Photos by Toni Davison
The wherry is a great way to practice your stroke in a stable boat you can row at your own pace – or just take in the sights and peace out!
The Erica S. pictured here was named for the late Erica Springstead, member of RIRSC and the Nails
Wherries don’t require a launch to accompany them, however you should sign up on the Wherry schedule (on our Google groups Drive).
One person must have bow coxing experience & one must be familiar with caring for the wherries.
Coast Guard approved PFDs are required for each rower. (If you’re wearing Stormy Seas vests – bring a regular lifejacket in the boat).
Whistles are also required.
Bring a bailout pump (in boat) and a cellphone.
Remember to sign out and back in at the desk.
If you’re taking a guest, they need to read the information on the Guest Rowers Page, which includes filling out all forms Enjoy!
LAUNCH
Step 1: Roll the wherry out on its castered bunks watching the riggers don’t touch the boat above it.
Step 2: While one person lifts the stern, the other slides the dolly under the boat, threading the straps through the aft riggers.
Step 3: Tighten the straps (it’s a bumpy ride to the water and the dolly can come loose).
Step 4: Lift the bow and back the stern end out of the boathouse. Take along a lifejacket to set the bow on if you need to stop.
Step 5: One option – turn the boat around in the parking lot and walk the boat bow-first into the water so the dolly’s easier to remove. One person holds the boat while the dolly is returned to the boathouse.
HAULOUT
Step 1: Strap the dolly back onto the same place between aft riggers while the boat is in the water . Tighten straps. Lift bow and walk the boat up the hill and to the parking area just outside the boathouse.
Step 2: Rest bow on life jacket. Rinse off the inside with the hose, pump bilge and sponge out excess water. Tip fore and aft so water caught under gray flotation bags drains toward the center. Rinse the outside. Towel dry inside and out.
Rinse gravel off dolly wheels and rinse the axel and hubs.
Rinse and dry oars before returning them to the boat.
Step 3: Return boat to its castered bunks and roll back in, watching the riggers don’t touch the boat above it.
