Navigating Nautical Muscle Memory

A few weeks ago, we took a three-day cruise on Katrina. Sailing to a familiar harbor in the Elizabeth Islands both brings back childhood memories and provides fresh conversational spark, so we never run out of things to talk about—especially since there are always more boat improvements to be considered. 

Under power last summer, with the old gearshift/winch handle in place (lower right).

The new engine is running great, but its newly located shift lever is definitely proving the strength of my muscle memory. Before, starting the engine began with grabbing a winch handle out of its canvas pocket (known privately as “Jerry’s pants”). That handle fit into the top of a stainless tube alongside the binnacle, and it was (usually) shifted into neutral before pushing the start button. When docking or anchor-digging, there was definitely a bit of feel required to successfully locate reverse; more so in recent years, as the transmission showed its age. 

The new gearshift is a far more conventional shift lever mounted on the side of the binnacle. (I like to tease my dad that now anyone can steal the boat.) But that lever had always been used to engage the autopilot, which is now operated with a horizontal handle locked into that stainless tube . . .  so the ergonomics have essentially been reversed. That means the new system requires two separate muscle memory adjustments.

The old transmission slot now handles the autopilot, while the vertical shift lever controls engine forward and reverse.

While maneuvering in a tight harbor on our most recent cruise, Paul caught my dad trying to shift with what’s now the autopilot lever. No surprise that his muscle memory is even stronger than my own, since a majority of Katrina’s many miles have been completed with him at the helm. 

I’m sure we will both get used to the new (and improved) shifting mechanics, but I’m equally sure our old habits will kick in and surprise us for many years to come. Meanwhile, I’m glad to be making more memories with both Dad and Paul—and very grateful for the many hours Dad has put into Katrina, providing a platform for both childhood memories and fresh conversations.

Got a muscle memory that needs to adapt? Share it in the comments below, or send me an email. I read every single one, with gratitude. See you next Thursday! 

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