what do u do if....

what do u do if u broke the the shroud and the mast go down in the middle of the sea?
this evening i was sail quite far from land when the upwind shroud was broken and leave me in the middle of the sea without nothing do to....
the wind comes from land and i start to go outside in the open sea....i was so scared.
i tried to use one rudder like paddle...but no way.
i was lucky cause some friend didn't see my cat and call for the coast guard...
they find me 4 hours after,when the sun was down and dark was near.....
anyway tomorrow i'll change the shroud,maybe i'll put larger ones
just for secure...
sorry my english
max

Wow man. Sorry you had problems! How old were your shrouds? I think if I were sailing on the ocean rather than a small lake I would probably replace the shrouds almost every year. Or at least inspect them on a regular basis.

Also be sure to bring a paddle and some extra rope with you! I think if that ever happened again you could lash (tie) the mast & boom under the frame, fold the sail on the trampoline, and then paddle back in.

Also, bring a waterproof marine radio.

Like I said, I'm glad you're safe!!

_________________
Warm regards,

Jim

I would also consider a Handheld VHF marine radio (One that is submersable of course0. No license required anymore, and it is definately nice to have if the need arises. I use the wrist strap to attach it to the hiking strap, and then slide it into the tramp pocket.

I also have a Boats US membership, so if I ever need a tow.

Brent
2005 H-16 S#13566

We all can learn from your experience when sailing far from shore. Take a radio with fresh batteries, some fresh water and food, and inspect your gear. We are glad you are OK.

And...

Make a float plan: Be sure people know you are going and when you should be back.

With any significant off shore winds you would not be able to paddle back against the wind. Too much windage. The boat would "sail" out to sea as you would quickly tire of paddling against the breeze.

Off shore winds can be dangerous. You need to make better plans when sailing in this type of condition.

Possible Safety List Includes:

- Life Vest (Wear it!)
- Trip plan. Let people know where you are going and when you should be back.
- Know how to right a capsized boat. Practice near a beach and with help near by and practice getting back into the boat.
- Footwear. Think Warm, Wet, Slippery and Rocky...
- Visibility. Wear bright colors and or carry a flag.
- Lites, flashlight?
- 1st Aid Kit
- Cell Phone
- GPS
- Space blanket (emergency warmth)
- Flares, Smoke, Die pack
- Repair Kit, Spare Parts
- Bailer or bilge pump
- Spare paddle (Extend able paddle / Orange for safety uses)
- Fanny Pack (Can keep cell phone, blanket, flares and GPS with you)

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)