Discussion if safety in high seas

Tylor, obviously you have not been married as long as some of us!
There are two theories of arguing with a woman! And neither one works! Bob
 
After turning around in rough seas my wife has thanked me several times. No argument. I like to be in control whenever possible. If you are asking about capsizing you are late to the dance.
 
8 years. Still have a lot to learn but I know scared wives don’t make for good boating. I’ve been boating for 20 years and I know that putting people in danger is not good captaining. Keeping everyone aboard safe is number one.

I’m not usually such a stick in the mud, but I don’t think boaters should ever joke about safety. A good friend sank his boat a couple years back and almost killed his wife and dog. He was just being careless. Not cool.

Anyway, not trying to offend anyone. Just registering my point of view.
 
Tyler - I'm curious what happened to sink the boat and what lessons could be learned (other than not being careless)...?
 
It was an old Catalina 27. He was terrible at maintenance and safety checks. He says he hit a rock near Possession Point. His wife said the water was gushing in from the head and thinks it was a failed seacock. I’m not sure what to think, honestly. One theory is that he accidentally discharged his 45 and shot a hole in the bottom of the boat but is too embarrassed to admit it.
 
48 years

We’ve had a couple of instances where my wife has been scared, one where I was really worried. I don’t think I would ever have to convince her we should stay home but I do understand making a point safely.

The metacentric height on the diesel tugs is pretty good, especially with full fuel and water. As has been mentioned, the weak spot could be water in the cockpit since the claim to being a self bailing system is limited. In a following sea the door to the swim platform should definitely be closed and with water on the bow consider opening it. With our C-Dory 23 Venture I had a slant back canvas over the cockpit for when I moored the boat. I would also install it if rough weather was likely. It kept a lot of water out more than once.
 
Gents to answer your questions regarding my earlier post.

I've been in the Navy for close to 26 years. I have taught basic, advanced and northern navigation to numerous classes composed of a multitude of generations (post-boomers, gen X, Gen Y). I know my limits and understand when I've reached them for my safety and safety of others.

That being said, it was a Friday afternoon after a long week on my part. The 12-hours surface prognosis forecasted 20-25 kts Westerly winds, the swell period was just on the fringe of comfortable ride. We had purchased the boat maybe a month previous and my wife was itching for an overnight trip. We stayed relatively close to home (within 3-4 hours cruising).

Once we got on the boat, the local ODAS buoy indicated 20 kts constant - gusting to 25 kts. So she said: "Looks good as far as I can see, let's go for it." She said that without looking at the weather, looking at where the winds were coming from and the Planned Intended Route we had to take to reach our destination (Southerly course - STBD bow/beam winds and seas). We departed Esquimalt BC, for Pedder Bay. It was all nice and a little choppy until we cleared Albert Head...Then the full force of the 20-25 kts hit us. Yes, it was uncomfortable, but at no time did I feel unsafe. In the end, we made it.

Like I had told multiple students in the past, when planning, the weather forecast (usually 24-12 hrs out), intended Speed of Advance (SOA) and local geography that will impact the weather should be looked at before committing to a plan. A valuable lesson was learned. She's no mariner, but now has learned something that a text book could never have driven home
 
Good judgment comes from experience!
And a lot that experience comes from bad judgment! "Will Rodgers"
I find its less stressful to let the wife drive the boat, and I just hold the helm! Bob
 
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