Musto Skiff Gybing Video

Gracious me, the HRT's really kicking in now Isabelle

Are you sure it's the right type of forum you're addressing!?!

It answers one of the most common questions about MPSs and 700s "What do you do when you run out of hands?" And there was me thinking you would be tempted to use your teeth (or was this the technique in the Contender days?)

Hmmmmmmmmmmm.........  Hikers have got hiking benches to get fitter... I wonder what strengthening exercises you would recommend, Ian?

Just kidding by the way. I'm really impressed with both the video and your "there's-nothing-to-it" post.  

Hi Guys:

I wouldn't dream of letting go the tiller for a second - whenever I'm hoisting/ dropping I put the tiller extension onto the windward rack and rest my bum on it (as you can see in the video). That way you can hold the rudder steady; have your weight slightly to windward; and steer a little too by moving your bum.

I certainly don't want a pump-action - once you have developed the basic technique it's quicker without the pump - you use two hands and each pull counts, so you get it down quicker - and quicker is safer.

When I first got the Musto Skiff I thought a pump would be a good idea - even if it was only just for beginners - but once you see the technique and try it yourself you realise how unnecessary it is. And it's just something else to go wrong.

You gotta try it - it's more manageable than you would think - and it's a whole load of fun

Happy sailing,

Ian Renilson (the guy in the video )

Because the hoist/drop is so fast letting go of the tiller for a moment is no problem ... plenty of mortals sailing MPS and a few gods ...