Welcome back to For The Sailor’s Gear Bag!, a column that highlights practical, sailor-recommended gear to make life on the water smoother. These aren’t the obvious essentials like life vests or deck shoes — these are thoughtful additions that experienced mariners swear by. Whether you’re cruising along the coast or embarking on an offshore passage, these products can enhance safety, efficiency, and peace of mind aboard your vessel.
The Humble Hand-Bearing Compass
When modern navigation tools fail, a hand-bearing compass like the Plastimo Iris 50 Handbearing Compass proves its worth. Sold at Defender.com, this compact and reliable instrument is a vital backup for sailors. In situations where electronics falter — whether due to dead batteries or equipment malfunction — the hand-bearing compass steps in to deliver crucial information.
Taking bearings on approaching vessels allows sailors to determine if they are on a collision course, something electronic systems may struggle to convey as precisely. Moreover, as you approach the coast, the compass enables you to take bearings on fixed landmarks. These bearings create multiple Lines of Position (LOPs) that can be plotted on your charts, offering a clear picture of your exact location. Simple yet effective, the hand-bearing compass is a tool that can help you avoid worst-case scenarios, making it an indispensable addition to any sailor’s gear bag.
Heavy-Duty Block and Tackle with Extra Long Line
Few tools aboard a boat are as versatile as a heavy-duty block and tackle system, such as the CMI 8:1 Haul System, available at RiggingWarehouse.com. While most vessels are equipped with standard tools for cutting away a rig in emergencies — like bolt cutters or an electric grinder — a block and tackle system goes beyond the basics. This gear can handle demanding tasks with ease, thanks to its mechanical advantage and robust construction.
Imagine needing to bring someone aboard when the halyard doesn’t reach the waterline or jury-rigging a mast after a shroud failure. The block and tackle system becomes invaluable in these scenarios. It’s equally useful for moving heavy sails or other equipment without excessive effort. The extra-long line — made of high-strength Spectra in some versions — ensures durability and versatility, allowing it to handle loads that standard gear might struggle with. Although it’s heavy, this tool’s utility far outweighs its weight, making it a must-have for sailors prepared to tackle the unexpected.
The Personal Locator Beacon: A Compact Lifeline
Safety is paramount on the water, and a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) like the rescueME PLB1 from Ocean Signal is an essential piece of safety gear. This ultra-compact device, available at OceanSignal.com, ensures global emergency services can be alerted at the push of a button. Designed to be carried on your person, the PLB1 fits seamlessly into a life jacket or clips onto a belt, ensuring it’s always within reach.
In an emergency, the PLB1 transmits your location via satellite to search and rescue teams, significantly increasing the chances of a swift recovery. Whether you’re sailing offshore, exploring remote coastal areas, or simply out on a day sail, having a PLB aboard provides peace of mind. Its small size and straightforward operation make it an unintrusive yet life-saving addition to any sailor’s gear bag.
The items highlighted here are more than just gear — they’re tools that embody the resourcefulness and resilience of the sailing community. From the simplicity of a hand-bearing compass to the mechanical advantage of a block and tackle, and the life-saving capability of a PLB, these additions to your gear bag reflect the adage that it’s better to be overprepared than caught off guard. Sailors who spend their days on the water understand the importance of these tools, and their recommendations ensure that others can navigate with greater confidence and safety.
As always, the choice of gear depends on your specific needs and sailing environment. These suggestions are not about selling products but about sharing practical solutions that seasoned sailors have found invaluable. So, take stock of your current gear and consider whether these items might make your time on the water smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. Happy sailing!
