If sails can be set, there is no need for an engine, is the credo of many skippers and also that of YACHT. And yet: there are quite a few situations in which it can be useful or necessary to start the engine despite careful trip planning.
Especially in the north, this sailing technique is known as Danish cruising, which is obviously meant disrespectfully towards the neighbour, but is practised across all nations, both north and south. It enables a destination to be reached more quickly upwind, can contribute to increased safety and also to a not inconsiderable gain in comfort. Typical scenarios include tacking in a narrow fairway, where a little more height can be enough to avoid constant tacking. Furthermore, sailing out of a leeward wall situation. Or when more height is needed for a short time to get round a hatch or shoal and another stroke to sail clear seems too difficult or there is not enough room.
In rougher conditions, when sailing with a lot of lay and noticeable waves, Danish cruising can significantly calm the yacht's movements. This is an effect that should not be underestimated, especially if a large part of the crew is seasick. For less experienced crews, this technique can be used to reduce anxiety. A lot of heeling in particular is a fear factor that should not be underestimated.
And the sound of the travelling machine alone suggests safety.
We tried out how strong the effects are with different sails during a test in the bay off Palma de Mallorca. We used two identical Oceanis 34.2s, built in 2011, with furling genoa and furling mainsail, provided by the charter company Yates Baleares. One boat served as a reference under sail, while the other was used to measure various configurations.
The results, both subjective and objective, can be found in the current issue of YACHT 14/2016.
Plus: The BOB and ERIC scheme for the quick engine check.
Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
