4
Foiling for the first time
Foiling dinghies provide a thrill unlike other forms of sailing. Managing the speed and acceleration is not a natural
reaction, even for experienced dinghy sailors. It is not something that everyone can master on their first attempt.
Remember your first time on a bicycle or sailboard which required some practice and persistence.
You should first start in light to moderate, steady winds and flat water on an open bay without too much traffic.
Even stopping requires some special skill! You will also, perhaps for the first time, experience true ‘apparent wind’
sailing and will be on the edge of control. You will need to be careful, patient and very persistent to get it right... but
you will be well rewarded!!
The unique wand system is a key innovation which enables the skipper to accurately select foiling height. Starting
from displacement sailing, the boat can begin to foil reliably and safely just off the water surface. This gives the
skipper a feel for foiling, limiting the risk of capsizing and crashing. The boat takes off with a rush but gives you time
to get used to the massive apparent wind changes. If you do make mistakes, the hull is able to provide stability
immediately. There is much less chance of crashing, as with other foilers.
As you get more confident with the special skills required for foiling, you can raise the ride height progressively,
getting higher, faster and even able to heel to windward for better upwind performance. If at any time you feel out
of control, you can raise the wand, even while you are on the wings. This acts as a safety device, immediately
lowering you to the water where you are once again under full control.
Skeeta Foiling Craft provides you with the equipment to experience foiling. Foiling competently requires practice and
is something we recommend you get training/coaching for.
Sailing
First up, it is a good idea to get the feel of the boat (without foiling), understanding how to sheet on, sail upwind and
downwind, trim the vang for power, tacking and gybing. Sailing a light scow is a lot livelier than most other dinghies.
You should then be ready to feel your way into foiling. Lower the wand around 300mm which should enable the boat
to just lift off and fly, just above the waves. This is the best way to begin as the boat remains stable and if you fall or
tip over, the boat helps you stay upright. It should feel easy and safe to sail.
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