What Emergency and Safety Equipment Do You Need on Your Yacht?

An emergency boating kit should be on board with you at all times. All boaters know that nothing can be more relaxing than a day on the water, whether it’s an early morning fishing trip, an afternoon of sightseeing or a multi-day boat trip. After all, there’s nothing like the feel of the sea air on your face as you enjoy leisure time on your yacht or sailing boat.

However, experienced boaters also know that things can go wrong quickly; so it’s important to be prepared with the boat safety equipment and tools you might need in an unexpected incident.

Having a comprehensive boating emergency kit onboard your vessel will provide reassurance and practical assistance should anything unexpected happen such as:

• Someone falling overboard
• A sick or injured passenger
• A collision with another boat or stationery item like a rock
• Your boat suffers a mechanical failure

What Do I Need in My Boat Emergency Kit?

There are some essential items that all marine emergency kits should contain. Transport Canada does require all boats to carry certain safety and emergency equipment which depends on the size of the vessel.

 

This includes:

• Lifesaving appliances such as PFDs and flotation devices
• Visual signals
• Navigation equipment
• Firefighting equipment

Find out what your specific vessel is required to carry by checking out the safe boating guide on the Transport Canada website.

What Do the Best Boating Emergency Kits Include?

 

When putting together your boating emergency kit, consider what you will need in each of the following categories:

• Survival gear
• Signaling equipment
• Navigation tools
• Safety gear
• First Aid kit

Survival Gear: This is the equipment that will help you to survive should you or a passenger end up in the water and includes:

Flotation Devices: Life-jackets save lives in Canadian waters every year. Make sure you have enough lifejackets or PFDs for each person on board.  It is important that these fit well and meet Canadian standards.Check out this guide to choosing a lifejacket for more information.

Throwable Flotation Devices: All vessels over 9m long need to carry a lifebuoy attached to a buoyant line and a separate buoyant heaving line. You may also wish to include some throw cushions for extra options.

Signaling Tools

If you have an emergency on your personal watercraft you may need to get the attention of the coast guard or another vessel to help you. The best way to do this is to be highly visible and make a lot of noise:

 

Visual Distress Signals: Make sure your boat meets the requirements for day and night lights to ensure you are as visible as possible. Also carry at least one waterproof flashlight and flares, including light and smoke flares, as well as bright flags.

Sound Distress Signals: Make sure your horn and bell on your vessel are working and you know the international emergency sound signals. Also consider carrying an air horn and whistles for additional attention especially if you have to abandon ship and enter the water.

VHF Radio: Have a fitted or handheld VHF radio onboard which enables you to contact other nearby vessels and the coast guard. Learn and write down the emergency broadcast frequency in case you need it. Read about some of the best boat electronics on the market.

Navigation Tools

Knowing where you are and what is around you is important if you are in an emergency situation. 

Manual Navigation: Always carry a magnetic compass, charts and ruler so you can manually chart and track your location. Learn about the basics of marine navigation.

Electronic Navigation: Many boats have built-in GPS trackers which are useful for establishing your location. Radar systems will also help you to identify what is around you and whether another vessel is in your area. Both are available in portable versions if you do not have them built into your boat.

Emergency Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) which send out GPS distress signals when activated, can be a good way to keep track of someone who goes overboard.

Safety Gear

 

For general onboard safety, you should also include some of the following equipment in your boating emergency kit:

• Fire extinguishers
• Additional food and water
• Manual bilge pump or bailing device
• Small tool kit
• Weather gear including raincoats or ponchos, a warm jacket, sunscreen and sun hat
• Dry change of clothes
• Waterproof matches
• Knife sharp enough to cut rope
• Batteries
• Portable fuel tanks

First Aid Kit

Health emergencies can happen onboard a boat, some – such as nausea – are less serious but can ruin the enjoyment of the trip. Other health emergencies can be more serious.

Carrying a comprehensive first aid kit on board means you have the ability to help whatever the circumstances. Boat owners may wish to consider taking a first aid course through Canadian Red Cross or another recognized organization.

