The 5 Ways Sailboats Actually Sink At Sea
Wade Jones Sailing
7,085 views
The 5 Ways Sailboats Actually Sink At Sea
Most people imagine a sailboat sinking in a violent storm, with waves crashing over the deck and the mast snapping in two. But the data tells a different story. Striking a submerged object is the leading cause of sinkings while underway, responsible for 40% of all cases . A broken prop shaft or strut comes next at 16%, followed by damaged below-waterline fittings at 16% . Here are the five ways sailboats actually sink at sea — and the numbers might surprise you.
11 Comments
I always close all of the very well installed sea valves before leaving the boat. I've seen some scary looking sea valve installations on other boats. That isn't a place to go cheap.
Nothing to break... Nothing to leak. The cockpit (for two) is small and self-draining through generous side drains above the waterline. (It clears in seconds.)
The deck is Aluminum and painted tan with a texture added to it for glare reduction. Fittings are welded to the hull. No penetrations.
It's almost like someone actually thought about all of the problems and took every precaution. I sail in foul weather with confidence. 360 degree self-righting.
When it gets really bad, I hove to with my helmet on, so I don't get knocked out when the ocean tosses my little boat like a rag doll.
The ocean is beautiful, but she does not suffer fools. Build for the absolute worst conditions imaginable and know that you will probably still be surprised.
Read "Storm Stories" and find every accident report you can read for small sailboats. Do the work. Learn the problems before they are thrust upon you at sea.
My naval architect modeled what would happen if I rammed a semi-submerged container at my hull speed. My little ship is built to tank that hit and keep sailing without damage.
The 5 Ways Sailboats Actually Sink At Sea
Wade Jones Sailing
7,085 views
The 5 Ways Sailboats Actually Sink At Sea
Most people imagine a sailboat sinking in a violent storm, with waves crashing over the deck and the mast snapping in two. But the data tells a different story. Striking a submerged object is the leading cause of sinkings while underway, responsible for 40% of all cases . A broken prop shaft or strut comes next at 16%, followed by damaged below-waterline fittings at 16% . Here are the five ways sailboats actually sink at sea — and the numbers might surprise you.