best yacht for rough seas

The Best Sailboats for Rough Sea Conditions (13 Examples)

Are you planning to take on the challenge and sail in rough sea conditions? If so, you should equip yourself with the right sailboat that can handle heavy seas and keep you safe. Let's discuss the key features that make a sailboat ideal for rough seas and provide you with 13 examples of the best sailboats that you can consider for your next trip.

The best sailboats for rough seas have a strong and stable hull that can withstand the rough waves. They also have a deep keel that provides stability and prevents the boat from tipping over. Additionally, they have a spacious and comfortable cabin to enjoy a relaxing sailing experience even in rough conditions.

The Bermuda 40 is a good example of a classic sailboat that is known for its traditional design and seaworthiness. It has a full keel, which provides stability in rough seas. Let's look at more examples of sailboats that can handle rough sea conditions.

• The essential characteristics of an ideal sailboat for rough seas must include value for stability, comfort, speed, safety, and buoyancy.
• The best hull design type for sailboats in rough sea conditions is a deep-V hull or its modified version.
• The best rig type is either a cutter or a ketch, but for ease of handling, a sloop rig is best.
• A full-keeled sailboat is best in rough sea conditions because it provides excellent stability and directional control.

On this page:

13 examples of best sailboats for rough seas, key characteristics of sailboats for rough sea conditions, the best hull design and types for rough sea conditions, the best sailboat rig type for rough sea conditions, the most ideal keel type for sailboats in rough seas.

Here are 13 examples of sailboats for rough seas that you might want to consider:

1. Prout Snowgoose 37: This is a real blue water cruising boat that is perfect for experienced multi-hull sailors who have cruised across the Atlantic. It is also a great option for those who are new to sailing on rough seas.

2. Moore 24: Designed by the legendary California sailor and surfer George Olson, the Moore 24 is one of the first ultra-light displacement sailboats. It is a fast, fun speedster that is perfect for downwind sailing.

3. Mariner 36: This is a classic cruising sailboat that is known for its durability and seaworthiness. It is equipped with a long keel which provides better directional stability than a similar boat with a fin keel.

4. Cal 34: This is a popular sailboat that is known for its performance in rough seas. It has a fin keel that makes it easy to handle in heavy winds.

5. Morgan 43: This is a monohull sailboat designed by Nelson Marek. It has a fin keel that provides maneuverability in rough seas.

6. Swan 43: This is a high-performance sailboat that is perfect for racing and cruising. It has a sleek design and a fixed, swept fin keel.

7. Bermuda 40: This is a classic sailboat that is known for its traditional design and seaworthiness. It is equipped with a centerboard keel, which is a pivoting lifting keel, allowing it to sail both coastal and inland waters.

8. Island Packet 26: This is a popular cruising monohull sailboat that is known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. It has a long keel that provides stability in rough seas.

9. Mariner 47: This is a classic cruising sailboat that is known for its righting capability if capsized. It is equipped with a fin keel that provides splendid maneuverability.

10. LeComte Northeast 38: This is a classic sailboat that is known for its traditional design and seaworthiness. It has a full keel that provides stability in rough seas.

11. Westsail 32: This is a classic cruising sailboat that is known for its strength and durability. It has a full keel that provides stability in rough seas.

12. Dana 24: This is a popular cruising sailboat that is known for its performance in rough seas. It has a fin keel that makes it easy to handle in heavy winds.

13. J/35: This is a high-performance sailboat that is perfect for racing and cruising. It has a sleek design and a deep keel that provides stability in rough seas.

Now here are the essentials characteristics of the ideal sailboat for rough sea conditions:

• A sturdy and well-built hull that can withstand the impact of waves
• A deep keel that provides stability and prevents capsizing
• A strong and reliable rigging system that can handle high winds
• A well-designed deck that provides ample space for the crew to move around safely
• A comfortable and secured cockpit that keeps the crew protected from the elements
• A reliable engine that can be used in case of emergency

Rough sea conditions can be caused by a variety of factors, such as high winds, storms, and tides. High winds can create large waves that can be difficult to navigate, while storms can bring heavy rain, lightning, and unpredictable winds. Tides can also create rough seas, especially when they're opposing the wind direction.

When sailing in rough seas, you might need to keep in mind that your sailboat will be subjected to constant motion , which can be uncomfortable and even dangerous if you're not prepared. Your sailboat must be able to handle the rough sea conditions and keep you safe.

The sailboat needs to be highly stable

A stable sailboat will be less likely to capsize or roll over in high waves. Look for sailboats with a low center of gravity and a wide beam ratio for added stability. Sailboats with a beam ratio of at least 3:1 have improved stability and comfort.

The boat must have essential safety features

You can check if the sailboat has adequate safety features, such as a sturdy hull, strong rigging, and proper safety equipment. Additionally, consider the sailboat's ability to self-right if it capsizes.

The sailboat must be comfortable enough

Some sailboats are designed to provide a smoother ride. Look for sailboats with a deep V-shaped hull and a high deadrise angle for improved comfort in choppy waters.

The deadrise angle is the angle between the hull and the waterline. A high deadrise angle can help a sailboat cut through waves more efficiently, providing a smoother ride in rough seas.

The boat must have improved speed when necessary

Speed is not always a top priority when sailing in rough seas, but it can be important in certain situations. For example, if you need to outrun a storm or reach a safe harbor quickly. Look for sailboats with a high buoyancy-to-weight ratio and a planing hull for improved speed in rough conditions.

The sailboat should stay afloat

Buoyancy is critical when sailing in rough seas. A sailboat with high buoyancy will be more likely to stay afloat in high waves. Look for sailboats with a displacement-to-length ratio of 100 or higher for improved buoyancy.

Here are different types of hull designs available, and each has its advantages and disadvantages:

The best hull design type for sailboats in rough sea conditions is a deep-V hull or a modified-V hull. These hull designs are able to cut through waves and provide a smooth ride, even in choppy waters.

They also offer good stability and maneuverability, which are important in rough seas. Other hull designs, such as catamarans and monohulls , are also effective in rough sea conditions. Catamarans have more roll stability, while monohulls are better at upwind sailing.

