How to Survive Sailing in a Storm: Tips and Tricks for a Safe Voyage

The thrill of sailing on calm waters is an experience like no other, but sometimes, Mother Nature has other plans. As a sailor, it’s crucial to be prepared for the unexpected, including sailing through a storm. 

The phrase “sail through the storm” may sound counterintuitive, but it refers to the actions you need to take to safely navigate stormy weather while aboard a sailing vessel. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what to do when sailing in a storm, how ships survive these tempestuous conditions, and the steps you can take to ensure your safety.

Key Takeaways

• Sailing in a storm is not something to take lightly. It requires careful planning, preparation, and execution.
• The best way to avoid sailing in a storm is to check the weather forecast regularly and plan your route accordingly. If possible, seek shelter before the storm hits or sail away from its path.
• If you have to sail through a storm, you need to reduce your sail area, balance your boat, steer actively, and secure everything on deck and below.
• There are different storm tactics that you can use depending on the wind direction, wave height, sea room, and boat type. Some of the most common ones are sailing under storm sails, running before the storm with a drogue, heaving-to, lying ahull, or anchoring.
• No matter what tactic you choose, you need to monitor the situation closely and be ready to adapt if necessary. You also need to take care of yourself and your crew by staying hydrated, rested, warm, and calm.

What is a Storm?

Before we dive into the details of sailing in a storm, let’s first define what we mean by a storm. 

According to the Beaufort wind scale, which is widely used by sailors to measure wind speed and sea state, a storm is when the wind speed is between 48 and 63 knots (55 to 72 mph) and the wave height is between 9 and 14 meters (29 to 46 feet). 

At this level, the sea is completely covered with long white patches of foam, and visibility is greatly reduced.

Of course, not all storms are created equal. Some storms are more severe than others, depending on factors such as wind direction, wind duration, air pressure, temperature, humidity, cloud cover, precipitation, lightning, thunder, etc. 

Some storms are also more localized than others, meaning they affect only a small area for a short time. For example, squalls are sudden bursts of strong wind that usually last for less than an hour and can occur in clear or cloudy weather.

The most dangerous storms for sailors are tropical cyclones (also known as hurricanes or typhoons), which are large rotating systems of clouds and thunderstorms that form over warm ocean waters. 

These storms can have wind speeds of over 74 knots (85 mph) and can cause massive waves, storm surges, flooding, landslides, and damage to coastal areas. 

Tropical cyclones are classified into five categories based on their maximum sustained wind speed:

Category	Wind Speed (knots)	Wind Speed (mph)	Damage Potential
1	74-95	85-110	Minimal
2	96-110	111-129	Moderate
3	111-129	130-156	Extensive
4	130-156	157-186	Extreme
5	>156	>186	Catastrophic

Tropical cyclones usually form between June and November in the Atlantic Ocean and between May and November in the Pacific Ocean. 

They have different names depending on where they occur:

Region	Name
Atlantic Ocean	Hurricane
Eastern Pacific Ocean	Hurricane
Western Pacific Ocean	Typhoon
Indian Ocean	Cyclone
South Pacific Ocean	Cyclone
South Atlantic Ocean	Tropical Storm

The best way to avoid sailing in a tropical cyclone is to stay away from its path. You can track the location and movement of tropical cyclones using satellite images, radio broadcasts, websites, apps, or other sources of information. 

You can also use tools such as the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale or the Dvorak Technique to estimate the intensity of a tropical cyclone based on its appearance.

How to Prepare for Sailing in a Storm

The best way to deal with sailing in a storm is to prevent it from happening in the first place. This means planning your trip carefully and checking the weather forecast regularly before and during your voyage. You should also have a contingency plan in case things go wrong.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for sailing in a storm:

Check the Weather Forecast

The weather forecast is your best friend when it comes to sailing safely. You should always check the weather forecast before you leave port and update it frequently while you are at sea. You should also pay attention to any weather warnings or alerts that may indicate an approaching storm.

