Common Mistakes Sailors Make During Day Sailing

Day sailing can be a wonderful experience, but sailors often make simple mistakes in the rush to make the most of the short time on the water. Here’s a breakdown of common errors and how to avoid them for a smooth and enjoyable sailing trip.

Before Sailing: Key Preparation Mistakes

• Hurrying through preparation: Since day sails are short, many sailors rush through the preparation, missing necessary steps like checking equipment and weather conditions.
• Forgetting to disconnect shore power is a simple yet common oversight that can cause complications once the yacht is underway.
• Failing to check diesel levels: Even if you think you know how much fuel is left, always check. There could have been a leak since the last time you checked.
• Inadequate planning: Not considering wind direction and speed for departure and return can lead to difficulties when docking or tacking back to the marina.
• Incorrect sailing direction: Starting downwind with a broad reach may seem ideal, but tacking back upwind usually takes longer than expected. This often leads to having to motor against the wind on the return journey.
• Forgetting to release reefing lines: If reefing lines aren’t released before setting sail, they can become stuck, causing problems when hoisting the sails.
• Ignoring the weather forecast: Not adapting your sail plan or reefing to upcoming weather changes can lead to unexpected challenges.
• No crew briefing: Failing to brief at least one crew member can result in miscommunication and mishaps during critical moments.

Essential Points to Brief the Crew:

• Secure all drinks to avoid spills.
• Avoid going forward on the lee side deck when the yacht is heeling.
• Minimize going below deck when the yacht is heeling and the seas are rough.
• Remain quiet during departure and docking to allow the skipper to concentrate.
• Always hold on to something steady when moving around the yacht.
• Never pass hands through the helm.
• When swimming, always stay in the “pool” area created by the rope, as the yacht may drift faster than expected.

During Sailing: Avoidable Mistakes

• Improper use of the boat hook: Widening the angle with a boat hook from the middle of the yacht or using it to push off when conditions aren’t suitable can damage the boat or dock.
• Forgetting to pick up the fenders: Leaving fenders down increases the risk of losing them while sailing.
• Motoring too fast in the marina: Speeding in the marina without watching for other departing yachts can lead to dangerous situations.
• Halyard mishaps: Releasing the main halyard too much before hoisting the mainsail can cause it to get tangled around the steaming lights.
• Letting swimmers too close to shore: Allowing swimmers to get in the water near the shore without considering yacht drift can be dangerous.
• Hoisting the mainsail too close to the marina: Always hoist the mainsail a safe distance from the marina’s wave breaker to avoid accidents.
• Forgetting navigation lights: Be sure to turn on navigation lights as the sun sets to ensure visibility.
• Misuse of safety equipment: Using safety gear for water games can be hazardous and lead to damage or injury.

Upon Return: Docking and Final Mistakes

• Pulling the mainsheet too tight: This can squash the bimini and cause unnecessary damage to the yacht’s structure.
• Forgetting the swimming platform: Always raise the swimming platform before returning to the marina.
• Panicking over fenders: Forgetting to drop fenders when approaching the marina or doing so too late can cause last-minute panic.
• Tying incorrect knots: Incorrectly tying knots on the cleat or elsewhere can lead to unsecured lines and unsafe docking.

Conclusion

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy a smooth and relaxing day on the water. Proper planning, briefing, and attention to detail will make all the difference during your sailing trip. Happy sailing!