Engine Failure At Sea: Tips To Stay Safe

Losing your boat's engine at sea can be a daunting experience, but there are several things you can do to improve your safety and get help. First, it's important to plan ahead for a potential loss of power and think through emergency procedures. If you lose power, your priority should be to keep the boat and your crew safe, for example, by deploying an anchor to prevent the boat from drifting towards hazards. If the water is too deep for an anchor, a sea anchor can be used to stabilise the boat and prevent it from being swamped by waves. You may also have access to auxiliary power in the form of a smaller kicker motor or a bow-mounted trolling motor. If you have a multi-engine boat, you can continue using the remaining engine(s) but be prepared for reduced manoeuvrability and increased drag. In any case, it's a good idea to carry spare parts and tools, and to familiarise yourself with basic engine troubleshooting and maintenance.

Drop anchor to prevent drift

Dropping anchor is a crucial step to prevent drift when your boat loses engine power at sea. Here are some detailed instructions to help you effectively drop anchor and keep your boat from drifting:

Check the Depth and Determine the Scope:

First, assess the depth of the water by using a depth finder. This step is essential to determine how much anchor line you will need to release. The general rule is to maintain a 7:1 ratio of the depth to the length of the anchor line. For example, if you're in 10 feet of water, you should let out 70 feet of anchor line.

Drop the Anchor:

With your boat at a complete stop, slowly lower the anchor into the water. Avoid dropping it straight down, as this can cause the line to get tangled. Instead, allow your boat to drift backward slowly as you lower the anchor. If there is little wind or current, you can apply a bit of reverse throttle to keep the boat moving. On the other hand, if you're dealing with strong winds or currents, you may need to use some forward throttle to control the boat's drift.

Set the Anchor:

Once the anchor is on the seabed, it needs to be "set" or fastened securely. To do this, tie the anchor line to a cleat and put the boat in slow reverse. This action will create tension on the line, and you should feel the boat rock forward slightly when you release the throttle. If the boat doesn't rock forward, the anchor may not be set properly, and you'll need to try again.

Keep Watch and Reset if Necessary:

Stay vigilant and monitor your surroundings. Use tools like a depth finder, chart plotter, or electronic compass to help you detect any changes in your boat's position. Set alerts on these devices to warn you if you're drifting towards shore or away from your desired location. Additionally, periodically check your bearings against a landmark to ensure you're not drifting.

Choose the Right Anchor for the Seabed:

The type of anchor you use will depend on the nature of the seabed. If you're in muddy or sandy waters, a broad, plow-style anchor is ideal as it can dig into the soft bottom and provide suction. For rocky seabeds, opt for hook or grapple-style anchors that can grip onto rocks. If you're dealing with vegetation, a heavier anchor is necessary to penetrate the roots and leaves to reach the bottom.

Additional Considerations:

• Keep your ground tackle (anchor and line) in good condition and readily accessible for emergency deployment.
• Practice deploying your anchor to ensure you can do so quickly and efficiently if needed.
• If you're in shallow waters, consider using a pole-style shallow-water anchor, which works in depths up to about 7-10 feet.
• In deep waters, you may need to deploy a sea anchor, also known as a "parachute anchor," to stabilize the boat and reduce drift.
• Always drop anchor from the prow (front) of the boat, never from the stern (back), to avoid swamping the boat.

Use a sea anchor to stabilise the boat

If your boat loses engine power at sea, one way to stabilise it is to use a sea anchor. A sea anchor works like an underwater parachute, helping to keep the bow of the boat riding into the waves. This prevents the boat from drifting beam to the waves, which can cause an uncomfortable, violent and dangerous roll.

To use a sea anchor effectively, you should:

• Ensure that the sea anchor is sufficiently sized for your boat.
• Make sure there is plenty of line to keep the sea anchor submerged as the bow pitches in heavy seas.
• Deploy the sea anchor from a bow cleat.
• Keep the boat riding into the waves to prevent the boat from being swamped.
• If the boat is drifting beam to the waves, deploy the sea anchor to eliminate the roll.

Remember, in any emergency situation, it is important to remain calm and focus on the safety of your crew.

Use auxiliary power

If you lose power while boating, it can be a daunting experience if you're not prepared. Here is some information on auxiliary power and how it can help in an emergency.

Kicker Motors

Auxiliary power often comes in the form of a smaller "kicker" motor, such as a 9.9 to 25 hp outboard on a transom bracket. A kicker can push you away from danger and back home, but it will be at a slow pace. Lowering the kicker, priming the engine, and starting it can take time, and there is no guarantee that a seldom-used auxiliary outboard will start immediately, especially if the issue is a lack of fuel. Therefore, it is a good idea to deploy an anchor before attempting to start the kicker.

