PREPARE

Before leaving the harbour, take the time to properly prepare yourself and your boat.

• Make a plan : Tell someone ashore what you’re doing, your intended route, and when you expect to be back.
• Check your vessel : Thoroughly inspect your boat, including fuel levels, engines, rigging, hull, electronics, bilge pumps, and any gas systems. Ensure all navigation lights and instruments are working correctly.
• Review forecasts : Obtain the latest weather forecasts, tide times, and tidal flows for your intended passage. The Channel Islands are known for strong tides.
• Know emergency procedures : Understand how to make a distress call and who to contact in an emergency (see Key Contacts below).
• Check Notices to Mariners : Always review the latest Navigation Warnings and Local Notices to Mariners (LNTMs) from Guernsey Harbours for any temporary hazards, operational changes, or specific instructions. These are available on the Guernsey Harbours website and often broadcast on VHF Channel 16/20.

PROVIDE

Make sure you have the right safety equipment on board.

• Lifejackets : Ensure you have serviced lifejackets for everyone aboard, correctly sized, and easily accessible.
• Reliable Communication : A marine VHF radio (preferably DSC capable) is essential – do not rely solely on a mobile phone as signal can be unreliable at sea.
• Emergency Flares : Carry in-date flares, stored safely and correctly. Know how to use them.
• Additional Safety Gear : Consider carrying fire extinguishers, a kill cord (for powerboats), an EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) or PLB (Personal Locator Beacon) registered to your vessel/person, and a well-stocked first aid kit.
• Navigation Equipment : Have updated electronic charts, and always carry paper charts as a backup.

PERFORM

Act responsibly and safely while on the water.

• Look after your crew : Ensure your passengers and crew are safe and briefed on emergency procedures, including how to make a distress call and man overboard recovery.
• Respect rules : Observe harbour and bay speed limits and other local bylaws. Be mindful of your wash and considerate of other vessels and water users, particularly in crowded areas.
• Stay sober : Never mix boating with alcohol or drugs, whether legal or otherwise.
• Maintain a Watch : Keep a vigilant lookout at all times, both visually and by radar/AIS if equipped.

In an Emergency

• VHF Channel 16 : This is the international distress, safety, and calling channel. Use it for immediate danger or distress calls.
• Distress Signals : Know the recognised distress signals (e.g., flares, flag signals, continuously sounding the fog horn).
• Mobile Phone : If in mobile range, you can dial 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.