IMPORTANT STUFF ABOUT CREW AND CREWING
There are some things I’d like to suggest be remembered if you are looking for a crew slot on a boat, or a skipper seeking regular crew:
a) Be on time. Some skippers cut the transit time between dock and race to a minimum, and often will not wait on a late crew member (unless the physical body is required to satisfy a body count). If a situation arises that can cause you to be late, notify the skipper as soon as you can. If you’re a skipper, be on time. Don’t try to cut the transit time. Allow yourself plenty of time to arrive without having to rush.
b) Be honest about your abilities and experience. No one likes to find themselves in a situation with a crew member, or skipper, being counted on for experience, and instead found to be a novice. If you are inexperienced, let the potential crew or skipper know. If he’s worth his salt, you’ll be accepted and taught how to do your job. If you’re not accepted, you’re better off on another boat, or with another crew..
c) Remember that a regular crew slot is a commitment. If you are accepted aboard a boat for a series, or a season, know when to be where, regardless of the weather or personal comfort. True, at times it can be uncomfortable in rough weather, but it’s a part of life, and if you’re serious about sailing, you have to know how to handle rough weather safely. To the skipper, your commitment is as important to the crew. If you accept folks on your boat for the season’s race schedule, you need to make all of those races.