Chichester Harbour in a force 4 with lots of sun is an exceptional place to sail  (and take photographs).

Spent the weekend at HISC where  the conditions were absolutely perfect for the 29ers!

It is incredible how quickly accidents  can happen, from  seemingly  a very safe sailing day.

To answer all the recent questions on preparing a trailer for testing, one of the  most essential elements is the Vin number,  so to clarify.

The VIN ( vehicle identification number)  is a 17 digit coded set of figures that gives the history of the trailer and must be stamped into the frame of the trailer as well as  on the makers plate. It is also worth checking that the coupling height is correct when fully laden  it must be between 395-465mm above the ground when horizontal.

It really was champagne sailing conditions in Hayling Bay!

Since my last post I have been asked what is involved for a non-compliant trailer to get  certification via the IVA system ( Individual Vehicle Approval).

1)      Go to www.gov.uk/dvla then to application for individual vehicle approval.

2)      Fill in the  12 page on line form with all the trailers relevant details including Vin number, which is normally provided by the manufacturer.

3)       Wait  around 2 weeks for your application to be assessed, if there are any mistakes  it will be rejected and you will have to start again.

4)      Once you have been  accepted, you are invited to pay the £70 test fee and book an appointment at a test centre (usually within 50 miles) the average waiting time  is 4 weeks.

5)       Then  take the  trailer to be examined by a  DVLA examiner, if it passes you will be presented with an  IAC ( Individual Approval Certificate), if not there is a chance you will have to start the                 whole process again!

6)       Once passed  you are now legal to use the trailer.

Is it a fun thing to do,  probably not!

…

We have had lots of calls recently about what paperwork  might be required legally to take abroad.

It is advisable  to take your CoC  (certificate of conformity)  a two page document showing the trailer Vin number which MUST be the same number stamped on to the trailer and makers plate, or an IVA certificate.  These ID marks  can be found near the coupling at the front of the trailer.

If you have mislaid these, get a copy from the manufacturer, if there is no VIN number and you have no paper work this could cause problems. The authorities will probably park you in a layby and you will have to arrange another means of getting your boat home!

This is what a CoC looks like,     and this is an IVA certificate.

             Yup its a detachable wheel that wont detach! The studs should face outwards.

But this is what an Osprey looks like going absolutely flat out!

I was really impressed how efficiently the Osprey fleet coped with the very high winds in Hayling Bay, they really are an amazing sea boat!