Working Aloft: Using a Bosun’s Chair to go up the mast | A Rhumb Line

Every task aloft begins at the deck. In this video, we explain: • How a bosun’s chair is rigged • Why redundancy matters • What experienced crews double-check • How we manage risk while working aloft Safety is a process, not a feeling. ******We also share longer reflections, checklists, and practical seamanship writing on Substack: https://alisonhawkins588055.open.subs... ***** About A Rhumb Line Straight answers for life on the water A Rhumb Line is a member-supported publication for people who work on, live on, learn from, or are deeply drawn to the water. We write about sailing, powerboating seamanship, and the maritime world as it actually is—not as it’s marketed. This includes the skills, systems and experiences that shape life afloat. We also address the quieter lessons that only come from time, repetition, and responsibility on-the-water. A rhumb line is the most direct course between two points. It’s not always the shortest distance—but it is the steadiest, most reliable way to get where you’re going. Join us for up-to-date stories, videos and ideas for the waterborne life. You’ll find: Clear, practical answers to common (and uncommon) maritime questions Straight talk about operations, safety, maintenance, and decision-making Insight into charter life, crew culture, and the realities behind the scenes Reflections on judgment, timing, leadership, and the experienced view that the sea demands This publication is written by two people who have spent decades on the water—instructing, recreating, maintaining systems, working with crews & captains and navigating the complex realities of maritime life. One voice brings deep mechanical and operational expertise; the other brings context, synthesis, and an eye for the patterns that repeat themselves at sea and on shore. Together, we aim to be useful, honest, grounded and open to new and unique ideas for the do-it-yourself mariner. So, step aboard, cast off the lines and prepare for a fun and informational experience. The Log Book Alongside direct answers and practical guidance, A Rhumb Line includes a recurring section called The Log Book. These are entries from a life afloat—observations, moments, mistakes, and lessons that don’t always fit neatly into instruction manuals. The Log Book is where experience gets recorded, not polished. Where reflection matters as much as resolution. Some entries are quiet. Some are hard-won. All are written with the understanding that any waterway is both teacher and equalizer. Who This Is For A Rhumb Line is for: Sailors and mariners with some miles under their keels Crew, instructors, and charter professionals Boat owners who wish to understand their boat's systems, maintenance and operation Curious outsiders who respect the water and want the truth, not the fantasy It’s not written for influencers, shortcuts, or people looking for validation without effort. Why Membership This publication is supported by its members so it can remain independent, direct, and unhurried. Paid members help sustain the work and receive deeper operational breakdowns, behind-the-scenes insight, and full access to the archive. Most importantly, membership allows us to write without chasing clicks, trends, or algorithms. Life on the water rewards patience, preparation, and sound judgment. We think good writing should do the same.