RNLI SeaCheck...any experiences

[stefan_r]

Had my SeaCheck done last week and happy enough.

Chap from RNLI was quite taken aback as he said they don't get many motor boats and definitely not many >40'.

The check itself was fairly benign and useful to have if just to make sure that the gear I have on board is right / enough / useful.

After the bloke left I started thinking though (trouble I know): what did this really achieve???? I've got lots of gear on board and boxes were ticked and the form filled in....fine. As engines are my only propulsion and the RNLI say the largest percentage of call outs (sail and Power) are from 'mechanical problems' one could assume that it would be beneficial to ensure that I actually knew how my engines worked as opposed to ahhhh I see you have engines, good, tick box...next item.

Don't get me wrong the check was useful and some valid points made - and it's FREE!!!!!! (not something you hear a lot of nowadays) BUT more time could have been taken in understanding if I knew how my engines worked / how to fix them / how often are they serviced and by whom / what's your procedure for going to sea / where do you get your weather information from etc etc as opposed to concentrating on how many lifejackets, is my anchor the right size, do you have a compass on board......

Even a cursory check for Day Skipper / Yachtmaster etc etc might be useful....along with a chat about how valuable these quals are could help.

Not having a moan but perhaps aligning the SeaCheck with actual call out statistics and the reasons for problems could give even more value to this FREE service (though as it's free only so much can be done AND it's voluntary so they mut be nice to you).


mailto: stefan@athito.com

 

[dickh]

I agree, I had my boat checked last year, (sorry, I'm a raggie) and I was surprised that they did not ask more detailed questions. It did throw up 3-4 points which I fixed last winter. In PBO or ST? they are doing a series of articles on SeaCheck and they seemed to be going into considerably more detail than on my visit. The trouble is that the people who will probably ask for SeaCheck are conscientus boaters and probably OK anyway, it's the others who don't think they need it who are the problem.

 

[Scubadoo]

Had my done about two years ago and found the opposite experience to you. He spent around 3hours and went through everything, then he went over my engine and explained quite a bit to me. He pointed out the usual problems on my particular engine and what to do to reprime fuel system etc, also pointed out a very important fuse for the trim - so got a spare as advised.

So all in all enjoyed the experience and felt it was well worth the effort. However I think it is down to the individual who performs the check - this chap seemed to enjoy explaining things and talking boats.

RM.

 

[dangcharios]

I have a Spanish regestered boat the certificate of navigation has to be renewed every 5 years to obtain this certificate the boat has to be out of the water so the hull can be inspected for damage and all other equipment checked Electrics Radio
Compass Fire Extinguishers Flares Lifejackets Fog Horn Signaling Mirrow Boat and Engine numbers. And you need the nessesary qualifacation before the boat can be regestered in your name This inspection costs near enough 150 quid You have it easy (dont knock it)

ALAN

 

[stamfordian]

I havn,t had this done but the port i,am moored in make it a stipulation,that all vessels putting to sea should be open to inspection by the harbour master who,s the cox of the lifeboat.Is this normal practice??

 

[gjgm]

As mentioned, I think RNLI have thought that prevention maybe better than cure, but again maybe its the safety minded who are likely to have the check anyway. Had one last summer, as the guys were on the slipway,just for a sportsboat, and we have all the relevant gear, so there were no issues. But I guess if they make one fool think before setting out with no safety equipment and needing a lifeboat, it must be worth it. What do they say it costs to run the charity, 250,000 per day ......