Liferaft Advice Please

[prv]

Not sure that this is generic advice, placing a cannister on the deck maybe ok for coastal cruising but for ocean crossings, where there is a chance of a big wave over the deck, pushpit in a purpose built frame is the place to put it.

By "on deck" I meant anywhere above the deck, as opposed to in a locker or the cabin, so would include a pushpit mount in that. I'm certainly well aware of the possibility of having a cradle on the coachroof ripped off, but I'm not sure that the pushpit option is really much better - it's a bit more sheltered from waves when going upwind, but it also stands the raft up like a sail to catch maximum water and hence maximum force. Also harder to secure it really firmly to the boat, compared to hugging the deck with substantial well-backed ringbolts either side to lash it to.

Better is still a dedicated locker - it could easily include scope for hydrostatic release if required - and it's a pity more boats aren't built with them.

Pete

 

[ChrisE]

By "on deck" I meant anywhere above the deck, as opposed to in a locker or the cabin, so would include a pushpit mount in that. I'm certainly well aware of the possibility of having a cradle on the coachroof ripped off, but I'm not sure that the pushpit option is really much better - it's a bit more sheltered from waves when going upwind, but it also stands the raft up like a sail to catch maximum water and hence maximum force. Also harder to secure it really firmly to the boat, compared to hugging the deck with substantial well-backed ringbolts either side to lash it to.

Better is still a dedicated locker - it could easily include scope for hydrostatic release if required - and it's a pity more boats aren't built with them.

Pete

Oh well, we'll just have to disagree about pushpits then. I agree tho' that a dedicated locker is a good idea.

 

[Pete7]

Pete, whats the valise made of? Is it reasonable tough? Would it be showerproof if on deck whilst at sea?

The valise is some sort of very heavy duty yellow plastic stuff. If it was getting nasty or we ended up sailing in fog, I would have no qualms about keeping it in the cockpit for the voyage.
Deffinately showerproof, but perhaps a long wet passage to windward might eventually cause saltwater to work past the velcro.

The great thing is the weight, you are more likely to move it around as conditions vary if it can easily be moved.

Pete

 

[sailor211]

Pete, whats the valise made of? Is it reasonable tough? Would it be showerproof if on deck whilst at sea?

My RFD Valise, is vacuumed packed and is waterproof, It can live on deck and get as wet as you want. No problems shown on the service. Do not know the make mentioned. Only problem with Valise is walking over them. Although plastic box on previous LR cracked and raft suffered water damage!!
I have had stored it in the top of the locker and in the cockpit, as long as it is easy to grab if the need arises.