If you want a more detailed discussion on hull designs and types, you can try reading this article.

In this section, we will discuss the three most common rig types: Sloop, Ketch, and Cutter.

The sloop rig is the most common rig type

The sloop rig is often used on sailboats of all sizes. It consists of a single mast with a mainsail and a headsail. The mainsail is typically larger than the headsail, and the sail plan is designed to be easily managed by a small crew. The sloop rig is known for its simplicity and ease of handling, making it a popular choice for both cruising and racing.

Ketch is more advantageous in rough seas

The ketch rig is similar to the sloop rig, but it has two masts. The mainmast is taller than the mizzenmast, and both masts have their own sails. The mainsail is typically larger than the mizzen sail, and the mizzen sail is located aft of the cockpit.

The ketch rig is known for its versatility and ability to handle a variety of wind conditions. It also provides more sail area than a sloop rig, which can be advantageous in rough seas. However, they can be more complex to manage than a simple sloop rig and requires more crew members to handle the sails.

The cutter rig can sail upwind

The cutter rig is a type of rig that features a single mast with two headsails. The mainsail is typically smaller than the headsails, and the sail plan is designed to provide maximum power and speed in all wind conditions.

The cutter rig is known for its ability to sail upwind, making it a popular choice for offshore cruising and racing. It is also known for its stability in rough seas, as the multiple headsails provide more control over the boat's direction.

A more detailed discussion of different types of sail rigs can be found in this article.

The best keel type for sailboats in rough sea conditions is full keel because it provides excellent stability and directional control. It extends the length of the boat and is typically deeper than other keel types, providing a large surface area to counteract the force of the waves.

This design also helps to distribute the weight of the boat evenly, which reduces the risk of capsizing. It also provides a straighter and more predictable path through the water , which makes it easier to maintain course and avoid being pushed off course by waves.

This is particularly important in rough sea conditions where waves can be unpredictable and may come from multiple directions. Other keel types, such as fin keels or shoal draft keels, may be more suitable for calmer waters or shallow depths, but may not offer the same level of stability and control in rough sea conditions.

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You may also like, guide to understanding sail rig types (with pictures).

There are a lot of different sail rig types and it can be difficult to remember what's what. So I've come up with a system. Let me explain it in this article.

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The 10 Best Explorer Yachts for High-Seas Adventures

A 350-foot gigayacht or 60-foot cruiser size isn't what defines an explorer yacht. the devil's in the details when it comes to authenticity., julia zaltzman, julia zaltzman's most recent stories.

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Unlike fashion trends that seem to move as fast as a Redbull F1 car, the yachting industry takes its time adopting new ideas. There seems to be one exception. Explorer vessels, born out of the owners’ desires to go farther and stay longer, without sacrificing creature comforts, is developing with some urgency.

Several dozen builders and designers are now focusing on explorers, but they are also consulting with adventure travel firms that have a long history of using expedition yachts in remote parts of the globe. ICON Yachts, for example, collaborated with Cookson Adventures and the International Seakeepers Society on its Project Mission in both the overarching design and the details found across the yacht. Adventure outfitter EYOS employs its expertise routinely with Damen’s explorer vessels, most recently with the 190-foot Pink Shadow.   EYOS has a list of 50 features that separate authentic explorers from faux versions that might look the part but lack the necessary infrastructure and design elements.

Long-range cruising, system redundancy for autonomy at sea, and storage to carry specialist equipment like submersibles are some of the requirements that define expedition boats. There’s also deck configuration for the easy launch of tenders and toys, along with strong, ice-class hulls and climate-controlled areas comfort in extreme polar and tropic regions.

We culled through the latest fleet of explorers with multiple lengths and designs, selecting a single feature that we think makes it best in class. Here are 10 of our favorites.

Best Pilothouse: Doggersbank 77 Offshore

More than 700 Doggersbank motoryachts have been built since the 1960s, with the latest model scheduled for delivery in 2025. The robust, offshore vessels are designed by Dutch studio Vripack for long ocean passages, assisted by a high, flared bow. “It prevents green water from hitting the wheelhouse windows in rough seas, and together with the Portuguese bridge, ensures the captain’s view is not obstructed,” Joost Mertens, Doggersbank fleet manager, told Robb Report . “The yacht’s steel hull ensures the yacht sits better in the water making it less vulnerable to wind and high waves.”

Best Deck Configuration: Columbus Crossover 42

The Columbus Crossover 42 is defined by both straight and angled surfaces,  tapered stern sections and a concentration of volume in the bow that is becoming on many explorers. What is atypical is the yacht’s compact but flexible dimensions that accommodate a large cockpit tender and a 108-square-foot swimming pool with relaxation areas. Sold to an U.S. customer, it’s scheduled for delivery in 2025.

Best Multipurpose Stern: Bering B165

Turkish boatbuilder Bering Yachts revealed details of its new 162-foot flagship explorer yacht, the B165 , at the Dubai International Boat Show in March. The yacht can carry 18,400 gallons of fuel, which the builder says will give it a 4,000 nautical mile range when cruising at 12 knots. It also has a 2,640-gallon holding tank. What singles the B165 out among other explorers, however, is its multi-purpose stern area for both function and form. The elongated aft deck has a swimming pool surrounded by sunbeds. When the bulwarks are folded down, the space becomes an even larger overwater terrace. When the pool is not in use, it can be used as a covered storage area for water toys and expedition equipment. The yacht’s two tenders are also stored on the aft, making it a flexible space for both equipment and guests.

Best Family-Friendly Concept: Project Mimer

This 197-foot expedition concept by Tillberg Design of Sweden caters to family travel with a helicopter pad as well as multiple tenders and toys. It’s pitched by the studio as an introduction to true explorer yachting. It has a functional crew layout for efficient operations and an upper deck owner’s suite with a forward terrace and spa pool. With a hull that will be built to the Polar Code Category, the concept also has an optional helipad aft and long list of toys, from an electric luxury tender and two expedition RIBS to quad bikes, a submersible, Jet Skis, and, of course, an amphibious vehicle. The five-decked yacht sleeps 12 guests with crew quarters for 17 and an additional staff member, such as a nanny.

