Why this matters at command level
A survival craft is only valuable if it is launched at the right moment, in the right way, and managed effectively once waterborne. Poor timing — too early or too late — costs lives. The Master's role is not to operate the davit; it is to decide when, sequence the action, and ensure the craft and its people survive until rescue.
The launch decision
Do not launch prematurely. A survival craft in the water alongside a vessel in extremis is exposed to swamping, capsize, and striking the hull. Hold the order until abandon ship is unavoidable, but prepare early: crew at muster stations, craft prepared, painter or sea painter led forward, falls ready.
Before ordering launch, consider:
- Is the vessel still making way? Stop if possible to reduce suction effect and drift hazard.
- Wind and sea direction relative to the embarkation deck — board on the lee side where practicable.
- Degree of list — a list may make one side inaccessible; brief crew accordingly.
- Any fire, wreckage, or oil on the water in the path of launch.
Sequencing the launch
- Prepare: remove lashings, rig embarkation ladder, lead sea painter forward and inboard, brief crew on embarkation order (injured and non-swimmers first, designated coxswain and crew last to control boarding).
- Embark: embark before launching where davit-launched craft allows — safer than boarding at sea level.
- Lower: lower to embarkation deck or sea level on a weather/lee side assessment; maintain falls taut until full complement on board.
- Release: use the painter to keep the head up into wind or current; release falls when safe and clear.
- Clear the vessel: the primary imperative once waterborne is to get well clear — paddle or motor to at least two cable lengths minimum before the vessel sinks, to avoid being drawn under or struck by a capsizing hull.
Managing survival craft once waterborne
- Designate a coxswain and confirm command before launch.
- Muster all persons, account for head count against muster list.
- Activate EPIRB and SART/AIS-SART immediately if not already triggered.
- Stream the sea anchor to reduce drift and stabilise heading into swell.
- Preserve warmth: close entrances, maintain body heat, ration water from the outset (never ration food before water).
- Maintain a watch schedule; preserve pyrotechnics for confirmed sightings.
- Consider group rafting with other survival craft — provides mutual support, larger radar target, and shared resources.
Recovery of the rescue boat at sea
Recovery is often the most dangerous phase. The Master must:
- Manoeuvre the vessel to provide a lee for the rescue boat; approach angle, speed, and heading are the Master's call.
- Assign a dedicated deck officer to supervise recovery; keep non-essential personnel clear.
- Brief the crane/davit operator and boat crew on signals before departure.
- Monitor sea state continuously — abort and re-approach if conditions deteriorate between launch and recovery.
- Ensure the rescue boat is fully secured before resuming passage speed; personnel do not leave the boat until it is hooked on and weight transferred.
- Record the time and circumstances in the Official Log.