Stuart Batley

Boating Rules of the Road – International ColRegs

by Stuart Batley | Navigation, Preparation

International ColRegs Rule 7: Risk of Collision Anyone who is responsible for a vessel at sea, from the smallest dinghy to an ocean going supertanker, must be able to recognise other vessels around them day or night, whatever the visibility. They need to...

Man Overboard Drill

by Stuart Batley | Boat Handling, Emergencies, Preparation

How to respond to crew overboard under sail • Keep the MOB in sight • Tack into the heave-to position, do not adjust the headsail sheets • If under spinnaker, alter course to windward and haul sail down immediately • Throw buoyancy to the MOB • Mark MOB with dan buoy...

ColRegs when sailing single handed

by Stuart Batley | Navigation, Preparation

Don’t neglect the Colregs when sailing single handed Sailing single-handed represents several challenges for skippers, not least how to manage sleep, keep watch at all times, and avoid breaching IRPCS Colregs Rule 5. If you can’t keep a look out whilst...

Boating emergency – how to broadcast a MAYDAY emergency call

by Stuart Batley | Communications, Emergencies

How to broadcast a MAYDAY emergency call How to broadcast a MAYDAY emergency call if a vessel or person is in grave and imminent danger and immediate assistance is required: • Check that your VHF radio is on and high power setting is selected Select Channel 16...

First Aid Afloat – fish spine injury

by Stuart Batley | Boat Handling, Emergencies

First Aid Afloat – Here is what to do if somebody stands on a fish spine: • Check for dangers. Is it safe for you to enter the water? • Check for levels of response and for normal breathing • Inform emergency services if necessary • If needed treat serious...