This episode is part 1 of a small series of “how to” videos using a full keel yacht. I’m covering my experience as to why you should never cast off in the same direction as the current. I demonstrate casting off in astern against the current using a full keel yacht single handed.

This is my own personal experience as I see all to often people casting off in the same direction as the current and before they gain water flow over the rudder and gain any steerage, they are already grinding down the side of the neighbours boat. I think the fear of lack of control in astern makes people think that forwards is the only way. Of course some boats will not have steerage at all in astern, but this method doesn’t require steerage just projecting enough stern out into the current to instigate a turn. If you leave in ahead you still have no steerage.

Part 2 will cover coming along side in astern against the current flow single handed.

Any feedback, ideas, suggestions or thoughts let me know as I want to make this content as easily digestible as possible and completely tailored to you! It’s your channel! Safe boating! Ollie.