle. This episode gives us the opportunity to discuss things as divergent as structural delamination and emotional overload, excessive crankcase oil pressure and fighting complacency as we get more experienced.  L is for Leaks and boy are there a lot!  To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. where for $5 a month you can get access to more audio books, videos and discussion.   Edward William Insurance. Please visit https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT Remember to quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off your premium.  

Another Questions and Tangents Episode, this time we look at emails sent regarding, PTSD and shouting, sea sickness & the function of the ear, buying old race boats (and the fun they can be!) and much more. PLUS loads of me rambling on..... To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. where for $5 a month you can get access to more audio books, videos and discussion.   Edward William Insurance. Please visit https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT Remember to quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off your premium.  

Marine insurance is a massive heartache for many sailors who are doing slightly 'non-standard' things in sailing, whether it is crossing oceans, sailing solo or cruising with your family- often times it is very difficult to get a policy that will cover you.  I have faced this problem for years- this episode I discuss who I am now insured with and why and read the answers to questions I submitted to the Chief Operating Officer of my brokerage. To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. where for $5 a month you can get access to more audio books, videos and discussion.   Edward William Insurance. Please visit https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT Remember to quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off your premium.  

Sometimes we get the opportunity to sit at the hand of the master and hear first hand what is the best way to do something. This is the third part of one of those moments.  This episode I read the last section of the Appendix of Capt. Voss' book 'Venturesome Voyages' and if that leaves you feeling a little less than interested, don't worry, it's just because you don't' know who Capt. Voss is. I've got you covered on that too. If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by me an actual sailor, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA Finally, to support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner   Edward William Insurance. Please visit https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT Remember to quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off your premium.

Sometimes we get the opportunity to sit at the hand of the master and hear first hand what is the best way to do something. This is the second part of one of those moments.  This episode I read the second section of the Appendix of Capt. Voss' book 'Venturesome Voyages' and if that leaves you feeling a little less than interested, don't worry, it's just because you don't' know who Capt. Voss is. I've got you covered on that too. If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by me an actual sailor, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA Finally, to support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner   Edward William Insurance. Please visit https://www.edwardwilliam.com/boat-insurance/proposal-form?pid=ORT Remember to quote the code MARINER10  to receive 10% off your premium.

Sometimes we get the opportunity to sit at the hand of the master and hear first hand what is the best way to do something. This is one of those moments.  This episode I read the Appendix of Capt. Voss' book 'Venturesome Voyages' and if that leaves you feeling a little less than interested, don't worry, it's just because you don't' know who Capt. Voss is. I've got you covered on that too. If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Questions and Tangents #14 and this episode we continue down the rabbit hole regarding buying a used race boat. Recap Last time we discussed this I said, 'Don't do it - unless you REALLY want/ need to do it.' But as you did it anyway... (which I knew you would...) This time I'm saying- 'Since you can't take simple advice-;) here's 2 further hours of things to bear in mind.' I guess #3 (Owing a Race Boat Long Term) is coming soon...     If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

So, after all your best efforts to prevent a Man Overboard Situation now your crew are in the water, and they are relying solely on you to not only come and find them; but also to do it in heavy seas, high winds and at night.  Shit. Let's explore the options when all hope appears lost, when only brute strength and the spark of ingenuity may be all you have to get the job done.   If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

We've all done it, taken a quick nip onto the foredeck just do ' that thing' and suddenly we find ourselves realizing one wrong move and we are toast.  This episode looks to try to reconcile that kind of risk-taking to the garbage can and promote instead a deep instinctual suspicion that the sea does not actually care about you, is in no way impressed or 'wow'd' by your skill set and will take every opportunity you give it, to wipe you off the deck of you boat if it can and off the face of the earth, if you are not able to regain the safety of the vessel quickly.  Join me for a sobering, but not necessarily melancholy look at preventing a Man overboard situation. If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Today is the day of the solar eclipse across North America, the only one that will touch the continent until 2024 (when only three states will experience totality) therefore: Happy Solar Eclipse Day! I thought I would put a few thoughts down relating to the historical and scientific history of solar eclipses to give you Dad's EVEN more to amaze and thrill your kids with.... as you always do..... Once I push the button on this I am off outside to watch the partial eclipse we will experience here in Nova Scotia with three generations of my family- a first for me and something I am very much looking forward to! If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Another Dogwatch, to relieve the anxiety I am starting to feel doing these safety at sea episodes back to back- my dreams have started to become very weird and threatening when i spend my days talking at length about everything that can or might go wrong at sea! This time we discuss autopilots v's wine vane steering, boat deliveries out of West Coast US cities and the complications therein and why top notch race boats have curved traveller tracks. If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Losing the mast, rudder or even a single hatch cover at sea in heavy weather can be catastrophic, unless you have been playing the 'what if' game for a while and already have the equipment, procedures and mental capacity developed to deal with the problem, concisely & precisely. If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Whenever anyone meets me and hears I am a sailor, the first question is always 'have you been in a big storm?' Well, the answer unsurprisingly is yes, so here in concert with Keith Colwell's excellent 'RYA Sea Survival Handbook', let me lay out some of the ways to avoid becoming a statistic, when the volume on the weather gets cranked to eleven. If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

