Safety when on passage

[Trevor]

Hello all,

We were recently on a passage where my wife or I would be alone in the cockpit while the other was asleep below. In our case our greatest concern is waking and finding you are the only one on the boat!! .

We have 2 Raymarine "lifetags" that are worn on the wrist and if they are more than 30 metres from the boat a very loud alarm sounds that is extremely loud and sure to wake the sleeping crew member. At the same time a MOB waypoint is set on the chartplotter.

These tags gave us extra security that our partner was still on the boat and they worked very well.

I know that good safety practices should negate the need for such precautions but for the price I think these devices are a must for those shorthanded on long passages so in no circumstance could you somehow fall overboard without your partner knowing.

Happy sailing,

Trevor

[Don Reaves]

A harness with a tether is an alternative. I always use one, but I often sail single-handed, when there isn't someone on board to wake up.

Don

[Zanshin]

I agree with donreaves, a (comfortable) harness is essential for sole watchstanders.

[Trevor]

We do use the inflatable lifejacket with inbuilt harness and tethers but decided to use the lifetags as the final safety insurance. My wife and I come as a full set so we always have two on the boat. ;D

I agree they are not much use for solo sailors.

Trevor