Is your boat ready for safe sailing this summer?
Every year, Maritime Rescue conducts interventions on recreational boats along the Spanish coasts. The majority of these occur during the summer season, particularly during trips along the coasts of Catalonia, the Balearic Islands, the Valencian Community, Galicia, and the Cantabrian coast.
To avoid any surprises at sea, everything must be prepared to minimize risks, both before departure and when planning the route. This is why regular boat maintenance is crucial for safe sailing.
Here’s a list of basic recommendations before setting sail:
Check the boat from bow to stern.
Check the boat’s condition, navigation equipment, and communications. Inspect the antifouling; it should be renewed every year, as it greatly affects the boat’s performance and health. It’s also important to review other factors such as the shafts, propellers, and rudder, as well as the engine, battery, and electrical system to ensure they are in good working order.
Ensure that safety equipment and the survival kit are in good condition.
Boats must have basic mandatory equipment in areas such as rescue, navigation, bilge pumping, fire-fighting, and wastewater spill prevention.
The expiration dates of mandatory safety equipment must be strictly respected to ensure safety and avoid any penalties. Among the recommended basic equipment: life jackets, fire extinguishers, life rings, and lifeboats. Additionally, it can be complemented with the use of safety harnesses, bilge pumps, and a first aid kit.
Sufficient fuel and reserves for the trip.
As a rule, always leave with fuel tanks filled to their maximum capacity, and take advantage of every stop to refill, whether it’s a one-day trip or several days at sea.
Ensure all documentation and permits are up to date (boat insurance, validity of nautical qualifications, among others). Also, inform family and friends of your route.
Check the weather forecast for the area where you plan to sail, and avoid going out to sea in case of bad weather or poor visibility.
AEMET (Spanish Meteorological Agency) has an extensive observation network, including both conventional observatories and remote sensing systems. They also provide weather information for offshore and coastal areas, tailored to the needs of each user.
Contact us, and we can advise you, with no obligation, on what your boat needs to be ready for this summer.