At the latest Board meeting of Whitstable Maritime there was a unanimous decision to fit an engine to Gamecock. I have chosen to be a non-executive President so my vote was insignificant but I supported the proposal. Given that we have been advised Gamecock will have over 60 years of working life because of the high quality of the Restoration work, it is realistic to plan for income from commercial. Then she will need to work to a timetable, rather than be susceptible to the vagaries of wind and tide. It is also a significant additional safety feature.
Of course this is not the end of the matter. There are still decisions to be made as to the source of the power – diesel or electric; one or two propeller shafts – the latter helps when turning in the Harbour; and how to balance the craft so that she remains a good sailer.
This is not to deny the absolute pleasure of handling a large sailing craft without the assistance of an engine, and the skills, judgements and teamwork required. Here is a paragraph from Wind, Tide & Oar published this year by New Menard Press which extols the virtues of ‘engineless sailing’.
…….. ‘there is an important caveat to this augmentation of power…Sailing without the option of an engine creates ideal conditions for learning some invaluable life skills that stand you in good stead whatever you may be doing. For a start, you have to pay close attention to what is going on around you because, under sail, you have no brakes, no handy reverse gear to get you out of a tight spot. You have no choice but to co-operate with the forces at work, the strength of the wind, the momentum of the boat, the direction of the tide. You need these to work with you, not against you, and the only persuasion you have is in the set of the sails and the angle of the rudder……With practice, you learn to trust your judgement, to focus on on the detail of the task in hand yet remain aware of the peripheries and to recognise the supreme importance of co-operation and teamwork’.
That is why Gamecock will be such a valuable addition to the experiences on offer to those in our community who are disengaged, depressed, or lacking in confidence. It is also why sail training is widely recognised as offering opportunities for leadership development, with or without an engine – and an adventure for everyone.
Gordon
President