Author: Arran James

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Safety at Sea

6 Safety Items to Include on Pleasure Craft

A well-prepared selection of safety equipment is certain to help in difficult situations.

Buoyancy Aid

Here are six of the most common items to keep on board the vessel:

Smoke alarm

A high-quality smoke alarm is designed to emit a LOUD noise which should be easily heard over other sounds on the boat, such as the engines. Also, a loud smoke detector is practical for alerting the offices at the boat yard should a fire break when the vessel is left unoccupied.

Fire extinguishers

A vessel should be installed with a sufficient number of fire extinguishers to match the type and size of vessel. Plus, boats with a cabin or cooking facilities can benefit from a fire blanket. An automatic fire extinguisher system is highly recommended in vessels with an enclosed engine space. A small fire extinguisher located by each cabin is a practical option. Plus, a carbon monoxide alarm is helpful for vessels with cookers or similar applications with flames.

Emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB)

An EPIRB is a radio transmitter that emits a signal on a specific channel in the event of emergencies or distress. Signals emitted from the radio beacon are recognized by satellites and these are effective at pinpointing the location of the signal. This information is then passed on to the rescue services.

An emergency position indicating radio beacon can be registered with the local coastguard service to make it easier to identify the boat in distress, while also giving information on contacts that are shore based.

Distress flares

An instantly recognizable signal of distress is the inshore or coastal flares. Distress flares should form part of any well-packed inventory of safety equipment.

First aid kit

A fully stocked first aid kit is likely to be the most common piece of safety equipment that is kept on board a vessel.

Life jackets and buoyancy aids

There are two types of personal floatation devices: Life jackets and buoyancy aids

A regular buoyancy aid is effective at keeping anyone in the water afloat and on the surface. It is a practical choice while involved in a sports activity or similar. However, this type of buoyancy aid isn’t helpful if the person is unconscious and their face is facing down.

The preferred choice for life safety is the life jacket which has built-in buoyancy to help turn a person so that they are facing up, which is a practical benefit for those knocked unconscious. A proper life jacket is critical in situations of abandoning ship or similar emergencies. Plus, an infant or child life jacket is available to ensure the right fit and support is given.

What to wear?

Buoyancy aid: Use the buoyancy aid when engaging in water sport activities like water skiing, canoeing, kayaking; windsurfing, riding a personal watercraft (PWC), or using a sailing dinghy.

Life jacket: A life jacket is the safety option when on a small open or power boat. A boat should have one life jacket for each person on board. Use a life jacket at all times for the non-swimmer when out on rivers, lakes, canals, or other open waters.

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Boating & Marine Accessories

6 Security Devices to Protect Your Boat

Marine crime can vary significantly and range from a stolen vessel to acts of vandalism.

Boat Alarm SystemA would-be intruder has the potential to attack hundreds of boats that are left unattended in marinas or boat yards up and down the country. Boats can be left unoccupied for 3-4 weeks in marinas and harbors or estuaries and rivers. Plus, most high-end electronics can easily be sold on.

Here are six of the most-effective security methods to help deter the would-be thief:

Alarm (Equipment)

A vessel is often left moored up with a wide range of vulnerable equipment left on the deck. This gear is mostly too big, dirty, or heavy to store elsewhere. An equipment alarm is possible with one of the high-tech perimeter systems which can be located around the equipment that is appealing to the would-be thief. A cable is easily connected to all relevant items and will emit a loud noise should it be cut or otherwise tampered with.

Boat alarm

Modern boat alarms range from high-end sophisticated models to basic systems. Alarms at the low-end of the scale are designed with a sensor to detect the opening of doors and hatches. A boat owner is alerted to any intrusion by a LOUD audible alarm that is installed within the vessel. A more high-tech system is built with an alarm that transmits a signal to a remote monitoring center to ensure security personnel are alerted as soon as possible. Alternatively, a boat alarm can connect to a CCTV system to enable remote monitoring of the boat from the office or home.

Doors and hatches

Boats with built in hatchways rely on a sliding hatch and drop-in boards to help with securing the vessel – although a padlock system is the most reliable. A more secure system relies on a rim lock or similar that is installed on the inside of the vessel. Plus, a vessel with sliding doors can be made more secure by installing the plunger type locks.

