Aux motor security

[Mike Fox]

You've raised a good question Rob, about having an alternative method of propulsion.

 

It's certainly something the RNLI recommends, and is good seamanship where practical.

 

If two boats fish closely together as buddy boats AND have a decent tow rope AND have enough fuel for one to tow the other comfortably AND co-ordinate times on marks etc, then that can make a lot of sense, and I think it's great many in the club do this.

 

However, if "out for a jolly with some bait" and unprepared with safety gear for the trip, and having to rely on someone else getting you back (chance of club boat or RNLI) then the situation is different.

 

With air and sea temperatures dropping, I wouldn't recommend downgrading personal safety or contingency plans.

 

Mike

[Duncan F (bathclaret)]

Just one further thought - insurance - when I asked Porthcawl to extend my cruising range last year to 25m they were happy to do so, but stipulated an auxiliary as a condition (plus a DSC VHF), both of which I carry.

 

They're obviously working on a plan that my policy will expire before I get 25 miles back with my little 5hp

 

Duncan

[Jim]

Just one further thought - insurance - when I asked Porthcawl to extend my cruising range last year to 25m they were happy to do so, but stipulated an auxiliary as a condition (plus a DSC VHF), both of which I carry.

 

They're obviously working on a plan that my policy will expire before I get 25 miles back with my little 5hp

 

Duncan

That's what I thought Duncan.

 

They're very fussy at Porthcawl are'nt they.

I hope that doesn't mean they're good at wriggling if we ever need to claim.

 

 

Jim

[Duncan F (bathclaret)]

Thankfully I've not needed to claim Jim, but Warrior rated them the best company to deal with on claims.

Actually I reckon that's fair enough. They were happy to extend the cruising range and didn't charge any extra, so stipulating a proper means of communication and backup propulsion seems common sense. Can't see me disappearing over the horizon without those basics...