SOUTH-WEST
lifejacket lockers An RNLI scheme trialled to encourage more people to use lifejackets aboard their tenders is to be expanded this summer.
Lifejacket lockers were introduced at Salcombe, Fowey and the River Yealm in 2014 following RNLI research that showed boaters can often be put off wearing their lifejacket aboard their tender because of the ‘hassle factor’ of having nowhere secure to store them once ashore.
The successful initiative is now to be rolled out at several new locations in Dorset and Cornwall. The RNLI supply the lockers to harbours and locations free of charge providing they meet the criteria, along with signage. It’s hoped the scheme will help curb preventable accidents between moored vessels and the shore.
Multihull berths
New berthing spaces for catamaran boats are now available at The Marina at Sutton Harbour, based in Plymouth. The 5 Gold Anchor marina has widened some of its existing berths in Sutton Quay to accommodate multihulled watercraft, with new customdesigned berthing rates available. operate alongside the station’s D-class inshore lifeboat.
RNLI stations at Pwllheli and Barmouth will see 25-knot Shannon class all-weather lifeboats replace their Merseyclass lifeboats, to operate alongside their D-class inshore lifeboats. The changes are not expected before 2020. Building work is first required to modify Pwllheli and Barmouth stations ready for the new lifeboats.
only girls afloat
An Only Girls Afloat initiative, designed to grow female participation in watersports, is being rolled out across Wales. The scheme, run by RYA Cymru Wales, is aimed at getting women and girls into sailing, windsurfing, powerboating and jet-skis. The programme, funded by Sport Wales, launched in Llandudno at one of their monthly women-only nights, following a pilot project there last year. The programme encourages social sailing and fun in a female-friendly environment and facilities. Any interested clubs should contact their RYA Cymru Wales regional club development officer.