Fog at sea: how to safely navigate the fog on a yacht?

Fog is often underestimated, but experienced sailors and boaters are aware of the possible dangers it can pose. Visibility problems due to fog make navigation difficult, which is especially risky in difficult or busy shipping areas. If fog begins to thicken in the sea, then you need to think about how to protect yourself and the crew.

Naturally, it is best to avoid getting into fog, but this is easier said than done. Sometimes fog can catch a yacht on the high seas, so it is important not only to know the weather forecast in advance, but also to have a plan in case it suddenly worsens. If the fog began to fall while you were leaving the marina, you should not hope that it will clear soon. Better wait for more favorable weather. One day of downtime at the marina will cost less than repairing the boat.

Basic steps to ensure safety on board 

So, the fog caught you at sea. It was not possible to avoid such a scenario, and the weather forecast did not foretell such a dirty trick. What to do? Crew safety is paramount - ensure that all crew members are fully assembled and wearing life jackets and harnesses. 

In addition, all crew members must come on deck and stand watch. Position your crew fore, aft, starboard and port for maximum visibility. Every 15-20 minutes, team members should change each other’s positions to maintain the required level of concentration. The crew must alert the skipper to any potentially dangerous objects in the water. 

Each crew member must check their safety lines and harnesses and carry an EPIRB in case of a fall overboard. The rest of the life-saving equipment (rafts, etc.) must be ready for use.

Use of navigation equipment

Once the entire crew has been provided with personal protective equipment, it is necessary to minimize the risk of a sudden collision. Turn on the radar reflector. For maximum effectiveness, the reflector should be located as high as possible on the mast, ideally at its top.

Don't forget about your navigation lights. According to COLREGS regulations, running lights must be turned on from dusk to dawn and during times of limited visibility. Also use radar and plotter, but keep in mind that their “visibility” range is reduced during fog. In addition, keep the walkie-talkie handy - an additional method of communication will not be superfluous.

It is also recommended to use the AIS system, which will show the nearest ships around you. This will provide a better understanding of the current situation and help chart a safer course.

Sound signals

Another important feature of swimming in fog is the use of sound signals. These signals help determine the size and distance of another vessel. For example, the larger the vessel, the lower its sound level will be.

On boats up to 12 meters in length, special sound equipment is not required, but a fog horn is recommended. Yachts over 12 meters in length are required to be equipped with specialized sound devices.

Using beeps

Depending on the type of yacht or boat, the crew is required to give the following signals:

• Sailing yacht underway: three consecutive sounds (1 long followed by 2 short) every 2 minutes.
• Motor yacht underway: one long blast at 2 second intervals every 2 minutes.
• Boat not running (e.g. engine problems): two long blasts, 2 seconds apart, every 2 minutes.
• Yacht at anchor: ringing the bell for 5 seconds every minute.

What is a long sound and a short one? A long sound lasts 4-6 seconds, and a short sound lasts about 1 second.

Navigation skills training 

Sailing in fog is quite a risky activity, so even experienced yachtsmen try to avoid fog. The main problem with foggy weather is that navigation equipment may malfunction. For example, if the sensitivity is incorrectly set, the radar may show non-existent obstacles or, conversely, not detect a real danger.

To successfully navigate a foggy section, it is important to have refined navigation skills, including the ability to navigate the sea without the help of navigation equipment. Some of these skills can be developed through sailing and cruising, but navigation in low visibility conditions requires practice in real fog conditions.

Remember that the safety of the crew is paramount. Careful boat handling, assistance from the watch crew, and careful observation of your surroundings will help you navigate safely through a foggy area.

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02.07.2024