A good first aid kit should include:

• Gauze, bandages and waterproof band-aids
• Adhesive tape
• Gloves
• Scissors
• Antiseptic
• Pain relievers
• Tweezers
• Anti-histamines
• Anti-nausea medication
• Sunscreen
• Spare prescription medications
• Emergency blankets

Where Should I Store My Marine Emergency Kit?

The majority of your emergency kit can be stored together in a large waterproof container. Make sure the container is in an easily accessible position, not in the back of a storage hold or underneath other boxes, as you might need to get at it in a hurry.

Check your emergency kit and equipment each time you sail. Replace anything that is running low or past its use-by date.

Van Isle Marina – A Safe and Secure Place to Anchor Up 

Van Isle Marina, located in Sidney, BC, is one of the province’s largest full-service marinas. Our location makes us a great starting and finishing point for short or longer boating adventures. We offer short-stay, monthly and annual moorage options and offer first-class amenities including a marine fuel dock, boat haul-out and even a restaurant. 

You can store your emergency kit equipment and other personal items you don’t want to leave on your yacht in our secure, heated storage lockers. Visit us today in Tsehum Harbour or contact us to find out more about our marina and moorage options.

 

How to be an Environmentally Friendly Boater

 

For boating enthusiasts, simply being on the water brings us joy. However, with that pleasure comes the responsibility to protect the marine environment and preserve it for generations to come. 

The good news is, adopting green boating habits isn’t difficult. Just like the simple steps you’ve taken to be more environmentally friendly on land, green boating can be achieved by making a few changes to your usual routine.

Does Sailing Cause Pollution?

It’s important to recognize that what we do in and with our boats has an impact on aquatic environments. 

Over 700,000 boats sail in the British Columbia waters each year and each of them has the potential to cause environmental damage through:

• Sewage and grey water dumping: which can pollute our food sources
• Fuel and oil spillages: half a litre of oil can produce a slick one acre in size
• Garbage pollution: plastic and other garbage is often dumped overboard
• Gas emissions from engines: older vessels can discharge up to 25% of their fuel directly into the water
• Chemical pollution from cleaning products and paint: cause harmful algae blooms and poison sea-life

The good news is, there’s lots you can do to be a greener boater – and if everyone takes a few small steps it will make a big difference to the health of our marine environment.

How to be a Green Boater

Protecting the marine environment and practicing sustainable boating does require some effort. Use the green boating tips below to get started:

1. Prevent Oil Spills

 

• Practice Safe Fuelling – fuelling spillages cause much of the oil pollution in our waters. To prevent drips, use an absorbent bib or collar. Fill your tank slowly to a maximum 90 percent full to allow for expansion. Regularly check your tank and lines for damage.
• Keep your bilge clean – spilled oil, fuel and other toxic liquids build up in your vessel’s bilge area and can spill into the ocean. Use absorbent pads and pump-out into a designated bilge pumping tank when required. 

If you have an oil or fuel spill, notify the marina or the coast guard immediately, no matter how small it seems.

2. Stop Pollution

• Dispose of sewage and untreated water safely– black and gray water contains pollutants and soap residues which can impact water quality, poison marine life and encourage algae growth. In Canada, it is illegal to dump sewage within 3 nautical miles from shore.
• Bring your general waste back – Over 17 billion lbs of plastic enters our oceans each year. Do your part in reducing plastic pollution by bringing all of your garbage back to the dock. 

Use designated sewage pump stations, garbage and recycling facilities at your marina to dispose of waste products. The Georgia Straight Alliance’s Green Boating Guide contains a list of marinas with designated sewerage pumping facilities around Vancouver Island and the southern BC coastlines – including Van Isle Marina in Sidney.

• Use Non-Toxic cleaning products – phosphorus and nitrogen in some cleaning products may dissolve grime, but they damage the marine ecosystem. Clean your yacht regularly with fresh water to prevent dirt build-up; research eco-friendly cleaning products (or make your own) and follow the dilution instructions.
• Choose non-toxic Bottom Paint – copper in bottom paint leaches toxins into water as it dissolves. Aluminum-based paint is one more eco-friendly option.

