T&T: Lifesaving: MOB recovery

[Milt Baker]

Scott,

We have devised a similar arrangement for recovering a person overboard (POB), but we use our crane ("davit") and lift the POB on the starboard side of our N47 right into the door which opens from the bulwarks.  I believe that's safer than hauling the POB over the swim platform because (1) visibility there is better from the helm, and (2) the POB is less likely to be injured by the propeller or slammed on the head by the swim platform as the boat falls off a wave.  That said, the configuration on the 47 is quite different and you probably have little choice but to use the cockpit for recovery on your 40.  The real key, of course, is not to lose anyone over the side in the first place!

One question: why do you need a WIRELESS remote?  Our boom winches have a jack for the standard WIRED control pad in the cockpit and we use that for launching and retrieving the paravanes--slick and easy to use.  I'd think you install the wiring and jack for wired controls in the cockpit for a lot less than the price you quote for WIRELESS controls.

On the other hand, WIRELESS controls are great for raising and lowering the passerelle when cruising in the Med.  Leave the boat then use your remote to haul the shoreward end of the passerelle up about four feet to help keep the rats and thieves at bay.  When you return to the boat, a push of the button lowers the passrelle back to dock  level so you can board.  Very neat!

--Milt Baker, N4732 Bluewater