What to do if a boat capsizes but stays afloat

So your boat's flipped over but it's still floating. That's actually not the worst scenario you could be in, believe it or not. Unlike when a boat's actually sinking, that overturned hull gives you something solid to hang onto plus an air pocket. Your chances of getting rescued just shot way up. But here's the thing - panic and making dumb decisions will kill you way faster than the water will. Let's walk through what you actually need to do.

What is the first thing to do when a boat capsizes?

First thing? Stay with the damn boat. I mean it. Do not - I repeat do not - try swimming for shore. I know it looks close but it's not. It never is. That boat is massive compared to you, rescuers can spot it from a mile away. Plus it's keeping you afloat and protecting you from the elements.

• Count heads. Make sure everyone's accounted for, like right now.
• Check for injuries. Do what you can with basic first aid.
• Look around - is anyone stuck under the hull or trapped in the cabin?
• Start signaling. Whistle, air horn, wave something bright. Anything.

How do you get out from under a capsized boat?

If you're stuck under the boat, here's the deal - stay calm. Seriously, freaking out just burns through oxygen faster. You've got maybe 30 to 60 minutes of breathable air in there depending on how big the boat is and how many people are with you. Find the highest point of the cabin or hull, that's where the air pocket will be. Then work your way out systematically.

There's this acronym "SLOW" that actually helps: Stop moving so you don't get disoriented. Look for light where openings are. Orient yourself by following bubbles - they always go up. Wait for your eyes to adjust before swimming out.

Try the door or hatch first. If it's stuck, look for a window or any gap in the hull. On smaller boats you can often just push yourself out from under the edge. And if you can't find an exit right away, stay put in the air pocket and bang on the hull. Someone might hear you.

Can a capsized boat be righted by the crew?

Honestly? It depends. Small sailboats and kayaks? Yeah, they're built for this stuff. Bigger boats? Don't even try it without help. And trying to right a boat that's not designed for it? That's how you sink it.

If you're going to try righting it - and only if it's a small boat - get everyone clear first. For a small sailboat, stand on that centerboard and lean back hard. Kayak? Use a paddle float or get a buddy to help. If it doesn't work easily, give up and just stay with the hull.

What survival gear should you have ready?

Look, preparation is everything. You don't want to be scrambling for gear when your boat's already upside down. Here's what you should have on you or easily reachable at all times.

• Life jackets (PFDs). For everyone. Worn. Always.
• A whistle or air horn attached to each PFD - don't skip this.
• A waterproof VHF radio or personal locator beacon (PLB).
• Emergency flares and a waterproof flashlight.
• A grab bag with first aid kit, water, and high-energy snacks.
• A knife to cut lines or free trapped clothing.

Frequently Asked Questions