3. Reduce your environmental impact

• Reduce fuel use – reduce your speed, don’t idle and consider upgrading your engine. You’ll use
  less fuel which reduces pollution and saves money too.
• Have a regular maintenance routine – tuning up your engine will increase efficiency and catch issues before they can cause environmental damage. Remember to do maintenance on dry land to prevent leakage into water.
• Upgrade your engine for lower emissions – traditional 2-stroke engines lose up to 25% of unburned fuel directly into the water. Change to a Direct Fuel Injection, a 4-stroke or an electric engine to reduce fuel loss, reduce pollution and save in gas costs.

4. Make the switch to renewable energy

Boating enthusiasts and manufacturers are at the forefront of finding ways that renewable energy technologies can reduce the environmental impact of boating. 

Instead of idling your engine to charge electrical items on board, consider generating your own electricity by installing renewable energy technology such as: 

• stand-alone solar panel
• wind generator 
• water generator 

Check out Sailors for the Sea’s Green Boating guide for more comprehensive advice on environmentally friendly sailing.

The Future of Green Boating

Imagine taking a ride on a boat which is almost silent, doesn’t vibrate with engine rumbles and produces no emissions. These things are possible thanks to rapidly developing electrical engine technology including:

• Electric outboard motors – these motors are charged via electrical hookup in dock and can provide the speeds and longevity most boaters require.
• Hybrid Vessels – these vessels combine a traditional combustion engine with an electrical engine, providing the ability to reduce environmental impact while retaining the reassurance of a traditional engine if needed. High performing boats are increasingly being powered this way including superyachts.
• Solar powered boats – solar panels are used by many boaters to power onboard equipment, but new technological advances mean boat builders are now able to design vessels entirely powered by the sun!

Van Isle Marina Supports Environmentally Friendly Boating

Recognizing that what we do in our boats can impact the waters we love sailing on, Van Isle Marina is proud to offer services to support environmentally friendly boating. Located in Sidney, BC, the marina has a full service haul-out facility to enable out-of-water cleaning and maintenance. Power washing and bottom painting facilities and services are offered, along with ground sheets to prevent waste leakage.

Our state of the art fuel dock includes a holding tank pump-out to prevent oil spillage and we offer a sewage pump as well as complete garbage and recycling facilities on site. Considering an upgrade to a more environmentally friendly yacht? Contact our sales team today.

A Quick Pre-Trip Checklist for Your Boat

Before you head out onto the water, it’s important to complete a short boat launch checklist prior to every launch. This ensures you have everything you need and your boat is ready for a day at sea. This pre-departure check is similar to what you’d do when checking over your car or truck before a short trip. This whole checklist should take no longer than 20 minutes if everything is ready to go from your last launch.

Trailer
If you’re trailering your boat back to the water, it’s a good idea to give the trailer itself a quick check

• Check trailer tires for pressure and refill if needed
• Check tongue latch and coupling
• Check trailer brake fluid level
• Check trailer lights and replace as needed
• Check the padding and rollers

 

Documents
Before heading out, make sure all your important documents are on board

• Check for boaters’ license
• Check for ship’s papers
• Check for fishing licenses on board
• Put any required documents on display
• Have your wallet on hand with credit card and ID info

Safety Equipment and Gear
Up-to-date safety equipment is so important for fun and safety on the water. Safety inspections are always available with the Canadian Power and Sail Squadron (CPS-ECP)

• Check flares for expiry dates
• Check lifejackets and make sure there are enough for everyone on board
• Check radio to make sure it works. Replace batteries or charge if needed
• Check fire and carbon monoxide detectors
• Check fire extinguishers

Navigation
Navigation equipment should be checked and properly calibrated before every single trip, even just a short trip

• Check the navigation lights
• Check the compass to make sure it’s properly calibrated
• Ensure you have all necessary maps and charts
• Check the GPS and make sure it’s working

Anchors, Lines and Ropes
All mooring and anchoring equipment should be clean and easy to reach

• Is anchor securely fastened with proper knots?
• Is there any damage to the anchor?
• Make sure there’s enough line to be able to easily throw out anchor and moor 
• Make sure there is extra line in case of emergency
• Check the knots in the line
• Check for any damage to the line

 

