A little dock etiquette?

[madmanex]

Why do sailors launching from the dock at Palo Alto insist on bringing boards out to the dock immediately upon arrival? Then they go back to the lot, rig up, get suited up, and finally go launch. Meanwhile their board is in the way for everyone else who is trying to launch or land. Why not rig up and get suited up, then carry out the board, return to the lot to get the rig and launch.

Same thing applies after sailing. Bring the rig up to the lot, then get the board before derigging. The dock isnt big enough for more than about 10 boards at one time.

On a related note, those launching from the dock in Berkeley are much better at not parking equipment on the dock while rigging or unrigging. But hanging out on the dock with board and sail IN THE WATER AND IN THE LAUNCHING/LANDING AREA is enough to seriously annoy anyone trying to launch or land.

The docks have very limited space for launching and landing so give some thought to others who might want to use your private dock

[vtm99]

Hi M,
I occasionally sail in PA too and I must confess, I do exactly all the things that make you upset.

However, if I rig, then bring the board to the dock, what would happen to my *rigged sail* if a gust hits? The person with a scratched car will even be more upset than you.

But agree M, we should have a little dock etiquette in PA.

[carl]

To keep your sail from flying away without the board attached, just unclamp the boom from the mast, then your sail will lay flat on the ground. The dock people will be so happy not having to trip on your board, the mud will be flying off their booties!

[vtm99]

Hi Carl,

OK, I think I got it.
1) Once I arrive, I should rig the sail without the boom
2) Bring my board out
3) Go back to the sail, connect the boom and then head out.
Is that the correct etiquette ?