Happy New Year everybody, both calendar and lunar!
This is a quiet period for DBYC events, with many members taking advantage of the cooler, drier weather to catch up on outstanding boat servicing and repairs. However, there are a few points of news that are worth bringing to your attention, as well as an outline of up-coming events. Read on…
Swing-mooring Service. Arconia ended up on the rocks yesterday, having broken her mooring chain. No serious damage, thanks to Martin Baggaley and the Marina Club staff, but a timely reminder to all mooring owners. In particular, all Nim Shue Wan moorings laid over 5 years ago (ie most of them) should be checked. You may be able to ‘top & tail’ them (ie remove the top and bottom metre of chain, for a few months’ extra life) or bite the bullet and replace all the tackle. First, though, you need to check the mooring chain condition (the DBYC PowerDive is ideal, if you have a diving certificate and, at this time of year, a wet suit) or hire a diver to do it for you. is recommended (2576 5655 / 9820 5502) and he can even arrange to replace the mooring tackle, if required. Prices vary, so please contact Tony direct - but do it soon, before you incur the expense of putting your boat on the rocks! For owners of younger moorings, you still need to check the mooring condition periodically. In particular, the cheaper swivels can rust and freeze, resulting in an over-stressed mooring bridle, so please check your mooring asap, or arrange for Tony to do it for you.
Up-coming Events. Here is an outline of events planned for the next few months:
28-30 Jan COA Macau Race - five DBYC boats already entered, but you’ll need to be quick!
11/12 Feb ABC Four Peaks Race - for the fleet of foot…
Mar TBN Safety & Seamanship Day - for all novice and inexperienced crew
Mar / Apr Cheung Chau pursuit race-to-lunch - a repeat of last year’s popular event (report here)
28 Apr DBYC AGM - A chance to volunteer to assist as a Club Officer!
29/30 Apr Sokos cruise & overnight - a combined event, with the LBC
In addition, we’re working on a ground-breaking cruise to overnight in the Chinese islands to the south of the Sokos in the early Summer. Watch this space…
Winter Training Courses. There are many shore-based courses available at this time of year, prior to the South China Sea Race. In particular the First Aid & CPR course is of great value and should be attended by all regular crew. There is also the excellent Safety & Sea Survival course. Both courses will be run at the RHKYC in February and March (details here ), but numbers are limited, so book now! The same link gives details of Master and Engineers courses, leading to the Grade II exam. Lastly, RYA Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Offshore courses and exams are now available in Phuket - details here, or contact Merv Wilson on 9689 3207.
Crew Wanted. No need for previous experience - keen, willing hands are always welcome aboard! One or two crew still needed for the up-coming Macau Race - if interested contact crew@dbyc.net asap.
Yacht and DB Mooring FOR SALE Yes, Sunsoka is still up for grabs (along with her valuable mooring) and the price has dropped for a quick sale. Check out our For Sale page for details.
That’s all for now. See you in Macau!