Outboard motor

Most of the small-size outboard motors are secured using screw clamps or similar which makes it possible for the boat owner to lift off and relocate elsewhere if required. This means of attaching to the transom is not theft resistant.

Outboard motor security is easily upgraded with a proprietary lock such as the stainless steel tubes that have a barrel lock at one end and slot to prevent the removal of the motor once mounted to the transom.

Wheel clamp

The most efficient method to secure a road trailer against theft is to attach a wheel clamp when left unattended. A further issue to factor in the purchase is the chosen wheel clamp is approved and accepted by the insurance company. A hitch lock and wheel clamp is the most effective method to protect the trailer against theft.

Windows

Even if the motor-driven or sail boat is fitted with reliable door locks the windows might let the security down, especially if installed with clips or similar light security. Upgrade clips that are easily forced with proper lockable systems.

Categories
Boating & Marine Accessories

Must-Have Gear and Equipment for the Day Sailor

There are a variety of ways to enjoy a sailing adventure, from the offshore passages to the day sails, but certain things need to be in place to guarantee a fun and enjoyable trip.

Sailing KnivesA quality selection of essential sailing equipment and gear is certain to help the skipper and passengers on board, and might include:

Foul Weather Gear

If you are likely to experience foul weather on a sailing holiday it is worth investing in a high quality selection of foul weather gear, which should make certain you are kept warm and dry at all times. A quality selection of gear is certain to make a complete difference between having a miserable time and a great time where you can be kept dry and warm even in conditions of torrential rainfall.

Grab-Bag

A personal grab-bag is perfect with storing valuables such as a cell phone, visa, passport, keys, wallet, insurance documents (plus other important paperwork), and refill medications. A grab-and-go bag can be kept in a zip lock or dry bag to ensure the contents are kept safe and dry at all times.

Handheld light

A handheld light (or headband) is the perfect tool to illuminate the outside in low-light conditions. A preferred type of light is a white light that is high intensity with an option to include a red filtered light that toggles on and off. Red filters are appreciated for giving the option to maintain the night vision.

A headband light is a practical choice to keep the hands free while working at night, such as checking the sail trim, working in the engine space, and charting the navigation.

Knife

One quality knife on board a sail boat is certain to benefit the dinghy sailors and racers and acts as an item of personal safety equipment. Use the knife to cut ropes or other synthetic materials that are common on sailboats. Knives come in a wide range of styles and sizes, such as the simple units to those with LED lights built-in.

Lifejacket or Personal Flotation Device

If you really want to make certain that you are safe at all times on a boating holiday, a quality set of PFDs should be in attendance for all those that are on board the vessel. Many of the modern life jackets are quite unobtrusive and comfortable, which should ensure you aren’t left wearing something that is overly bulky and uncomfortable for a considerable period of time. A quality PFD is likely to be equipped with comfortable mesh padding and an ability to inflate automatically in those times of difficulties.

Sailing Gloves

A specialized pair of sailing gloves is certain to help with improving the grip when it comes to hauling the lines. If you are likely to be involved in handling the sailing boat, a quality pair of sailing gloves is certain to be a wise investment. Many of these gloves feature cutoff fingers and padded palms, which is able to provide a great balance between flexibility and comfort.

Categories
Safety at Sea

What to Expect With the First Sailing Lesson

Even though it is possible for the sailor to self-tutor using a boat and a book, the more effective option is likely to relate to attending an official sailing school.

Sailing Lesson

There is a varied range of sailing schools that offer many opportunities to learn the beginner to advanced skills for helming a sailboat. A learn to sail vacation is certain to be enjoyed by those that want to experience a practical sailing vacation.

The right way to learn

An essential aspect of learning to sail is to learn it the right way. Safe operation of a sailboat goes far beyond putting on a life-jacket. A more advanced aspect relates to learning the movement of the wind and waves. If planning to sail on the open waters, it is critical to have at least a basic understanding of the unpredictable nature of the conditions. Gaining the proper skill and knowledge is certain to help handle the conditions more effectively and efficiently.

