TEST (daysailer-test.org) Day Sailer Forum

What is the best way to get someone back on board, after they fall off in deep water ?

I bought a "Webbing Ladder" thing from West Marine http://www.westmarine.com/webapp/wcs/st ... 01/32/31/5 and then installed a cleat at the bottom of the motor well on the back of my DS1 (I don't think DS2s have a motor well). The strap is cleated and stored in the motor well and when I go for a swim I can just reach in, pull it out, and climb back on board. It works. MikeMc

Not that it has ever happened to me or my crew (twice during NACR races) .......(( but those are another 'story'))

The DS is pretty stable, but if you go to one side and try to pull another out of the water, a capsize is possible. If the swimmer is strong, the transom area is the easiest to hoist ones self back aboard. If the swimmer needs assistance, I tie a foot loop in the end of the mainsheet with a bowline. The swimmer can then put a foot into the loop, the helper can then pull out the slack and hold, as the swimmer steps up using the loop for a step. If another step is necessary, the swimmer can hold their position, relax the leg with the loop, helper pulls in slack again, and them the swimmer can step up higher. Usually the second step is enough the get them aboard. Another solution, might be to have a premade set of loop steps (use old main sheet perhaps).


hope this helps phill

Thank you, that makes sense, I hope I can avoid the situation.
Rosemary

a perm folding boarding ladder on the stern, with steps atleast 2 feet below waterline when lowered is prob the best and easiest, just try the rope loop and you will realize that the rope goes under the boat , better than nothing, but...

I tried a rope ladder and as you say it pushes under the boat.
Do you mean a ladder is permanently attatched or do you buy one that attatches as needed ?
Rosemary