Sea Kayak Sailing

DESCRIPTION OF SKILLS

The holder of this badge has successfully completed our Kayak Sailing Course and/or has demonstrated proficiency in the following skills:

• Understands the rigging and able to rig their sail on their boat
• Able to raise the sail in winds up to 15kt
• Able to lower and secure the sail on deck
• Manages ropes to keep them out of the way and reduce risk of entanglement
• Able to sail in winds of 15kt (or more) on all points of sail with directional control and rare capsizes
• Able to trim sail correctly for all points of sail
• Able to sail in proximity with another person or group who are setting the course and speed.  Able to not get separated from others.
• Able to tack and jibe
• Understands “sailing by the lee” and risk of uncontrolled jibes
• Understands use of skeg and boat weight trim for directional control
• In the event of a capsize, able to wet exit, manage lines, avoid entanglement, and lower and secure sail to the deck
• Proficient in T rescue in both roles

WHAT DOES THIS BADGE ALLOW ME TO DO?

• Those who hold this badge can participate in Sea Kayak Sailing trips.

HOW DO I GET THIS BADGE?

COURSES

Complete our Kayak Sailing Course.

EQUIVALENCY

The Kayak Sailing Course Badge may be granted to members who have applicable experience and can demonstrate proficiency in the relevant skills.

Assessment Notes

People don’t need to own a sail, but should demonstrate ability to rig whatever equipment they bring to the assessment.

Assessment must be done in winds of 15kt or more.  

Directional control in all directions is necessary.  If they can’t hold course they are likely to separate from the group.  A group of sailors who can’t hold course are prone to scatter to the 4 winds.

Sails make capsizes more likely so good rescue skills in conditions are necessary.  Sailors should be able to exit the boat and lower and secure the sail without getting entangled in the lines.  

Capsizing during assessment is not cause for failure because we can all get caught by surprise sometimes.  However, excessive capsizes is a cause for failure. If you doubt their ability to keep their boat up in 15kt, they are not ready for the sailing badge.