Going aground is probably part of every mariner's career. Human factors predominately cause groundings. Even experienced sailors unexpectedly find charted rocks or misplay the ebb of tides. You can be assured that a personal experience with running aground with be documented for posterity with a nearby camera.
Sailors should think ahead about the possibility of grounding. Some regions were boaters routinely transverse river deltas and tidal flats learn a little quickly about contact with the ground than the rest of us. A little preparation now will save heartache and financial woes later.
Immediate Procedures - The first reaction for most of use that have run aground is to immediately shift to reverse and try to power off the shore. There are implicit dangers in taking this action. Engine intakes may ingest mud or vegetation that can shut you down later and possibly under less understanding circumstances. Unseen objects in shallow water can easily damage the propeller.
Most importantly, the hull could have suffered damage in the grounding and returning to deeper water may not be a good ideal. Take time to assess your situation before taking hasty action. Be sure everyone is wearing a personal flotation device (PFD). Inspect the hull and check for incoming water. Assess the water depth in front and behind you, the wind and current conditions and state of the tide. Having a dingy along can greatly assist in this investigation.
Damage to the Boat - If you find damage after completing your initial inspection, take action to secure the boat and control the damage. It may be wise to set an anchor to prevent further movement of the vessel. A damage control kit is easy to assemble and carry along on the boat. Even if you are not in immediate danger, contact the Coast Guard and alert them about your situation. The key is not to cause additional damage to your boat or place passengers at risk while trying to resolve a grounding. Calling for professional assistance is often the least expensive option in the long term.
Grounding Hints - Freeing your vessel will depends on its unique circumstances
- Many boaters operate in areas influenced by the tides. If the tide is rising, anchor in the direction of wind and current to prevent further movement inshore and let the tide float you free
- In situations were the tide is running out quickly on you, ensure the hull is well supported and being pushed against sharp rocks. You may need to provide cushions to prevent damage. Take time to inspect the hull while waiting for the water to return
- If you are not hard aground, you may be able to push the boat off by yourself
- Reduce weight and draft. Gear can be moved to shore or loaded on a dingy or assisting vessel. Fresh water tanks can be emptied
- Sometimes you can use a kedge anchor to pull you free. Using a dingy, set an anchor out in deep water and winch your boat towards it.
- Boats can successfully be towed out of trouble by another vessel. This is your riskiest option. Be sure the good Samaritan helping isn't the next grounding victim. The deck fittings on most recreational boats aren't well secured and backed, unable to withstand a strong pull. Lines under tension can part unexpectedly with fatal results. Avoid standing near a line under tension, especially at its ends
- Sometimes if a grounded boat is on a sandy bottom, having another vessel run by and rock it with a wake with help free it
Consider joining a commercial towing service like that provided by BoatU.S. Annual cost is minimal and the potential assistance invaluable.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