This episode we discuss ketches, yawls and schooners as part of the ABC of sailing, and I explore what are the pitfalls and joys of owning and operating such vessels, through the lens of my own experiences, running open ketch expeditions in Asia. If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by me, check out the 'Mariner's Library' Podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Another instalment of my review & expansion of the RYA Sea Survival Handbook, by Keith Colwell. This episode I spend an hour just going through all the things to prep onboard, before heavy weather comes in. An hour! As I point out in the podcast- whatever it is that you need to do on your boat is realistically going to take you longer than that, so FYI maybe best to listen in and find out what's on that preparatory to-do list now, because once the wind starts to blow, it's already WAY too late.   If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

This episode I continue this series, following the excellent RYA Sea Survival Handbook, by Keith Colwell. Today we look at interpreting the specifics of incoming weather forecasts & the importance of 'aids to navigation' in fog.   Jeepers... that reads bad, no wonder Robert Redford died in that movie.   Look it's not bad- It's interesting.. I tell stories & stuff. Honestly, if you like boats - it's kinda ok   If you would like to listen to fantastic stories of sailors in small vessels taking on the ocean in the last 150 years, all selected & read by Chris, check out the 'Mariner's Library'. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

This time I answer the one burning question every sailor needs to know the answer to: Is there some way buying an old race boat is a good idea. My take? It can be.... BUT ... like getting a tattoo on your face.. you need to be REALLY certain before you commit.   If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

AI wrote this description. It added the word 'hypothetical' FYI. Embrace the unexpected as Chris jests about how sailboats can serve as ideal bug-out vehicles, taking on an interesting twist as he discusses fleeing a hypothetical AI-backed zombie apocalypse. Hear his personal accounts of challenging sailing voyages and learn lessons about readiness and continuous vigilance for potential hazards. If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

 This episode dives once more into the seldom-explored realm of life rafts, highlighting the importance of visibility, stability, and utility in survival scenarios. The discussion includes a thorough examination of rescue measures, the practical usage of survival tools, and alternatives to traditional life rafts. This episode also discusses the importance of emotional management amidst rescue operations, underlining the importance of staying composed and making practical decisions for the best possible survival outcomes. On-board safety measures and the knowledge to operate them is critical. Learn about the meticulous safety checks every sailor should regularly perform, ensuring your gear is well-maintained and usable during emergency situations. Much more than just possessing the right equipment is discussed in this episode too - the need to maintain hope, emotional strength, and practice expectation management are highlighted as integral parts of survival equation Join us for insights on marine rescue operations, communication with rescuers, situational awareness during the rescue process, and how to effectively balance safety with morale. Last but not least, we discuss the complexities of interacting with rescue helicopters and the importance of understanding their communication language- all with an aim to leave our sailors well-equipped for dire circumstances.   If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

This episode we wrap up our look at surviving in a life raft.  What is plainly apparent from this six episode deep dive on the life raft is that there is LOADS of information to know, to give yourself and your crew mates a decent chance of survival. If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Episode 100 and a new bight-sized (!) format to increase the subjects I can get too and allw me to speak about things that maybe somewhat off topic in a pure sailing show... This week:  1. Did Josh Slocum die when they said he did? 2. Heaving-to in a race boat. 3. Connecting with sailors from history through their accounts. 4. The podcasts numbers get a hearty increase. 5. Sailing boats as bug-out vehicles. If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Water, water everywhere: and not a drop to drink. When there are only a few pints of water to drink in the life raft and no indication of immediate rescue, it is essential for the life raft leader (who is not also necessarily the captain of the lost vessel) to immediately become extremely smart about water usage, water collection and the problems inherent in limiting humans access to water. And all that, BEFORE dehydration robs all of the survivors of the mental and physical capacity to help themselves.   If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