There are many sources of weather information that you can use depending on your location and equipment. Some of them are:

• VHF radio: You can listen to marine weather broadcasts from local stations or coast guard services that provide information on wind speed and direction, wave height and period, sea state, visibility, precipitation, cloud cover, air pressure, temperature, and humidity. You can also request specific weather information from some stations or services using voice or digital selective calling (DSC).
• HF radio: You can receive weather fax images or text messages from various stations around the world that transmit information on synoptic charts, satellite images, wind/wave analysis, tropical cyclone warnings, etc. You need an HF radio receiver and a modem or software to decode the signals.
• NAVTEX: You can receive text messages from coastal stations that broadcast information on navigational warnings, meteorological warnings, ice reports, search and rescue information, etc. You need a NAVTEX receiver or an HF radio receiver with NAVTEX capability to receive the messages.
• Satellite phone: You can access various websites or apps that provide weather information using your satellite phone. You need a satellite phone subscription and data plan to use this service. Some examples of websites or apps are:
  • NOAA National Weather Service
  • NOAA National Hurricane Center
  • SailGrib
  • PredictWind
  • Windy
  • SailFlow
  • Windfinder
  • Buoyweather
  • PassageWeather
  • StormGeo
  • Weather4D
  • WeatherTrack
  • ZyGrib
• Barometer: You can measure the air pressure using a barometer or an electronic device that has a barometer function. You can use the barometer readings to detect changes in the weather conditions. A falling barometer indicates an approaching low-pressure system that may bring bad weather. A rising barometer indicates an approaching high-pressure system that may bring good weather.

When checking the weather forecast, you should look for signs of an impending storm such as:

• A rapid drop in air pressure
• A sudden increase in wind speed or direction
• A change in cloud type or cover
• A change in temperature or humidity
• A change in visibility or precipitation
• A presence of lightning or thunder
• The presence of waterspouts or funnel clouds

You should also compare different sources of weather information to get a more accurate picture of the situation. Sometimes different sources may have conflicting or outdated information due to errors or delays in transmission or reception.

Plan Your Route

Once you have checked the weather forecast, you should plan your route accordingly. You should avoid sailing into areas where storms are likely to occur or where they may trap you against land or other obstacles. You should also have alternative destinations or safe havens in case you need to change your plans or seek shelter.

There are different tools and methods that you can use to plan your route, such as:

• Paper charts: You can use paper charts to plot your course and waypoints using a pencil, ruler, compass, and dividers. You should also have a chart table or a flat surface where you can spread out your charts and keep them dry and secure. Paper charts are reliable and easy to use, but they can be bulky, expensive, and outdated.
• Electronic charts: You can use electronic charts on your laptop, tablet, smartphone, or dedicated chart plotter device. You can also download or update your charts online or offline. Electronic charts are convenient and interactive, but they can be inaccurate, incompatible, or corrupted. They also depend on electricity and GPS signals, which may fail in a storm.
• Online tools: You can use online tools such as OpenSeaMap, SailingEurope, or FastSeas to plan your route using your web browser. You can also access various features such as weather data, nautical charts, marina information, etc. Online tools are useful and versatile, but they require an internet connection, which may not be available or reliable at sea.

When planning your route, you should consider factors such as:

• Distance: You should calculate the distance between your starting point and your destination, as well as between each waypoint along the way. You should also estimate the time it will take you to cover the distance based on your boat speed and the expected weather conditions. You should plan to sail at a comfortable and safe pace, without pushing yourself or your boat too hard.
• Direction: You should determine the direction of your course and waypoints using magnetic bearings or true bearings. You should also account for the variation and deviation of your compass due to the earth’s magnetic field and your boat’s magnetic interference. You should also adjust your course for the effects of wind, current, and leeway on your boat’s movement.
• Depth: You should check the depth of the water along your route using depth soundings or contour lines on your charts. You should also be aware of the tide levels and currents that may affect the depth of the water at different times and locations. You should avoid sailing in shallow water or near rocks, reefs, wrecks, or other hazards that may damage your boat or cause grounding.
• Destination: You should choose your destination carefully based on your preferences and needs. You should also research your destination before you arrive, such as its facilities, services, regulations, customs, culture, etc. You should also have a backup destination in case your primary one is unavailable or unsuitable.