Classroom setting

In the early lessons most of the sailing schools – commercial, community, or yacht club – are likely to start with a classroom setting. Prior to stepping on board a vessel for practical lessons, you really need to have a full appreciation of what to expect and experience. A classroom might be a pier or beach instead of a regular room, but you are still getting the same fundamental learning advice and guidance.

Starting out, a student is likely to be instructed on the basics, like marine terminology and parts of the sailing boat, since this is certain to be different from our day-to-day language. A need to have sailboat literacy is highly beneficial if you want a good understanding of what the instructor is communicating once the practical lessons start.

Learn the fundamentals of boating

It also helps the student to have a fundamental understanding of how the boat operates, such as how the sails and hull harnesses the wind. In many situations it is likely to be easier to explain these types of issues ashore with the help of pictures, drawings, and model boats.

Begin with the practical tuition

Once the practical tuition starts, a motivated individual that is able to receive intensive training over a two or three day period is certain to be able to rig a small sailboat, launch from the beach or dock, and experience an incident-free sailing trip for a number of hours. On return, and they will also be able to go through the motions of unrigging and laying up the vessel.

With the basics of sailing leant, a sailor is soon able to advance to sail single-handed with the larger sized day sailing boats in local waterfront towns or for hiring a charter vessel in a more exotic destination for a sailing holiday.

Get familiar with the boat

Spend a lot of time with a sailboat to become familiar with handling. Get to the point of becoming familiar with the different movements made by the boat. Over time the actions made in the boat will start to become second nature and this makes it easier to understand the effects of wind and waves.

Categories
Boating & Marine Accessories

5 Tips to Choosing Dock and Mooring Lines

Choosing a mooring line involves a variety of issues, such as the rope’s length, diameter size, and material.

Polyester Mooring LineEnsuring the proper mooring line is in place is critical to protecting the vessel on its mooring and keeping it safe when unattended.

1 – Abrasion potential

Deterioration of the mooring line can result from within the rope or external factors. A preferred type of mooring line is the single braid rope because it is simple to inspect for signs of internal defects. A significant issue with choosing a mooring rope is to get the right material that doesn’t degrade over time. A rope that has high abrasion properties is certain to be the nylon line.

2 – Construction

A mooring line can come with a braided or single-strand design. A strong and resilient line is the braided type, but this rope is more difficult of the two to repair. Plus, certain ropes are given jackets to up the all-round strength. These jackets are effective at protecting against abrasion – although they still aren’t able to withstand a high amount of chafing.

A jacketed rope is more difficult to repair. A positive of the non-jacketed lines is the ease in inspecting and repairing if necessary. Ease in repair and maintenance is certain to be a critical factor when deciding on the right type of mooring line.

3 – Diameter size

Boat length has a significant impact on the diameter of the mooring rope. A vessel not exceeding 25-ft is safely moored with a line at 3/8 inch, a vessel up to 45-ft will benefit from a 5/8 inch line, while a vessel in the region of 65-ft is certain to favor a 7/8 inch line.

Also, as the diameter of the mooring line increases the stretchiness starts to reduce. Use the proper diameter size to match the boat to increase the overall control provided, and not to just go with the biggest rope possible.

4 – Length

A mooring line is best sized at a length that offers enough space to pass over the mooring cleat to hold the motor-driven or sail boat to the dockside. A rope that is excessive in length can leave the boat less than secure and this means more risk.

5 – Material

A mooring line is made from several different types of materials. Each type has different characteristics which need to be carefully considered to match the specific use or application.

Common materials include:

  • Polyester – A strong material that gives minimal stretch, isn’t able to float, and resistant to sunlight.
  • Nylon – A nylon rope is cost-effective, resists long-term exposure to the sun, very stretchy, and very strong.
  • Polypropylene – A low-quality option which is very inexpensive, but unable to withstand sunlight for long periods and has a low breaking point.

The positives and negatives of each of the rope’s materials should be carefully considered. For instance, a stretchy and strong rope is in nylon, which is usually the most favored choice in the market. The second most popular is mooring lines in polyester. Because of the low-break point of the polypropylene rope this isn’t the most practical choice to use on a mooring.

Categories
Insure My Boat

Does the Mooring Have an Impact on the Insurance Rate?

Location and type of mooring can have a significant impact on the risks a motor-driven or sailing yacht faces.