Best Ice Explorer: Damen SeaXplorer 105

Damen’s 345-foot SeaXplorer 105 is the largest model in the SeaXplorer range, with exterior design by Azure Yacht Design. The platform was developed under the guidance of expedition specialists EYOS Expeditions, who considered over 150 design criteria, from the hull form and bridge layout to the tender davits and Zodiac boarding arrangements. But it is EYOS’s expertise in the polar regions—it facilitated the first heli-ski charter in Antarctica and the first 3,200-foot sub dive to the Antarctic midnight zone—that gives the vessel its point of difference. The SeaXplorer has an ice-strengthened hull and a specially shaped icebreaking stern to maneuver through rough terrain.

Best Interior: Project Fox

On top of having a cool name, Project Fox has a bright, contemporary interior, courtesy of London’s Q Design, that is becoming more common on expedition yachts. The full-beam owner’s stateroom is also one of the yacht’s standout features, with its marble en suite and hardwood floors. The salon is also luxe, with white walls that brighten up travel even in areas that are sunlight deprived. Project Fox also has four other staterooms.

Best Autonomy: Project Master

ICON Yachts’s Project Master was a transoceanic offshore support vessel before the Dutch shipyard began a refit to turn it into an explorer yacht (see before and after inset). It’s equipped with diesel-electric hybrid propulsion, a wide beam for multiple tender spaces, a 7,200-nautical mile range, and flexible cabin arrangements for expedition crew. Other features include a science lab and a certified heli-deck. “The yacht’s helicopter and sub capability mean it can offer assistance in areas with challenging access and little infrastructure,” Micca Ferrero, owner of ICON Yachts, told Robb Report . “The design is for the demands of self-sufficient voyages.”

Best Use of Volume: Arcadia Yachts A96

The A96 mixes the lines, volume, and open-plan layout of Arcadia’s Sherpa series with the speed, joystick maneuverability, and quality of the yard’s A range. It’s the first Arcadia to have an Igor Lobanov-designed interior, as well as a high bow and high deckheads for traversing rough water. But its big differentiator is the 214 gross tonnes of volume and 24-foot beam that generate big volumes—4,300 square feet of usable space, which is 30 percent more than on other similar-sized yachts. Low bulwarks and lateral walkways emphasize the sense of openness.

Best Bow: Project Shackleton

This 351-foot build from Lürssen has an inverted bow that looks like an eagle’s beak. The shape is designed to slice through waves with much lower vibration through the hull, while also reducing rock and roll in rough seas. Unlike the quasi-research vessel exteriors of many explorers, this vessel is representative of the changing look of many in this growing segment. 

Best Multi-Mode Hull: Azimut Magellano 60

The Magellano 60 isn’t technically an explorer yacht. Think of it as a cruiser  designed for some long-distance travel. But it does have one very interesting feature, what its builder Azimut calls a “dual-mode” hull. The semi-planing shape is designed to optimize fuel consumption (and therefore lower emissions) by about 20 percent (compared to similar-sized vessels) at low and medium speeds. The yacht’s bow is also designed to cut through waves for better seakeeping at a range of speeds. The boat cruises very efficiently at 18 knots but will hit a top end of 26, thus delivering the performance of a planing hull with the benefits of a displacement hull.

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• Explorer Yachts

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The Best Center Console Boats for Rough Water

No one likes being knocked around in rough water. Even less so when you load your family and friends on board.

If you’re going to buy a center console boat, it’s inevitable that you’ll often find yourself in some variable conditions. It’s just the nature of the beast. May as well do yourself a favor and choose a boat that can take some abuse while keeping you comfortable at the same time.

I’ve put together a list of some of the best riding center console boats in the industry. The boats on this list vary in size, but they’re all top-notch choices in their respective classes for handling rough seas. I’ve categorized them by size in order to simplify things.

Also, it goes without saying, but just to be safe: Always know the limitations of your boat and your skills as an operator. Just because one boat rides better than another in “rough water” doesn’t mean that it’s safe to take on Poseidon’s fury.

Research on, my friends! This should get you started on your way to finding the right fit.

Under 25ft Center Consoles for Rough Water

This is the smallest Center Console group on the list. I’m sticking between 20-25ft for this one, as I personally don’t recommend the vast majority center consoles under 20ft in rough seas.

If you’re on the fence about a 20ft+ boat and you plan on going anywhere near rough seas, go ahead and save some extra money to make the jump. The comfort and (more importantly) safety is 100% worth the extra money.

Regulator 23

Spoiler Alert: Regulator will make more than one appearance on this list. Regulator builds an outstanding boat and they are borderline legendary for their comfortable ride in rougher seas.

The Regulator 23 is no exception.

This center console measures in at 23’5″, but don’t let its size trick you into believing it’s a small boat. It looks and feels much bigger than it really is, making it a pound-for-pound beast in rough waters.

The 23 can take whatever you can throw at it within reason. It has absolutely no problem outclassing plenty of boats that, on paper, measure far bigger. The build quality is awesome and features some of the best stringer construction on the market- perfect for taking offshore abuse with a smile.

If you want a sub-25ft center console that can take some heat, it’s extremely, extremely hard to beat the Regulator 23.

Everglades 255

Everglades makes a really nice boat and the 255 is a great entry into the world of offshore center consoles

The 255 is compact, but has a deep-V hull that does a great job of slicing through rough seas. Definitely a sturdy vessel and the craftsmanship is awesome. From the hull design to the strategically-placed handles to grab onto when things get dicey, there’s a lot to like when the 255 goes offshore.

As with any Everglades boat, there’s also the top-tier style factor. The 255 looks and feels premium all over. Everglades fit, finish, and style is well known. And for good reason.

Like the 23 Regulator, the Everglades 255 is a relatively small center console that can truly outclass many bigger boats.

25ft to 30ft Center Consoles for Rough Water

This is the size range that starts getting much more comfortable. Options starting opening up much more from here. For rough seas, I recommend at least making the jump from sub-25ft to 25ft-30ft.

