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