Boat Mooring Rope

Plus, the moorings can have an influence on the insurance rates quoted by underwriters. Most insurance policies provide coverage while the watercraft is afloat in use and laid-up on moorings, including launching and hauling.

Different moorings can make a noticeable difference in the price, terms, conditions, and limitations imposed by the insurance company.

Here are four of the common mooring options for vessels:

Marina berth

A safe and reliable mooring is in the marina berth, but this is the most in demand option up and down the country; therefore expect higher costs and longer waiting lists. Plus, having a boat moored in a marina berth 12 months of the year gives more freedom in use. Other types of moorings can limit the usable time in the water.

Also, other benefits might apply for the insurance policy, such as no loss of no claims bonus should an accident of loss take place while the vessel is moored up in the home marine berth.

Dry sailing

Dry sailing is a practical choice for many types of dinghies and similar small sized vessels. Storing the boat on dry land is certain to protect against the difficult conditions on the water, but there are greater risks of theft and/or vandalism. For this reason it is essential to put in place the proper security measures to ensure the craft is safe throughout this time. Certain types of crafts, such as 12-18-ft speed boats or similar will need to be locked in secure premises when not in use — but the specific requirements will be noted on the insurance schedule.

Swinging mooring

The exact location of this type of mooring is certain to have an impact on whether or not it is acceptable to leave the vessel in the water year-round. Certain regions will have restrictions in place to lift ashore or moor elsewhere for the most difficult months. A swinging mooring should be laid to a professional standard, properly maintained, and regularly inspected. Plus, the company involved in inspecting the mooring should have enough professional indemnity coverage in place. The use of a chain or rope strop will vary with the location and exposure of the mooring.

Laid up

A lay-up period is often stipulated in the policy schedule for those vessels moored in the more exposed waters. This is intended to protect the vessel from the worst of the winter condition. Alternatively, a vessel can be moved to a more secure mooring (afloat) throughout the winter, such as a protected marina or boatyard.

Mooring Covers

Give a vessel laid-up on moorings extra protection by using purpose-made mooring covers. A high-quality cover for the docked boat is certain to provide reliable protection against constant sun, rain, or wind exposure. A preferred type of material is cotton or cotton poly blend which has the ability to keep moisture out because of its breathable properties. Plus, storage and trailable covers are also available to match the specific needs.

Categories
Safety at Sea

5 Tips for the Sea Kayaker Before You Go Out

Whether it is extreme or serene, kayaking is a much more enjoyable adventure when the newcomer to the high seas has gained a certain degree of knowledge and experience.

Sea KayakHere are five tips for the complete beginner to sea kayaking:

1 – Basics

First-time sea kayaking paddlers can experience a variety of mishaps on the initial outing if the standard techniques aren’t learnt, including:

  • Use the proper grip for holding the paddle. A paddle should be held with a light grip to give better control of movement while maintaining a good level of flexibility. Plus, a light grip means less chance of straining the muscles.
  • Move a paddle with a deep, rhythmic, and a swift forward motion to get the kayak moving.
  • Use a sweeping stroke to help with maneuvering and correcting the course. A sweep stroke is much wider compared to the forward and reverse strokes.
  • Paddle at a pace and range that is comfortable for the specific kayakers comfort and enjoyment. Sticking to a personal style makes it easier to move naturally through the sea.
  • Paddling with the upper body held stable. By holding the proper center of gravity there is less chance of the kayak tipping and this ensures the steering action is significantly easier.
  • Practice the proper paddling techniques on the beach or similar shore-based area to get a feel of how to handle the paddles. Move on to shallow waters and get fully used to the proper movement until muscle memory is achieved.

2 – Companion

A solo kayaking adventure for the complete beginner is rarely a good idea. Paddling on the open sea can be quite unpredictable, so going with companions is certain to mean a safer and more enjoyable adventure. Go out with 2-3 other kayakers when first starting out to get a better appreciation of the entire experience. A kayaking adventure can experience several different situations which are much easier to handle when in a group environment.

3 – Lessons

Beginner sea kayakers should start their adventures by learning the basic skills before setting off on to the sea. Basic skills include maneuvering capabilities to paddling strokes. Without the basic knowledge, a paddler can soon find themselves in difficulty. Start with the simple lessons and slowly progress on the path to becoming a professional paddler.

