Here are some introductory sailing rules for the Novice Fleet.

Basic Sailing Rules

 The Minnow Handbook Whether you are new to sailing or started in another class before sailing a Minnow, this book will be a great help to you improving your sailing. You might know these already so you can use this to teach Mum and Dad Before we get into racing we’ll go over a few basics about the Boat and Sails.

There are also a couple of important ropes to remember

1. Main Halyard - This is the rope that pulls the sail up to the top of the mast.
2. Outhaul - This rope attaches the clew to the end of the boom.
3. Mainsheet - This rope joins the boom to the boat and is used to adjust the sail when we are sailing.
4. Boom Vang or Vang – This is used to change the shape of the sail to suit the wind

Sailing Faster - Have you noticed how some skippers go round a course much faster than others?

It isn’t a fluke that the same ones do it every time. It isn’t a special magic. They can usually explain why what they did was faster. You can sail faster too, if you sail for fun and practice a bit, especially with another boat. Don’t just race. Practise just one or two things at a time. Don’t expect to be a World Champion by next Tuesday. And never give up.

Preparation - You should have no onshore hassles because they unrest you and stop you thinking clearly. Here are some simple things to help you sail better.

1. Have all your gear organised and keep together. Make a checklist. Pack your gear the night before sailing so you aren’t rushing around in the morning.
2. Leave difficult adults, children & dogs at home if possible. You cannot race well if people upset you before the race. Difficult people should be sent out for one hour in a Minnow in a 20 knot wind, they will return with a proper respect for your skill.
3. The hull, centreboard & rudder should be in good condition with no bumps or scratches and should be smooth (shiny).
4. Halyard, outhaul and vang should have marks so you can repeat fast sail settings.
5. Make sure you have all your safety gear like a bailer, and make sure your rudder and centreboard are tied to your boat.
6. Make sure you have the proper sailing gear. It’s very important to stay warm.
7. Make sure you have a proper lifejacket.
8. Make sure you are wearing a hat and have sunscreen on.
9. The sail should be fitted with 2 sets of ribbons. A set one-third the way back and another on the leech.