Coastal Skipper and Yachtmaster Quiz · Chartwork and passage planning
SOLAS V regulation 34 applies to every vessel that goes to sea, small yachts included. What does it require of the skipper?
On the left, a clipboard headed SOLAS V, regulation 34, with six empty tick boxes and blank lines. On the right, a yacht seen from above leaving through a harbour entrance, with an arrow pointing out to sea. Caption: leaving harbour for sea.
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To plan the passage beforehand, taking account of the weather, tides, the limits of boat and crew, the dangers on the route and a fallback plan. Regulation 34 requires a passage plan in proportion to the trip. For small craft that means checking the weather and tides, the limitations of the boat and crew, the navigational dangers, and a contingency plan such as a port of refuge. Leaving your plan with someone ashore is strongly recommended, though the regulation does not spell it out. The plan does not have to be written down or filed with anyone, though a written plan is good practice.