Blackfin 272

I love Blackfins. They are basically bombproof with all of the creature comforts you could ask for in a center console fishing boat.

The Blackfin 272 carries on the time-honored Blackfin tradition of beastly boats. This thing is a machine and it performs and performs. You’ll beat the snot out of yourself long before the 272 is ready to quit.

The 272 is also beautiful. It’s sleek all over with a fit and finish to match. From the hull to the console to the badges, it’s hard not to fall in love at first sight when you see one of these roll up.

Regulator 28

Told you Regulator would be back! Like the earlier Regulator 23 entry, the Regulator 28 is a beast in tough conditions. It’s just bigger and better.

Regulator’s 26 is considered to be one of the greatest center consoles of all time, but the 28 still manages to go one further. The Reg 28 is a monster for its size. It’s heavy, but it handles fast and efficient. It also has a huge console for its class and a flush deck. So much room for activities.

True to Regulator form, fit and finish is awesome. The 28’s hull is top-tier with some of the best stringers ever made.

You can ask almost any industry professional- this is one of the best center consoles ever made. Full stop.

Sea Vee 290

Could this list really exist without Sea Vee making an appearance? The hype is real folks.

More importantly, the performance is real. It really can’t be denied how well a Sea Vee performs in nasty conditions.

The Sea Vee reputation holds up with the 290. This isn’t a massive boat by offshore center console standards, but it outperforms its size. The hull design is solid as a rock. Roll is minimal and it’s a very dry ride.

The 290 is in a sweet spot for anyone who wants a trailerable center console that can get down and dirty offshore. It’s a manageable size, but it feels much bigger when you put it in the water.

It goes without saying that any Sea Vee has the looks to go with the performance. Everyone on the water recognizes a Sea Vee the moment they lock eyes on it and the 290 will be no exception there.

Intrepid 300

I’ve got one Intrepid boat in my family already and I hope it never goes away. Intrepid builds a killer boat and I’ve spent more time on them than any other on this list.

The Intrepid 300, like all Intrepids, has a bulletproof hull that can take you just about anywhere. It does a wonderful job of cruising along at a comfortable speed in rough water. And from my experience, the build quality is as good as it gets.

Intrepid is famous for being uber-customizable. No matter what you want to do with your Intrepid, they’ll outfit you for the job. The configuration options are staggering when compared to most other manufacturers and the customer service is always as solid as the boat itself.

30ft+ Center Consoles for Rough Water

We’re getting into the big boy boats now. And honestly, this is where you want to be if you want maximum comfort and maximum safety. Rule of thumb with rough water is that, generally, the bigger the boat, the better.

Regulator 34

You already knew this was coming.

In the 30ft+ category, Regulator still goes strong with the 34. Best of all, this is one of the best values in its class. Regulator recently redesigned the 34 to add even more features to an already outstanding boat.

Like the earlier Regulator entries on this list, the 34 outperforms its size. It’s a pound-for-pound beast when compared to most 35ft to 40ft vessels.

The deep-V hull is solid as a rock and the console is roomy. You can run this boat all day in rough water and stay comfortable doing it.

If you’re making the jump to a 30ft+ center console, the Regulator 34 should be the first boat you look at.

Yellowfin 36

It had to show up sometime.

At this point in time, Yellowfin has achieved mythological status in the boating community. These are some of the most celebrated yet polarizing boats on the market.

But let’s be honest- 99% of the time, the only knock anyone has on Yellowfin is price. Yes, they’re not cheap. But they are without a doubt one of the best performers.

The Yellowfin 36 is like all large Yellowfin CC’s. It’s made to handle the sea and handle it with speed. You don’t buy a Yellowfin to baby it. You buy it to push the throttle down.

Variable conditions are a breeze in the 36. The hull will roll over just about whatever you want it to and it will hold up under stress. Yellowfin fit and finish is well known and, from my experience, always holds up.

Hype or no hype, the Yellowfin 36 is legitimately one of the best in its class.

Sea Vee 390

Just like the 290, the Sea Vee 390 is a straight-up competitor in its arena. This is a big boat and it’s a solid one. It’s beefy all over and it will go wherever you want to take it.

Truthfully,  once you make your way to a center console of this size and price, you’re really not going to worry much about whether or not it can handle rough (but still safe) water. You should expect for this kind of vessel to handle the way you want it to and the 390 definitely accomplishes this.

It’s worth noting that the Sea Vee 390 is very roomy, especially in the back. There’s a ton of space to move comfortably move around, whether your fishing with a handful of people or cruising around with a whole boatload.

Yellowfin 42

I’m going to be short and sweet on this one. The Yellowfin 42 takes some coin to acquire, but it’s always going to be one of the most capable, impressive center consoles on the market.

If the price tag doesn’t scare you off, the 42 will get you through just about any kind of water you need it to. And it will do it at warp speed.

Yellowfin is famous for building boats that can outrun just about everything else. The 42 is no exception. It’ll pop up onto plane and leave just about any boat in its class in the dust.

If you’ve made it this far, your pocketbook is definitely in trouble and you should just embrace it. On the bright side, there’s no need to worry about missing out on features. We left compromises behind a few boats ago.

The Jupiter 43 is a monster of a boat with style for days. This is the dream CC for many folks. Even smaller Jupiter boats handle variable conditions beautifully, but the 43 is simply next-level.

Basically, the Jupiter 43 is the in-between fusion of a big center console and a sportfish. To that point, it rides like a dream. It’s already a big boat, but like most entries on this list, it somehow rides even bigger.

You can go anywhere you want to go, fish for anything you want to fish for, and (no matter how hard you try to deny it) look as good as humanly possible in this boat.

Hopefully this helps you move further along in your quest for the perfect center console. Brand loyalty aside, you’d be hard-pressed to find folks in the boating community who would argue against these boats as solid riders in less-than-ideal conditions.

Let us know how you feel about this list. We’d love to know what center console you feel has the best ride. Also, absolutely let us know if you pull the trigger on one of the boats listed here!

