Sailing Pre-passage Checklist

Liveaboard bluewater cruising can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it also requires careful planning and preparation. A sailing pre-passage checklist is an essential tool for any sailor embarking on a voyage.

A checklist can ensure you have all the necessary equipment and supplies onboard, from safety gear and navigation tools to food and water. It can also help you stay organized and efficient, saving time and reducing stress. With a checklist, you can avoid the frustration of forgetting something essential or searching through your boat for a missing item.

But a sailing pre-passage checklist is more than just a practical tool.

It can also help you focus on the journey and enjoy the experience. By taking care of the logistical details before you set sail, you can free up mental energy and attention to fully appreciate the beauty and wonder of the open sea. In addition, with a sailing passage checklist, you can have the peace of mind that comes with being well-prepared, allowing you to relax and savor every moment of your live-aboard bluewater cruising adventure.

Sailing Pre-Passage Checklist (Excerpt taken from Checklists for Sailors)

Voyage preparation

Complete the passage plan
Brief any new crew or guests about the boat

For every engine and generator (sailing pre-passage checklist)

Water – check the water level
Oil – check the oil level
Batteries – ensure batteries are charged and are charging
Belt – make sure the tension is correct
Leaks – look for water, oil, or fuel leaks
Electrics – survey the engine area for any loose connections
Strainers – ensure all water strainers are devoid of debris
Visually inspect racors (fuel/water separator)

For ancillary systems below decks

Test the bilge pumps (automatic and manual)
Check the freshwater tank level
Check the fuel tank level
Note fridge temperature
Note freezer temperature
Check that the freezer water flow is good
Check that the air-con water flow is good
Look that the speed log and depth gauge transponder are fitted securely

Food and below deck tidying (sailing pre-passage checklist)

Prepare water for all crew and place it in the cockpit
Make meals, store them, and have them easily accessible
Put snacks and fruit in the cockpit in a secure location
Put barf bags in the cockpit
Ensure sunscreen is readily available
Place anti-slip mats on tables
Clean and stow all loose items in the boat
Remind guests to stow personal items in the cockpit (sunglasses, hats, phone)
Put logbook in the cockpit, fill out initial information, and update every 3 – 4 hours
Close hatches, windows, and cover vents

Above deck checks (working front to back)

Anchor has the lock pin in place and is secure (if not being used)
The Anchor locker is free from blockages, and snubber is removed (if being used)
Ensure pulpit rails are secure
Safety rails are secure
Deck cleats are clear
Foresail is secured correctly to the furler drum
Foresail sheets are properly attached and free to run and not chafed
Dorade vents are secured
Mast fittings, winches, boom gooseneck, and reefing controls are all working
All halyards are in good shape and secure
Inspect boom vang, boom, hydraulic lines, topping lift, and lazy jacks

To get this full customizable sailing pre-passage checklist including safety systems, after systems are turned on, leaving port, getting the sails out, making way, before arriving, and after the boat is secured on a dock/anchored/moored, get Checklists for Sailors.

Check Out Other Sailing, Maneuvering & Mooring Related Articles and Videos

To get an overview of all our sailing, maneuvering, and mooring-related articles and videos, start here: Sailing, Maneuvering & Mooring. Otherwise, check out one of these articles or videos:

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