This episode we continue our in-depth look at chapter 7 of Keith Colwell's Sea Survival Handbook, specifically entering a liferaft and the vast amount of actions there are to remember and take to make the most out of the meagre opportunity such a craft offers survivors. If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

In this episode I continue the ABC of sailing, with the letter J. and 'J is for Jargon' This time I look at the history, benefits and disadvantages of all the jargon used in sailing and take a look at the entries in the J section of the 1952 volume, 'Mariner's Dictionary' that help to underline just how dense, granular and historically-rooted many of the words used in sailing really are, and how nonsensical it is to make language a barrier to teamwork on a vessel at sea. If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

In this episode we discuss Youtube viewer questions relating to: 1. Over rides on winches, how do they happen, how to avoid them and how to deal with them when they appear anyways. 2. Operating winches on boats with awkwardly mounted equipment  (Swans!) 3. Finding gloves that keep you warm and dry. (Hint- the answer is NOT gloves!) If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Continuing with the lunchtime recording sessions (while my two year old is having his nap (!), this time we are looking at what happens after you have made the decision to leave the vessel due to fire, sinking, collision etc. This begins with getting into the liferaft of course, but quickly escalates into a whole new kind of seamanship, as you and the other people in the raft have to start to work together to get other survivors out of the water, stay alert to external threats that may damage the raft, and deal with such realities as opening the door regularly to vent C02 & deciding how to use the sea anchor to manoeuvre around the debris field.   If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

In this episode we continue the brilliant RYA Sea Survival Handbook by Keith Colwell This time we are looking at Abandoning Ship!, words that should drive an icy spear into any good skippers heart! This section of the book will take a few days to cover and I am doing this while snowed in (with a two year old) during the worst winter storm in Nova Scotia in 20 years .. So, apologies if the audio is not as engineered as normal! If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

This time we are looking at Abandoning Ship!, words that should drive an icy spear into any good skippers heart! This section of the book will take a few days to cover and I am doing this while snowed in (with a two year old) during the worst winter storm in Nova Scotia in 20 years .. So, apologies if the audio is not as engineered as normal! If you would like to listen to serialized stories of the sea, selected and read by CSM, check out the Mariner's Library Podcast; available on all podcast platforms. https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-mariners-library/id1710666955 If you would like to check out The Mariner Youtube Channel - we have gear reviews, how to videos, seamanship training videos and on the water reports. Remember to dock your finger carefully on the subscribe button! https://youtu.be/t0cfY6HqjLA To support the production of this material please consider heading over to Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/themariner

Questions and Tangents ! As always I get to talk about kinda whatever I want in these episodes, and this week it's a newspaper article from 1974 that's got me excited- I think when you hear about 'The Orgy of Destruction outside Barnstaple' you too will be excited. A little shorter this week as we haven't done one of these for a long time and I am short of questions to answer- if you could help me out with that I would appreciate it! If you would like to support the production of these podcasts please consider heading over to patreon.com/themariner. The Youtube channel has just hit 5k subs!  If you haven't already please go and subscribe- it would make a massive difference- just look up CSM The Mariner!

This episode we continue reviewing the excellent, RYA Sea Survival Handbook by Keith Colwell with a look at the psychological tactics that must be employed to get you past circumstances that may be life and death in the very real meaning of the phrase.   If you would like to hear more exclusive sailing content, head over to https://www.patreon.com/themariner and there, for $5 a month you can not only support the all the Mariner content, but also receive a free daily sailing audio book episode, and an extra weekly Mariner podcast episode, both exclusive to Patreon. There's also the chance to pose your own questions on the weekly 'Questions & Tangents' Mariner episodes and get the answers you need to you most troubling sailing conundrums-!  See you there! 

Continuing the ABC of basic sailing concepts series, I take a look in this episode at the modern revolution in information collection, exchange and processing on board the modern yacht.  So, step away from your Scrimshaw, put down your sextant and lend me your shell-like because you are not going to believe what is possible on a phone in the middle of the Atlantic these days.  