© 2024 by Upland Coast

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Best Boats for Rough Water: 6 Qualities that Make for a Smooth Cruise

Table of Contents

Last Updated on December 13, 2023 by Boatsetter Team

Most boats will perform well on calm water but when the sea kicks up, there are a few design elements that ensure a more stable ride. Some of these characteristics are tradeoffs with other features but if you boat on rough, choppy or offshore waters, consider a boat with one or more of the following features. In this post, we’ll highlight the six qualities you’ll want to keep an eye out for when sifting for the best boat:

• Two (or three) hulls 
• More deadrise at the forefront 
• Stiff heavy hulls 
• 4:1 (length-to- beam ratio) 
• Center gravity & draft
• Boats with high horsepower

20,000 boat makes & models to browse on Boatsetter

1. Two (or three) hulls

The hull is the portion of your boat that rides both in and on top of the water. Two (or three) hulls are generally more stable than one because they make a beamier (wider) boat. A monohull fishing boat for example, will roll more than the same length power catamaran and that leads to fatigue after just a few hours of angling. Boats with a broader beam tend to be steadier at speed and especially at rest and that makes a world of difference when you’re casting or cruising. Besides, multihulls also offer more deck space to work with so look for multihull models from World Cat, Aspen, Invincible and others.

The benefit of the beam also applies to pontoon boats, especially tritoon (three tube) models that can take a two foot chop in stride. Godfrey, Bennington, Manitou and other builders offer strong boats that can fly across a windy lake with ease.

2. More deadrise at the forefront

Monohull boats with a deep-V or more deadrise at the forefoot will track better and pound less than flat bottom vessels. Deadrise is the angle between the bottom of the hull and a horizontal plane. Optimum angles are 20-24 degrees for a soft ride when going into head seas. Regal, Sea Ray, Sabre and others specialize in building deep-V boats that can venture out in sketchy weather.

Flared or “Carolina” bows also help keep the decks dry. Bow flare will part water spray and toss it to the sides rather than onto the driver so you can go faster in big waves and stay comfortable. Sea Hunt and Skeeter make boats with plenty of flare.

Hulls with a higher freeboard are generally drier than those with lower decks. Freeboard is the distance between the waterline and the gunnel . Rough waters can swamp low vessels like flat boats but higher gunnels provide an extra measure of protection. Yellowfin and Everglades build models that make boaters feel safely ensconced within the boat in big seas.

3. Stiff heavy hulls

It’s no secret that heavier boats ride smoother regardless of the sea state. Displacement boats (rather than those that plane like watersport boats ) will part the seas or lift with oncoming waves rather than skitter across and get tossed around by rough water. Stiff, heavy hulls with stringer reinforcement will perform better and stay more stable. Grady White and Boston Whaler are good choices, although the heavier the boat, the more horsepower it takes to move it.

READ MORE: How to Plan for a Boat Trip

4. Length-to-beam ratio (4:1)

Longer waterlines bridge waves better so boats glide rather than bob in a chop or swell. A boat with a length-to-beam ratio of 2:1 will be more difficult to drive than one with a ratio of 4:1. A 40-foot boat with a beam of 10 feet should cut through the water without trouble. Cape Horn and Axopar build boats that slice through water like knives.

5. Center of gravity & draft

The lower the center gravity of a vessel, the more likely it will stay upright with little effect from waves or high winds. Most weight on a boat is provided by the keel , the engine(s), tanks, and batteries, which all act as ballast that stabilizes the craft. Keep in mind heavy T-tops or flybridges raise the center of gravity, so if you’re seasick or unsteady on your feet, steer clear of the highest point on a boat.

A deeper draft also helps keep a boat upright. Displacement hulls with longer and deeper keels are more comfortable in heavy seas than boats with a shoal keel. Passage makers like Nordhavn, Ocean Reef, and Grand Banks are good examples, but they are slow-moving long-distance cruisers rather than planning speedsters.

Pro tip: Renting a boat is a sweet alternative to boat ownership. As a Boatsetter Renter, for example, you find boats by your favorite brands and even boat types such as yachts , sailboats , cruisers , and more !

6. High horsepower

Finally, higher horsepower boats are usually better for rough water because they add weight down low and push through a sea state with more power. If you need to run from a storm or make it to a sheltered anchorage quickly, larger engines are a must. Inboard engines sit low in the hull and outboards add weight to the stern of boats and are kicked around less in following seas. Examples include any boat with multiple outboard or inboard engines.

Buoyancy is key to keeping a boat moving on her lines as much as possible. Self-draining cockpits with scuppers keep the water out of the boat so it doesn’t become weighted down and sluggish. Most open and express boats will have multiple scuppers for safety.

Beyond basic design

The above elements are basic to naval architecture, and all contribute to a safer, more stable vessel. However, don’t forget to look at a boat as a whole. Does it have shock-absorbent seating at least for the driver? Does it have a good windshield and cabin protection? Are there adequate handholds along the entire length so you can move forward and aft safely in a seaway? Assess the seaworthiness of a boat using many variables before heading out in rough water.

Boatsetter is the go-to app for boat rentals and on-water experiences. Whatever the adventure, we’ve got a boat for that—Set sail , start the party , go yachting , make your trophy catch , and hone your watersports skills! Download the Boatsetter app ( App Store | Google Play ). Make sure to follow @boatsetter on Instagram, and tag us in all your boat day pictures for the chance to be featured.

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Zuzana Prochazka is an award-winning freelance journalist and photographer with regular contributions to more than a dozen sailing and powerboating magazines and online publications including Southern Boating, SEA, Latitudes & Attitudes and SAIL. She is SAIL magazines Charter Editor and the Executive Director of Boating Writers International. Zuzana serves as judge for SAIL’s Best Boats awards and for Europe’s Best of Boats in Berlin. 

A USCG 100 Ton Master, Zuzana founded and manages a flotilla charter organization called Zescapes that takes guests adventure sailing at destinations worldwide. 

Zuzana has lived in Europe, Africa and the United States and has traveled extensively in South America, the islands of the South Pacific and Mexico. 

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“The Best Rough Water Boats Out There. Period.”

