Hey Savvy Friends,
I’m saying goodbye… 👋🏼
Well, goodbye to email, that is. This will be the final email edition of the Savvy News.
From now on, you’ll find future updates on our website and via in-app notifications. I hope you’ll join me there to stay in the loop!
Now let’s kick off…could you spend three years on a Viking faering?
Greer Jarrett did. 😳
Sailing the Fjords Like the Vikings Yields Unexpected Insights
Swedish archaeologist Greer Jarrett set out on a remarkable three-year experimental voyage to uncover Viking seafaring secrets. Greer and a small crew sailed 3,100 miles (5,000 km) along Norway’s coast in a replica Viking faering.
Their journey revealed four previously unknown coastal havens used by Vikings over 1,000 years ago. These hidden harbours suggest the Vikings relied on a dispersed network of sheltered stops, not just major ports, to support their impressive ocean travel.
This incredible journey provided new insights into how Vikings navigated challenging fjords and open seas, as well as the vital importance of good crew dynamics and swift repairs to their success.
How I Learned to Love Single-Handed Cruising
Boating with friends and family is always fun, but have you ever thought about slipping lines solo?
Fred Pflaum never planned to sail alone. But when his long-term relationship ended, he faced a choice, stay tied to the dock, or take off on his own.
“Fear drives the decision-making process. If you think about it long enough, you can let the ‘what if’ trap stop you in your tracks before you even leave the dock.
What if I get sick or fall and get hurt?
What if the weather turns really foul?
What if I can’t dock this 48-foot beast by myself?
What if I can’t handle being alone, day in and day out?”
If you or someone you know is considering a solo voyage, this is an inspiring and insightful read.
Free Boating Safety Checklists from the RNLI
If you’re planning a trip on the water, these free safety checklists from the RNLI might come in handy! The downloadable PDF gives checklists for:
- Pre-season
- Before you go afloat
- Crew briefing
- Checklists for whilst underway
- Emergency action plans
- Emergency VHF radio calling procedure
It’s worth bearing in mind that these might need adapting depending on the country where you’re boating, your trip and the type of boat. But they’re a useful starting point for anyone heading out on the water.
The Story of a Boat Named Wisp
Photo: Alec Brainerd of Artisan Boatworks
In a world where boatyards are becoming larger and more high-tech, Alec Brainerd, founder of Artisan Boatworks, has kept things small while delivering at a world-class level. So when a client approached him with minimal design input, a tight timeline, and sky-high expectations, it was no small challenge.
How did he pull it off without the expansive facilities or specialised tools of the bigger yards? Through collaboration, meticulous planning, and a tight-knit crew that knew how to execute.
“Where Alec is rather unique is that he’s building at a world-class level with a very small yard and a small crew, a very talented crew, but without the specialities and major infrastructure investments that the bigger yards have.”
This is inspiring.
Until next time
Thanks so much for tuning in to my monthly boat musings. I hope you enjoyed this month’s stories, and when you're out there making your own adventures, I hope Savvy Navvy is helping you get there.
All the best,
Hannah and the Savvy Crew
