Heather's Experiences of Crewing on a Yacht

How to Play on a Yacht

A crewmember must invent fun to alleviate boredom. A yacht is a fun place with unusual activities.

The Bowsprit Swing! 

1. Tie a rope securely from the bowsprit, a thick rope that will hold the weight of you, let’s say up to 200 lbs.  This rope must have a loop tied at the end of it t where you will place your foot.
2. Step into the bowsprit netting, sit on the edge, place your foot into the loop of the rope.
3. Hold on tightly, slide your butt off the edge, be prepared for a jar !
4. Swing, laugh, scream.
5. Be aware of potential dangers – keep far away from the sharp edges of the anchor on the bow.
6. Variation:  The seated swing. Tie your rope into a triangle after inserting through a 2 inch pipe (for a seat) just like at the play park.  Guaranteed hours of fun.

Photography from The Bosun Chair !
Gear required:  camera securely hung around your neck, safety harness vest

1. If your ship has a mast, you must have a bosun chair onboard.
2. This fun requires help from a fellow crewmember or two. As you sit in the Bosun Chair, have your crewmembers hoist you up the mast for a leisurely birds eye view.
3. Crewmembers must securely cleat off their end of the hoist rope, to enable your crowsnest seat to be stable. Careful up there!
4. For extra security, strap yourself onto the mast. Wrap a tie around your middle and the mast.
5. Take some awesome photos of the view, the ship’s deck, etc.
6. Caution!  Ensure you have a set time and commitment from your crewmates to come back and release the hoist to slowly bring you down.
7. A backup plan may be needed. Double check before you venture on this stunt, that your mast has either footholds or a rope ladder that you can hold onto to manoeuvre yourself down.
8. Disclaimer: Ensure you do this when the ship is either on anchor or docked. Seek the help of an experienced crewmember.