matilda 23 sailboat

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I own a Matilda 23 and trying to find technical information about these sailboats, namely, stays and shrouds size and lenght, mainsheet and jib sheets size and lenght, construction, etc. Any and all information is welcomed. Thanks  

Basic info: MATILDA 23 sailboat specifications and details on sailboatdata.com More specific Matilda info: Ouyang Matilda Sailboats Homepage ^^^ has the owners manual so may have sizes for shrouds etc.  

Thanks. Already seen those. They don't provide the information I'm seeking.  

First off, cool little boat, looks solid at 4600lb displacement. You won't generally find that information really unless another owner can measure it for you. The stays and shrouds will be sized for the loads and length of mast. If you are getting them redone your rigger will have recommendations. For the sheets, it's a case of how long do they need to be and sizing will generally be whatever feels comfortable in your hands, 3/8 is usually a good compromise between weight and comfort. Even 1/4 double braid is plenty strong enough for the load but won't feel good in your hand.  

Thanks tschmithy. The lower shrouds are a smaller size than the upper which seems unusual to me. Most boats I have seen to date have the same size for both. I'm sure a rigger will be able to help me.  

That is unusual, and sounds like one or the other was replaced. Generally they should be equal since the loads are usually roughly the same on a mast with spreaders. FWIW, 3/16 1x19 would be a good choice for the shrouds and 7/32 for the stays if you were going to spec them yourself, as in, send them off to a rigger to replace. Generally a 23 footer would be lighter, but your boat has some heft so bigger is better.  

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• Sailboat Guide

Matilda 20 is a 19 ′ 5 ″ / 5.9 m monohull sailboat designed by Robert Tucker and built by Ouyang Boat Works starting in 1971.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

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• Boat REF#  ·  162547
• Length  ·  7.01m
• Year  ·  1977
• Construction  ·  GRP
• Underwater profile  ·  Lifting Keel
• Sleeping berths  ·  5
• Engine  ·  1 x gasoline 9.9hp, Nissan ()
• Lying  ·  Gulf Islands

This boat is off the market but here are some boats that are still For Sale

• Specification
• Additional Information

Extra Details

Newer Nissan 4 stroke long shaft electric start. Has a repaired crack in lower pivot bracket. See photos

Sloop rigged unknown Aluminium spars () with Stainless Steel standing rigging ()

A Ted Brewer design with roller furling jib, lines led aft, and SIX FOOT HEADROOM in the cabin.

Electrical Systems

2 batteries charged by: engine, solar panels

Construction

Canadian Built, by Ouyang, builder of Aloha Yachts. Hand laid glass. This is considered to be a premium quality vessel

Accommodation

Private enclosed head and six feet of headroom in a 23 foot trailerable sailboat!

2 burner propane Stove

1 halyard winches 2 sheet winches 1 anchors (Danforth) 9.9hp outboard, Nissan, Long shaft () Two solar panels, lines led aft. Cam cleats and single halyard winch on cabin top. Simplicete roller furling.

Nav Equipment

Newer Lowrance Depth/fish finder

Safety Equipment

Broker's comments.

Canadian Built, Ted Brewer design, trailerable, newer 4 stroke Nissan outboard, 6' headroom in cabin, roller furling jib.

These boat details are subject to contract. Note: Offers on the asking price may be considered.

Please note this comments section is public . Please do not post your personal details here. To enquire about purchasing this boat, please contact the broker directly at [email protected] Please read our commenting guidelines before posting.

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Cost of ownership.

Lifting Keel

Specifications MATILDA 20

19.50 ft / 5.94 m - 1971 - Ouyang Boat Works (CAN) - Robert Tucker

MATILDA 20 Sailboat Data

Hull Type: Lifting Keel Rigging Type: Masthead Sloop LOA: 19.50 ft / 5.94 m LWL: 16.33 ft / 4.98 m S.A. (reported): 177.00 ft² / 16.44 m² Beam: 7.92 ft / 2.41 m Displacement: 1,550.00 lb / 703 kg Ballast: 300.00 lb / 136 kg Max Draft: 4.16 ft / 1.27 m Min Draft: 0.75 ft / 0.23 m Construction: FG First Built: 1971 Builder: Ouyang Boat Works (CAN) Designer: Robert Tucker

Information from  sailboatdata.com .

Hull Speed: 5.41 kn

The Matilda 20 is a 19.5ft masthead sloop designed by Robert Tucker and built in fiberglass by Ouyang Boat Works (CAN) since 1971.

The Matilda 20 is a light sailboat which is a high performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a day-boat.

Matilda 20 for sale elsewhere on the web:

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GoSailing.info Ltd

Sailboats for sale – sail boat classified ads, flying dutchman for sale – $3,000 (with trailer), beautiful mid 70’s flying dutchman – the “yellow jacket” has a wooden deck and a fiberglass hull..

Custom built in Germany for the 1976 Olympic Trials. In storage from 1978-2016. Very fast. Three sets of sails with trailer. $3000

Contact:  David

Hobie 17 For Sale – $800 SOLD

Very fast and fun to sail. comes with newer sail and trailer., for sale – 13′ enterprise sailboat – pigeon lake    sold.

Enterprise Sailboats were made by Glenmore Sailboats in Calgary and were very popular. Enterprise sailboats are still made and raced in the U.K. This boat is in good condition and will bring lots family pleasure – easy to rig jib and mainsail. Kick up rudder and daggerboard keel.

Price: $500.00

For Sale – Hobie 17  SOLD

2001 Hobie 17 – sport model. This boat is unique in that it was purchase new saved for a couple of summers. The owner was in a terrible accident and the boat was stored for the next 10 years. He tried sailing when he eventually recovered but after a couple summers found he wasn’t able to handle it safely. I bought it in the spring of 2017 and sailed it on a very limited basis for the summer or ’17 & ’18. Constant extreme winds kept me off our lake – I think I was only out 6 or 8 times each summer plus the factor of old age – I’m now 88 years – I found it more difficult to handle and thus decided to sell.

It is the Hobie 17 sports model.

Self furling jib with snorkel.

Wings – not worn but slightly faded.

Centre-boards and flip up rudders.

7 to 1 main block

Trapeze with Hobie harness

Sheets and halyards new spring ’17

Launching dolly

Trailer – only 3 years old.

Asking $5500 but will consider any reasonable offer.

For Sale  2000 West Wight Potter 19  – Sold

Excellent trailerable sailboat, in very good condition ,easily transported, can sleep up to 4. New radial tires and bearings, has a mast crutch, deluxe rudder package, lorance depth/chart plotter, vhf, genoa 120 on roller furler, boom tent, modified interior for more space, anchor, rode, fenders, and much more.

