Rules and tips on how to stay safe at sea
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Do you have a dreamy vacation planned in the Mediterranean? Let’s talk about marine regulations before you cast off. Marine Vela gives you a reminder of safety rules at sea. Our skipper will give you the best sailing tips to help you enjoy a stress-free cruise.
1. Safety rules at sea: the essential
Here are the rules to follow for peaceful and safe sailing.
1.1 Know about marine weather
Going on a sea trip without finding out about the weather conditions beforehand can be useless and dangerous.
Before you leave, go on the Météo France website to check the marine weather. Your safety at sea depends on it!
Also, remember to check sea currents and potential dangers in your navigation area.
1.2. Plan on bringing appropriate equipment for a smooth sailing
If you are sailing on a vessel of less than 24 meters, you have to bring the required safety equipment, according to Division 240.
1.2.1 Different equipment depending on the navigation area
Did you know that there are four navigation areas? They can be distinguished by the number of miles that separates them from a shelter (ability to dock or to anchor securely). You can use the following table as a reminder.
Navigation area | Distance between navigation area and shelter |
Basic | 2 miles |
Coastal | 6 miles |
Semi-offshore | between 6 miles and 60 miles |
Offshore | Over 60 miles |
For each area, it is important to check that:
- Your equipment follows the requirements.
- Your boat is in good condition.
Here is a reminder of the required equipment for sailing a boat in a coastal area.
1.2.2. The mandatory equipment for boats
Here is the mandatory safety equipment to have on your pleasure boat:
- Life jackets (they have to fit the size of every passenger) ;
- Flashlight or any other luminous device with a long runtime (at least 6 hours) ;
- Towing solution ;
- A national flag, if you are sailing out of territorial waters ;
- Tide and current tables ;
- Marine rescue equipment.
Of course, the boat captain has to check that the equipment is there before casting off.
In case of danger, the boat captain takes responsibility for the solution.
Relax! When you are leaving with Marine Vela on a catamaran for a cruise around Corsica, your skipper will take care of everything. You just have to sit back and enjoy the experience! Fall asleep to the flow of the waves. Watch the cetaceans peacefully.
Some safe practices have to be observed at sea. We will tell you more below.
2. Some tips for optimal safety at sea
Here is some advice to enjoy your sea trip safely on your pleasure boat.
2.1. Follow the ship regulations
Your sailing boat or ship has a maximum number of passengers allowed onboard. Follow this recommendation if you want to sail legally.
Are you leaving onboard a Marine Vela catamaran, Sérénité, Éternité or Liberté ? With us, you are certain to sail on a boat that fits the size of your group.
2.2. Sail safely
Are you sailing solo? Here is some advice:
- Check that the boat works properly ;
- Get familiar with local regulations ;
- Notify a friend or family member of your whereabouts.
Keep the phone number of the Regional Operating Surveillance and Rescue Centres. It could be of good use!
2.3. Follow the rules for every water sport
To avoid putting yourself in danger, safety regulations have to be observed, as well as precautions of use, for every water sport. Here are some examples:
- Do you enjoy scuba diving? Avoid exploring the seabeds alone. Do not dive without proper training. As a reminder, diving without training is forbidden.
- Want to do some paddle boarding? This activity is only allowed in designated areas.
Marine Vela skippers know the best spots in Corsica to enjoy these activities safely. They will even anchor in the most dreamy places!
2.4. Keep an eye on your children
It may sound obvious, but we wanted to remind you of the importance of keeping your children in sight at all times!
Stay cautious, as the sun can be dangerous. A sunstroke can happen quickly. And it could ruin your sailing trip. Remember to put on appropriate life jackets for your children when they want to enjoy water activities.
Alternate activities on land and activities at sea to fill your days and to give them the opportunity to unwind.
2.5. Protect marine ecosystems
Like us, you are probably worried about protecting the environment. During your sea trip, learn these simple habits:
- Separate waste onboard.
- Get rid of waste whenever you are back on land.
We are also committed to marine ecosystem conservation. In that sense, our fleet is equipped with solar panels and a desalinator, for example.
Our sailing company is also working with Greg Lecoeur during his naturalist expeditions to learn more about marine wildlife.
Now, you know all about safety rules and the tips to follow at sea. If you can remember them, you will have a safe and amazing time during your next cruise.
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