After a long break the skipper may need to knock the rust off a few skills, as well as getting the boat working, says James Stevens
James Stevens
Are cumulonimbus clouds cause for concern?
What would you do if you were sailing towards a cumulonimbus cloud? James Stevens answers your questions of seamanship
How would you retrieve a spinnaker sail?
What is the best way to retrieve a spinnaker sail? James Stevens answers your questions of seamanship
Spinnaker masterclass: tailored downwind sailing
There’s more than one way to rig, hoist, set and drop your spinnaker. Choosing the right setup and skills is key to success with the kite, explains James Stevens
What is the blue and yellow light ahead?
Would you know what blue and yellow flashing lights meant while night sailing? James Stevens answers your questions of seamanship
When is the right time to alter course?
You are on a collision course and the ship should give way. What do you do?
Why a yacht makes the best liferaft
A liferaft is reassuring, but only to be used as an absolute last resort. James Stevens explores the main scenarios that could lead to abandoning ship, and what to do…
Could you moor on a very busy pontoon?
With a 1.5 knot tide flowing and 12 knot winds blowing straight off the pontoon, would you be confident to moor in a tight spot?
Could you berth safely in a strong cross wind?
Do you panic when trying to berth in a busy marina? How would you cope with strong cross wind? James Stevens answers your Questions of Seamanship
With a ripped mainsail would you turn back or carry on?
James Stevens answers your Questions of Seamanship. In this article, with a ripped mainsail would you continue sailing from Ireland to Falmouth?