Navigating Storms: Essential Safety Tips for Yacht Crew

Disclaimer: SOVREN Crew prepared this article before the tragic incident onboard S/Y Bayesian, and postponed publishing out of respect for the crew, guests and their loved ones. We feel it is still important to share this information and guidance ahead of the autumn/winter season in the Med and are therefore sharing it now.?

As winter approaches, the Mediterranean is already feeling the effects of the storm season. The world has witnessed the recent tragedy of S/Y Bayesian, where seven lives were lost, including one crew member, and the yacht sank following a sudden storm which included a lethal waterspout.?

As these storms become more frequent, all yacht crew must refresh their knowledge of storm safety. Whether you’re seasoned at sea or new to the industry, staying informed and prepared can make all the difference.

Do: Stay Informed About the Weather

The first step in storm safety is awareness. Given the unpredictable nature of winter storms, it’s vital to:

• Regularly check weather forecasts from reliable sources, especially those focused on maritime conditions in the Mediterranean.
• Set up weather alerts on your devices and equipment onboard to stay ahead of any sudden changes.
• Keep an eye on local conditions, particularly in areas such as Palma de Mallorca, where storms can develop rapidly.

Don’t: Ignore Early Warnings

Winter storms often give subtle signals before fully developing. Ignoring these can lead to dangerous situations. Make sure not to:

• Overlook small changes in the weather, such as a shift in wind direction or a sudden drop in barometric pressure.
• Delay your response — as soon as you notice deteriorating conditions, start implementing your storm protocols.

Do: Prepare the Yacht and Crew

When a storm is approaching, preparation is your best defence. Here’s what you should do:

• Secure all loose items on deck to prevent them from causing harm during rough seas.
• Ensure that hatches, windows, and watertight doors are properly sealed to prevent water ingress.
• Conduct a safety briefing with the crew, emphasising the location and proper use of life-saving equipment like life jackets and rafts.
• Establish a watch system so there’s always someone monitoring the weather and sea conditions.

Don’t: Skip Safety Drills

Preparation isn’t just about securing the vessel; it’s also about ensuring that the crew is ready to act. Avoid the mistake of:

• Neglecting safety drills — they are essential for ensuring every crew know their role in an emergency, nobody knows how they will react in a life-threatening situation, but regular practice will make a difference.
• Assuming familiarity with safety equipment — make sure everyone is comfortable with how to use life vests, EPIRBs (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons), and other critical equipment.

Do: Be Flexible with Your Plans

During storm season, flexibility can be key to safety. Here’s what you can do:

• Be ready to alter your route or delay departure if a storm is headed your way.
• Ensure you have extra fuel reserves to allow for detours or holding positions if necessary.
• Double-check your navigation equipment to ensure it’s functioning perfectly, as quick adjustments to your course may be needed.

Don’t: Take Unnecessary Risks

The Mediterranean can be unpredictable, especially in winter. Don’t:

• Try to outrun a storm—sometimes the safest action is to find a sheltered location and wait it out.
• Engage in risky manoeuvres that could compromise the safety of the vessel or crew. Safety should always be your top priority.

Do: Maintain Communication

In a storm, staying connected can be a lifesaver. Always:

• Ensure communication devices are fully charged and have backup power available.
• Keep regular contact with shore or nearby vessels, updating them on your position and situation.
• Use VHF radio to monitor the storm’s progress and stay in touch with other vessels in the vicinity.

Don’t: Lose Your Calm

Finally, in any emergency, maintaining composure is crucial. Don’t:

• Panic—keeping a level head helps you make better decisions.
• Overreact to minor issues—address them calmly and keep the crew focused on safety.

Recent tragic events are a harsh reminder of the power and unpredictability of winter weather at sea. Take the time to refresh your knowledge, run through drills and checklists and you’ll help ensure that both you and your fellow crew members are ready to handle what winter may bring. Stay safe, stay prepared, and continue to navigate with confidence.

The whole SOVREN group sends their condolences to all affected by the sinking of S/Y Bayesian. We would also like to share a polite reminder not to share misinformation regarding the ongoing investigation online. The MAIB will release their findings when the investigation is concluded, until then let’s be respectful to our community.?