Adapted from the foreword to the 4th edition, The Annapolis Book of Seamanship,

“The art of sailing, maneuvering, and preserving a ship or a boat in all positions and under all reasonable circumstances.” This classic definition of “seamanship” has guided the preparation of this book for 30 years through four editions. Much has changed in boats, sails, and electronics, but with the addition of these words, “and some unreasonable circumstances, too,” that definition is as valid and essential today as it was in 1983.

CCA Member John Jourdane sailed the 2008 Hobart Race on the Spencer 65, Ragtime.   He witnessed a successful rescue of all the crew off a sinking boat. The following is from John’s journal.: 

You're cruising with friends on inshore waters and are suddenly confronted with what has become known as “severe weather”, usually a line of discrete cells, any one of which is capable of producing straight line winds over 50 knots.  The cells we are talking about here will be visible in advance as black menacing clouds, usually coming from the west or southwest, giving enough lead time to undertake the suggestions below. It is assumed that not all of the crew are seasoned sailors.

You have been reaching along fast and you step below after a great watch on deck, and splash, your foot goes up to the ankle in water in your boat.  Oops, no one wants this scenario.  Like many other emergencies, water in the boat can be minimized by proper preparation and good habits. 

Other articles in our web pages deal with flooding and its consequences.  This one focuses on Prevention … minimizing the chance that water comes in the boat in the first place, 

Some preparation you can apply to minimize water in the boat.