This boat has been all over Saskatchewan, Alberta, and sailed from Prince Rupert to Bella Bella and back.

New bottom coat, and varnish. All manuals and info .Will assist buyer in rigging if needed…..can be rigged solo . Will need small outboard 4 – 6 hp

Asking $7200.00

For Sale – 17′ O’Day Sailboat – Edmonton    SOLD

– mainsail with two reefing points

– jib with tell tails

– swing keel

– kick-up rudder

– windex  wind vane for top of mast

– cuddy for storage

– large cockpit

– refinished wood mahogany cooler cover

– refinished floor boards (can sail with or without)

Trailer has new lights

Price: $2,750.00

Chrysler 13 ft. Sailboat – excellent condition –  SOLD

Mahogany dagger board is in perfect condition.

Kick up rudder and locking system allow you to sail right into shallow water.

Oak trim well maintained. Great day sailer, easy to rig and get into the water. Ideal for up to 3 to 4 people depending on wind conditions.

The trailer is very good condition, great tires, new lights. Boat is light, approx.. 165 lbs. and easy to trailer.

This boat has been well cared for.  Always covered and sails always stowed indoors.

This boat is ready to sail – no work or preparation required.

Price: $2,300

Swiftsure 21′ Sailboat for Sale – $2,900 SOLD

Swiftsure 21 “pocket cruiser” (21 ft long) with swing keel & swing rudder (9” draft when up). Has Main sail, Genoa with Hood Sea Flex furling/reefing gear, Jib, spinnaker (with pole), and spare main. Also includes Raymarine ST1000 Autohelm (self-steering) which is great when sailing single handed. Auxiliary motor is a Johnson 6hp and the trailer is included. Everything in good working order! $2900 OBO.

For Sale: 1981 Laser I  Sailboat – $1,600  SOLD

1981 Laser 14′ sailboat. Second owner, very clean boat, in excellent condition. Fresh coat of wax top and bottom. Comes with original owners manual, learn how to sail book and all rigging.

Edel 540     $8000  SOLD

Sunfish and minifish – $1,300 (for both) sold.

Sunfish in good condition for sale.  Sail, daggerboard, rudder, and main sheet ratchet block. Also comes with shorter Minfish mast and new sail. Smaller sail  rig which fits the Sunfish as they have the same mast receiver and boom rig is great for learning to sail this boat. The new sail alone is worth $350.0.

Siren 17′ Sailboat $3,200 SOLD

Go sailing this weekend! Vanderstat & McGruer 1979 Siren 17 pocket cruiser.

25′ McGregor For Sale – $9,800 OBO  SOLD

Boat, Trailer & Yacht Club membership all for $37,500.

This vessel is a 30ft., Fixed Keel, monohaul, masterhead sloop, built in 1987. Cabin includes sette, U-shaped dinette, gallery area equipped with a 2 burner stove & sink, a forward head, and a V-berth area.

Woodwork freshly done in 2014, bottom of boat painted in 2014. Diesel inboard engine, custom made cushions, custom built trailer, in-cabin furnace and lots of storage room.

The electrical system was redone and updated in 2014. Comes with a dinghy, PDF’s, life lines and many extra parts.

Marine Survey done in 2012.

Sale of this boat comes with a membership and slip at Sunshine Bay Yacht Club on Wabumun Lake, allowing you to skip the waiting list at this exclusive club. It is a very social club with many activities to enjoy throughout the summer season.

The boat is very reliable and fun for cruising, racing or relaxing with family and friends.

A custom built trailer that allows both safe and easy transportation included.

Contact:  Robin

Mirage 27′ Sailboat for Sale $34,500 SOLD

I bought this Yacht in 2005. From 2005 to 2008 I made general renovation. New paint in and out side. Add wheel stearing, new system for stand up and down the mast (only need 2 person). Add new GPS and deep sounder. The yacht have five sails, 30 W solar panel, 15 HP Suzuki outboard engine. Professionally made trailer.

More information please call:   780.922 1844 ask for Jerzy . e-mail : [email protected]

Kolibir 2-12  – Lake Isle – Sold

Kolibri 2-12 with trailer for sale at Lake Isle.  Moving soon must be sold.

Price: $1,200 obo

O’Day 27′ – SOLD

27′  O’Day 272 + Tandem trailer

Price: $20,000

Fiberglass Hull Single Diesel 10hp

LOA: 26.92 LWL: 22.92

The O’Day 272 was designed by C. Raymond Hunt Assoc. to be fast, nimble and easily sailed by one or two people. There is generous room in the cockpit and cabin. (Sleeps 4)

The best description of this boat is ‘FUN TO SAIL’.  The westerbeke diesel has very low hours.  Spirit II is very clean and in excellent condition.

Includes: – Shallow draft fixed keel. (2’11) – Roller furling jib – New main – Self-tailing winches – Full snap down cockpit enclosure – New cockpit cushions – New interior cushions – Anchor chain and rode – Stainless steel stern ladder with platform – Dock lines – Extra lines -Fenders – Low maintenance non-skid fiberglass deck – Bbq – 2-burner alcohol stove in galley – Built in ice box in galley – Stainless steel single sink with foot pump – Water heater plumbed to cockpit shower head – Fresh water boat (never sailed in salt water) – 25-gallon fresh water tank – 10-gallon fuel tank -20 gallon holding tank for enclosed head and head sink – Automatic bulge pump – Easy to trailer.

Tandem trailer is all aluminum with steel uprights, 4 wheels, spare and brakes. Contact for more photos contact:    sold

Sea Spray 15′ – Sold

Sea Spray, 15 ft catamaran with EZ loader custom trailer.

The boat hull, mast/boom (white anodized finish), sails (multi-colors as per picture), trampoline, dagger boards/ rudders and all rigging are in excellent condition.

Price $1,995

Erikson 25 for Sale – $12,500

1976 Ericson 25′ Sailboat, swing keel, 1992 9.9 Johnson outboard and double axle, galvanized, Trail-Rite trailer with extension tongue for launching in shallow water (newer tires). Very solid (5100 pounds), quality boat in good condition with 2.0″ draft with centerboard up. Ocean capable and easy to trailer. 5’6″ head room, sleeps 4, fold-down table, head with newer porti-potty, Uniden VHF, radar reflector, windex, anchor, Origa 1500 alcohol stove, sink, ice box, Garelick telescoping dock pole, swim ladder, Eagle Magna II fish/depth finder, Furlex furler, North Sails main sail with jiffy reefing, roller furling 150 genoa, storm jib, gennaker & snuffer, Forespar pole, main sail cover, bilge pump, Barient and Barlow winches, extra hardware. Can be viewed in Gainford, AB, one hour west of Edmonton.

