How to succeed in stranding?

Unlike grounding, which is involuntary, beaching is a maneuver that allows you not to swing with the swell at anchor. Accessible to both sailboats and motorboats, this technique still requires certain rules to be respected.

At Set Sail, we are boat enthusiasts always fond of news navigation tips. We have therefore decided to provide you with some advice that will help you succeed in your stranding.

A few golden rules regarding stranding

1. Forecast according to the tide

Beaching necessarily involves the tide, so you must monitor the tide times before moving your bow towards the beach. Practicing waters without tidal range is not ideal for stranding in complete peace of mind. Having tide times and heights will make it easier for you to plan what time to land and especially what time to leave.

2. Be careful of tidal coefficients

The coefficients account for the amplitude of the tide and they change according to the phases of the moon .  But beware. if once the ship has landed the tide is not high enough to free the boat, you will be forced to wait for the next high tide to leave. The wait can last several days or even weeks if you are unlucky.

Avoid landing just outside the open sea or be sure of the increase in coefficients.

Your beaching must be practical

3. Check the weather forecast

Even if the wind is light when you land, anticipate the return conditions by monitoring the weather. You are not safe from the wind deciding to change or the sea starting to rise.

Without these precautions, you are at high risk of finding yourself trapped and exposed to the weather.

4. Choose the ideal location

If you decide to end up on a beach, try to know the area well because there is a greater risk of stranding on rocks than on a muddy bottom.

Also avoid places exposed to swell when the sea rises to avoid getting into difficulty when you return to sea.

5. Stern mooring is essential

Always plan for a double anchorage when you want to run aground. Even if you land correctly facing the sea, the wind may turn when the sea returns.

Thanks to the aft anchorage, you will benefit from good handling of the boat and you will have an easier time hauling yourself in the right direction when returning to sea.

Tip: the bucket before being dry

Once the tide goes out, there is no more water! But as you get on and off the boat, your cockpit will fill with silt. If you fill a bucket with water, you will use it to rinse your soles before boarding.

Don’t forget that Set Sail is at your service for the rental and rental management of catamarans and sailboats, in the entire Var region.