Cruising

Definition: cruise (krūz)

v., cruised, cruis·ing, cruis·es.

  1. To sail, travel about, or move along, as for pleasure or reconnaissance, especially in an unhurried or unconcerned fashion
  2. To travel at a constant speed or at a speed providing maximum operating efficiency for a sustained period.
  3. To move leisurely about an area in the hope of discovering something

or

Proceeding normally, unrestricted, with an absence of drastic rudder or engine changes.

Yes, that pretty much sums it up – you sail hither and yon, and wind up where the wind blows you. You sail for the sheer ‘Joy of Sailing’. Once there you find a nice spot, drop your hook, relax, and enjoy life. If you are lucky, you do the same the next time, and the next, and the next…

Suitability for Cruising

  • Can you do nothing for days on end?
  • Do you like sleeping in damp bedclothes?
  • Did you ever get the urge to sleep under the stairs or other confined space?
  • Does the smell of diesel bring a sense of nostalgia?
  • When sizing up a new boat do you check the comfort of the bunks first?
  • Do you sometimes get lube oil mixed up with sun-tan cream?
  • Do you sometimes drive your car at 4 knots?
  • Can you have a full body-wash with one cup of cold water?
  • When asked about the best way to use a spinnaker do you ask, “What is a spinnaker”?

If you have answered “yes” to some of the above, beware, you may be suitable for cruising!

 

Anchor Cruising with Mayo Sailing Club

Anchor cruising is an entirely informal programme at Mayo Sailing Club. Its objective is to empower boat owners to get out and explore our beautiful coastline and offshore islands. Get to know Clew Bay and the islands, our offshore islands, and the adjacent harbours and inlets.

  • Yes, you can sail further afield.
  • Yes you can pick up a mooring and go ashore to explore.
  • Yes, you can drop your anchor and set it with confidence.
  • You can have lunch or dinner aboard
  • Yes you can enjoy sundowner cocktails
  • Yes you can spend the night at anchor swinging gently and sleep like a baby in a cradle.

There are a number of experienced cruising sailors at Mayo Sailing Club. Some will make an announcement after the Thursday night racing. Most will post their plans on the closed and secure WhatsApp Mayo SC Cruisers Group, while some may choose to use the MSC Facebook group page. Are you a member? If not, join today.

So get your boat ready and head off. Hook up with others nearby or further afield. Enjoy a shared lunch, sunset cocktails, or a potluck dinner. Then sleep well aboard your lovely yacht and learn to live to the fullest.

We are fortunate to live in one of the most beautiful parts of the world.
Anyone with a boat is able to get out there and explore.