This event involves transferring a passenger from the pier to a vessel.
This is a style event, and is not judged on speed.,
When signaled, the gigs individually shall pass through the starting gate and make for the public landing to receive a passenger. Once the passenger has embarked, the gig will pass between the bulkhead and a buoy for a “review” turn. The gig will then row to a vessel, where the passenger will disembark. The gig will then depart the vessel without the passenger, turn about and exit the course.
· The gigs will be scored for their performance at all times between the start and the ‘marking complete’ area.
· Sails and spars may be left ashore.
· There will be two gigs on the marking course at any one time.
· This is a contest of skill, and crews will be judged on their rowing technique and style, gig maneuvering and handling skills, cox/crew interaction and discipline, and passenger treatment. Although innovation and national flavor are encouraged in this event, some standard appropriate techniques are suggested in this booklet.
· Two jurors will judge the event from each of the stations – the pickup/disembark, and the ship.
Scoring
Crews will be evaluated under the following headings:
Rowing Technique 12 pts.
Docking Technique 12 pts.
Coxswain’s Instructions 8 pts.
Passenger Treatment 2 pts.
Crew Attire 2 pts.
1. If ceremonial rowing is used, it is emphasized that good seamanship requires adequate speed to be maintained.
2. The captain should be invited to embark or disembark over the stern quarter not over the transom.
3. Gifts for the guest are not appropriate.
4. Guest should be treated with naval courtesy – they can be greeted with a handshake, salute, or piped aboard.
5. Oars should not be shortened (brought across the boat on the gunnels).
6. It is not appropriate to toss oars next to a ship. If crews wish to toss oars at a dock (ship them in a vertical position), safety and stability issues should be considered.
7. The gig should be held alongside by boathooks fore and aft, or if the situation demands, by painters taken ashore, to the jetty or to the ship.
It is suggested that crewmembers wear similar appropriate clothing.