"Jeff" wrote in message
I never said that at all. But I've never actually seen it done as you
describe, probably because it was always easier and safer to just have a
workboat haul the boat off. I have seen a kedge used a few times to
maneuver large boats around, like reversing direction.

Oddly enough Jeff... neither had I until I was faced with a season of
sailing without auxilliary. It had been explained to me by the fishermen I
worked with as a youth and I also remembered the advise given me by my
betters about planning departure/arrivals and having a back-up plan to that.
I practised the manuevers and familiarized myself with the capabilities and
limitations of my vessel. I realized that year that an auxilliary was much
like any other conveinience aboard a boat. Not required but easier. I think
every course in sailing should incorporate a large portion on boat handling
without an engine. This is not currently taught that I know of and it leads
to opinions like Ganz's.

He is correct, that it is rarely considered. Even you agree with that.

I only agree that it isn't taught.... Jon's position is that it is
arbitarily inconsequential... that is the idiotic statement that I take
offense to. Instead of trying to learn... he condemns and preaches about a
subject he has no experience with. He displays his ignorance as a badge of
merit.

I'm going sailing, eventually.

Good for you... I've just secured a mooring and storage at Shining Waters
Marina for when I return from the work site. They have a travel lift and so
I won't have to endure the cluster**** of a crane launch. It will also allow
me to extend my sailing time. Maybe I'll get to do some winter sailing this
year. I love sailing in a fresh snowfall. Then again I'm Canadian so cold
weather isn't the impediment it is to you southern sailors. :-)

CM