Price: $12,500 OBO

Contact Donna at 250-808-5015 $12,500 obo

1989  Hobie 16 – Sold

1989 Hobie 16 catamaran – stars and strips model: main sail white & royal blue; jib red & white with blue

Rigging: 6-1 harken block extra heavy duty and anti stop rudder housing, high teck carbon racing rudders and extended tiller, double trapeese harness wires, mast head float baby bobing, righting bucket, two sailing harnesses, telco cat wind vane and carpeted rails. Includes catamaran racing books.

Price: $2,900.00  

Enterprise Sailboat 13.5

Enterprise sailboat.  13.5′.  Good condition.  Comes with trailer with 1-7/8 hitch and newer electrical harness (flat four plug).  Complete with original light blue Enterprise sails in good/fair condition; given their age and use they are somewhat stretched, and there is a small repair along one of the batten pockets.  Hull is in excellent shape. Halyards, boom vang and other rigging are original, and in ok shape. Main and jib sheets recently replaced. Main sheet is rigged to the transom as original.

Price: $1,200

1968 23′ Tempest O’Day & Highliner Trailer (2009)    SOLD

The boat is located in Edmonton, Alberta. The Tempest O’Day was designed by Phillip Rhodes and is an excellent trailer launchable cruising boat. The large cockpit sits up to 8 people. The boat is a wonderful first boat that’s easy to sail. It has been sailed at Lake Wabamum since 2009. The boat has a fixed keel with a draft of 3.9 feet with a beam of 7.8 feet. A 2009 Marine Survey is available for review.

She is equipped with the following:

– 1995 Mariner 4 hp. outboard motor; – exterior ladder; – sails included: mainsail, 1 storm jib, 1 genoa and a spare Cal 20 mainsail with sail bags.

The mast was modified 3 years ago with a hinge system for ease of raising and lowering. The Highliner trailer was ordered and built specific to the boat; has a dual axle with electric brakes on all wheels and tongue extension.

All exterior cushions are new as of 2012 and interior cushions were replaced in 2010. Bottom coat was redone in 2010 & 2012. The exterior wood was refinished in 2012. Sony stereo CD player with cockpit speakers. New West Marine VHF radio in 2012. Sleeps two adults comfortably.

This boat has been well taken care of and has lots of life left in her.

TRAC 16 Catamaran – $3,950

Includes boat, all rigging, sails and trailer (all in very good condition.)

Rigged with double trapezes. An extremely exciting boat to sail.

Faster than the Hobie 16 and the Prindle 16.

This boat has had limited hours of use, as you can see from it’s very good condition.

403-864-8641

403-860-7523 or

403-255-5161

Hotfoot 20 for sale, 20 feet long, lift keel for easy trailer and launching, Hi Tech Main and Jib excellent shape made by Quantum sails also Quantum New Jib used 4 times. 3 spinnakers. Plus extra Dacron sails for practice and day use. 2.2 Suzuki outboard. New rigging and hull faired. With trailer

Boat is fast and fun.

Price: $7800 OBO

Call: 403 819 0499

2004 Catalina MKII C-250

Catalina MK II; C-250/2004 wing keel sailboat only 7 years old, with custom factory trailer. Immaculate condition!

Used only in fresh water and kept in BC�s Okanagan where moorage may be arranged for the summer of 2012. You will certainly Get Your Dream’s Worth out of this phenomenal vessel, which has been dry land stored during the winter and used only in fresh water. Stackpack lazy jacks take 90% of the work out of operating the main sail with two reef points along with a 135% for-sail on roller reefing makes single handling a breeze. All lines lead aft to the cockpit to the Edson steering wheel which makes single handling very easy. This boat is also the Pop-up Top models that give you stand up headroom in the main part of the cabin. The top enclosure is in new condition, and has windows and zipper door allows even more space while at anchor and screens on the sides for great light and air below. The big bonus is a inboard diesel Yanmar 9.8 hp with sail drive which is extremely economical. The Catalina open design layout provides a very spacious interior. The in-hull transducer for depth, speed, distance and water temperature, 4 clutch cleats. The hull has Interlux VC 17 barrier done 2011. The price also includes a custom factory made, dual axel Catalina trailer, with 6 adjustable stabilizer pads and hull bunks, extension launching tongue and mast raising crane assembly original ( trailer alone is worth $6,000. )

Price: $24,500

Call Rob at 250-493-8809 or email: [email protected]

1988 O’Day 192 – 20 ft. – Sold

O’Day 192 – 20 ft sailboat. Nice dry boat in good condition, upholstery very clean. Large cockpit, cabin sleeps four. Included: mainsail cover, cockpit seat pads, swim ladder, anchor, porta potty, 3 pfds, 2 life preservers, compass, 12V battery, and original owner’s manual. Sailed and maintained at least biweekly last three years. Jib sail replaced in 2011 (North Sails). Shoal draft keel with centerboard, roller furling jib, reefing mainsail, 5 hp Honda motor, all aluminum trailer. Currently berthed at Wabamum Marina.

Price: $6,500

1973 Matilda 20′  Sold

20 ft Sailboat for sale $3,500 1973 Matilda 20 built by Ouyang Boat Works is a stable, easy to sail compact cabin cruiser. The boat is perfect for Alberta lakes with a drop keel that allows for beach landing and sailing in shallow waters. The cabin will sleep 4 with a V berth and 2-quarter berths. Ice box, sink and multiple storage compartments beneath the berths. The boat is fully equipped with 4 sails, motor, and trailer. Asking: $3,500 1975 O’Day 22

She has a 18inch shoal keel, perfect for the shallow lakes of Alberta. Rigging is fairly simple and can be sailed solo with some experience. She was designed to sleep a family of 4 (with two smaller children) comfortably. Perfect cabin for storing sails and sailing gear. Sale includes: Single axle trailer with hydraulic surge brakes and spare tire. 9.9hp Honda 4 stroke long shaft outboard w/electric start. Very quiet. Working jib, 2 130% Genoas, Spinnaker w/pole and Main. Mainsail cover. Winch handle and spare, lunch hook, main Anchor, fenders, porta-potty, swimming ladder, docking lines, small stereo w/ custom speakers, original dishes, all included. Currently resting on her trailer at Sylvan Lake.

Asking $8000.00

Contact David Dyer Ph: (403) 477-1234 Email: [email protected]

1989 MacGregor 26D -Vulcan, AB

1989 MacGregor 26D’ with trailer BEAUTIFUL BOAT! Sleeps 4 adults comfortably – possibly 6 with kids. Drafts 12″ with dagerboard up Drafts 3′ with dagerboard down.

