Mean Sea Level – A visit to the Newlyn Tidal Observatory

What exactly is Mean Sea Level and how was this calculated? On a recent trip to Cornwall I stumbled across the rather derelict looking Newlyn Tidal Observatory, the home to Mean Sea Level which is the starting point for levelling in the UK. The Mean Sea Level Datum is the point at which all heights are measured against.

In 1921 the Ordnance Survey decided Newlyn would be the only national datum, chosen for its situation facing the Atlantic and the bed of Cornish granite it sits on. Prior to this there were 3 datums used in the UK (Newlyn, Dunbar & Felixstowe) for collecting Sea Level information. However as discrepancies started to show between them Newlyn was picked as the one datum to be used going forward.

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How to clean the log on board your vessel – Video Tutorial

The log – a key navigational tool for all sailors alike. Sitting just proud of the hull through a skin fitting it is common for these paddle wheels to get fouled and require some cleaning. Take a look at this blog post to see a step by step guide:Continue reading “How to clean the log on board your vessel – Video Tutorial”

The Environmental Impact on the water due to COVID-19

With the COVID-19 pandemic ongoing and lock down extended until at least the 7 May 2020, I wanted to shed some light on the more positive changes I have noticed during this time. In particular how clean and clear the water now is in a time when leisure sailing has temporarily ceased.

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BBC Radio Solent – H2O Podcast – Sailing in the Coronavirus Lockdown

Have a listen to the moment myself and my Chief Instructor Lou from Nomad Sailing had the chance to talk to BBC Radio Solent about the impact of COVID-19 on the Sailing Industry.

Last week Lou and I were lucky enough to be contacted by BBC Radio Solent looking for content for their weekly H2O Podcast. In particular for this weeks episode, how sailing clubs and centres are coping in Lockdown whilst making the best of the situation.Continue reading “BBC Radio Solent – H2O Podcast – Sailing in the Coronavirus Lockdown”

A shout out to the unsung hero’s of Marina Staff

In these unprecedented times we find ourselves coming together even more as a nation to thank those who are dealing with increased and immense pressure whilst undertaking their day to day work. From NHS workers, Waste Collectors, Carers and many more I thought it prudent and necessary to thank the marina staff still working hard to keep its customers and their boats safe during this time.

Gosport Premier Marina

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Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth, gale force 8 expected later. Changes to the much loved BBC Radio 4 Shipping Forecast amidst COVID-19 pandemic

Continue reading “Dover, Wight, Portland, Plymouth, gale force 8 expected later. Changes to the much loved BBC Radio 4 Shipping Forecast amidst COVID-19 pandemic”

The Handy Billy – What is one? What can it be used for and how do I make one?

In this post I look at a piece of equipment known by sailors around the world as a ‘Handy Billy’. What exactly is one? And what use does it have on board?

As skippers, we all have items on our boats or in our nav bags that we wouldn’t leave port without. A wire coat hanger, a decent tool kit and a bottle of rum stashed on board to list just some of mine! I recently spent some time on board with my Chief Instructor, Lou Barden from Nomad Sailing, who introduced me to the simple yet effective use of a Handy Billy and as a result I will be certainly adding one to my list of essential on board items.

The Handy Billy

Continue reading “The Handy Billy – What is one? What can it be used for and how do I make one?”