Whenever we have talked or asked someone about what you would do in an event of your boat's engine failing, the most common response is to just use the sails to manoeuvre the boat. This sounds simple, but if you need to get your vessel on to a mooring or in a marina berth, then there are some things you need to think about, and more importantly, practice!

Most sailing vessels will use the assistance of the engine for hoisting and setting the sails, as well as dropping. Without the engine, it can be a little harder but it is a great skill to have if you can hoist sails, set and manoeuvre your vessel without power. 

The video below has some ways to start practicing hoisting and using the sails without using an engine. If you've done this before then try doing it with your crew, friends or family that are on your boat regularly that might not know how to do it.

Ask us if you have any questions, and let us know how you go with it!