Water ballast for VERY light towing – ECONOMICAL!!!

Honda 4 stroke  8HP Motor. jib and  main sail in great condition has Gennaker and spinnaker never used. Cockpit cushions and interior cushions in great shape. Sail cover and Bimini. Pop-top including canvas with windows. Port-o-potty. Includes 4 life jackets and 1 anchor. Trailer has new tires, and new bearings. Boat located in Vulcan, AB.

Bargain Price:  just $6900 for total package Contact: 403 690 8535

15� Sea Spray Catamaran � Sold       

Hulls & E-Z Load Trailer in Excellent Condition. Tramp, Rigging, Mast, Boom, Blades & Fittings in Good Condition

Main & Jib #3204 in Fair Condition. Fast, fun & stable for single-hand or two-up.

Price: $1,600

Enterprise Sailboat  -Wabamun Sold

Fiberglass hull, 13.5 ft., and well maintained throughout. Perfect for two adults or smaller family, with all the sails and rigging in good shape. Comes with two sails, rigging and very good trailer. Located at Wabamun Sailing Club. Please call or visit the club to have a look.

Asking $1200 obo.

FIREBALL Sailboat – Edmonton Sold

Fireball KC3501 sailboat for sale. $750

Wood – white hull with red deck working condition, light blue sails. Very fast boat requires skill to rig and sail, all original hardware and some upgrades. Includes main jib and spinnaker. Will teach to set up. Sorry no trailer. Located near Athabasca AB

DS16 Day Sailor –  Sold

Only 650 lbs, swing keel with a 7 inch draft so it is easily beached. The main sail and jib are in good shape; the jib is mounted on a Harken self-furler which makes single handed sailing even easier. There is also a tiller tamer and a custom boom tent, plus a colorful spinnaker. The boat has a small cabin that is great for kids and keeping gear dry, but it will sleep two if necessary. The original trailer is included (new tires and bearing buddies) as well as a barely used electric motor. The boat has just been painted and is ready to be put into the water. The sailing pictures are from last year on Lac St.Anne. If you would like to see the boat rigged we can set up a time as it only takes a few minutes.

Price: $3,300

Wilderness 21 – Sold

Fixed-keel sailboat in outstanding condition. Recently and extensively reconditioned inside and out. Good sail complement, including a nearly new mylar, fully-battened mainsail, mylar genoa, storm jib and spinnaker with pole. V-berth and 2 aft berths.  4 hp Yamaha 4-stroke. Trailer with hitch extension to aid launching. Wabamun Lake.

Specs can be found at: http://sailboatdata.com/viewrecord.asp?class_ID=172

Asking $7000

1981 Edel 540 – Sold

1981 Edel 540 sloop-rigged cabin cruiser.

Excellent condition. The 540 is a well built, sturdy, stable and responsive boat. She is easy to launch and retrieve from her trailer and rigging is simple. Solo sailing is a snap. Boat and trailer weigh less than 2000lbs. So no need for a big tow vehicle. She will sleep 4 cozy, 2 comfortable. Sale includes the following:

Single axle trailer with hydraulic surge brakes and spare tire. Tires two years old. Tire covers.

2001 3.5hp Tohatsu long shaft 2 stroke outboard motor. Very low hours in fresh water only.

Working jib, 115% Genoa, Spinnaker, and 3 year old Main. Mainsail cover.

Anchor, fenders, porta-potty, gas can, docking lines included.

Asking $6000

US 22 Bayliner Yacht – Sold

Nice condition sailboat that has been well maintained since new. Still has the original gel coat and has always been fresh water sailed, and lightly cruised. Excellent cabin layout with head, sink, and comfortable berths. Full 2010 marine survey available.

Double axle trailer, with surge brakes.

8 HP mariner outboard with fuel tank.

Danforth anchor with chain and rope.

Mooring lines and fenders.

Marine battery.

Good selection of sails.

Depth sounder.

Water tank.

Lifejackets.

Price: $9,800

MacGregor 26D – Wabamum

MacGregor 26D with Trailer: $9,500

Great boat in turn-key shape � nothing to do, nothing to buy! When water ballast is empty the boat and trailer weight approximately 2800 lbs combined, very easy to tow � we have towed for 3 years with 6 cylinder mini-van! Boat has a dagger board drop keel allowing for easy boat launch, or sailing on to beach! Sleeps 4-6 people. Boat presently in water at Lake Wabamun.

Interior customized and upgraded. Hull completely re-done in 2007 with three coats of Interlux 2000 water barrier and painted with 2 part polyurethan. All lines to cockpit for single-handed sailing. Solid condition. Includes:

– Trailer in great shape, Wheel bearings changed 2007 – 6 sails: storm jib, 110, 130, 150 Genoa and 2 main sails – 9.9 HP Johnson outboard (1999), great condition/gas container – AM/FM stero, speakers with MP3 plugin – Poptop with Cover – Origo 1 burner alcohol stove 2007 – Port-a-potty – Hummingbird depth gauge – Extra Hatch cover with bug screen – Boarding ladder – Fenders – Danforth Anchor, 28� of chain and 30� rode – Cabin and cockpit cushions – Marine deep cycle batter – Windex 10� – Two adult and several children lifejackets – Safety equipment: air-horn, throw-rope, flares – New topping lift and main halyard

Price: $9,500

Contact:   [email protected] NACRA 570 Catamaran

This one owner NACRA 570 has been sailed off Ma-Me-O on Pigeon Lake Alberta since 2005.  It is a sloop rigged catamaran with a boomless mainsail and a front beam jib sheeting set up which provides an uncluttered trampoline concept.  The boardless symmetrical hulls and beachable kick-up rudder system make this boat a perfect beach cat. This Cat is ideal to sail with two persons for racing and with even more people for cruising.

It is priced to sell at $7500 , will include a boat lift and trapeze harness.

Details: Length:5.65m Beam (width):2.44m

Contact: 403 241 1904 (Calgary) or 780 586 3673 (Ma-Me-O)

EMail:   [email protected]

1996 MacGregor 26S

25 foot 10�, 8 feet wide, 12� draft, 6 foot swing keel. Fire place/bricket stove. Full head and galley. Rail BBQ. 3 pound outboard mounted propane tank. 20 gal gas tank with spare 3 gal tank. 10 gal fresh water, 10 hp four stroke Honda.

New paint on trailer, 3 sails, main, Genoa, working jib.

Bruce anchor with 150� rode.

Price: $14,000

Contact: 780 978 0670 (Brian)  [email protected]

16′ Daysailor – Edmonton

16′ Daysailor with trailer and extra sails, can sleep 2, 6HP Nissan Marine 4 Strokes with less than 5 hrs on it.

