Crew Overboard Recovery

Shout the alarm immediately, deploy buoyancy and a visible marker, and appoint one person to maintain continuous visual contact. Mark the electronic position when available, but do not let the button press delay flotation or the helm response. The casualty moves while the yacht moves; a stored coordinate is evidence, not the person.

The skipper controls speed and separation while assigning communications and preparing the recovery side. Use a manoeuvre practiced for the yacht, propulsion, sail plan, crew and conditions. An immediate turn or stop may retain contact; a Williamson turn is one recognised return towards a reciprocal track after visual contact is lost. No named manoeuvre guarantees that the yacht will return alongside the casualty.

Plan the final approach so the yacht does not drift or surge onto the casualty. Keep the propeller clear and use neutral or stop the engine when appropriate to the practiced method. Account for wind, waves, freeboard and the side or quarter from which the recovery equipment works; a successful return that places the casualty beneath the hull or beyond the lifting point is not a successful approach.

An incapacitated casualty needs a prepared lifting system such as suitable lifting gear, a strop or a recovery net, used within its limitations. Current MCA guidance says the recovery plan should be yacht-specific, consider available crew, freeboard, wind, waves and equipment limitations, and minimise injury against the vessel. Drills must prove that the real crew can rig and use the arrangement.

Handle a cold casualty gently and recover horizontally or near-horizontally where practicable; vertical recovery can increase cardiac risk in hypothermia. Protect from wind, insulate, monitor breathing and responsiveness, and seek urgent medical guidance. Do not rub the skin, apply strong direct heat or give a drink to somebody who is not fully conscious and able to swallow.