How to Prepare a Keelboat for Sailing

Make short work of preparing to sail with this systematic approach.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Boat Shoes
• Sun Hats
• Lip Balm
• Sunscreen
• Boat Trailers
• Boating Ropes
• Sailboats
• lightweight, waterproof jackets

1. Remove all canvas covers.
2. Open the companionway hatch.
3. Open deck hatches for ventilation.
4. Turn the battery switch to "All" or "Both."
5. Turn on the bilge blower if the boat is so equipped. Run it for at least five minutes.
6. Rig the headsail (see related eHow).
7. Rig the mainsail (see related eHow).
8. Perform the pre-sail safety check (see related eHow).
9. Start the engine (see related eHow).

Tips & Warnings

• Contrary to some widely held opinions, boats with diesel engines also need to have bilge fumes removed with the bilge blower.