Price: $3700

Contact: Jimmy 780 942 3211

Flying T Catamaran

17′ Flying T catamaran with trailer. Hardware replaced last year with Harken equipment, Auto-furling jib, much of the running rigging was replaced last year. Excellent Day Play boat, very fast.

Price: $2,000

Contact: 403 516 3346   [email protected]

Lazy E Sailboat – Sherwood Park

Lazy E for sale.  Approx. 16′ long. Main and Jib included, trapeze.  Bruce Holt Design.  Good condition and ready to sail.

Price: $800

Enterprise Sailboat – Seba Beach – Sold

13.5ft. Enterprise Sail Boat and Trailer. This boat is in good shape and a fun sailing boat. I have had this boat for may years, but not using it any more so it is time for someone else to enjoy it.

Price: $1,600.00 O.B.O.

McGregor 21 Sailboat – Sold

Fully rebuilt in 2008. Boat has main sail, small fok, middle genoa, big genoa (new), compass, and deep finder, out board motor 2.5 HP, four sleeps.

Price: $9499.00 ( O.B.O. )

MEGABYTE for sale –  Sold

Bought new from Nautical Reach in 2004 (manufactured 2003) and hardly used. Everything in great condition. $4,500 which includes Seitech dolly bought new in 2008.

2010 Hobie 16 Catamaran – Edmonton – Sold

2010 Hobie 16 with 2010 custom Carnai trailer. I just bought this boat in July and have had unexpected reason to require selling. Its fully loaded with many extras due to being a factory supplied boat for the world junior championship held in Brazil last summer. The boat was one of 18 special boats that was used for the event (+-5 days), returned to the factory for inspection and then sold as a special offer with +-$4,000.00 in extras.

the Hobie 16 youth championship boats that were used for about five days in Brazil have the following special features:

H-16 spinnaker with hardware, that would cost about $1600.00 extra.

EPO 2 (carbon fiber) rudders that retail for $250.00 each.

Power downhaul is  about $153.00. This is very nice as you can power the main up or down using    a cam cleat, instead of a fixed horn cleat.

Black mesh tramp.

Hotstick, a fiberglass extendable tiller extension.

Double trapeze systems with J & H handles.

The traveler tracks are integrated into the crossbars instead of being in tracks that are riveted on top of the crossbars. This makes for a much cleaner boat.     Jib traveler trim kits that allow you to adjust the jib cars in or out from the trapeze.

The boat includes an Aussie jib halyard system that sells for $235.00. This reduces the compression on the mast so that the mast rotates more easily when you are tacking or jibing.

A neoprene rail kit is also included. It helps to keep your feet from slipping when you are out on the trapeze. In addition I will include a full cover, rudder covers, Hobie dry sack, two Hobie adult life vests and two Hobie full harnesses. The boat is located at Lac La Nonne +- 1 hour northwest of Edmonton.

Price: $12,000

Hobie 16 Catamaran – Edmonton – Sold

This early 80’s Hobie 16 is in great condition and is ideal for those who want to sail fast.

This boat comes complete with all rigging, main and jib, kick-up rudders. The sails and hull are in good shape. The trampoline and included trailer (completely wired) are in excellent shape.

Boat is presently located 40 mins. West of Edmonton.

Price: $2,850

O’Day 20 – Sold

Newly painted and substantially renovated.  Ready to sail.  5 hp Honda and trailer.  Located at the Wabumun Marina in Wabumun.

Price: $5,800

1976 Sunfish – Spruce Grove – SOLD

1976 Alcort Sunfish. Near new condition ‘North Sails’ – class legal sail, inspection ports and Harkin mansheet jam cleat.

This boat is fast and fun. Planes in almost any wind.

Sunfish is the most popular sailboat ever made and is considered a classic.

Price: $970

Lido 14 – SOLD

The Lido 14 is a two handed daysailer running a main and jib sail.

She is a joy for two people to sail but can be sailed single handedly as well with some experience.

She is fitted with perfomance features such jib fairleads, boomvang, aft mainsheet block and centre mainsheet cam, and haul-out straps. She has a 6′ beam and 4′-3″ of draft with the centerboard fully engaged. She is stable yet performs well given the many performance controls that she is fitted with.

The trailer is in excellent shape with fully functional electrical.

Price: $2,500

Catalina 22 – SOLD

Always wanted to sail? How about a great daysailor with weekend capabilities?

Complete with trailer and electric start 9.9hp sail drive Evenrude outboard. Swing keel (550 lbs) draws 2′ up for easy launch and retrieval and 5′ board down. Displacement 2250 lbs. Beam 7’8″. Cabin features; pop top with canvas, sleeps 4, Port-a-potty, water tank, sink, ice chest, stove top, table drops to make double berth, cushions serviceable. Rigging; s/s stays, halyards to cockpit, traveler, single speed winches, winch handle.

Sails; main, jib, genoa. Danforth anchor. Electrical: Hummingbird depth sounder/fish finder, running lights, masthead light, 12v interior lights, fuse panel, charging system on outboard.

On deck equipment: bow pulpit, stern pushpit, life lines, adjustable outboard motor bracket.

Have new boat, must sell. $8,500

2008 Hunter 170 – Edmonton Area – Sold

2008 Hunter 170 Sailboat – very nice boat for a beginner sailor. It was purchased in 2008 and used through the summer of 2008. It was out only once in 2009, and has been covered since then.

The boat is in very good shape and comes with all the accessories needed to get out and start sailing right away.

It is 17 feet long and comes with the trailer. The following accessories are included: Lifejackets for 5 people, two sails (main and roller furling jib), Electric Motor Emergency Equipment (Bailing bucket, flashlight, whistle), storage for sails and other accessories.

Asking price is $10,000 which includes everything listed here.

Laser for Sale – Edmonton – Sold

Very good condition, many rigging up-grades, many accessories, includes dolly

Price: $2,900

2006 Laser for Sale – Edmonton – Sold

2006 Laser – standard rig, upgraded lines/tiller/extension. Fully race equipped. Comes with Seitech launching dolly and covers.

Excellent condition.

Price: $4,999 Contact:

1985 Catalina 22 – Cold Lake

Fixed keel (4 ft. draft) sailboat (mid 80’s) with trailer and 7.5 electric start outboard. New

battened main sail. Hummingbird sounder/fish finder. Trailer had new brakes/bearings and tires 4 years ago. Currently located at Cold Lake Marina, Cold Lake, Alberta.

Asking: $10,500 

15 FT SEA SPRAY CATAMARAN – Edmonton – Sold

Sea Spray 15ft. Catamaran with E-Z Load Trailer. Hull and Sails in Excellent Condition. Trailer is in excellent condition. New Trampoline included.

