Sailing Pre-departure Checklist


Before you head out on your fun adventure, take a moment to run through this sailing pre-departure checklist to ensure a safe and fun time at sea.

Sailing trip pre-departure checklist.

Download our printable sailing pre-departure checklist here!

 

Safety

 

Life Jackets

 

Emergency Locator Beacons

  • Check your Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) is working and everyone knows the location it is stored.
  • If you have them, explain to crew about Personal Locator Beacons (PLB).

 

Sound Producing Devices

  • Must have a horn capable of producing a four second blast audible for at least 1/2 mile.
  • Ensure a whistle or audible device is attached to each lifejacket.

 

Distress Signals

  • Check flares and emergency equipment (liferaft) are in working condition and stored in an easily accessible location.
  • Brief the crew of their location and safety rules for proper usage.

 

Fire Extinguishers

  • Carry at least one fire extinguisher (or more if required by law) and make sure it is securely mounted, in working order, and accessible.
  • Include location and instructions in safety briefing.

 

Navigation & Documentation

 

Lights and Shapes

  • Have and use all navigation lights as required by law. Test yourself on lights and shapes here.
  • Make sure all instruments and instrument lights are working.
  • Recreational boaters must have and use day shapes for certain activities.
  • Have one or more torches and spare batteries.

 

Weather Forecast

 

Documentation

 

Equipment

 

Tools and Spares

  • Have a spares box with standard parts that are commonly required.
  • Have a toolbox on board with general tools and specific ones you need to fit your spares.
  • Ensure your first aid kit meets local requirements and is kept in date.

 

Fuel and Oil

  • Make sure you have adequate fuel – if not, then fill up.
  • You should have enough fuel to ensure you reach home with some to spare.
  • Check engine oil and coolant levels. Read our handy tips on diesel engine troubleshooting and general maintenance.

 

Ventilation Checks

  • If you use gas for cooking ensure it is switched off when not in use, or well ventilated when in use. Make sure the bottle is stored safely and correctly.
  • If fuel odours are detected, run checks, shut down the engine, and look for the source of the leak.

 

Bilges

  • Check the bilges are reasonably dry and working properly.
  • Clean up any spilled oil or waste in bilges if necessary.

 

Battery Care

  • Make sure the power is on to the entire vessel and switches are in the correct positions.
  • Have aboard spare batteries or chargers for accessories such as torches, GPS and handheld radios.

 

General

 

Docking and Anchoring Preparation

  • Have your anchor set up and anchor line checked for wear. Read some Do’s and Don’ts for Anchoring here.
  • Carry spare lines for unusual docking situations.
  • Visually inspect all docking and anchoring lines.
  • Make sure your fenders are secured properly and not deflated.
  • Ensure you have enough food and water on board for the duration of your trip.