How to Right a Capsized Sailboat

If you hope to sail away from a wipeout, you might want to learn how to right your boat when you smack down.

Difficulty:

Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Flare Guns
• Life Sling
• VHF Radios
• First Aid Kits
• Bailer
• Life Jackets
• Man Overboard Pole
• Sailboats

1. Check first for a man overboard situation, and rescue anyone in need of help.

2. Uncleat all of your sheets.

3. Release your boom vang.

4. Let go of the wheel or tiller to allow the boat to turn head-to-wind.

5. Stand on the centerboard or sit on the high rail (if you're on a dinghy), and wait for your body weight to right the boat.

6. Hold on and wait (if you're on a big keelboat) until the keel's weight rights the boat.

7. Grab a hold of the tiller or wheel again, and point your boat into the wind.

8. Sheet in and fall off slowly.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay in control of your boat by knowing its limitations and being aware of the wind and waves.

• Try to remain calm. Capsizing does not mean you're sinking and lost at sea.

• Talk to others with the same boat about how they deal with a capsized situation so that you are prepared to take the steps necessary to right the boat and regain control.