Stable boat, great for single handing.

Price: $2,250 Contact:

Sunfish Sailboat – Edmonton – Sold

The Sunfish dinghy is a popular one-design sailing dinghy which can be sailed with one, two, or three persons. At 13 feet 9 inches (4.2 m) in length and 130 lb (59 kg) in weight, the Sunfish is easily carried in a luggage rack or a light trailer and is used as a day sailer. Good condition has not been used for years.

Price: $900 Contact:

26 foot MacGregor Classic – Edmonton

1995 MACGREGOR CLASSIC. 26 foot with Inland Trailer and 8 hp Tohatsu outboard motor. Roller Reefer, depth sounder, marine compass, VHF marine radio, AM/FM radio, portapotty, barbeque, bumpers, anchors and solar panels.

Price: $18,500

1982 Hobie 16 – Edmonton – Sold

1982 Hobie 16 Ft. CRUMLEA SPECIAL WITH 1982 WISCOT TRAILER

Price: $3,000

Comes with trailer, hulls and sails in good condition – trampoline shows some wear but will last a few more years. Has mast head float and two harness’

This is a fast boat – lots of fun!

Hobie Cat 15 – Sold

1980’S 15 FT. HOBIE CAT, C/W TRAILER, SAIL AND EQUIPMENT BOX, IN VERY GOOD SHAPE FOR ITS AGE, NO DENTS, NO CHIPS, SAILS IN GOOD SHAPE, RUDDERS ALSO VERY GOOD, LOCATED IN BEAUMONT

Hobie 18 – Sold

A great local lake boat. Comes with all equipment including trapeze rigging and harnesses. Upgraded running rigging and a new main sheet block system. Comes with trailer with a large fiberglass storage container for sails and gear.

Price: $7,000

Hobie 18 se – Sold

Reconditioned Hobie 18 catamaran: 1)Very nice sails 2)mesh trampoline 3)wings 4)telo cat wind vane 5)roller furling jib 6)masthead float 7)quick hardward

Price: $8,999

“Kolibri” sailing dinghy – Sold

12′ “Kolibri” sailing dinghy, complete w/all rigging.

Price: $350

Laser Radial Sailboat – Sold Dolly and Trailer – Sylvan Lake

The Laser Radial Including : hull, rig, foils and premium foil bag, carbon tiller arm, windex, dolly and bottom and top boat covers – I would be willing to go down to $4,200.00 complete.

Road Runner Trailer – was purchased for $1050.00 including taxes. l would sell with the boat for $550.00 (1000 series trailer with a load rating of 1000 lbs)

Price: $4,100

2008 MacGregor – Power Sailer – Edmonton

Comes fully equipped with 50 HP Suzuki 4 stroke  motor and

delux aluminum trailer.

Boat sleeps 6 People, 5 gall. fresh water supply, sink, marine toilet, mast raising system, roller furling, helm mounted controls, trailer boarding ladder, swim ladder, all cushions, radio, garmin chart plotter, main and genoa sails, vang, to many things to mention.

Price: $37,500

1996 MacGregor 26X – Sold

26′ MCGREGOR 26X 1996, Furling Genoa jib, extra jib sail, life jackets, trailer, $19000.

Price: $19,000

2005 Byte Sailboat for Sale – SOLD

Byte 2696 Used only for two seasons stored in heated garage since fall of 2006. This is a fast boat and is in excellent condition. Includes top and bottom cover, and carryall bag for boards.

Will deliver in Alberta.

Price: $2,499 obo

1975 San Juan 24′ – Sold

Comes complete with dual axal trailer. Great racing boat,  lots of sails. Great for lakes. 10 hp motor.  Best feel under sail there is. cabin sleeps 2 comfortably.  Table, sink, stove.  Porta potty. Spinnaker included.

Price: $13,800

San Juan 26′ – Edmonton – Sold

SAN JUAN 7.7 (26′) sailboat with trailer. She is very fast and stable with racing sails and 9.9 outboard. Win races or just have fun.

Price: $14,900 obo

Sailing Edmonton: learn to sail with our introductory sailing lessons and Canadian Yachting Assoc. certified sailing courses – just 40 minutes West of Edmonton on Lac St. Anne. Sailboat rentals also available.

Sailboat Matilda

Attempting a Circumnavigation 2023-2024

Here is a condensed itinerary for our circumnavigation. The arrival dates are all estimated and will be weather dependent. A more detailed itinerary is available here: World ARC Itinerary

Most of the boats on the World ARC will start in St Lucia in the Eastern Caribbean. We will meet them in Panama and start our voyage from there.

The World ARC finishes in St Lucia. In order to complete the circumnavigation we will need to sail across the Caribbean to Panama.

Leg 1 Panama to Galapagos Depart Panama 08 February 2023 Arrive Galapagos 15 February 2023

Leg 2 Galapagos to Marquesas (French Polynesia) Depart Galapagos 01 March 2023 Arrive Marquesas 21 March 2023

Leg 3 Marquesas to Bora Bora (French Polynesia) Depart Marquesas 29 March 2023 Arrive Bora Bora 08 May 2023 This leg includes multiple stops in the Society Islands

Leg 4 Bora Bora to Tonga Depart Bora Bora 14 May 2023 Arrive Tonga 30 May 2023 This leg includes stops in the Cook Islands

Leg 5 Tonga to Fiji Depart Tonga 08 June 2023 Arrive Fiji 18 July 2023

Leg 6 Fiji to Mackay QLD Australia Depart Fiji 20 July 2023 Arrive Mackay 27 July 2023

Leg 7 Mackay to Darwin Depart Mackay 02 August 2023 Arrive Darwin 25 August 2023

Leg 8 Darwin to Lombok, Indonesia Depart Darwin 05 September 2023 Arrive Lombok 11 September 2023

Leg 9 Lombok to Richards Bay, South Africa Depart Lombok 17 September 2023 Arrive Richards Bay 11 November 2023 This leg includes stops at Christmas Island, Reunion Island, and Mauritius

Leg 10 Richard Bay to Cape Town Depart Richards Bay15 November 2023 Arrive Cape Town 22 November 2023 We will be in Cape Town for about six weeks where we will go on a safari and a motorcycle tour. We will probably rent an apartment to get off the boat for a while.

Leg 11 Cape Town to Salvador, Brazil Depart Cape Town 06 January 2024 Arrive Salvador 25 January 2024 This leg includes stops in Namibia and St Helena

Leg 12 Salvador to St Lucia (Eastern Caribbean) Depart Salvador 30 January 2024 Arrive St Lucia 08 April 2024

On Saturday April 18, 2024 there will a big party in St Lucia for all the World ARC participants and their guests. We hope you will join us.