Winn willard, president of ray hunt design, reveals his obsession with hunt yachts’ surfhunter 25..

An industry game-changer and pragmatic boat engineer, Winn Willard was on his first boat at age 5. Today, whether cruising Buzzards Bay on his Hunt Yachts Surfhunter 25 (the original Surfhunter model) or evolving Ray Hunt Design, his passion for the life aquatic remains deep. An accomplished naval architect and yacht designer with a staggering amount of boat designs in his portfolio, Willard has recently returned to his own favorite design — purchasing and captaining a Hunt Surfhunter 25 he named Creola .

“I’ve always wanted one,” Willard says of his new boat. “It’s an early hull we’ve updated over the years, and it’s a real sweetheart. In my opinion it’s the best 25-footer rough water boat out there. Period.”

Why is this design his favorite? It’s anchored in the history of Ray Hunt Designs and Hunt Yachts. Based in New Bedford, Mass., and founded in 1966, the 56-year-old Ray Hunt Designs is a naval architecture firm famous for a high-deadrise hull form known as the Hunt Deep V — helmed by Willard’s prescient vision. The result? A solution for performance, seakindliness, comfort, and safety in rough seas, all of which are readily apparent in the Surfhunter 25. 

“Hunt Yachts was created by me and a couple other partners,” Willard further explains. “It was developed and then sold to Hinckley in 2013. We take pride in the boats that carry the Hunt name. They must be the best in terms of rough water performance, because that’s what we are known for. The Hunt boats have more deadrise and aggressive Hunt design. They are, and will continually be, the best rough water boats out there.”

Willard’s penchant for boat building runs in his family. He grew up in Plymouth, Mass., right on the beach. He explains that since the age of 5 he “was always messing around with boats.” A carpenter and boatbuilder, Willard’s Dad built him is first boat — an eight-foot pram. “To keep me occupied, he would start up the little outboard motor, put me in the boat with my life jacket on, and throw out the anchor,” Willard explains. “I could putt-putt around my little boat as far as the anchor line would let me or before I’d run out of gas. My love for the water went from there.”

After attending college at the University of Michigan — one of the few places at the time that offered a degree in naval architecture — Willard went on to business school at Babson College and returned home for a part-time summer job. Back then, Boston was a hub for aspiring boat designers. “I took a roll of drawings under my arm, went to Hunt, and said, ‘Hey, need a draftsman?’” Willard says. “Ray Hunt’s partner hired me on a part-time basis, so I was going to school in the morning and working for him in the afternoon. One thing led to another and it’s essentially the only job I’ve ever had.”

Throughout his career he’s led an incredible amount of boat designs. He’s concepted sailboats, 100-foot motor yachts, even a 10-foot jet ski for Honda. He’s designed for Chris-Craft, Boston Whaler, Regal, Robalo, Cruisers Yachts, Four Winns, and many others. Yet what makes him most tick? “The more interesting boats are the custom yachts — when owners come in and want something special,” he says. “Those have been fun. But we also do commercial and military boats. And those are especially interesting because they have a job to do. In some cases, people’s lives depend on them. We continue to design boats all over the country and they sell themselves. That’s really rewarding.”

When asked why he thinks Ray Hunt Design is considered a true innovator, he quickly responds with the fact that the V-shape hull was the major pivot. “There was a total paradox shift with Ray Hunt Design,” he explains. “In the 1960s, all motorboats were typically flat bottom boats and had awful handling characteristics. Ray used to demonstrate with his early boats. He would take the boat up to high speed and then take his hands off the wheel and tie his shoelaces. And people would think, ‘Oh my God, don’t let go of the steering wheel!’ But the boat would keep going straight because of its design. It’s a recipe we continue to evolve throughout the years. We update, improve, and adapt to what’s going on in the world. Hinckley Sport Boats and Hunt yachts are more aggressive and a little higher deadrise, with the V shape in the hull, so they will go through the water as smooth as possible.”

Today, you’ll find Willard aboard Creola (named after a Jimmy Buffett son), cruising Buzzard’s Bay with his wife. He also cherishes rides to the Elizabeth Islands. “It’s like you’re in a different world,” Willard says. “There are no lights, no noise. And at the west end of Nantucket, it’s shallow water and you can go to Madaket. The city lights obscure the sky, but when you get out sto those places you realize there are a lot of stars up there. I’m very happy to just sit on my boat and stare at the stars.”

And why, after all these years of boat engineering, did he come back to the Hunt Surfhunter 25? “Being a designer and an engineer, I appreciate boats, cars, and machinery, for what they can do and how they perform. A Hunt boat is by far the best rough water boat. I wouldn’t want to own anything less.”

Click here to learn more about the latest Surfhunter, the Surfhunter 32 , now available with outboard or I/O power.

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The Challenges of Sailing in Rough Seas: Tips and Strategies

Discover how to safely navigate through rough seas and overcome the challenges that come with sailing in unpredictable weather conditions.

Sailing in rough seas can be a daunting and challenging experience, even for the most seasoned sailors. The unpredictability of the ocean, combined with the potential for dangerous weather conditions, can make for a nerve-wracking journey. However, with the right preparation, knowledge, and mindset, you can overcome these challenges and safely navigate your way through rough waters. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common challenges faced by sailors in rough seas, as well as tips and strategies for overcoming them.

Understanding the Dangers of Rough Seas

Before we delve into specific tips and strategies, it’s important to understand the potential dangers that rough seas can present. Some of the most common hazards include:

• Large waves and swells, which can cause your boat to pitch and roll violently
• Strong winds, which can make it difficult to maintain control of your vessel
• Reduced visibility due to rain, fog, or spray from breaking waves
• Rapidly changing weather conditions, which can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared
• The risk of collision with other vessels, debris, or even land if you’re sailing close to shore

By being aware of these potential dangers, you can take steps to mitigate them and ensure the safety of your crew and vessel.

