HOW TO SAIL DINGHIES SAFELY
Dinghy sailing has grown in popularity over the last few years, as new solo sailors flock to the water.
With a worldwide uptake in solo sailing, many inexperienced dinghy sailors new to the sport have found themselves caught out in dangerous situations. Without the proper training or knowledge, it can be challenging to know where to launch, what conditions are safe to go sailing in and whether a second-hand dinghy is sea-worthy enough to learn on.
Dinghy sailing is fun, relatively safe and a great starting point if you are looking to get into competition sailing, but there are few risks to be aware of and precautions to take to ensure safe choices are made.
Here is a guide to staying safe when sailing alone or in small groups. Always be aware of what rescue services are available in your area before attempting to sail alone.
DO YOUR RESEARCH WHEN BUYING A BOAT
Whether you are buying new or second-hand, be sure that the boat is seaworthy.
Become familiar with the make and model of your dinghy, and if you are not familiar, ask around to see if there are any common problems associated with the class. It is a good idea to carry some spare parts with you sailing just in case something breaks while out on the water.
On a second-hand dinghy, check for significant damage to the hull, mast, sails and rigging, and get a history of where the boat has been and what it has done. Make a note if any breakages have occurred in the past.
Test its seaworthiness by making short trips back and forth from the shore.
KNOW YOUR SKILLS
Judge your ability against the conditions and know your physical limits. If you are sailing solo you will have limited support, and you should consider the conditions you are sailing in. If you are unsure, don’t go!
Sail early with plenty of daylight remaining, and stay close to shore and identifiable landmarks.
If possible, have a spotter onshore and have a way of communicating with them.
Be confident of your ability to self-recover from a capsize or recover in the event of being trapped under your boat.
CHECK THE WEATHER
Before heading out, look up the weather on the Deckee app. Check the forecast and develop a plan for your day out. Consider real-time information on swells, tides and air pressure all on the weather dashboard.
The tide’s direction and its relative strength should be factored into your plan, as it affects the choices you make and what direction to head in first.
Heading upwind to start your sail allows the option to drift with the wind to get back home should any breakages or emergency situation develop.
LET SOMEONE KNOW YOUR PLANS
If you plan to sail alone, it's common practice to inform someone you know of your trip. Create a plan using the Deckee app, create an estimated time for how long your sail will take and inform authorities if you are heading offshore.
Have a system of communication in place so that you can be assured that there will be people out looking for you if you do not return in time.
Have your phone handy for emergencies and take an EPIRB with you so that you can be located if you go overboard.
WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET AND APPROPRIATE CLOTHING
If you are sailing solo, wear a life jacket to make yourself visible. A life jacket should be worn at all times out on the water, no matter what activity or how many people are participating.
Make sure that you wear appropriate sailing gear for the conditions, with material to keep you warm in the winter, and protect you from the sun in the summer.
BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
When you are out there sailing by yourself, keep your head on swivel. There are plenty of hazards to keep an eye on, especially in busy waterways.
Check boat traffic, changing weather, as well as your distance from shore. Know when to turn back when conditions get beyond your control or skill level.
If you are sailing on rivers or lakes identify where the local hazards are, and keep a lookout for sandbars, submerged trees and restricted areas.
In the Deckee app, you can create a trip that monitors your speed, distance and heading in real-time, and can be shared with family or friends once the trip is completed. Read our article to learn more about the basics of shorthanded sailing.
Finally, be sure to have fun out there. Jumping on a dinghy is a great way to explore the water and discover the joys of sailing.