Trolling Motors

Trolling motors are another form of backup power. Many boats today have bow-mounted trolling motors powered by a separate battery bank from the main engine(s). Depending on current, wind, and sea conditions, these can hold a boat in position or propel you away from danger.

Other Auxiliary Power Options

If you have a sailboat, you can sail to your destination and anchor to wait for favourable tides and sea state. A small horsepower engine will then be sufficient to get you back home. If your boat is heavy, you may need an extension fitted to the outboard to get the prop deep enough in the water. However, wave motion can lift the prop out of the water, and in rough seas, the cowling will be near the water and at risk of being knocked loose by waves.

A dinghy with an outboard motor can also be used to tow a larger boat. This method can maintain a speed of around 6 knots per hour.

Check for fuel starvation

If your boat loses engine power at sea, one of the most common causes is fuel starvation. Here are some steps to check for and address fuel starvation issues:

• Check the fuel filter: A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow and lead to starvation. Replace or clean the filter if it appears dirty or clogged.
• Inspect the fuel pickup tube: Remove the fuel tank and inspect the pickup tube for any blockages or cracks. If the tube is permanently installed, consult the manufacturer or a mechanic for advice on removal and replacement.
• Check for water in the fuel system: Water in the fuel can cause engine issues. Drain and refill the fuel tank with clean fuel if water is present. Consider using a fuel filter to ensure the fuel is free of contaminants.
• Examine fuel hoses for leaks or damage: Leaks or damage in the fuel hoses can lead to air ingress, disrupting fuel flow. Carefully inspect the hoses for any cracks, kinks, or signs of collapse. Replace the hoses if necessary.
• Ensure proper fuel tank ventilation: Make sure the vent on the built-in fuel tank is clean and unobstructed. Remove the fuel filler cap on the tank to test ventilation.
• Check the anti-siphon valve: Remove and test the anti-siphon valve at the fuel pickup. If the engine runs fine without the valve, replace it with a new one.
• Use a portable fuel tank: If the engine continues to experience issues, try running it off a portable fuel tank. This will help determine if the issue is related to the built-in fuel tank or another component.
• Inspect fuel connections and clamps: Tighten all fuel connections and hose clamps to prevent air leaks. Even a tiny leak can cause problems, so pay close attention to details.
• Consult a mechanic: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, consult a qualified marine mechanic for further diagnosis and repair. Fuel starvation can have various causes, and a mechanic can provide expert guidance.

Remember to perform regular maintenance and inspections on your boat's engine and fuel system to help prevent fuel starvation and other issues. Always be prepared for potential emergencies at sea, and prioritize the safety of your crew.

Check for overheating

If your boat engine is overheating, there are several steps you can take to address the issue and prevent further damage. Overheating can lead to serious engine problems, so it is important to act quickly and carefully. Here are some detailed instructions on what to do if your boat engine overheats:

• Check for Blockage: The most common cause of boat engine overheating is a problem with the flow of water to the engine. Weeds, plastic bags, and other debris can clog the raw water intake, located near the water intake. Lift the stern drive or outboard and check the little grate where the water goes in to ensure it is clear. For sailboats, inboards, and jet skis, you may need to jump into the water to clear the water intakes. Make sure to turn off the boat and remove the key before attempting any engine maintenance.
• Inspect the Water Strainer: Most boats have a water strainer that catches harmful items before they can damage the engine. Clean the water strainer by unscrewing it and removing any debris from its screen. The water strainer is usually located near the water intake, follow the hose from the water pump to the bottom of the hull to find it.
• Check the Engine Belt: The engine belt driving the water pump may be bad or broken, leading to overheating. Inspect the belt for any signs of wear or damage and replace it if necessary. Make sure to check this item regularly and include it in your maintenance schedule.
• Check the Raw Water Outlets: If you can get the engine restarted, check to see if you have a steady stream of used cooling water through the exhaust. A lack of water flow in the cooling loop is a common cause of engine overheating.
• Inspect the Impeller: The water pump impeller may have failed or degraded over time due to debris or normal wear and tear. The impeller is a small rubber component inside the water pump that spins and sends cool water to the engine. Inspect the impeller regularly and replace it if necessary. Keep a spare on board, as it can usually be changed with basic hand tools like pliers and a screwdriver.
• Lighten the Load: Reduce the weight of the boat by dumping ballast water or any unnecessary cargo. A heavy load can increase the heat produced by the engine, especially if your cooling system is slightly compromised.
• Air it Out: Opening the engine compartment can help cool the engine in the short term, but it is not a permanent solution. Running the blowers can also help remove some of the hot air from the engine compartment.

Remember to always perform regular maintenance on your boat engine to prevent overheating and other issues. This includes cleaning and flushing the cooling systems, checking the cooling hoses and fittings for leaks, and ensuring you have the correct oil for your engine.

Frequently asked questions