as when we had circumnavigators Jim and Diana Jessie aboard in Mexico. Their experience dwarfs ours, so we were in fact recipients of their knowledge. More commonly though is a situation where Mr. X climbs aboard as “an old boater from way back”. Unless you know for sure, it’s best to stick with the normal routine of undocking, docking, etc. as when no guests are aboard. Otherwise good feelings may fade when Mr. X enthusiastically hurls the wet and jumbled dock line into your face while casting off. The moment you realize that Mr. X’s boating experience comes from watching episodes of McHale’s Navy, it’s too late to inform him that one’s leg is not a suitable boat fender. This is when diplomacy becomes


important. In the back of your mind may be a faint voice saying, “My six year old has more sense than this windbag”. Yet, instinctively you know that with Mr. X wincing in pain, insulting him will not be helpful. Communication before boat handling maneuvers goes a long way. The trick is to deliver clear instructions in a matter of fact way to get your point across without sounding like the bossy captain. So, as you give Mr. X the nod to cast off the dock lines, simply add, “And hand them to me,” so everyone has the same expectation. Oh, and don’t forget to mention that your insurance policy has a strict “no human fender” clause. With young kids especially, a short lesson in going down the companionway, tripping hazards, pinching hazards, etc. will go a long way towards a fun day.


The Weekender Host/guest harmony onboard


may be intact after a day trip, but a multi-day cohabitation requires additional preparations. First, it’s a mistake to assume that because host and guest shared many great non- boating experiences together, that boating will be fun and easy. We’ve heard many boaters tell how their longtime landlubber friends were not themselves onboard. Whether it’s because of discomfort on the water, limited personal space, or just being out of their element is unclear, but any the above can elevate their frustrations. Second, limitations in personal


space and electricity onboard are awkward if you’re not used to it. Let


48° NORTH, FEBRUARY 2011 PAGE 39


The moment you realize


that Mr. X’s boating experience comes from watching episodes of McHale’s Navy, it’s too late to inform him that one’s leg is not a suitable boat fender.


guests know beforehand how much space they will have for their stuff. And don’t forget to mention that hard- sided luggage doesn’t work, or won’t you be so surprised when they arrive with a huge suitcase that barely fits in the cockpit. Informing guests up front about the limitations in electricity onboard will save that scathing look from Mrs. X when she realizes her hair drier is unusable. Packing bedding, warm clothes, rain gear, etc. may be obvious, or not, so it’s still best to clarify.


Third, good food and drink goes a


long way to keeping everyone happy onboard. Even the best of galleys on the best of days can require gymnastics to prepare a large meal. But the galley is usually out of bounds to short term


guests due to the subtleties of propane solenoid switches, finicky boat stoves, limited fresh water, and un-intuitive location of cookware and food. Guests can shine if they know how to support the galley slave, instead of writing off the task altogether. And whether you mean for it to happen or not, guests will try to acquire water or refrigerated items without consulting you. To avoid awkward situations, such as “you just used half of our water supply to brush your teeth” or “we don’t have air- conditioning, but thanks to you holding the fridge open so long it’s nice and cool now”, it’s important to show how these things are limited or precious. Lastly if you have an off limits food or drink stash, either hide it or make its sacred status known. Otherwise, Mr. X may further


endear himself with a midnight snack on that bar of dark chocolate that you saved for the perfect occasion, such as when Mr. X steps off of the boat.


“Totem,” is currently in Sydney,


Australia. Go to www.48north.com and click on Cruisers Blogs to follow more of their cruising life.


The New “Old”


Hat! $12.00


We've gone Retro! Featuring our old 48° North logo on Red, Navy Blue & Khaki


cotton hats. One size fits all. Add $4.50


s&h


The Mug! $7.50


The New 15 oz Cobalt Blue Mug with our logo


printed in Gold. Add $5.50


s&h Call


(206) 789-7350 or


www.48north.com We pay the sales tax!


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