Pre-Departure Checklist

Summary

Help improve this page!

Put your suggsetions in the Discussion page (top left in the menu bar).

Introduction

Your content here.

Before You Set Sail

ITEM TO CHECK	Yes	No
Before Departure
Check and update charts and publications.
Check weather report and tides/currents.
File a float plan with someone you know. Tell them where you are going and when you intend to return (and what to do if you don’t).
Check all required boat documentation.
Check all required passenger documentation.
Identify non-swimmers.
Identify second-in-command in case of skipperʼs incapacitation.
Inform second-in-command of engine start and shutdown technique.
Inform second-in-command of emergency procedures.
Ensure that one anchor and rode is ready for immediate use.
Disconnect shore power cable.
Know the location of the nearest harbor or protected anchorage.
Safety Equipment
Check all mandatory safety equipment.
Check life jackets are readily accessible
Check lifesling, throwable flotation (life buoy) and other flotation devices are immediately accessible.
Check boarding platform or ladder.
Check working of horn or sound-producing device.
Check fire extinguishers and a brief description of their operation.
Check fire buckets.
Check fire axes.
Check flares or other Visual Distress Signals.
Check operation of Navigation Lights.
Check operation of search lights.
Check emergency and first-aid kit.
Check watertight flashlights.
Sail Boat Only
Inspect keel bolts for tightness and attachment area for separation.
Check all blocks.
Check all sails.
Check standing and running rigging. Reverse as needed.
Inspect / replace turnbuckles.
Check and clean mast, fittings and equipment.
Clear cockpit drains.
Check windlasses (winches).
On Deck
Check visible hull for needed repair, paint and / or wax.
Check deck fittings for integrity … rails, cleats, handholds, ladders, lifelines. Clean, polish and replace as needed.
Check hatches, ports and port lights for leaks and integrity.
Check all lines and fenders.
Check and service anchor windlass.
Check windshield wipers.
Check dinghy / life raft.
Check masts and antennas.
Check radar reflector.
Check all loose items are stowed.
Check tender or life raft.
Below Deck
Inspect all cabins visually and correct deficiencies.
Check all galley equipment.
Check all entertainment electronics.
Check all cockpit electronics.
Check and adjust mechanical compass.
Check sextant if you carry one‏‎.
Check and / or test breakers and fuses.
Check all ventilation systems, and ventilation closures.
Check all watertight doors.
Check all port closures.
Engine Room
Inspect the engine room visually.
Check bilge for unusual stains or fluids. Find source and repair.
Check limber holes in bilge and ensure bilge is clean.
Check bilge pump, strainers and switches.
Check tanks for leaks and check tank fittings.
Inspect waste tanks.
Rinse water tank.
Fill water tank.
Fill fuel tank.
Check engines, transmissions, etc. for leaks. Find source and repair.
Check exposed wiring for wear.
Check all electrical connections for corrosion.
Check all hose clamps.
Check hose clamps to through-hull fittings. Hoses below the waterline should be double-clamped.
Check and re-connect all fuel lines and fittings for cracks and leaks.
Check all sea-cocks and gate-valves. Consider replacing gate-valves with seacocks.
Check and update spare parts.
Check and charge batteries.
Check zincs, replace as necessary.
Check water heater.
Mechanical Systems
Clean engine surface and touch up as needed.
Clean and replace air and fuel filters.
Check and replace ignition parts.
Check belts and re-tension.
Check engine oil and change oil and filter.
Check thermostat for clean flow and operation.
Check cooling water intake and impellers.
Check transmission and oil.
Check packing in stuffing boxes. Replace if necessary.
Check drive shafts, universal couplings, nuts and pins.
Check steering assembly for wear and lubrication.
Check hydraulic systems for fluid levels, leaks and abrasion.
Check cables and lbricate cables as necessary.
Check rudder operation.
Check cutlass bearings on shafts.
Check manual and pressure pumps.
Start engine and check operation of all gauges.
Check alternator for charging capacity.
Check engine water temperature and oil pressure.
Check operation of toilets.