Prepare Your Boat

Surviving a storm requires a great level of preparedness and it all begins long before setting out on a sail. As such, your chances of weathering a storm will increase if your boat is properly prepared to endure bad days on the water.

A major part of controlling your boat and the crew in a heavy storm is being prepared for the worst. This means that you should have your boat properly rigged to easily access anything in short order. Whether you can see a storm coming from far away or see it within seconds and on top of your head, the boat should be well prepared to deal with any condition.

It’s fundamental to ensure that your lifelines are secure, the lines are strong and unworn, and all the emergency gear is on board and up to date. You should also update yourself on the weather on the days you’re planning to go out though it may be inaccurate.

Some of the things you should check and prepare before sailing include:

• Hull integrity: Check for any cracks, leaks, or damage on the hull that could compromise its strength or water tightness. Repair any defects or reinforce any weak spots as needed.
• Rigging: Check all the standing rigging (mast, shrouds, stays) and running rigging (halyards, sheets) for any signs of wear or damage. Replace any frayed or broken lines or fittings. Lubricate any moving parts such as blocks or winches. Make sure all the lines are neatly coiled and secured to prevent tangling or tripping.
• Sails: Check all your sails for any tears or holes that could worsen in high winds. Repair any damage or replace any worn-out sails as needed. Make sure you have at least one set of storm sails (storm jib and trysail) on board that are easy to hoist and lower. Reefing lines should be ready to use at any time.
• Engine: Check your engine for any issues that could affect its performance or reliability. Change the oil and filter if needed. Check the fuel level and quality. Make sure you have enough spare fuel on board. Test the engine before leaving the dock to make sure it starts and runs smoothly.
• Batteries: Check your batteries for any corrosion or damage that could affect their capacity or charge. Make sure they are fully charged before leaving the dock. Test all your electrical systems (lights, instruments, radios) to make sure they work properly.
• Bilge pumps: Check your bilge pumps for any clogs or malfunctions that could prevent them from working effectively. Make sure they are wired correctly and have enough power supply. Test them before leaving the dock to make sure they pump water out of the bilge.
• Emergency gear: Check all your emergency gear for any damage or expiration dates that could affect their usefulness or safety. Make sure you have enough life jackets, harnesses, tethers, liferaft, EPIRB, VHF radio, distress flares, fire extinguishers, first aid kit, etc. on board, and that they are easily accessible and visible. Make sure everyone knows how to use them properly.

Prepare Yourself

Your boat is not the only thing that needs to be prepared for sailing in a storm. You also need to prepare yourself mentally and physically for the challenge. You need to be aware of the risks and consequences of sailing in a storm and be ready to face them. You also need to take care of your health and well-being during the storm.

Here are some steps you can take to prepare yourself for sailing in a storm:

Learn

You need to learn as much as you can about sailing in a storm before you encounter one. You need to read books, articles, blogs, forums, etc. that provide information, advice, tips, tricks, stories, etc. about sailing in a storm. 

You also need to watch videos, podcasts, webinars, etc. that show demonstrations, explanations, interviews, testimonials, etc. about sailing in a storm. 

You also need to take courses, workshops, seminars, etc. that teach skills, techniques, strategies, etc. about sailing in a storm. Some examples of learning resources are:

• Storm Tactics Handbook by Lin and Larry Pardey
• Sailing in Storms by Sailing La Vagabonde
• Podcast by The Boat Galley
• Heavy Weather Sailing Course by NauticEd

Practice

You need to practice your skills and techniques for sailing in a storm before you face one. You need to practice sailing in different wind and wave conditions and try different storm tactics. 

You also need to practice using your gear and equipment and test their functionality and reliability. You also need to practice communicating with your crew and other boats or shore stations and test their availability and clarity.

