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Navigating the process of single-handedly rescuing a fallen comrade from the water

Stranded at Sea: Recovering a Person Overboard Alone - Essential Guidelines to Follow

,   and  ASMedia
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Unwanted scenario for any solo boater: a person falls overboard, leaving you as the sole occupant....
Unwanted scenario for any solo boater: a person falls overboard, leaving you as the sole occupant. Realizing optimal ways to single-handedly retrieve the person in water.

Recovering a Man Overboard Single-Handed: A Comprehensive Guide

For boaters, it's a dreaded scenario: someone goes overboard, leaving you alone on the vessel. How do you safely recover the person in this situation? Whether you own a motorboat or helm a larger craft, this guide offers essential steps and considerations to help you execute a successful recovery.

Prioritize Your Response

Although the procedure is generally well-known when there are multiple crew members, the process becomes more challenging when you're the only occupant, especially on larger vessels over 50 feet. Here's a priority-based approach to handling this critical situation.

  1. Activate the MOB Button: Press the Man Overboard (MOB) button on the plotter while slowing the boat in a straight line. This helps you locate the person in your wake.
  2. Re-Position the Boat: After coming to a stop, turn the boat around and steer it towards the person. If they're visible and safely floating, face-up with a lifejacket, consider reaching out for help before attempting the recovery.
  3. Contact the Coast Guard: If you suspect you might struggle to retrieve the person, press the red Distress Signal (DSC) button on your VHF radio or make a Mayday call. Communicate only the necessary details and ask for help securing the casualty before continued conversation.
  4. Approach the Person: Position the boat across the wind, approximately two boat lengths from the casualty, and drift sideways towards them. Remember that most people will instinctively swim towards the boat, so aim to be accurate but close to midships.
  5. Secure the Person: Once alongside, use a boat hook, lasso, life-ring, or a safety lanyard to secure the person and guide them towards the boat. If the engine vents exhaust in their direction, consider turning it off.

Recovery Techniques

Regardless of your boat's size, the fundamental techniques remain the same:

  1. Securing the Person: Once they're secured, consider turning off the engine nearest them or using a foothold such as a hydraulic passerelle or a hi-lo bathing platform (if available) to lift them onboard.
  2. Retrieval: If the casualty has the strength to help, the bathing ladder is the quickest method for recovery. If not, utilize the available equipment or make arrangements for further assistance through your emergency call.

Practical Tips and Considerations

  • Be Calm: Panic can lead to errors, so remain focused and methodical.
  • Use Engine Power Wisely: Engine power is crucial, but use it carefully to avoid endangering the person in the water.
  • Regular Practice: Regularly practice Man Overboard drills to improve your skills and confidence in handling such situations.

While recovering a man overboard single-handedly can be challenging, especially on larger craft, this guide provides essential steps for a successful recovery. Whenever possible, seek external assistance or utilize communication devices to alert others to your situation.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Man_overboard[2] https://boatus.com/courses/maritime-advisor/2015/tips/moj-markers[3] https://www.boatingmag.com/safety/dealing-man-board-alone-45118/

  1. In the event of a man overboard on a luxury sports yacht equipped with a flybridge, it's vital to secure the person efficiently after locating them. This could be achieved by deploying a boat hook, lasso, or life-ring, or using a safety lanyard to guide them towards the boat.
  2. Navigating large speed yachts with a flybridge, it's crucial to approach the man overboard with care, drifting sideways and maintaining a safe distance. Once alongside, consider utilizing the hydraulic passerelle or hi-lo bathing platform (if available) for a smoother boarding process, ensuring a successful recovery.

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