Preparing Your Boat for Rough Seas

One of the most important aspects of sailing in rough seas is ensuring that your boat is properly prepared for the conditions. Here are some tips for getting your vessel ready for a challenging journey:

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Rigging

Before setting sail, it’s crucial to thoroughly inspect your rigging and ensure that everything is in good working order. Check for any signs of wear or damage, such as frayed lines, corroded fittings, or cracked turnbuckles. Replace or repair any damaged components as needed, and make sure that all lines are properly tensioned.

2. Secure Loose Items

In rough seas, loose items can quickly become dangerous projectiles. Take the time to secure any loose gear, both on deck and below. This includes stowing away items like tools, dishes, and personal belongings, as well as securing larger items like dinghies, life rafts, and spare anchors.

3. Check Your Bilge Pumps and Through-Hulls

Make sure that your bilge pumps are functioning properly and that your through-hull fittings are in good condition. In rough seas, water ingress can be a major concern, so it’s important to ensure that your boat is watertight and able to effectively pump out any water that does make its way on board.

4. Prepare Your Crew

Ensure that your crew is well-rested, well-fed, and properly outfitted with appropriate foul weather gear. Discuss your plans and expectations for the journey, and make sure that everyone is familiar with their roles and responsibilities in rough conditions.

Strategies for Sailing in Rough Seas

Once your boat is properly prepared, it’s time to set sail. Here are some strategies for navigating rough seas safely and effectively:

1. Choose the Right Course and Speed

When sailing in rough seas, it’s important to choose a course and speed that will minimize the impact of the waves on your boat. This may involve altering your intended route or slowing down to reduce the risk of damage or injury. In general, it’s best to avoid sailing directly into or away from large waves, as this can cause your boat to pitch and roll excessively. Instead, try to maintain a course that allows you to ride the waves at an angle, which can help to smooth out the motion of your boat.

2. Use Your Sails Wisely

In strong winds and rough seas, it’s important to strike a balance between maintaining control of your boat and reducing the strain on your rigging. This may involve reefing your sails to reduce their surface area, or even switching to a smaller headsail or storm jib if conditions warrant it. Be prepared to make adjustments to your sail plan as conditions change, and always prioritize the safety of your crew and vessel over maintaining a fast pace.

3. Monitor the Weather

Keeping a close eye on the weather is crucial when sailing in rough seas. Make use of available weather forecasts and satellite imagery, and be prepared to adjust your plans if conditions deteriorate. If you’re caught in a storm, try to maintain a course that keeps you in the storm’s “navigable semicircle,” which is the area where the winds and seas are generally less severe.

4. Practice Good Seamanship

In rough seas, good seamanship is more important than ever. This includes maintaining a proper lookout, communicating effectively with your crew, and making smart decisions based on the conditions and capabilities of your boat. Remember that it’s always better to err on the side of caution and take a conservative approach to sailing in rough conditions.

Overcoming Fear and Anxiety

For many sailors, one of the biggest challenges of sailing in rough seas is overcoming the fear and anxiety that can accompany such conditions. Here are some tips for managing these emotions and maintaining a positive mindset:

1. Trust Your Boat

Remind yourself that your boat is designed to handle rough seas, and that it’s capable of keeping you safe as long as you take the proper precautions. Focus on the steps you’ve taken to prepare your boat for the conditions, and trust in its ability to carry you through.

2. Focus on the Task at Hand

When conditions are challenging, it’s important to stay focused on the task at hand and avoid becoming overwhelmed by the situation. Break tasks down into smaller, manageable steps, and concentrate on completing each one to the best of your ability.

3. Breathe and Stay Calm

In stressful situations, it’s easy to forget to breathe deeply and maintain a sense of calm. Practice taking slow, deep breaths, and remind yourself that you are capable of handling the challenges that lie ahead.

4. Learn from Your Experiences

Each time you sail in rough seas, you’ll gain valuable experience and knowledge that will help you become a more confident and capable sailor. Embrace these challenges as opportunities for growth, and remember that with each successful journey, you’re becoming better equipped to handle whatever the ocean throws your way.

Sailing in rough seas can be a challenging and intimidating experience, but with the right preparation, knowledge, and mindset, it’s possible to overcome these obstacles and safely navigate your way through even the most difficult conditions. By understanding the potential dangers, preparing your boat and crew, and employing smart sailing strategies, you can confidently face the challenges of rough seas and continue on your journey of exploration and adventure.

9 Best Power Catamarans For Rough Seas and Coastal!

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Power catamarans are gaining popularity in the cruising world thanks to their enhanced stability and ease of operation. They’re ideal for coastal cruising but can also be used for ocean crossing thanks to their stability and speed.

Here are some of the best power catamarans on the market:

• Fountaine Pajot MY6
• Nautitech 47 Power
• Horizon PC74
• Lagoon Seventy 8
• ArrowCat 420
• Sunreef Supreme 68

In this article, I’ll review some of the best power catamarans out there. I’ll also go over the main features of different power cats and if they can handle rough weather. 

But before we dive in, let’s get a better understanding of what power cats are.

Table of Contents

What Is a Power Cat?

A power catamaran (power cat) is a motor-powered boat that, unlike traditional boats, has two hulls connected by a bridge deck. These vessels are more stable than monohulls because of their wide base.  

Power cats also don’t have a leaded keel to weigh them down, so they’re pretty lightweight and fast. The lack of a keel also means that power cats are more suitable for shallow waters.

They feature large engines designed to handle their bigger bodies and weights, and serve different purposes, like fishing, cruising, or crossing rough seas. In addition, each hull has a separate engine which makes them more maneuverable, especially at turns and tight spaces.

Power catamarans don’t have sails or masts and get all of their power from the combustion engine (or electric motor), unlike their sailing cousins. In addition, these vehicles are much easier to steer because of their increased stability.

Power catamarans have more interior and exterior space thanks to their multihull design, making them perfect for cruising and liveaboard . They also have ample space for storing everything you need on a cruise without worrying about weighing it down. Catamarans offer increased privacy as well because each hull houses one sleeping area, separated by the living area between them.

Are Power Cats Good in Rough Water?

Power catamarans are good in rough waters particularly because of their multi-hull design. Their wide base makes them stable, and their high speed allows for outrunning bad weather.

