Mental Checklist...
Hi John,I use a written checklist for commissioning/decommisioning at the begin/end of the season as a reminder and to (try to) plan efficiently and bring all needed items along to the boat. However, for day sailing trips, I have a mental list (and sometimes miss something). A written list would be a good idea, so here's a start (everyone, please add on):For a Hunter 260 with out board, that is kept on a mooring...+ Arrive at boat (using a club launch service)+ Open cabin and stow hatch boards in port side cockpit locker+ Stow personal items below+ Put on PFD (SOSpenders -- esp. if solo)+ Remove helm cover and stow+ Lower motor into water+ Open fuel tank vent cap, check fuel level.+ Check engine oil dipstick (Four stroke)+ With ignition off, give 4 pulls on starter rope to get oil into engine+ Start engine using electric start+ Let motor idle while doing other preparations+ Lower rudder (I keep it up at mooring to reduce wear on helm)+ Turn wheel from side to side while inspecting cables under seat (to identify any potential problems, interference)+ If new sailing crew is with me, I give instruction and location of saftey equipment: - Fire extinguishers - VHF use - man overboard procedure - Operation of motor and controls+ Install Lifesling (unless sailing solo -- who will be there to throw it)+ Raise centerboard to up position, then lower back down (To scrape off any sea growth and make sure it is working smoothly.)+ Turn on electrical items (Depth, VHF, Autopilot) at panel+ Check cabin/bilge for water+ Prepare mooring penants to cast off, but leave attached+ Hank on Jib and run sheets aft.+ Prepare Main sail (Uncover, attach halyard, tighten outhaul, etc.)+ Put in reef if need is antipated+ Raise main (If boat is pointed bow to wind)+ Prepare to cast off: - look up: Any halyard, rigging issues - Look around deck, any loose stuff that needs to be stowed - Look out -- Direction of wind, current nearby boats, etc. - Plan cast off and navigation through mooring field - Communicate what you want crew to do in advance+ Cast off mooring and have a great sail.Upon return (pretty much reverse above):+ Prepare to catch mooring - Communicate what you want crew to do in advance+ Secure mooring penants for extended leave+ Turn off motor+ Raise motor+ Close vent on tank+ Raise and secure rudder for extended leave+ Flake main, cover, stow sheets, halyards, etc.+ UnHank jib, bag and stow+ Coil and stow all lines.+ Stow equipment (Lifesling, winch handle, etc.)+ Secure and cover helm+ Check cabin, bilges for water+ Straighten cabin, collect trash, personal items, place in cockpit.+ Stow PFD+ Call launch on VHF+ Turn off all electrical+ Replace and lock hatch boards+ Final look up and around to make sure everything is stowed and secured+ Hop on launch when it arrives, bringing trash and personal items.+ Have drink of choice and socialize at the club house.