With summer comes the desire to sail freely again. Before setting sail, however, it is a good idea to perform a thorough check-up to ensure that the boat is efficient and safe. Here then are the five main checks to be made:
1. Safety equipment: check for life jackets (one for each crew member), as well as compliant fire extinguishers, signal flares and life raft.
2. Engine and fuel supplies: check engine efficiency (lubrication, cooling and exhaust) and take on board, in addition to the necessary fuel supplies, some spare parts, including spark plugs, filters and impeller.
3. Anchor and mooring lines: an essential component for a stay at anchor is the anchoring system. Check the presence of chain and anchor (including the anchor) and a good number of lines for mooring at the buoy or quay.
4. Electrical system and navigation lights: it is important to check the electrical system to ensure the perfect functionality of on-board components (anchor windlass, winch, chartplotter) and all utilities, including navigation lights.
5. Navigation instruments, radio and gps: always knowing where you are at sea and communicating this in case of emergency is fundamental. Therefore, check the on-board GPS and nautical charts, as well as the Vhf radio to contact the Coast Guard.
Once these checks have been made, you can finally cast off your moorings and enjoy your cruise!
#StemMarine wishes you a happy sailing 😉
Looking at life from a different angle.
2moGreat looking vessel but I still think it needs a couple of 20mm Oerlikon guns and white ensigns!!