Crew Overboard
Clearly, one of the most significant things anyone can learn in the sailing world is how to efficiently and quickly return to someone who has fallen overboard. Even if this never occurs to you and, chances are, it won't; If you know how to perform these maneuvers you will be a more confident and skilled sailor. This is always a big topic of discussion in our classes. We like to teach at least two different procedures to give students a choice. In your own boat one of these will probably work better than another. This is not meant to be an exhaustive guide but to represent some proven ways to return to a person fallen overboard.
Many people's first response to someone falling overboard, while the boat is under sail, is to turn on the engine and return under power. This technique can easily cause greater harm to the situation. Lines can get caught around the propeller and the spinning propeller can cause harm to the victim in the water. We prefer returning under sail in almost all situations. Whatever method you choose the old mantra applies: Practice, practice, practice.
The Deep Beam recovery. This technique is relatively new and finding favor in the sailing community. We have taught this for about 3 years now and find it easy to learn and carry out.
Proceed as follows:
- Yell “man overboard”.
- Throw a PFD or other buoyant objects.
- Assign a spotter.
- Helmsperson steers to a 'deep beam' reach which is about 20 degrees below a beam reach. The apparent wind should be about 110 degrees off the bow.
- Sail for about 2 boat lengths.
- Tack into the wind and you will be all set up to return on a close reach.
- Sail to windward of the victim.
- Cut the sails to stop just windward of the victim.
The Quick Stop recovery. This technique can work very well and the boat always remains close to the victim. This does require a jibe but is done with control as the main sheet is brought in.
Proceed as follows:
- Yell “man overboard”.
- Throw a PFD or other buoyant objects.
- Assign a spotter.
- Tack the boat into the wind but leave the jib sheet trimmed on its original side.
- As the boat tacks trim the main and leave it trimmed.
- Keep sailing a circle around the victim always shouting encouragement.
- When you are ready with a line to throw head upwind near the victim and drop sails or approach on a close reach and cut the sails.
Return under power. Secure lines so they are not dragging in the water and cut the engine when close to the victim.
Proceed as follows:
- Yell “man overboard”.
- Throw a PFD or other buoyant objects.
- Assign a spotter.
- Bring the boat upwind of the victim and broad side to the wind.
- Then allow the wind to gently push the boat towards the victim while adjusting position with the engine.
- Have crew throw lines to the victim and be sure to cut the engine once close.