Preparing for Safe Ocean Passages: Expert Advice

💡Discover the significance of studying special regulations for offshore sailing and download the annual special regs document from World Sailing.

🚨Attend safety at sea seminars and learn hands-on techniques for dealing with emergencies, such as stopping leaks and using fire extinguishers and flares.

⛵Secure heavy objects on deck to prevent accidents during rough conditions, and ensure batteries, anchors, and stoves are properly secured to avoid damage during heavy weather.

🛡️Utilize harnesses, tethers, and jack lines to stay secure on deck and prevent falling overboard. Focus on stay-on-board safety measures rather than relying solely on personal flotation devices (PFDs).

🗺️Develop plotting and piloting skills to navigate accurately, even without GPS technology. Use GPS as a supplement, but don't rely on it as the sole source for navigation.

What is the first step in preparing for an ocean passage?

—Download the special regulations document for offshore sailing and study the recommendations and punch lists to ensure compliance and safety.

How can I learn hands-on techniques for dealing with emergencies at sea?

—Attend safety at sea seminars, which provide practical training for stopping leaks, using fire extinguishers, and handling flares.

How can I secure heavy objects on deck to prevent accidents?

—Identify all heavy items and ensure they are properly secured using appropriate restraints or storage solutions, such as hinged and secured fridges or latches for toolboxes.

Should I primarily rely on personal flotation devices (PFDs) for onboard safety?

—While PFDs are important, it is recommended to focus more on staying secure on deck using harnesses, tethers, and jack lines to prevent falls overboard.

Can I navigate using only GPS technology?

—While GPS is valuable, it is essential to develop plotting and piloting skills to navigate accurately in case of GPS failure. Always use multiple sources for navigation, including paper charts.

01:00Downloading and studying the special regulations for offshore sailing is the first step in preparing for an ocean passage.

02:01Attending safety at sea seminars provides hands-on training for dealing with emergencies, such as stopping leaks and using fire extinguishers and flares.

04:20Securing heavy objects on deck and ensuring batteries, anchors, and stoves are properly secured is crucial for safety during rough weather.

07:30Utilize harnesses, tethers, and jack lines to stay secure on deck and prevent falling overboard. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) should be supplemented with these safety measures.

09:58Develop plotting and piloting skills to navigate accurately, even without GPS technology. GPS should be used as a supplement, not the sole source for navigation.