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Cambridge continues Boat Race dominance with double victory over Oxford

LONDON — Cambridge extended its dominant run in the annual Boat Race with victories in the men’s and women’s events on a polluted River Thames on Saturday.

The men claimed a fifth trophy in six years — to lead 87-81 overall in the race between storied universities Oxford and Cambridge which dates to 1829 — while the women cruised to a seventh straight triumph for a 48-30 overall lead.

Crews had sunny conditions with just a light breeze ahead of launch time for the women’s race. Those pleasant conditions were in contrast to the news this week that high levels of E.coli, which can cause a range of serious infections and other side effects, was found along the course in southwest London.

All crews were issued safety guidance on a range of preventative measures, from covering up scrapes with waterproof plasters to ensuring rowers avoided swallowing any water that splashed up from the Thames.

Oxford won both coin tosses but opted for different starting points.

Both dark blue Oxford shells were seen as favorites for the 78th women’s and 169th men’s races.

The men’s race saw Cambridge take an early lead, Oxford draw level, and Cambridge lead by half a length and 1.52 seconds at Hammersmith Bridge. Cambridge settled into a smooth rhythm and left Oxford even further behind.

Then Cambridge stroke Matt Edge started flailing, his oar only just dipping in the water. Their 10-second lead was enough to hold off Oxford comfortably.

Testing by a campaign group found high levels of E.coli along the 4.2-mile (6.8-kilometer) course. The rowers were advised to use a “cleansing station” at the finish area as well as avoid the post-race tradition of throwing the winning cox into the water.

AP sports: https://apnews.com/sports

Watch CBS News

Oxford-Cambridge boat racers warned of "alarmingly high" E. coli levels in London's sewage-infused Thames

By Haley Ott

Updated on: March 28, 2024 / 2:37 PM EDT / CBS News

The famous Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race, which takes place every year on the River Thames, was expected to go ahead this weekend despite warnings about "alarmingly high" levels of E. coli bacteria in the water.

The environmental group River Action said Wednesday that it had regularly tested the section of the Thames where the race takes place between February 28 and March 26 and found E. coli levels up to 10 times higher than what U.K. environmental authorities consider the worst category for public bathing. Even at the worst rating, far lower than what was found in the Thames, authorities warn against exposure.

"The testing locations suggest that the source of pollution is from Thames Water discharging sewage directly into the river and its tributaries," River Action said in a statement.

The group said it had worked with the organizers of the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race to create guidelines for rowing in polluted waters, which include tips such as covering cuts and blisters with waterproof dressings and making sure not to swallow river water that may splash close to the mouth.

"We are in a tragic situation when elite athletes are issued with health guidance ahead of a historic race on the capital's river," River Action CEO James Wallace said in a statement. "Our water quality results show what happens after decades of neglect by an unregulated water company, Thames Water."

Thames Water, a regional U.K. utility company, is embroiled in controversy over environmental pollution and its business tactics. It has blamed exceptionally high rainfall for the high pollution readings, the Financial Times newspaper reported.

But earlier this week, the U.K.'s Environmental Agency said the number of discharges of raw sewage into rivers in England and Wales had rocketed 54% in 2023 compared to the previous year, with a record-breaking 464,056 spills, according to the FT.

The Oxford-Cambridge boat race began in 1829 and attracts around 250,000 spectators to the banks of the Thames each year.

• River Thames

Haley Ott is the CBS News Digital international reporter, based in the CBS News London bureau.

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China hits Philippine boat with water cannon in disputed South China Sea for second time this month

The Chinese coastguard has hit a Philippine supply boat with water cannons in the South China Sea for the second time this month.

China's coastguard said it had taken measures against Philippine vessels in the disputed waters on Saturday — while the Philippines decried the moves, including the use of water cannons, as "irresponsible and provocative".

The Philippine task force on the South China Sea said in a statement that China's actions led to "significant damage" and injury to personnel on a civilian boat hired to resupply troops.

The incident occurred in the Second Thomas Shoal and Spratly Islands waters, according to the Chinese coastguard.

The shoal is home to a small number of Filipino troops stationed on a warship that Manila grounded there in 1999 to reinforce its sovereignty claims.

A similar incident occurred on March 5.

The Philippine military said the civilian boat was being escorted by two Philippine navy ships and two Philippine coastguard vessels.

A Philippine coastguard vessel was "impeded" and "encircled" by a Chinese coastguard vessel and two Chinese maritime militia vessels, the Philippine coastguard said in a separate statement.

As a result, the Philippine coastguard vessel was separated from the resupply boat by the "irresponsible and provocative behaviour" of the Chinese maritime forces, the agency said.

A spokesperson for China's coastguard, Gan Yu, said the Philippines had broken a promise to remove the grounded vessel and sent two coastguard ships and a supply ship into the Second Thomas Shoal waters, 18 days after the last round of supplies.

China has not said who promised the removal or when that promise was made. The Philippine defence ministry, foreign ministry and military leaders have repeatedly said there was no such promise.

Gan Yu said the Philippines had infringed and provoked trouble, and deliberately undermined the peace and stability of the South China Sea.

He said the Philippine vessels ignored China's repeated warnings and route controls and forced their way in.

"If the Philippines continues to act unilaterally, China will continue to take resolute measures to safeguard its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests," China's foreign ministry said.

"All consequences caused by this shall be borne by the Philippines."

But the Philippines will not be deterred "by veiled threats or hostility" from exercising its legal rights over its maritime zones, including the Second Thomas Shoal, its task force said.

Footage later shared by the Armed Forces of the Philippines appeared to show people onboard a rubber boat installing floating barriers at sea, which the Philippines said came from the Chinese Maritime Militia to seal off the entrance to the shoal.

China claims almost the entire South China Sea, including the Second Thomas Shoal, which is within the Philippines' exclusive economic zone, and has deployed vessels to patrol the disputed atoll.

A 2016 ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration found that China's sweeping claims have no legal basis.

The president of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos Jr, told the ABC's 7.30 the potential for conflict was "much higher now" .

"We worry in the Philippines because it could come from, not a strategic decision by anyone saying, 'OK, we're going to war,' but just by some servicemen making a mistake, or some action that's misunderstood," he said.

"That's why the ongoing attempt is always to try and lower the temperature down [when] the rhetoric is up."

Reuters/AP/ABC

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Revealed: UK-funded French forces putting migrants’ lives at risk with small-boat tactics

Exclusive: newly obtained footage and leaked documents show how a ‘mass casualty event’ could arise from aggressive tactics employed by border forces

French police funded by the UK government have endangered the lives of vulnerable migrants by intercepting small boats in the Channel, using tactics that search and rescue experts say could cause a “mass casualty event”.

