First Mate 101; How to Stop Worrying and Start Boating

by Brenda Dawson

We've all seen them. Couples who have turned boating into an incredible dance, a sight to behold. Even when docking, they seem to anticipate each others next step. They put on a wonderful performance, communicating with unspoken ease as they bring their boat expertly into the slip. This is a couple with a First Mate and Captain who are in sync with each other. And, I'm happy to say, that's been my experience boating with my husband Doug for more than 40 years now. That isn't to say that First Mate's have to be bound by the First Mate duties, she can switch hats often and become the Captain while he tends the lines, anchor, etc. First Mate and Captain are positions with specific duties--not gendres. As you'll read further down, the inspiration to write this book came about because of an an eye-opening and shocking experience when I attended a FirstMate course. From that experience, I knew that there is a sea of "reluctant boaters" who are deeply wanting and needing to know how to be a FirstMate.

Paperback

Published January 1, 2008