Checklist for Leaving the Boat - follow up

[Sherry]

I started a thread a few weeks back about things to do before leaving the boat for a few days or weeks. I got some great responses from several folks. I have compiled everything into one big check list. It's in an excel spreadsheet. I grouped it by 'systems' - electrical, plumbing, cabin, cockpit/sails, etc. But it may actually need to be put in order of when the task should be performed, as some of the things are dependent on others being done first in the list. I tried to include every step you guys recommended. Not all items apply to every boat, so you can just cut out the things you don't need.I can't post the spreadsheet as an attachment to this post, so I will copy it below. You can probably cut and paste the text into your own spreadsheet or word doc. If you would like the spreadsheet, drop me an email, and I'll send it to you. If can't get it, or if you can't manage an excel spreadsheet, send me an email, and I'll find a way to get it to you - as a pdf or word doc or something.Please offer additional suggestions/critiques/ideas. This is a work in progress!!swhitten@midsouth.rr.comElectricalTurn all DC off.Turn AC Main switch on.Turn AC Battery Charger switch on.Confirm that dock breaker is on.PlumbingPump out head holding tank.Fill water tank.Close water tank supply cocks.Close galley sink seacock.Close head sink seacock.Close engine raw water intake - aft berth, port side.Close head raw water intake - aft berth, starboard, aft.Confirm head pump out is closed - aft berth, starboard, forward.Check hose clamps on sea cocks.De-pressure fresh water system.Flush fresh water and 1 cup vinegar thru the head.Put engine key on engine raw water intake seacock.Pull out the knot meter paddle wheel.Cockpit / SailsClean out pedestal pockets. Stow everything inside.Stow winch handle.Stow boat hook.Remove and stow chip from chart plotter.Cover the main.Cover the pedestal.Cover the winches.Cover the bimini.Cover the man-overboard pole.Cover horseshoe buoy.Remove and stow dodger windows and sides.Wrap genoa sheets, tie them off, and hang them.Bungee the genoa.Lock the roller furling drum.Secure halyards.Secure the anchor.Haul up the swim ladder.Close the propane tank valve.Loosen the clew outhaul.Loosen the jib halyard.Hang all lines.Tighten the steering wheel lock.Lock the dock box.Check the fenders.Check dock lines.CabinTest bilge pump.Prop cushions up.Hang mildew preventers.Secure v-berth door.Secure head door.Close and lock all ports and hatches.Hang shades in all ports.Empty, open and secure the ice box.Put baking soda in the ice box.

 

[Mike]

You forgot one thing

You forgot to put down...[ ]Reverse all of the above procedures now because by the time youv'e done all that, it's time to go sailing again!Seriously, though, great job! There are a lot of people who may skip some of the more important ones because it was never pointed out to them. Thanks

 

[Larry Long]

No thanks

If I have to do all of that stuff I think I need a new diversion because sailing is just too much trouble.

 

[Peggie Hall HeadMistress]

Which ones do you think are too much trouble?

Or more effort than the cost of the repairs that are likely to be required is worth if you don't?

 

[Steve677]

Copy

Great list! Thanks. I copied it directly from your posting and pasted it into Excell. Now if I can just remember to check my pocket for my keys before I lock down the companionway hatch! Let me tell you, that stinks!

 

[Honeyman]

Steve in Waconia...

that's what combination locks are for!!! After doing what you are talking about late one night with the wife out of town and me solo sailing, I went straight out and got a combination lock. Plus, I also clip my keys to a clip attached inside my sailbag when exiting the truck/car before getting on the boat.

 

[Ron]

nicely organized

Thanks for sharing your results with us, Sherry. Even if you change boats, many items are generic.