The Captain Rob Cozen
Certified Marine Surveyor NewsLetter
June
1998 Archive
WOMEN AND BOATING
About
ten years ago, I was asked to conduct a seminar for the women
partners of boat owners. The intention of the seminar was to show
women how they could help their husbands have an enjoyable day
on the water (i.e. what clothes to bring, how to pack a lunch,
sun block, etc.) The only orders that women had to respond to
underway were "honey, bring me another beer and where's the
cole slaw". But fortunately times have changed and women
have become an integral part of boat crews. Women have attended
boating classes with their mates or have purchased boats of their
own. The intellect and strength needed to be a proper skipper
shows no gender preference. Modern-day powerboats are easily handled
by anyone who is willing to take the time to learn and dedicate
the many hours of practice needed to make critical responses instinctual.
The other major reason why it's time for men to share the helm
is safety. Since men typically play the major role in the actual
operation of the boat underway, they are also most vulnerable
for boating-related injuries. It is imperative that there be another
person on board, experienced not only in emergency medical response,
but also capable of bringing the boat back to dock safely in the
event that the husband/skipper gets hurt or sick. There is absolutely
no biological, physical or psychological reason why women can't
handle a powerboat as well as a man. (I'll address sailboats next
month).
To begin, the female partner should take a hands-on
boating course. Not the one that the Coast Guard Auxiliary gives.
Sure, it's great to have theoretical knowledge of knots and navigation.
But what you really need is time behind the wheel. The best time
to take the course is when you buy the boat. Most marinas/brokers
offer some type of course. If not, find a delivery captain or
ask at your local boat supply store for the name of someone who
gives boating courses. The worst person to teach a woman is her
husband or boyfriend. Typically, it takes about thirty minutes
for this to degenerate into a screaming match. (At bit of advise,
take all filet knives and clubs off the boat during the classes
if you do choose the husband/boyfriend route). The best person
is someone who is actually a boating instructor who has the skills
and patience to guide you along at your pace. There are many things
on a boat that are different from a car like manual throttles
and gear shifters. The proper use and coordination of engine controls
take a long time to perfect. Practice, practice, etc.. not only
in the main body of water but also practice docking; which is
the most intimidating thing for most people. Practice docking
a thousand times in all current and wind conditions. It you have
to think about what the boat will do if you use this throttle
or that shifter, you still need more practice. Don't ever lose
sight of why we boat. Communing with nature, fishing, camaraderie,
Baltimore, spending money, spending money, spending money and
ever so often...having fun.
So, why not try some role-reversing exercises on board.....not
just because it's the nineties and men have become more sensitive
to women's needs and feelings, but because it could save the life
of the person closest to you and expands the true meaning of the
term "Mate".
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Captain Rob Cozen
Master Marine Surveyor
P.O. Box 220
Somers Point, NJ 08244
Office: (609) 926-4949 - Cell: (609) 335-1500
(Outside South Jersey) (800) 64SURVEY - Toll Free!
copyright 1998, Captain Rob Cozen, all rights reserved.