In my view, successful voyaging is dependent on successful preparation.  Nothing is easier or more effective than a good checklist.  Here is the checklist we used prior to any departure.

For All Open-Ocean Trips, Including Daysails

  • Get weather report
  • Print log sheets for passage & next port
  • Set out all charts, in order
  • Study charts & cruising guide
  • Enter waypoints & log them
  • Rig jacklines
  • Set out PFDs & harness vest in cockpit
  • Get currency next country, if applicable
  • Provision fresh food
  • Take trash ashore
  • Secure outboard on deck
  • Empty dinghy & secure on deck or long line
  • Check main engine & genset fluids
  • Free speed log
  • Set out radar & navigation tools: pencils, eraser, parallels, dividers, hand-bearing compass, plot sheet, pens, rules
  • Set out flags: courtesy, quarantine (if applicable)
  • Set out cockpit gear: sunshade, flashlight, binoculars, winch handles, whistles, sailing gloves
  • Fill cockpit cooler
  • Stow cockpit cushions, deck covers, hammock, anchor ball
  • Prepare lines & sheets, preventer, fenders (as necessary)
  • Test & set out intercoms
  • Stow all gear below; cover table
  • Secure shock cords in galley
  • Check lockers for safe stowage & positive locking
  • Check out with customs & immigration, if applicable
  • Turn on instrument breakers
  • Dog hatches
  • Turn fuel lever to “engine”
  • Tie down anchor

Additional Checklist Items for Overnight Passages

  • Check and set out offshore bag & abandon ship bag
  • Check rig (connectors, chafe, etc.) & lifelines
  • Charge portable VHF & spotlight
  • Test & set out portable GPS
  • Check flashlight batteries
  • Prepare meal(s), coffee
  • Prepare aft berth and/or pilot berth; secure leecloth(s)
  • Stow saloon pillows & fwd bedding
  • Set out towels (sitting & cockpit)
  • Put up snubber overhead handholds in main saloon
  • Check engine panel light
  • Send SATCOM-C departure message
  • Clean dinghy & secure it on deck

Additional Checklist Items for Extended Passages (more than 3 nights)

  • Test all systems
  • Fill diesel tanks, jerry jugs, outboard gas tanks
  • Fill water tanks & emergency jerry jugs
  • Check propane, fill if necessary
  • Provision for passage & arrival
  • Cook & freeze meals
  • Prepare & refrigerate pot of rice
  • Clean interior & cockpit
  • Cover all upholstery
  • Put restraints on stove top
  • Clean bottom of boat & anchor chain
  • Test & set out music players, headphones
  • Establish communications schedule