The best way to practice sailing in a storm is to sail in moderate weather conditions that simulate some aspects of a storm, such as strong winds, choppy waves, low visibility, etc. 

You should avoid sailing in extreme weather conditions that may endanger your safety or damage your boat. You should also avoid sailing alone or without proper supervision or assistance.

When practicing sailing in a storm, you should follow these steps:

• Choose a suitable location that has enough sea room and no obstacles or hazards.
• Check the weather forecast and choose a time that has favorable conditions for practicing.
• Inform someone on shore about your plan and expected return time.
• Prepare your boat and yourself as if you were sailing in a real storm.
• Sail out of the harbor and head into the wind and waves.
• Try different storm tactics such as reefing, heaving-to, running with a drogue, etc.
• Use your gear and equipment such as storm sails, life jackets, VHF radio, etc.
• Communicate with your crew and other boats or shore stations using voice or signals.
• Monitor the situation closely and be ready to adapt if necessary.
• Sail back to the harbor when you are done practicing or when the conditions change.

Rest

You need to rest well before sailing in a storm because you may not get much sleep during the storm. You need to sleep at least eight hours before leaving port and take naps whenever possible while at sea. 

You also need to avoid alcohol, caffeine, or drugs that may affect your sleep quality or alertness.

Sleeping well before sailing in a storm will help you:

• Reduce fatigue and stress and improve mood and motivation
• Enhance memory and learning and improve decision-making and problem-solving
• Boost immunity and healing and prevent illness and injury

Eat

You need to eat well before sailing in a storm because you may not have much appetite during the storm. You need to eat balanced meals that provide enough calories and nutrients to sustain your energy and health. 

You also need to avoid spicy or greasy foods that may cause indigestion or nausea.

Eating well before sailing in a storm will help you:

• Maintain blood sugar and blood pressure levels and prevent hypoglycemia or hypertension
• Support muscle and bone strength and prevent weakness or injury

Hydrate

You need to hydrate well before sailing in a storm because you may lose a lot of fluids through sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea during the storm. You need to drink plenty of water or electrolyte drinks that can replenish your hydration and electrolyte levels. 

You also need to avoid alcohol, caffeine, or carbonated drinks that may dehydrate you or upset your stomach.

Hydrating well before sailing in a storm will help you:

• Prevent dehydration and heatstroke and improve thermoregulation and cooling
• Maintain blood volume and circulation and prevent hypotension or shock
• Support kidney and liver function and prevent infection or toxicity

How to Sail Through a Storm

If you have done everything you can to prepare for sailing in a storm, but you still find yourself in one, don’t panic. You need to stay calm and focused and follow some basic principles and procedures to sail safely through the storm.

Here are some steps you can take to sail through a storm:

Reduce Sail Area

The first thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to reduce your sail area. This will reduce the wind pressure on your boat and make it easier to control and balance. 

You need to reef your sails as soon as possible, before the wind gets too strong and makes it difficult or dangerous to do so. You also need to furl or stow any unnecessary sails, such as spinnakers, genoas, or staysails.

The amount of sail area you need to reduce depends on the wind speed, the wave height, the boat type, and your comfort level. 

As a general rule, you should reef your sails when the wind speed reaches 15 knots (17 mph) and reduce them further for every 5 knots (6 mph) increase. 

You should also reef your sails when the wave height reaches 1 meter (3 feet) and reduce them further for every 0.5 meters (1.5 feet) increase.

You should always reef your mainsail first, then your headsail. This will keep your boat balanced and prevent weather helm (when the boat wants to turn into the wind) or lee helm (when the boat wants to turn away from the wind). You should also reef your sails evenly and symmetrically, without leaving any loose or flapping parts.

If you have storm sails on board, you should hoist them when the wind speed reaches 40 knots (46 mph) or more. You should lower your regular sails completely and secure them on deck or below. 

