"What's a safe way of going out on deck when alone on board? Any thoughts?" I like Ron's idea - attach a personal EPIRB to your PFD. But, of course, I own one; so it's easy for me to say. Not going to attach myself to the boat so I can just be the trolled bait. You asked. Rich Gano CALYPSO (GB-42 #295) Southport, FL