4 – Map

While a mobile phone and GPS can be useful tools while out paddling they do have certain limitations such as reception signal and battery life. For these reasons it can also benefit to have the ability to use a compass and read a nautical chart.

5 – Route and weather

Plan a paddling route that is familiar. Use sheltered areas or bays to get more protection from choppy waters and strong winds. This is certain to benefit the beginner when first starting out. Get a regular update of the weather forecast to determine the likely conditions out at sea. But, when paddling a kayak in the open sea it is always wise to expect a certain degree of waves and wind even on days that appear calm. Avoid kayaking in difficult conditions with fog a real issue – sight of land is easily lost with low-visibility.

Categories
Boat Maintenance & Organization

9 Helpful Tips for Boating Clean and Earth-Friendly

Even though a boat insurance policy will provide protection against wreckage removal, fuel spillage, etc., there are several steps that can be taken to act more earth-friendly.

Green Boating

Below are nine tips to minimize the impact on the environment when boating:

1 – Bilge

Keep the bilge clean and free of oily water. Avoid pumping the dirty or oily water overboard. Alternatively, use absorbent petroleum products like bilge pillows or similar to help with soaking up the oil while at the same time repelling water. Plus, ask the boat yard or marine if a service for bilge pump-out is available.

2 – Chart course

Before setting off make sure to carefully chart the course to avoid issues with wasting fuel or to go in the direction of sensitive sea habitats.

3 – Clean

Use safe and environmentally safe methods to wash down the boat and equipment. Limit the use of toxic detergent. A wide range of boat cleaning products is environmentally responsible and easy to purchase in-store or online.

Ensure all debris and mud are cleaned from the boat and related equipment (anchors, livewell, propeller, trailer, dinghy, life raft, etc.) to minimize the chance of exotic species spreading which can result in degradation and habitat alteration.

4 – Close vent

Close the vent on the portable gas tank when in storage or when the actual motor isn’t in active use.

5 – Fuel tanks

Avoid spillage by filling fuel tanks while still on shore. Try to avoid refilling when on board the boat. Filling the tanks on shore is certain to help with minimizing the amount split in the process. Plus, only fill the fuel tanks to the recommended limit. Fuel can easily expand in warm climates and extra fuel will soon start to flow out the vent lines.

6 – Routine maintenance

Ensure routine maintenance is completed on a regular basis.

7 – Sewage regulations

Stick to the federal and local guidelines that relate to the disposal of sewage. Avoid pumping raw sewage into the open water. Any boat without a pre-installed toilet should rely on a portable unit (port-a-potty or similar). Ensure the port-a-potty is emptied in a predetermined disposal site or pump-out station. A holding tank on board the boat can be useful in certain situations. Minimize the use of disinfectants after cleanup because they are likely to contain toxic chemicals.

8 – Spill kit

Have on board a purpose-made spill kit to help with salvaging any unfortunate issues with wasted oil or similar liquids. Plus, a supply of rags to absorb oil or fuel spillage can help. A minor spillage of oil can result in significant issues in the water so take the appropriate action to avoid these problems. Also, report any sighting of pollution to the local authorities when out on the water.

9 – Trash

Make sure the build up of trash is kept stowed away and taken home. This should include food waste, cigarettes, fishing line, etc. Recycling the waste where possible can also benefit the environment. Plus, batteries or similar items should be disposed of in the correct manner.

Categories
Safety at Sea

7 Safety Tips for Boating with Children

Avoiding boat mishaps with babies and children on board is certain to prevent issues with being fearful and providing memories that can last a lifetime.

Boating with ChildrenHere are seven safety tips to abide by when boating with children:

1 – Encourage the family

Let other members of the family become familiar with certain aspects of operating the boat. A family with more knowledge and experience is certain to mean less danger and accidents on board. Children can be shown how to trim the sails, operate the anchor, switch electrical items on and off, use manual winches, and start or stop the engine.

2 – Get Home

Are other family members able to helm the boat and set sail for home if the skipper is in distress? If planning to go boating with a child it is a practical precaution to teach the basic skills of using the VHF radio, engine starting and stopping, Chartplotter reading, electrical switchboard use, and emergency channel knowledge.

