Sailing in Bad Weather: Expert Safety Tips & Best Practices
Bad weather doesn't always announce itself with dramatic, dark clouds on the horizon. Sometimes, it sneaks up on you, and unless you’re prepared, it can turn your sailing trip into a nightmare. Understanding how to read the weather is one of the most important skills for any sailor.
The Calm Before the Storm (Or Is It?)
The first storm I ever experienced was in the Atlantic, right next to Lobos Island. At the time, I was working as a deckhand on a Lagoon 38 Catamaran. There were 12 tourists onboard and the captain made the call to stay close to shore, hoping the land would protect us from the 30+ knots (about 55 km/h) winds, but eventually, we had to cross to Fuerteventura. As soon as we passed El Pico de Lobos, a famous surfing spot, the wind hit us from the north, accompanied by an immense swell.
Now, I trusted the captain, even though I had heard stories of how he once got stranded on a life raft after a boat delivery from mainland Spain had gone wrong. An oil tanker had to pick him up, but that’s another tale. The 12 tourists, on the other hand, were terrified and seasick. With every wave, things flew inside the cabin, but somehow, we made it safely to the harbor. The only casualties were some tableware lost to an open cupboard. That day, I learned that if you do the right things, the boat will stay on top of the water… it's physics.
Fast forward to another notable storm: I had just earned my captain certification, and they knew I was up for adventure. I was sent to assist a SUP race with a SACS 890 speedboat on Fuerteventura’s east coast. While that side was sheltered, the north coast wasn’t so lucky, with huge swells and again 30+ knots winds. Ferries had stopped running, but there I was, surfing massive waves pushed by the 300hp Mercury engine. The boat was sticking to the water like nothing I’d ever experienced. Best boat for a storm, ever. It was exhilarating. My hair was a disaster afterward, earning me the nickname “Espinete” (Spanish for hedgehog).
Over time, I’ve spent a fair share of stormy nights anchored in Ibiza.
The strongest wind I’ve ever faced on the water was about 60 knots while patrolling an area with a Faeton Moraga 980. It felt like it was raining from beneath with the spray flying everywhere. It was intense, but the boat held steady, and we pushed through. Moments like that remind you just how powerful the ocean can be.
The moral of the story? You live, you learn, and hopefully, you have a little fun along the way. Or maybe it’s the other way around. Either way, here’s what you should do when sailing in bad weather.
Clouds Don’t Lie: Spotting Bad Weather Before It Hits
Here are a few things to keep an eye on:
Wind shifts: A sudden change in wind direction is often one of the first signs of an approaching storm.
Barometric pressure drops: A falling barometer indicates that a storm is likely coming. You should always have a barometer onboard to monitor these changes.
Cloud formations: High, wispy cirrus clouds can be a sign that a storm front is approaching, especially if they’re moving quickly.
Don’t just rely on your instincts, use technology! Apps like Windy or PredictWind offer real-time updates on wind speed, direction, and weather conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before setting sail and stay updated while you’re out there.
When the Going Gets Rough: Storm Sailing Tips for Staying Afloat
When you're caught in a storm, there’s no time for hesitation. Quick thinking and decisive action will keep you afloat. Here are some storm sailing tips to remember when the weather turns nasty:
Reduce sail: Reef early and often. If you're questioning whether or not to reef, do it.
Balance your boat: Keep the boat balanced by adjusting your sails to ensure the center of effort aligns with the center of resistance.
Steering in storms: When steering through a storm, your boat may feel like it’s bouncing around like a cork in rough seas. Try steering off the waves at a slight angle to avoid slamming into them head-on. It can help reduce the force of each impact.
Trust me, when the waves start looking like they want to eat your boat for breakfast, it’s time to focus on survival. And that means knowing how to steer, adjust sails, and keep your cool, no matter how rough it gets.
Before the Storm Hits: Step-by-Step Sailing Storm Preparation
Preparation is everything. Before you even set sail, there are a few key steps you need to take to ensure your boat can handle whatever the weather throws at it.
Pre-Sail Checklist:
Secure everything on deck: Loose objects can become projectiles in rough weather. Make sure everything is tied down.
Check your life-saving equipment: Are your life jackets easily accessible? Do you have a functional emergency raft?
Protect your electronics: Wrap vital electronics in waterproof coverings, and make sure your navigation lights are functioning.
Plot escape routes: If the weather turns and you're near land, know where the closest safe harbor is located.
Remember, it’s better to prepare for a storm that never hits than to be caught off-guard when one does.
Suit Up! Safety Gear You Can’t Afford to Forget
When the weather gets bad, the right gear can be the difference between a safe return to shore and a disaster at sea. Here’s what you should always have onboard:
Life jackets: It goes without saying, but always make sure everyone has a properly fitted life jacket.
Harnesses: In rough seas, it’s easy to be thrown off balance. Use harnesses to stay tethered to the boat.
Waterproof radios: Communication is key, and a waterproof radio can be your lifeline in an emergency.
Emergency flares: In case you need to call for help, flares can help rescuers locate you quickly.
Staying Calm in the Eye of the Storm (Literally)
Once you’re in the thick of it, keeping your cool is essential. One of the most effective ways to ride out a storm is by using the “heave-to” technique. This involves setting your sails and rudder in such a way that your boat stays relatively still, allowing the storm to pass without constantly battling the waves.
If the seas are really rough, the key is to stay relaxed and avoid over-correcting the steering. Let the boat ride with the waves instead of fighting them.
SOS: What to Do When Things Go South
If things take a turn for the worse, knowing your emergency protocols can save lives.
Mayday signals: Know how to issue a Mayday signal on your VHF radio.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration can set in quickly during an emergency, so keep water accessible.
Keep warm: If you’re in the water, hypothermia is a real danger. Wear layers and stay dry if possible.
Tales of the Brave (or Foolish): Stories of Survival in Bad Weather
Many sailors have faced bad weather and lived to tell the tale, some because they were prepared, others because they got lucky. One thing they all agree on? Preparation is key, but so is a calm mindset.
Sailing Isn’t Just About the Sunshine
Sailing in bad weather can be terrifying, but with the right preparation, it’s also manageable. The ocean is unpredictable, but you can ride out even the fiercest storms if you’re ready for them. So take these storm sailing tips to heart, keep your gear in top shape, and remember: the calm always comes after the storm.