This episode is the first I am going to do about the Global Solo Challenge Race that I intend to join in early December.  I'm still a little way off on the last funding to get the project over the start line but I figure its best to throw myself in completely and go for broke rather than tippy toe around the edges any longer. Presently, my Open 60 Falcon is 95% read to go, I have time available to complete my qualifier (A Transat) and most importantly I have a solid chance at winning. My GSC start date is December 9th 2023. * If you have any ideas about my mixing elbow for a Yanmar 3JH2-TE engine or anything else that might help get Falcon to the start of the Global Solo Challenge, please email me at [email protected] * Sponsorship/ donations to Paypal: [email protected] * If you want to access more content and show support for this podcast please join me at: www.patreon.com/themariner  * If you want to hear me reading sailing stories that I have chosen as being beneficial to developing seamanship skills, please look for 'The Mariner's Library' wherever you get your podcasts.

It's been a long time since I published a podcast and I finally I found after many, many attempts that the only way to get back on the horse was to just record whatever came out of my mouth for an hour and we can pick the bones out of it later. In this episode I talk about what has been happening for me in 2023, I talk about the Global Solo Challenge Race coming up in December and answer a great question that was sent to me earlier this year about being the skipper of a vessel at a young age. Regular programming will commence forthwith. If you have any ideas about my mixing elbow for a Yanmar 3JH2-TE engine or anything else that might help get Falcon to the start of the Global Solo Challenge, please email me at [email protected] If you want to access more content and show support for this podcast please join me at www.patreon.com/themariner  If you want to hear me reading sailing stories that I have chosen as being beneficial to developing seamanship skills, please look for The Mariner's Library wherever you get your podcasts.      

This episode I thought I would share with you an interview I did month or so ago with Paul Trammell on his wonderful podcast 'Offshore Sailing and Cruising '.  It was great to chat to Paul and learn about his sailing to date, but as this was an interview I was doing for him introducing myself to his audience we will have to wait for a future date to really get to know Paul more. As by the end of this show we had agreed to go sailing on the Open 60 sometime soon- that might be quite soon! Apologies to the audiophiles listening (Bill Mead!) I had to use Paul's recordings completed over Skype as my own recording was so terrible as to be painful to mine own ears.  Trust me, this is the lesser of two weevils ;) If you would like to hear more exclusive sailing content, head over to https://www.patreon.com/themariner and there, for $5 a month you can not only support the all the Mariner content, but also receive a free daily sailing audio book episode, and an extra weekly Mariner podcast episode, both exclusive to Patreon. There's also the chance to pose your own questions on the weekly 'Questions & Tangents' Mariner episodes and get the answers you need to you most troubling sailing conundrums-!  See you there! 

The features that make 'The Perfect Boat' are an area of sailing that walks the narrow line between philosophical & scientific truth.  Historically it is also beset by sailors claiming dead cert, bald-faced objective truth for their strongly held and decidedly subjective opinions. In this new section on The Mariner, I will be interviewing sailors from across the sailing industry and asking them one very simple question 'What's your Perfect Boat'? To start the series off I am reading from William Washburn Nutting's book 'The Track of the Typhoon' and sharing with you some of his ideas.  Nutting's was a journalist writing for Motor Boat & Yachting Magazine and was a knowledgeable, 'sailor's  sailor'. I hope you agree that although his book was published 100 years ago, his ideas & dreamy-eyed passion for his design, could be reproduced in any yacht club bar any day of the week in 2022. As William 'gave me the idea',  for this series, I think it's appropriate that he gets the first shout on the subject.  To join my Patreon community (growing fast!) please go over to https://www.patreon.com/themariner and there for $5 a month you can hear the rest of the book and many others just like it. If you would like to send me your top three features for your Perfect Boat- remember to tell me what you would be using the boat for and how many people it would be for and I will read your ideas out on the podcast. Write to me at: [email protected]

I found an interesting document on a pen drive over the weekend- given to me by the organizers of the Velux 5 Race  10 years ago, it was a series fo notes prepared by the Race Officers after discussing with Alex Thompson and Mike Golding, Mike's fantastic rescue of Alex in the Southern Ocean in 2006.  At first the notes seemed a little wandering, but I think you will agree when I read you Mike's account of the rescue that these notes come hard won, and well considered- you tell me what you think!