Engine and Fuel System
The heart of your boat, you won’t get very far without the engine! If you notice any strange noises or smoke, contact a boat mechanic for assistance

• Fill fuel tank
• Run the engine and listen for any trouble
• Check fuel lines for any leaks or damage
• Check that all fittings are tightened
• Check that exhaust, engine and ventilation systems are in good shape
• Run the engine and check for smoke
• Check transom mounts (outboard)

Fluid Levels
Topped-up fluids will keep your steering system and engine working hard. Always check and top up your boat’s fluids

• Check coolant
• Check engine oil
• Check power steering fluid
• Check power trim reservoirs
• Check coolant levels

 

Electrical
As boaters, we rely heavily on electrical equipment for a safe and comfortable experience. Take a few minutes to check each of the electrical components.

• Check all connections for corrosion and cleanliness
• Remove battery terminals, clean connections with wire brush
• Check the battery is charged. Replace if needed
• Test the generator on full tilt
• Check interior and exterior lights
• Check navigational equipment (GPS)
• Check electrical box
• Check HVAC and / or air conditioner while running on hot and cold

Bilge
Always check to make sure the bilge is in good shape and the drain plug is secure.

• Make sure the bilge is drained of excess water and free of fumes
• Check for any plugged intakes
• Check to make sure the bilge pump is working
• Check to make sure a spare drain plug is on board

 

Lights
Check all interior and exterior lights to make sure you’ll never be left in the dark

• Check safety lights 
• Check lights in cabin and head (if applicable)
• Double-check navigation lights and emergency lights
• Check lights in livewells

 

Propeller
If you see any marks or chips, this could affect your propeller’s performance.  If in doubt, talk to a pro about repair or replacement

• Check all propellers for any damage
• Make sure propellers are secure and replace bearings if needed

 

Interior
The cabin is your home away from home, particularly on multi-day trips. Take a few minutes to check lighting, appliances and water, to ensure a relaxing trip

• Check for water pressure and quality
• Check for leaks in fridge
• Check temperature in fridge / freezer
• Test the appliances
• Check TV, speakers and any other extras

 

At Van Isle Marina, we offer moorage with annual, monthly and guest options. Conveniently located in sunny Sidney, BC, moorage with us is just moments from countless destinations. With amenities like storage locker, car parking, and a full-service marine fueling station and dock store, you’ll find everything you could need to outfit your boat and get ready for your trip. Come and see us, or request services/moorage information today.

Cruising, Fishing and Anchorages in The Barkley Sound

For any boater who is also into fishing, kayaking and exploring, Barkley Sound on the West Coast of Vancouver Island is a must-see.

 

Barkley Sound is an 800 square km area between Bamfield and Ucluelet, including the entrance to the Alberni inlet. Set within the Pacific Rim National Park area, it’s a popular tourist destination thanks to its top-class fishing opportunities, hundreds of islands to explore and friendly, small communities to visit. 

Boaters can cruise the area, exploring islands, inlets and nooks, diving or fishing for salmon and halibut.  

To access the Barkley Sound area, the best options for putting in are Ucluelet, Bamfield Inlet or even Port Alberni. Keep in mind that setting off from Port Alberni is a much longer route, requiring a 60km sail down the Alberni Inlet to reach the Barkley Sound. 

There are numerous options for moorage throughout the Barkley Sound, although many boaters prefer the freedom of anchoring up amongst the islands and exploring from there by dinghy or kayak.

Things To Do In Barkley Sound 

Explore the Broken Group Islands

The Broken Group Islands, situated to the southeast of Ucluelet, is made of numerous small islands, channels and inlets which are just begging to be explored. Very popular with kayakers who participate in multi-day paddles in the area, the waters can definitely get busy in the summer. 

The best way to explore the Broken Group Islands is to anchor up and take a dinghy or kayak around and between the islands where you can investigate coves. You can also pull up onto one of many sandy beaches for a secluded picnic.

The bay at Turtle Island provides sheltered water to anchor up before settling down to watch a spectacular sunset.

Effingham Bay, on Effingham Island, one of the largest islands in the Broken Group, is considered to have the best big boat anchorage in the area. The southeast corner of the bay is well protected, except during periods of strong westerly winds. Effingham is an interesting island to explore, with beaches, remains of a village and a sea cave on the island’s east side.

