The Datchet Water sailing trip is a firm favourite with the keenest sailors in the Section, whichever year they are in. Many of the cadets were returning for the 3rd or 4th time with the Upper Sixth opting to spend their final Field Day on the open water in the shadow of Windsor Castle.
Under the watchful eyes of Alex and Paul, our instructors from Datchet Watersports, the cadets worked towards their RYA Spinnaker and Seamanship qualifications; learning about hoisting and dropping the kite and practising manoeuvres such as ‘man overboard’ and ‘coming alongside’. All of the coaching took place in double-handed Topper Xenons and RS Visions, dinghies that posed more of a challenge to sail competently than our Hartley’s at Habs. The cadets managed very well at mastering new skills in the larger boats. In addition, Lt Hall and Lt Chapman also gave the cadets a chance to sail and manoeuvre a Dart 18 catamaran.
The cadets were excellent ambassadors for both the RN Section and the School and it was a pleasure to organise the trip for them. My thanks go to Lt Hall for accompanying us and Mrs Goldberg for helping with the administration.
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