Preparing the yacht for sailing
Denis Korablev
  • 28.05.2021
  • 1,529

Preparing the yacht for sailing

Before you go on a trip on a yacht, it is imperative to check the operation of all systems and the serviceability of the mechanisms in the ship. This will ensure comfort and safety for the entire vacation period.

At the same time, the level of preparation activities organized on the yacht will be determined by the complexity of the route and the duration of the trip. Before sailing, we recommend that you draw up a detailed travel plan with a selection of ports and harbors to which you will sail. When planning a yacht trip along an unexplored coastline, install electronic maps on your navigation device and familiarize yourself with the geographical features of the area. Remember that not all ports have access to yachts with deep draft due to sharp fluctuations in depth.

How enjoyable your time on board will be will depend on the condition of the boat. As experienced sailors of 2yachts note, since you often have to be at a great distance from the coast, it is important to foresee everything, including even minor trifles that may interfere with your vacation plans. And this is true only as long as the yacht is controllable and can move. Namely, handling and ability to move and require priority attention.

Consider the points to pay attention to when preparing the yacht

the yacht First, all windows and hatches must be closed in order to prevent water from entering the premises. You can leave open only those of them that are in the observation area. Otherwise, the matter can turn into a real disaster, because equipment and electrical appliances can fall under the water.

Secondly, you need to check the holes present under the waterline, except for the motor cooling, they are all closed. This applies to the technological latrine openings, the drain from the galley sinks and the echo sounder openings.

Before launching the vessel, the first thing to focus on is the integrity of the hull and the condition of the rig. If the vessel is sailing, check the rigging, the reliability of its fastening and adjustment. After going down to the under-deck space, inspect it for leaks, also checking the containers with water. Inspect and check the pumps to see if they are pumping and if the filters are clogged.

If you find water in the hold during the preparation of the yacht, do not rush to sound the alarm - you should taste it, and if there is no salt, then damaged fresh water tanks are the cause of leaks. After pumping out the water, check the fresh water supply system. If the water is fresh, first of all, you need to consider the version of damage to the bottom of the vessel, and then check the technological holes.

Thirdly, it is imperative to put things in order in the galley, cabins and other premises. When mooring at the port or when the yacht is in drift, the vessel is in order. But it is enough for you to sail away from the shore and begin to maneuver, as when the ship tilts things under the influence of gravity immediately move. To avoid this, it is worth placing all items in securely closed drawers. It is also necessary to inspect and test the sockets and do not forget to take on a hike an inverter that converts 12V to 220V - this will allow you to charge batteries for the camera, smartphones, etc. on board.

Fourthly, care should be taken to secure the anchor with an insurance, since situations are frequent when, due to splashing on the winch console, a short circuit occurs and the chain gets out of control.

Fifthly, on-board electronics is being tested while still on the shore, for this purpose, all devices on the panel are switched on one by one. Be sure to check the navigation system - the readings of the directional and magnetic compasses should not diverge significantly, otherwise the autopilot may not be calibrated. And with the arrival of darkness, you should walk along the deck, observing the illumination of the ship. It is necessary to inspect the batteries and check the reliability of their fastening, as well as the insulation and protection of the contacts from moisture. You will also need to check the lighting in the galley, living quarters and make sure that all crew members know where the switches and switches are located.

Sixth, the engine must be checked. During the inspection process, the forward and backward movement of the vessel, the operability of the cooling system, oil and coolant levels, the integrity of the supply hoses, etc. are checked. All parts of the power plant must be lubricated with the oils specified in the instructions, and pipes and nozzles must not have visible damage. It is recommended to regularly check the motor, especially on long journeys. This way, you will be able to spot leaks and other problems in time during the operation of the yacht.

In addition, among the most important points it is worth mentioning the briefing. In preparation for sailing, after checking all the above points, the skipper instructs the crew on safety. It is necessary to show the crew where personal life-saving equipment and fire extinguishing equipment are on board. Also, team members should be trained in the use of lifejackets, the raft, the handling of winches, etc.

If you are interested in buying or renting a yacht, please contact the specialists of 2yachts. We will select for you the most recent and interesting offers from the yacht market and help you contact the owner. With us you will find your dream yacht!