Safety Policy

“In many many years at sea on different oceans and in different boats I have never had one of my crew or passengers have an accident. That is due to experience, a sixth sense and a tad of luck. I am proud of how our skippers and crews embrace safety before profit.” John

Safety First

Our safety policies are extensive and are not just on board – they link to specific maintenance schedules, fueling procedures and workshop and office practices.

Our policies are not there just for our customers – they are there to protect our staff and all those around us.

We have advised many other operators worldwide on safety policies and they are all based on our own successful policy.

Here we just give an idea of our approach and for your assurance a list of a few simple things that you can identify with. As long established seafaring people with extensive knowledge of these waters and overseas waters we have every respect for the oceans and their temperament. The sea is a beautiful and calming environment but has its risks. We try to identify all of these in our working practices to ensure a safe enjoyable voyage for our clients. We are proud to note that we have not suffered a serious accident or suffered vessel damage in our time of operation.

All vessels are licensed and inspected by the Marine Coastguard Agency. Our vessels are licensed to operate 20 miles from nominated ports.
Skippers hold professional qualifications and undergo extensive training by the company.
Vessels undergo a safety check each day prior to sailing.
The office has its own specialist metrological station that monitors a magnitude of parameters from wind speed to dew point that are relayed to the boats. The office also receives daily Met Office Data Forecasts.
We carry equipment well in excess of the legal requirements.
We are fully insured with vessel public liability in excess of the legal requirement.
The company has a written safety policy which includes detailed procedures for overdue boats etc (15 minutes overdue and no radio contact the lifeboat could be on its way to you).
At all times of sailings the office is staffed and maintains radio and telephone contact with the vessels. All conversations are logged as is the number and details of people on board. Our vessels also maintain contact with each other.
At all times a shore duty safety officer is established to act in case of an emergency.
Skippers and crews undertake regular emergency drills.
Personnel are put through Sea Medic First Aid Courses.
We make it compulsory for you to be fitted with lifejackets and will refuse boarding if you are intoxicated in any form.
Vessels carry emergency life rafts.

Three Questions That Are Often Asked In The Office

Is it safe for children?
We carry babies right down to babies in arms. Our biggest concern for the little ones is wind chill so please make sure that they are wrapped up.

What if I feel unwell or have a panic attack?
If you are unsure then we would recommend the inshore Ramsey Sailings. Then if you really feel unhappy we will sail quickly back to shore and drop you off. It is something that we understand and wont make a fuss about.

I have a medical condition so can I sail?
We can carry disabled people and pregnant ladies, our general rule is that you must let us know in the office that you have a condition. This then will be related to the boat and the shore duty officer may give advice. The sailing is always tailored to the requirements of those on board and hence it is important that the skipper knows of any condition.

Ultimately though this advice from our insurers states “that unless there is an act of negligence that the decision to partake in the activity is that of the client and by partaking they consent.” Please note that the vessels depart from St Justinians and here there is a short walk and a number of steps to the slipway, which could prove difficult for those with limited ability. For those in wheelchairs we do our best to make suitable or alternative arrangements.