RS SAILING RSCAT 14, Rigging Manual

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5.3 Leaving the Beach
The easiest way to get going is for the helm to hop aboard while the crew holds the
boat. The helm should push gently on the tiller to lower some of the rudder blade.
Then, s/he may instruct the crew to push the bow off the wind and climb in.
The singlehanded sailor may choose to ask someone to help them to launch. If
launching alone, stand in the water alongside the gunwhale, holding the boat head
to wind. Lower part of rudder, and then push the bow off the wind while hopping in.
Top Tip
If you are using the jib, pulling this sail in as you leave the beach will ensure
that the bow continues to swing away from the direction that the wind is
blowing from.
As soon the water is deep enough, make sure that you lower the rudder blade fully
by pushing back and down on the tiller. You will know it is fully down if you feel a
gentle “thud” as the front face of the blade hits the front face of the stock. Pull the
sail in and you are away!
For the best performance, you should ensure that you and your crew position
yourselves so that the boat is sailing through the water as flat as possible.
Watch the trim (fore and aft) and the heel. The boat should always be sailed as
upright as possible.
Top Tip
As a general rule, sit further forward in lighter winds and further aft in
stronger breezes.
5 - Sailing Hints