A religious conviction is like a butt: it is not because you have one that you need to show it to everyone.
– Apocryphe
Over long distances, the saying goes that the boat shrinks by a foot for every day spent with the same crew. A crew that manages to get along and shares a common code of living aboard is therefore central to good memories. In doing so, those considering sailing on Jean-du-Sud should assess whether the practices below fit in with their own sailing philosophy.
Safety
There are four inflatable mustang vests onboard. All crew members are expected to wear a vest. In bad weather, at night, or when circumstances require it, lifelines will also be attached if it’s necessary to go to the mast.
If you sail inhebriated, you will be escorted to the nearest port. That said, a little alcohol at anchor or in a marina, in front of a beautiful sunset, is part of the pleasures of sailing. There will be an emphasis on “a little” if we are sailing the next day.
Human Connections
Humor is central. We want to have fun, and a good joke is always welcome!
As a general rule, we expect people to be courteous, open to different ideas… and able to take a joke! The quote at the beginning of the text refers more to the way in which subjects are approached than to the subjects themselves. If it is detrimental to the cohesion of the crew, you may have to moderate your opinions. That said, Jean-du-Sud is not a boat where you have to be “more Catholic than the Pope”, especially if the context lends itself to humor.
Women (or any other gender) can expect a sailing environment where they are respected for their desire to sail (and we hope this will be shared!).
Communication, Execution and Coordination
Maneuvering procedures are usually those taught by Sail Canada or the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).
Successful maneuvers require a coordinated crew. There is only one responsible person for coordinating maneuvers. By default, it is the Skipper. Other persons could be designated responsible of manoeuvers if they express interest, but the Skipper can always regain control of any maneuver.
There is an high emphasis on communication. It must be fluid. The person responsible for maneuvers must communicate clear intentions, and the crew must respond, even when they are used to working together. A person who doesn’t respond signals that he or she is not paying attention to a maneuver. Saying “I don’t understand” or “I didn’t hear” is better than not responding.
The time for discussion and the time for execution are two distinct moments. We will discuss in advance how we are going to perform a maneuver. Debating of a maneuver during its execution is a big no. Less successful maneuvers should be discussed after their execution.
Promiscuity and Contributions
Jean-du-Sud is a small bluewater sailboat (Alberg 30), and you can expect some promiscuity: a single toilet behind a curtain, a v-berth and two bench seats doubling as single berths. At most, there will be three people onboard for long passages. When this is so, two people should expect to sleep in the v-berth. Plan for a single piece of luggage (+/- 60 L) that can be folded once onboard.
Unless otherwise specified, a person coming on board can expect the Skipper to cover the cost of food on board, excluding alcohol, as well as diesel or marina charges. However, you must ensure that you can get to the embarcation and disembarcation points on your own. Costs of an individual nature are each person’s responsibility.
Other Aspects
- Jean-du-Sud is a pet-free and smoke-free boat.
- It is to be expected that photos will be taken on board and posted on social networks. Anyone who does not wish to be photographed will be responsible for leaving the photo/video frame.
- It is in your best interest to disclose any aspect of your health that could interfere with navigation or require emergency intervention at sea. It helps the crew to intervene if necessary.
- You’ll be expected to participate in life on board to the extent of your skills, and more or less on an equal footing with the others: cooking, inspections, watches and so on.
- You embark at your own risk. You release Jean-du-Sud and its Skipper from any liability, accident or fatality (!) that may befall you.
- The Skipper’s CV is available here.
Intérested? Write at svjeandusud@gmail.com with your marine CV and a short bio.
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