Page 12 - June 2019 Kwasind

CRUISING SAILORS' SQUADRON
Marnie Keith-Murray, Cruising Sailors’ Seminar Co-ordinator
CRUISING SAILORS’ SQUADRON FEBRUARY AND MARCH SEMINARS
The popular seminars were held in the Bistro, preceded by dinner, where members gathered to enhance their knowledge by identifying beautiful cruising waters in the 1000 Islands and increasing navigation skills through use of apps.
February 5, Cruising the 1000 Islands
Peter Balusubramanian, S/V Unknown Island, moderated a panel of 3 cruisers well versed in the 1000 Islands. Many years of experience were represented in the vibrant conversations that ensued. The panelists were Erin Sorhaug of S/V Sandefjord, a recent Hodder Award winner, Rob Emery, S/V Flamingo and Felicity Rodness S/V S’fida. All of them shared their knowledge punctuated by laughter and reminisces. Good information was dispensed such as how to plan your trip within your own level of skill and confidence, that getting there did not require a long haul sail, to have fun with smaller distances, and how to prepare your boat, skipper and crew. Cruising secrets were shared such as favourite anchorages, ie Mulcaster, Camelot and Beaurivage, best provisioning spots such as Kingston and Ganonque, and various routes to get
In addition, a survey had been sent out to squadron members re: the 1000 Islands, and the fascinating results were shared with the audience. Of the 50 or so respondents, half were cruisers been to the Islands 3 times or fewer and the rest had been there many times. The richness of the information, the seminar attendees and the experienced panelists and moderator resulted in a wonderful body of knowledge that will be drawn upon by the CSS members in summer cruising to the 1000 Islands.
March 5, Sailing Apps and Their Wonders
A sell-out crowd of cruisers was on hand to enhance and upgrade their navigation skills. Led first by Catherine Kierans and Michael Egberts of S/V Big Lou, a hands- on session unfolded secrets and tips of the most widely used app called, NAVIONICS. An excellent slide show helped us move through setting the app up and then applying it in more sophisticated ways. Catherine and Michael use the app to complement their regular GPS systems while cruising. Their knowledge was evidentthroughouttheirpresentationandinthegroup
down there and how to choose the most appropriate; going outside, inside using the Murray Canal or going on the US Side. Mark Baker of Tremolo shared advice by elaborating on handling running aground, a not uncommon incident in the islands. (Mark’s report is posted on the CSS website) Lastly, the Edward M Hodder Award, established in 2004, was highlighted as a great motivator for cruising. Keeping club history alive while exploring the Lake is a fabulous way to expand experience. Current members of the Award were acknowledged in the panel and audience.
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JUNE 2019 • KWASIND
SAILING