You should hoist your storm jib just forward of the mast and your storm trysail on a separate track on the mast or on the boom.

Balance Your Boat

The second thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to balance your boat. This will reduce the heel angle and rolling motion of your boat and make it more stable and comfortable. 

You need to adjust your sail trim, your weight distribution, and your ballast system (if you have one) to achieve a balanced boat.

The sail trim is how you set the angle and shape of your sails relative to the wind direction and strength. You need to trim your sails so that they are not too tight or too loose, but just right. 

You also need to trim your sails so that they are not too full or too flat, but just right. A well-trimmed sail will have a smooth and even curve along its luff (front edge) and leech (back edge), without any wrinkles or creases.

The weight distribution is how you arrange the weight of your crew and gear on board. You need to distribute your weight so that it is not too far forward or too far aft, but just right. 

You also need to distribute your weight so that it is not too far to windward or too far to leeward, but just right. A well-distributed weight will keep your boat level and centered, without any pitching (up-and-down motion) or yawing (side-to-side motion).

The ballast system is how you use water tanks or movable weights to adjust the stability of your boat. You need to use your ballast system so that it is not too full or too empty, but just right. 

You also need to use your ballast system so that it is not too far forward or too far aft, but just right. 

A well-used ballast system will increase the righting moment (the force that keeps your boat upright) and decrease the capsizing moment (the force that tips your boat over).

Steer Actively

The third thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to steer actively. This will help you avoid being hit by breaking waves or being pushed off course by gusts of wind. 

You need to steer your boat so that it is not too close or too far from the wind direction, but just right. You also need to steer your boat so that it is not too fast or too slow, but just right.

The best way to steer actively is to use a combination of visual cues and instruments. You need to look at the wind indicator (such as a Windex) on top of your mast or on your sail to see where the wind is coming from. 

You also need to look at the waves around you to see where they are going and how big they are. You also need to look at the compass on your dashboard or on your wrist to see what direction you are heading.

You also need to listen to the sound of the wind in your ears and feel its pressure on your face and body. You also need to listen to the sound of the water against your hull and feel its movement under your feet and seat. 

You also need to listen to the sound of your sails flapping or luffing and feel their tension on your hands.

You also need to use instruments such as GPS, AIS, radar, autopilot, etc. to see where you are, where other boats are, where obstacles are, etc. 

You also need to use instruments such as a speedometer, tachometer, anemometer, etc. to see how fast you are going, how fast your engine is running, how fast the wind is blowing, etc.

You should steer actively using small and smooth movements of the helm or tiller to keep your boat on course and speed. 

You should avoid steering aggressively using large or jerky movements of the helm or tiller that may cause your boat to lose control or speed.

Choose Your Storm Tactic

The fourth thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to choose your storm tactic. This will help you cope with the wind and wave conditions and reduce the risk of damage or injury. 

You need to choose a storm tactic that suits your boat type, your crew’s ability, and your situation. You also need to have the right equipment and skills to execute your storm tactic.

There are different storm tactics that you can use, such as:

Forereaching

This is when you sail close-hauled with reduced sail area and maintain a slow but steady speed into the wind and waves. This tactic is good for short-duration storms or when you need to stay close to your position. It is also good for boats that have good upwind performance and can handle steep waves. The advantages of this tactic are:

• It keeps the boat stable and balanced
• It reduces the impact of breaking waves
• It allows you to change course or tack if needed

The disadvantages of this tactic are:

• It can be tiring and uncomfortable for the crew
• It can cause excessive leeway and drift
• It can expose the boat to wind shifts or gusts

Running off

This is when you sail downwind with reduced sail area and let the wind and waves push you away from the storm center. This tactic is good for long-duration storms or when you have enough sea room to run. It is also good for boats that have good downwind performance and can handle following seas. The advantages of this tactic are:

• It keeps the boat fast and agile
• It reduces the apparent wind speed and noise
• It allows you to outrun the storm or reach a safe haven

The disadvantages of this tactic are:

