Hello.
Short version:
Looking for short passages of a week or two, within a day’s land/air travel from Brisbane. Happy being uncomfortable. Like to help and learn. No baggage.
Long version:
I’m recently semi-retired and with the kids largely out of the way and time largely on my side, I’m looking to re-acquaint myself with sailing. I completed the 5 day RYA Competent Crew course in mid 2023, and followed that up with another few trips on Australia’s east coast, bringing me to about 1500nm. I’ve done a 350nm passage over 70 hours, where I did 2 solo midnight-3am watches, and other solo night and day watches. I don’t like to sit back, but get involved in all tasks both above and below deck. If the head gets stinky, I’ll clean it. If the skipper says we need XYZ done, I’ll go forward and do it….if I don’t know how, I’ll ask, then go.
I’m keen on regular midweek day or overnight trips in South East Queensland to get some experience up, and am happy to put my hand up and fly further afield for longer passages to help out anyone who is open to giving me a go.
In 2024 I've been fortunate to meet a skipper who is keen to pass on his skills so I've been doing things like night navigation, picking up moorings solo (under motor and sail), man overboard, berthing and general close handling. This is a few days here and there on Moreton Bay. I'm far from expert, but seem to be making progress. I'll keep doing this. I’m keen to keep learning and trying things out and meeting new people along the way.
I’m a keen learner, physically and mentally fit, enjoy a range of other outdoor pursuits (sea-kayaking, canoeing, bike packing, hiking) and am pretty easy going, and self-reliant. I don’t lose my sh*t easily, can follow directions and enjoy a good belly laugh.
I’d be happy to meet up sometime if you’d like to see if we’re a good fit.