Preparing for Autumn Conditions

Preparing for Autumn Conditions

Autumn is a season of shifting weather patterns and, for UK sailors especially, that means one eye on the barometer and another on the tidal gates. Winds pick up, daylight shortens, and forecasts change fast. But with the right prep, this shoulder season can deliver some of the most rewarding sailing of the year.

For coastal skippers, the focus is timing: slipping out after work ends on Friday and getting back in time to get home on Sunday. Understanding the weather and tides  means knowing how to keep your route flexible and having anchorages and safe harbours planned in reserve.  For those heading further afield, whether offshore cruisers or ARC hopefuls, September is crunch time. Biscay crossings become trickier with each passing week.

All this means getting ready for autumn means kit checks are non-negotiable. That includes reviewing sail condition, rig tensions, engine servicing, liferaft and lifejacket dates, and checking all your safety equipment.  

But for all that, the rewards of getting out on the water, wind in the sails, and a heeling boat means all the preparation and checks result in some exhilarating trips – whether a weekend overnight, of a longer passage.

Check out the handy guides to key tasks in our  Skipper’s Resources section