Honest question for everyone: when did you last actually practise a man overboard recovery? Not just talk about it, but physically throw a fender over the side and go through the motions?
I try to do one at the start of every season and whenever I have new crew aboard. It’s the one emergency that can happen to anyone, any time, and the one where seconds genuinely matter.
My approach is the standard reach-reach-run (or figure of eight) — it works well on my boat in most conditions. What do others use? And does anyone have tips for single-handed recovery? That’s the really scary scenario.
Good question and I’m guilty of not practising enough. Last time was probably six months ago. You’re right that it’s something everyone should do regularly. For single-handed recovery, I think the Lifesling system is probably the most practical option — it gives you a line to the person and a way to get them back on board without needing superhuman strength.
We drill MOB at the start of every charter season with all our skippers. It’s non-negotiable. The thing most people underestimate is how hard it is to see someone in the water, especially in any kind of chop. We’ve started using the Jonbuoy danbuoy system — the tall flag makes a massive difference to visibility.
For recovery, the Parbuckle method works well on most cruising boats — roll them in using the main halyard and a line under their arms.
This is a wake-up call. I’ve done MOB in theory and once during my Day Skipper course but not since. Going to make a point of practising this weekend. The single-handed scenario really worries me — I often sail alone on friends’ boats. Any recommendations for personal AIS beacons?