 

Find the waterfall at Lucky Creek

Lucky Creek is a 3km long river with a waterfall at its endpoint. Located east of Refuge Island, Lucky Creek is tidal and can be impassible at low tide, so make sure you check the tide times before heading upriver in your dinghy. When you reach the end of the creek, a short climb over some rocks reveals the waterfall and bathing pools, if you are brave enough to face the cool water.

Watch Marine Wildlife

 

Marine wildlife is abundant in the Barkley Sound. The ocean itself teems with orcas, humpback whales, the imperial eagle porpoises, sea lions, seals and sea otters, many of which you’ll encounter while cruising the waters around the islands.

On the coast, you may see black bears roaming the shoreline depending on the time of year, and don’t forget to look up to sight the majestic bald eagles, which are as attracted by the fish in the area as humans are.

If you are lucky enough to spot a whale while sailing around Vancouver Island, remember to follow the regulations regarding safe marine mammal viewing.

 

Fishing in Barkley Sound

Barkley Sound is a fishing lover’s dream. Year-round, salmon, halibut and lingcod fishing draws anglers from far and wide to come and make their big catch of the day. There are a number of fishing charters and lodges in the area that can guide you to the prime fishing grounds and even prepare your catch afterwards.

Moorage Sites in Barkley Sound

If anchoring up around one of the many islands in Barkley sound isn’t for you, or you are looking for some other services where you moor, consider some of these options:

• Island West Resort in Ucluelet offers short term moorage options as well as fishing charters and has a pub onsite.
• Mills Landing Cottages and Charters in Bamfield offers more than just moorage. For those interested in fishing, Mills Landing can supply everything you need from bait to a cleaning station and their guides can even point you to the best fishing spots. Wildlife viewing tours are also available here if you want to take a break from sailing for a day.
• Barkley Sound Lodge located in a secluded inlet in the centre of the Sound, offers a chance to anchor in true wilderness, yet still experience a modern and elegant resort. Enjoy a night off the water with one of their packages including lodge accommodation, fishing excursions and meals.
• Poet Nook Marina which is situated north east of Bamfield, near the Alberni Inlet entrance, is a 140 vessel, state of the art marina, which makes a great base for exploring the sound.

Explore Barkley Sound in a Brand New Boat From Van Isle Marina

Barkley Sound is just one of many incredible places to explore and enjoy nature at its finest. Looking for the perfect boat to make your adventure travel dreams come true? Van Isle Marina is the exclusive dealer in western Canada for world-class Pursuit Boats. Something different in mind? Our sales brokers will work closely with you to understand your specific needs and budget and find you the perfect new or used boat. Take a peek at some of the current sales listings and contact us to set up a viewing appointment today.

If you’re trading up, you can keep it simple by relying on Van Isle Marina’s team to market your boat for sale. National and International buyers are attracted to our unparalleled marina, which offers short and long moorage options in our 500 berths near sunny Sidney, BC.

Spring Maintenance Checklist for Your Boat

 

Spring is here and you’re more than ready to get back out on the water. There are a few key things you’re going to need to take care of first though, to make sure that your boat is ready for the inaugural trip. Not only will properly de-winterizing your boat ensure that everything’s in good working order, it will help extend the life of the boat.

If your boat has been in dry storage for the winter, it’s a good idea to check your trailer first. This 10-minute check will let you move your boat back to the water with confidence. Most importantly, check the renewal date for your boating and fishing / crabbing licenses and make sure any required decals are easily visible.

Trailer

To safely transport your boat back to the water, the trailer and tires need to be road-ready.

• Check trailer tires for pressure, any cracking, or inadequate tread. Replace tires if they’re older than 3-5 years.
• Check tongue latch and coupling
• Check trailer brake fluid level
• Check trailer lights and replace as needed
• Test the rollers
• Check the padding where the hull rests

Anchors, Lines and Ropes

All mooring and anchoring equipment should be clean and ready to go. It’s always a good idea to purchase new line before the start of the season.