3 – Inflatables & Dinghies

Small children love to engage with inflatable toys and dinghies, while an outboard motor attached can also be quite appealing. Make sure the children are instructed with basic safety and handling techniques. A danger area is other boat users or swimmers, so ensure an inflatable is kept well clear of others and proper boundary rules are outlined.

4 – Life jackets

Abide by standard rules and regulations and ensure each child on board has a life jacket to increase safety in the event of falling overboard. Any life jacket worn should be at the appropriate size to match the child. Avoid an over-sized life jacket because this has the potential to entangle a child and make things more difficult in an emergency situation. A well-fitted life jacket should give a snug fit and should stay securely in place. A life vest can also benefit from a neck support to ensure a child’s head is kept out of the water. Plus, use a life jacket that automatically inflates for extra safety.

5 – No Go Areas

Let the children know the no go areas on the boat like forward of the cockpit on a motor-driven yacht or bow of a motor-launch when in motion. Plus, make sure children don’t use (or left close to) the companion way when the boat is under power. A small child left close to an open companion way might well fall through in a heavy breeze or wave. Plus, boating activities like berthing or mooring up can be quite stressful, so asking the children to be quite during this time is often advised.

6 – Pontoon or dock safety

Don’t let the children run on the pontoon or deck area, and for extra safety ensure a life jacket is worn. A dock area has joints, hoses, ropes, cleats, etc. that can easily result in trip hazards. Falling in the water at a marina can be dangerous for a small child, so take extra care and attention around this particular area.

7 – Safety drills

Regularly conduct fire and safety drills to ensure everyone on board knows what to do in the event of an emergency. Locations of escape hatches should be known.

Categories
Trailers & Parts

Trailer Safety for PWC

A PWC trailer must stay within the guided limits in relation to size and capacity.

PWC TrailerWhen calculating the total load, make sure to determine the weight of the accessories and fuel on top of the weight of the personal watercraft.

Open vs. Closed frames

A PWC trailer is constructed with an open or close frame. The open and closed frames can have an impact on the wiring. An open frame leaves the wires exposed, but this does mean in the event of damage or faults the potential problem is easy to locate. A closed frame is more effective at protecting the wires, but with the wiring concealed the problems are much more difficult to spot and repair. Plus, a further benefit of the open frame design is the ability to quickly drain water.

Frame construction and strength

A proper trailer for a PWC is designed, constructed, and approved for use in a marine environment. The trailer should give proper support to the full weight of the Jet Ski and accessories. Plus, the wiring and lights should be built to withstand submersion in the sea or river water. Also, the finish of the trailer should offer high durability and come with a galvanized or powder coating, which is significantly more resilient than enamel or similar.

Pre-trailering inspection

On each occasion the PWC trailer is used make sure to give a full visual inspection to ensure it is in full working order. Below are eleven of the things to check before each use:

  1. Inspect the wires for signs of wear and inflation
  2. Look at the safety chain and hitch to ensure it is free of stress and wear
  3. Check the brakes for the trailer just after setting off to make sure they will function once on the road
  4. Review the electrical components (bulbs, wiring, terminals, etc.) to ensure there are no burned or corroded connections
  5. Make sure a good amount of bearing grease is applied to the wheel bearings
  6. Ensure each of the main and lug nuts are fully tight and in place
  7. Inspect the bunks, rollers, and stops for early signs of cracks or wear
  8. Test the coupler and ball to make sure it is at the right size and is able to fully secure in place. Look for signs of stress and wear
  9. Safety secure the PWC to the trailer at the bow and stern – use a sufficient number of tie-downs to avoid accidents on the highway
  10. Pack a varied selection of basic emergency supplies, such as highway flares, mounted tire, grease, bearings, spare bulbs, basic tools, etc.
  11. Appreciate the extra dimensions of the trailer at the rear of the vehicle and drive carefully. Give extra space to other road users and make sure to indicate maneuvers early. Also, give more time to complete the journey and avoid speeding.

A regular stop by the roadside to check the rig can benefit and this periodical check should help to minimize accidents on the road. Give the tie-downs, lights, and wheel bearings a regular check.