Shocking new evidence obtained by the Observer , Lighthouse Reports, Le Monde and Der Spiegel reveals for the first time that the French maritime police have tried physically to force small boats to turn around – manoeuvres known as “pullbacks” – in an attempt to prevent them reaching British shores.

Newly obtained footage, leaked documents and witness testimonies show that the French authorities have used aggressive tactics including circling a migrant boat, causing waves to flood the dinghy; ramming into a small boat while threatening passengers with a large tank of pepper spray; and puncturing boats when they are already at sea, forcing migrants to swim back to shore.

The French authorities have previously refused the UK’s requests for them to carry out interceptions at sea, stating that they contravened international maritime law. But evidence indicates there has been an escalation in the use of these tactics since last summer.

Rishi Sunak has pledged to “stop the boats” crossing the Channel and has promised hundreds of millions of pounds to France to pay for more surveillance and border guards to prevent people making the journey. Last Wednesday the government’s safety of Rwanda (asylum and immigration) bill suffered several defeats in the House of Lords, delaying the prime minister’s plan to see flights for Kigali take off until after Easter.

Ministers claim that the bill will act as a deterrent to all those crossing the Channel from northern France to the UK. In the first video obtained and verified for this investigation, a police boat in Dunkirk harbour circles close to a dinghy holding about 25 people, creating a wake that floods the boat.

The police vessel is seen advancing towards the dinghy at speed, before turning sharply to create waves, circling and coming back again. Migrants are seen wearing foam-packed lifejackets and attempting to bale water out using their shoes.

Sources confirmed that the police patrol vessel used to carry out the manoeuvre seen in the video was bought by the French authorities with funding provided by the UK government under the “Sandhurst treaty” , a bilateral border security deal signed at the royal military academy in 2018.

“This is a textbook pushback – exactly the same as we see in Greece,” said one search and rescue expert who was shown the footage. “That one manoeuvre alone could cause a mass casualty event. The water is deep enough to drown in. I’ve seen this in the central Mediterranean many times, but this is the first time I’ve ever seen anything like this happening in the Channel.”

Previous evidence has shown how the Greek coastguard has forced boats carrying migrants back into Turkish waters in the Aegean Sea, in some cases by manoeuvring around them at high speed to create waves.

Two senior UK Border Force sources confirmed that the tactic could lead to multiple deaths and injuries. “If the blades [of the French boat] make contact with the vessel, it will slash right through it,” said one operational Border Force official.

“The other thing is a collision. The weight and the force of that vessel could ride straight over the top of the rib. It would knock the passengers out, knock them unconscious and into the water. It could potentially lead to death. I can’t believe any mariner could condone that.”

Maritime experts added that they would be “very surprised” if Border Force and HM Coastguard were not aware of these tactics being used, with one adding: “One hundred per cent, someone high up will definitely be aware of this.”

In a second video, members of the French gendarmerie drive alongside a dinghy in a speedboat about 12 miles from the French coast, threatening to use a large tank of pepper spray against a boat carrying migrants. They then proceed to ram their vessel into the dinghy. “They don’t even know who’s on board – whether there’s someone asthmatic that you’re using pepper spray against, or pregnant women,” said a Border Force official. “That could really harm people.”

In evidence of a third attempted pullback, a complaint filed by a member of the French customs coastguard to the public prosecutor in Boulogne-sur-Mer alleges that on 11 August 2023 police officers ordered a National Society of Sea Rescues (SNSM) crew to puncture a small boat that had already set sail. In an email seen by this investigation, the complainant, Rémi Vandeplanque, states that the SNSM crew “obviously refused” to do this, adding that the risk of drowning if they had done so was “obvious and imminent”.

Testimony from several sources who boarded small boats bound for the UK supports the claims that French police have used such tactics. “There were four of them [French gendarmes] on the boat,” said one man, who was from India. “They went round the boat in a circle and then they stabbed the boat and left. We had to swim for about 10 minutes … We nearly died.” On 9 February 2024, the man lodged a complaint with the French human rights ombudsman. The incident is under investigation.

Sources within France’s interior ministry have described the UK government’s “enormous pressure on a daily basis” for the French maritime police to prevent small boat departures, with one French civil servant describing the pressure as “intense” and “nonstop”.

Another senior civil servant, who was in post until the end of 2020, added: “As far as the British were concerned, the boats had to be caught at sea. They sometimes insisted on it.”

In September last year, then immigration minister Robert Jenrick said in the House of Commons that “there is clearly more that we need the French to do for us”, pointing to a recent trip to Belgium, where he said the authorities had “been willing to intercept in the water small boats leaving its shores”. He added: “That has proven decisive. Small boats from Belgian waters are now extremely rare, so that is an approach that we encourage the French to follow.”

In August 2021, during a visit to the Greek island of Samos , then home secretary Priti Patel went out on patrol with the Greek coastguard, which is known for its use of aggressive pushbacks in the Aegean.

“She came back invigorated,” said a Home Office source with knowledge of the trip. “They were very aggressive, had a good success rate of detection and were swift in how they processed them [asylum seekers]. She liked their posturing of ‘protecting borders’ and working with the military, though there was recognition that a lot of this wouldn’t be lawful in the UK.”

Britain has allocated more than £700m to France to prevent irregular migration since 2014.

At a summit in March 2023, Sunak announced that Britain would give France £500m over three years to fund additional border guards and a new detention facility, as well as video surveillance cameras, drones and night-vision binoculars, among other equipment.

The package was, according to several sources at the French interior ministry, a turning point. “This has really put the relationship between the two countries on a contractual footing,” said one senior official.

Last month the UK signed a working agreement with the European border agency Frontex to bolster intelligence sharing and deploy UK Border Force officials to coordinate the Channel response.

When contacted by this investigation, the prefecture for the north of France confirmed that a police boat had circled a dinghy and that the aim of the intervention was to “dissuade passengers” from approaching the open sea, adding: “It’s the only time we’ve been able to intercept a small boat using this manoeuvre and it was a deterrent. All the migrants were recovered and the smugglers arrested.”

A Home Office spokesperson said: “An unacceptable number of people are crossing the Channel and we will do whatever is necessary to end these perilous and fatal journeys. We remain committed to building on the successes that saw arrivals drop by more than a third last year.

“Not only have we introduced tougher legislation and agreements with international partners, but we continue to work closely with our French counterparts, who are working tirelessly to save lives and stop the boats.”

• Immigration and asylum
• The Observer
• Home Office
• Rishi Sunak

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