
SKIPPER RESPONSIBILITIES & EQUIPMENT LIST
Please review the below responsibilities of the captain and inform your crew. As a bareboat charterer, I understand that I'm in control and command of this vessel, regardless of who I've hired to help with local knowledge, navigation, and crewing. It is also my responsibility to review and operate all vessels in accordance with current safe boating laws.
PRE-SAIL SKIPPER RESPONSIBILITIES LIST
Pre-Sail & Post-Sail Checklists (Usage Reports)
Pre-Sail checklists are required to be submitted prior to leaving the dock and Post-Sail usage reports are required to be submitted immediately following your sail.
All issues must be reported directly to the Club upon return and noted in the usage report. Take and send photos to info@seattlesailing.com.
A QR code linked to the Pre-Sail and Post-Sail checklists (usage reports) is posted on the bulkhead or in the cabin of every boat. Both sections are required.
Repeated failure to submit usage reports may result in the suspension of member privileges. After 2 written reminders to submit a report (2 different sails), the Club will charge $25 per unsubmitted report.
Preparation & Safety Measures
- Check the weather forecast and West Point Buoy for the current wind speed.
- Review boat Quick Guides on the Member Resources Page (password: ssc2016!) or available by QR code on the boat.
- Every person on board is required by law to have a personal flotation device. Every boat is equipped with at least 4 orange Type II life jackets. Children under the age of 12 are required to wear a life jacket on-board at all times (including on the docks).
- In winds forecasted to be 15kts or above, prepare your reef before departure. Removing/re-rigging reef lines will result in a fee.
Sail Preparation & Guidelines
- Check-in with the office before every sail.
- Complete and submit the Pre-Sail Checklist.
- Inspect the boat for damage and report any issues before departing the dock.
- Verify that your crew's footwear has non-marking soles.
- Familiarize your crew with the location of all safety equipment and Crew Overboard Procedures.
- Encourage the wearing of life jackets, Children under 12 are required to wear them.
- Appoint a designated crew member as second in command in case of any unforeseen circumstances affecting the skipper.
- Remember that only Club members are allowed to maneuver in and out of slips/docks.
- Inform your crew about the proper operation of the head and emphasize that no paper products should be disposed of in the toilet. All paper waste should be placed in a waste bag and disposed of in the trash bin.
- Ensure that all hatches and windows are securely closed and fastened.
- Neatly coil the shore power cord and store it in the lazarette.
Post-Sail Guidelines
- Use at least 6 fenders, 3 to be set up on the port side and 3 to be set up on the starboard side at the widest beam and appropriate height for the dock and rafting.
- Use at least 4 dock lines - 1 bow, 1 forward spring, 1 aft spring, and 1 stern line. Attach the spring lines to the base of the shroud or mid-ship cleat if available. Physically check that the boat cannot strike the pier or another boat if the wind changes direction or increases. Never use other lines on the boat as dock lines.
- Return to the correct slip.
- Secure halyards, coil all lines.
- Raise the boom to avoid chafing on the dodger.
- Release backstay tension.
- Secure jib sheets with winches.
- Stow all gear in proper locations.
- Flush head to pump dry. Wipe seat and empty trash.
- Clean the cabin and wipe floorboards with wet paper towels.
- Remove trash bags from bins and dispose of all waste in the dumpsters and recycling bins.
- Stove: Turn off switch on panel and close valves on propane tank.
- Check that the auto-bilge pump switch is set to the AUTO position.
- Plug in the shore power cord, run the cord under the lifelines to the pedestal avoiding contact with the water.
- Switch the breaker to the on position (dockside). Turn on the battery charger on the AC panel (in the cabin). Check that the batteries are charging.
- Fall - Winter, each boat will have 1 electric heater and 1 dehumidifier on board. Before departing, unplug both, empty the dehumidifier and store both in a secure location. Before leaving the boat, plug both back in and turn on to the LOWEST setting. Set both on the floor (not on a settee) and aim away from any obstructions to minimize fire risk.
- Secure all hatches and port lights. Lock the boat.
- Wash the boat with dock hose, brush, and soapy water: hull, topsides, cockpit, jib furler, outboard, mast boot, and stainless steel (pulpits, stanchions, lifelines, turnbuckles, etc.) to remove corrosive salt.
- Clean anchor and chain, if used.
- Check dock lines to ensure that they are snug and properly tied to dock cleats.
- Finish and submit Post-Sail Checklist.
VESSEL RETURN: It is very important to return the vessel in the same condition and with all the inventory. Please secure the vessel using the checklist above to make sure that no charges are accrued.
SKIPPER REQUIRED EQUIPMENT
- Washington State Boater Education Card - Required for ALL members regardless of age or vessel horsepower.
- A copy must be on file before access to reservations is granted.
- Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): One PFD per person on board is a legal requirement in many places. Ensure they are in good condition and appropriately sized for each crew member. West Marine has 4 packs of PFDs which are stored in a bag and easy to carry along.
- Navigation Tools:
- Communication Devices:
- VHF Radio: A very high-frequency radio for communication with other vessels and emergency services.
- Cell Phone: Keep a waterproof case or bag to protect it from water.
- Safety Equipment:
- Emergency Whistle: A loud whistle for signaling in emergencies.
- Proper Clothing:
- Wear appropriate clothing for the conditions, including waterproof gear, a hat, and sunscreen.
RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT
- Boat US Towing Membership
- Extra clothing with crew members
- Gloves
- Proper sun protection
- Cruising guides
- Navigation Tools:
- Compass: A reliable compass for navigation.
- GPS: Global Positioning System for accurate navigation.
- Binoculars
- Multi-tool/knife
- Flashlight
- Logbook
Updated 4/1/2025