• It can be risky and challenging for the crew
• It can cause broaching or surfing
• It can expose the boat to breaking waves or rogue waves

Heaving-to

This is when you stop the boat by setting the sails and rudder in opposite directions and creating a slick of turbulent water that acts as a brake. This tactic is good for extreme storms or when you need to rest or wait. It is also good for boats that have a balanced sail plan and a deep keel. The advantages of this tactic are:

• It keeps the boat calm and steady
• It reduces the stress and fatigue of the crew
• It allows you to conserve fuel and water

The disadvantages of this tactic are:

• It can be difficult and dangerous to set up or resume sailing
• It can cause drifting or leeway
• It can expose the boat to wind shifts or gusts

Lying ahull

This is when you drop all sails and let the boat drift freely with no steerage. This tactic is good for last-resort situations or when you have no other option. It is also good for boats that have a strong hull and a low profile. The advantages of this tactic are:

• It keeps the boat simple and passive
• It requires no effort or skill from the crew
• It allows you to abandon ship if needed

The disadvantages of this tactic are:

• It keeps the boat vulnerable and unpredictable
• It increases the risk of damage or injury
• It offers no control or direction

Survive the Storm

The fifth and final thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to survive the storm. This means that you need to do whatever it takes to keep yourself, your crew, and your boat alive and intact until the storm passes. You need to monitor the situation constantly and be ready to adapt or change your plan if necessary. You also need to communicate with your crew and other boats or shore stations and seek help if needed.

Here are some tips to help you survive the storm:

Stay calm and positive

The most important thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to stay calm and positive. Panic and despair will only make things worse and cloud your judgment. 

You need to trust your boat, your crew, and yourself and believe that you can make it through the storm. You also need to encourage and support your crew and keep their morale high. 

You can use humor, music, games, or stories to lighten the mood and distract from the stress.

Stay alert and aware

The second most important thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to stay alert and aware. Complacency and negligence will only increase the danger and reduce your chances of survival. 

You need to watch the wind, the waves, the clouds, and the horizon for any signs of change or improvement. You also need to check your boat, your gear, your instruments, and your crew for any signs of damage or injury. 

You also need to listen to weather updates, distress calls, or safety messages on your radio or phone.

Stay safe and secure

The third most important thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to stay safe and secure. Injury and damage will only worsen the situation and compromise your recovery. 

You need to wear your life jacket, your harness, and your helmet at all times and clip yourself to a strong point on the boat. You also need to secure all loose items on deck or below and close all hatches and ports. 

You also need to avoid going overboard, getting hit by flying objects, or falling down.

Stay warm and dry

The fourth most important thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to stay warm and dry. Hypothermia and dehydration will only weaken your body and mind and impair your performance. 

You need to wear waterproof and breathable clothing that can protect you from the wind, rain, spray, and cold. You also need to drink plenty of water or electrolyte drinks that can replenish your hydration and electrolyte levels. 

You also need to avoid alcohol, caffeine, or carbonated drinks that may dehydrate you or upset your stomach.

Stay fed and rested

The fifth most important thing you need to do when sailing in a storm is to stay fed and rested. Hunger and fatigue will only lower your energy and health and affect your decision-making and problem-solving. 

You need to eat balanced meals that provide enough calories and nutrients to sustain your energy and health. You also need to sleep at least eight hours before leaving port and take naps whenever possible while at sea. 

You also need to avoid spicy or greasy foods that may cause indigestion or nausea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about sailing in a storm:

Conclusion

Sailing in a storm is one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences that a sailor can have. It requires a lot of preparation and skill to sail safely through a storm and survive its fury. It also requires a lot of courage and resilience to face the storm and overcome its fear.

By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of sailing in a storm successfully and enjoy its thrill. You can also learn valuable lessons and gain confidence from sailing in a storm that will make you a better sailor.

Remember, the best way to deal with a storm is to avoid it if possible, prepare for it if inevitable, and survive it if necessary.

Happy sailing! ⛵️🌊⚡️🌬️🌈