An event like that held somewhere in the US these days would likely result in pages of documented collisions and other incidents. But that’s likely because:
Most states don’t require any sort of licensing or training in safe operation of boats, or at least a very minimal level.
Many boaters in the US seem to think it’s perfectly fine to operate boats while drinking alcohol…
Seriously, though, it just appears to me that it wouldn’t take much to turn that situation into a tragedy but I don’t know a darn thing about sailing. I went one a few charity motorcycle rides and they felt the same: too many people who’s abilities are unknown and mostly likely more than a few who were drinking.
You would assume:
wind going same direction for everyone, and everyone in same direction
low speed
motors also on.
Its no more crowded than a race prestart, but without the need for competition.
You know what they say about assumptions…
An event like that held somewhere in the US these days would likely result in pages of documented collisions and other incidents. But that’s likely because:
You forgot to include alcohol!
Seriously, though, it just appears to me that it wouldn’t take much to turn that situation into a tragedy but I don’t know a darn thing about sailing. I went one a few charity motorcycle rides and they felt the same: too many people who’s abilities are unknown and mostly likely more than a few who were drinking.