• Check that you have enough rope to launch and tie your boat
• Check that you have enough rope to secure your boat in at least two areas
• Check all knots for anchors and hardware
• Check for any damaged or tangled line or rope
• Make sure any bumpers are in the boat

Belts, Cables and Hoses

Check for wear and tear and consult a boat mechanic if you have any concerns.

• Check for cracks and brittle areas
• Check for wear on belts
• Check the outer layer of control cables. Any cracking or swelling can be signs of a problem

Electrical

As boaters, we rely heavily on electrical equipment for a safe and comfortable experience. Go through each of the electrical components on your boat to make sure everything’s in good working order.

• Check all connections for corrosion and cleanliness
• Remove battery terminals, clean connections with wire brush
• Check the battery is charged. Replace if needed
• Test the generator on full tilt
• Check interior and exterior lights
• Check navigational equipment (GPS)
• Check electrical box
• Check HVAC or air conditioner on hot and cold

Engine and Fuel System

The heart of your boat, you won’t get very far without the engine! We recommend a regular inspection by a trained boat technician, ideally at the start and end of the boating season.

• Check transom mounts (outboard)
• Check for any smoke
• Check transmission
• Check levers on every seacock
• Check raw water intake and strainer
• Inspect connections, hoses and tanks for damage or leaks
• Replace spark plugs and other components as needed
• Check that all clamps and fittings are tight
• Check that exhaust, engine and ventilation systems are working well

Fluid Levels

Topped-up fluids will keep your engine and steering column going strong. Replace any expired fluids and top up everything else as needed.

• Check coolant
• Check engine oil
• Check power steering fluid
• Check power trim reservoirs
• Check coolant levels
• Change engine oil, filter and drive lubricants as needed

Hull and Exterior

The key to prolonging the life of your boat, the hull should be kept clean and waxed, with any damage taken care of right away.

• Check hull for blisters, distortions and cracks
• Clean the hull, deck and topsides
• Check that the drain plug is secure *Put a backup drain plug somewhere safe on board
• Check for cracks or damage around fittings
• Check for damage on or around the hatches
• Check upholstery for any mold / mildew / tears
• Check the livewells

Interior

The living space and head are a cozy place to crash at the end of a busy day of fishing and water sports. Take a few minutes to check lighting, appliances and water, to avoid any unpleasant surprises.

• Check for water pressure and quality
• Check for damage to doors and portholes
• Check lights and switches
• Check for leaks in fridge
• Check temperature in fridge / freezer
• Test the appliances
• Check lights and switches
• Check TV, speakers and any other extras

Propeller

A damaged propeller can’t work as efficiently as an undamaged one. If you see any marks or chips / dings that are concerning, talk to a pro about repair or replacement.

• Check propellers for any damage
• Make sure propeller is secure and replace bearings if needed

Safety Equipment and Gear

Up-to-date safety equipment is a huge part of any vessel. We recommend booking a safety inspection by the Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons (CPS-ECP) if available.

• Check the flares
• Check marine radio
• Check condition of heaving line and lifebuoy(s)
• Check condition of first aid kit
• Check life jackets and replace any expired jackets
• Check the fire extinguishers. Replace if expired
• Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Replace batteries

Water System

For washing up and drinking, clean water is essential.

• If you added antifreeze, flush it out now
• Empty the grey and black tanks
• Refill the fresh-water tank

Clean the Boat

Give your boat a good spring clean to get it off to the best possible start this season.

• Clean the hull, scrubbing away any rusty spots or fuel drips
• Scrub any areas where mold may have started over the winter
• Clean the carpets and vacuum any debris
• Wash the windows
• Disinfect hard and soft surfaces using a gentle spray solution
• Spray a fabric protector on any vinyl to block harsh UV light

At Van Isle Marina, we offer moorage with annual, monthly and guest options. Conveniently located in sunny Sidney, BC on the Haro Strait, we’re just a quick cruise away from a variety of fantastic destinations. With amenities like storage lockers, car parking, and a full-service marine fueling station and dock store, you’ll find everything you could need to start and end your trip. Are you as excited for the summer boating season as we are? Come down and see us, or request services/moorage information by calling (250) 656-1138 or via email.