Sailing BC Waters Engineless?

[Jesse]

Encountering a BC ferry while sailing through Active Pass will demonstrate why an engine should be at the top of the required list. Those ferries are huge and very fast. The increase in maneuverability an engine provides can save your bacon up here, and you can always shut it down when it's not needed.

[NorthPacific]

You really should check how factual your opinions are before you make statements that perhaps after a quick google you would not make? I did think we were talking about sailing rather than motoring. Is Sailing more difficult and needs more skill than motoring, many would say so. Is it foolhardy for someone without the necessary sailing skills and knowledge of an area to untie the ropes from the dock you bet. Between the Clubhouse Admirals ensconced in their comfy chair with their G&T's and at the other end of the Spectrum the Parady's are the majority of the rest of us. Some would be fearful of sailing without an engine, others feel free from its restrictions and problems it brings.

Me the only time I relax when motoring is when I turn it off. Because then it can not break down. Relying on a motor often compromises our safety when a breakdown occurs in a critical situation. Each to their own. People should not be knocked for being purists.

[markpierce]

Seen lots more motorboats underway in the protected coastal waters as compared to sailboats. And the few sailboats were motoring, not sailing.







If one's alert and has maneuverability, it's usually easy to avoid conflicts with ferries.

[NorthPacific]

Yip I agree, Sailing the BC Coast is a misnomer for many. Going North to South or Visa versa can mean nothing but the listening to the bloody engine pound away (hopefully).

With a sailboat the trick is is to find the wind, and then plan your route accordingly.