Running Aground
If you have run aground, invent a time machine then go back in time and take the NauticEd Coastal Navigation course and the NauticEd Electronic Navigation course.
In the information age, running aground is usually caused by an amateur mistake, and besides the potential damage, it is also highly embarrassing. A common error in thinking (or not thinking) is using an electronic chart with the zoom level too far out for the screen to display a low-water area.
But, don’t be too embarrassed…The truth is that there are 2 different types of boaters: those who have run aground, and those who haven’t run aground YET. |
Should the grounding cause you to be stuck, such as into a mud bottom, you may have difficulty getting off. If there is a rising tide, you may decide to wait it out. However, if the tide is going out you need to work fast to get loose.
To get out of your predicament:
- Use the engine to try to back off. But ensure your propeller is clear of the bottom.
- Kedging: It may be possible depending on the bottom conditions to walk or dinghy the anchor out into deeper water in the direction you came from. Haul in on the anchor with a winch.
Prior to getting your boat to deeper water, you should ascertain if your boat hull was compromised. If so you’re probably better off leaving the boat as is and calling a professional recovery service.
When chartering a boat it is prudent and ethical to report any grounding. If you’ve caused damage you may be endangering the next charter group’s lives or setting them up for payment for your mistake. Karma will catch you someday.