Power cats that feature a high bridge clearance, will handle rough waters effortlessly. With the added height, you won’t experience pounding and slamming even in heavy waves, allowing the crew to easily control the vessel in challenging situations.

These boats are also faster than their sailing counterparts, which means they can get you out of rough waters quickly.

In addition, since catamarans are large and tall, maneuvering is easier because you have a better view of the surroundings. Additionally, you can steer from the interior cockpit (on certain models), making it easier to control the vessel in bad weather.

Finally, although a power cat doesn’t have a keel to help it right itself in case of capsizing, it will still float easily because of its positive buoyancy.

Are Power Catamarans More Efficient?

Power catamarans are more fuel-efficient than monohulls because they don’t have leaded keels. While keels are designed to offer stability by weighing down the vessel, they increase the wetted surface and thereby add drag.

Due to the catamarans’ narrow bow entry, there’s lower resistance, leading to smoother acceleration and greater fuel economy in catamarans. In addition, power cats show fewer spikes in fuel consumption in a single power band, especially because of their smooth acceleration and fuel consumption.

The figures reported by cat owners or manufacturers show that power cats have the best power-consumption-to-speed ratios.

That being said, you can improve fuel efficiency by maintaining lower speeds; studies have shown that speed can be the most important factor in fuel efficiency, regardless of the number of engines or hull types. 

Now that you have a better understanding of power catamarans, let’s take a look at the ten best models on the market.

1. Leopard 53

This 53ft (16.19m) power cat is the fourth generation of the widely popular Leopard catamarans, and brings with it all the great features from her predecessor, the 51. 

Although the 51 was the company’s best-selling cat, they added these features to the 53 along with new ones to repeat its success. For example, they have built an enormous saloon, flybridge, and galley by removing the foredeck cockpit in the 51 PC, making it 30 percent larger than the previous model.

This model comes with three or four stateroom layouts, with the 3-stateroom version featuring an owner’s stateroom, two sinks, a loveseat, and lots of storage space.

With two Yanmar 370 hp engines, a maximum speed of 22 knots, and a cruising speed of 17.5, you can enjoy a magnificent ride, whether it’s long-distance cruising or a fun night out with friends.

2. Fountaine Pajot MY6

This luxury power cat is 44ft (13.40m) long, making it super spacious and suitable for families and big parties. With its spacious flybridge, sunbathing lounge, and enormous galley, it’s nothing short of a second home on the water. 

You can steer the cat from the saloon or the 21sqm (68 sq ft) flybridge which features a sunbathing lounge, a pool, and a galley.

This motor yacht continues to delight with its luxurious combination of privacy and pleasure, with views of the sea in almost every interior space. With three cabins, two bathrooms, six cabin beds, ample storage, and a kitchen that opens into the cockpit, you can enjoy practicality and luxury in one place.

The MY6 is exceptionally seaworthy and stable thanks to its wave-piercing hulls and Volvo IPS engines.

Like all power cats, it has straightforward steering, enabling you to control this beast even in the roughest circumstances.

3. Nautitech 47 Power

Powered by dual Volvo Penta D4 engines, this model can output 225-300hp, reaching a maximum of 22 knots and a cruising speed of 18-20 knots . This 46′ 8″ (14.23m) long power cat comes in three or four cabin versions, depending on the customer’s preference.

No matter which layout you choose, you’ll get a spacious, luxurious, and comfortable catamaran with panoramic views from the cabin. The sleek, streamlined exterior design ensures elegant sailing and seaworthiness.

It’s easy for passengers to navigate the deck thanks to its seamless design that connects the saloon to the cockpit and the rear deck. The stern features a big swimming platform that can also accommodate a tender. The cockpit is usable in different weather conditions thanks to the clear covers wrapping the whole area.

This efficient catamaran promises long cruising for big families and groups with two 300L water tanks and a pair of 645L fuel tanks.  

4. Horizon PC74

The Horizon PC 74 is another luxury power cat that can give you the comfort of your home on water. This 73′ 9” (22.48m) long power cat with a 2,000gal (7570L) fuel tank is an enormous vessel that can accommodate more than 14 people.

The enormous hardtop on the three-piece windshield, the teak dining table, the U-shaped bar, the sun pad, and the swing-out stools all guarantee that you’ll have the luxury cruising experience of a lifetime.

This vast and wide catamaran allows you to access the aft deck from the flybridge via a curving staircase. The vast aft deck has a ten-person dining table, a wet bar, and storage space. You can separate the interior and exterior spaces through sliding glass doors and make the space appear bigger by opening them.

Reaching a top speed of 23 knots and a cruising speed of 19 knots, this enormous catamaran was built for efficiency and practicality.

5. Lagoon Seventy 8

This 78’1″ (23.80m) power cat with two 494 HP engines and a 2246gal (8500L) fuel capacity is one of the largest power cats on the market, offering both comfort and reliability. The enormous flybridge can feature a jacuzzi, a sunbathing area, a large foldable dining table, and a hardtop with a moveable roof. However, you can customize the flybridge based on your preferences.

The designers have compromised nothing in terms of elegance and high-quality materials with top-of-the-line finishes and interior paneling to create the kind of luxury you want.

The saloon is huge, well-ventilated, and separated from the exterior by glass doors and panoramic windows.

But what sets Lagoon Seventy 8 apart from other power cats, in addition to its enormous size, is the wide choice of layouts. You can choose between five different versions, all offering the same amount of storage space, living and sleeping area, and privacy.

Additionally, some versions are fully customizable, allowing you to pick every detail to your liking.

6. ArrowCat 420

This 41′ (12.73m) long express cruiser is a semi-custom catamaran with two-stateroom and three-stateroom layouts. The ArrowCat 420 is designed and built with comfort and strength in mind, and capable of handling rough waters safely.

The two Suzuki 350 hp engines give this model a maximum speed of 40 knots and a cruising speed of 20 knots.

The streamlined design and the angled hulls ensure the vessel cuts through the waves effortlessly, making it easy to maneuver.

The fully-equipped head features an electric toilet, a shower, sink, and mirrors, coupled with a dining table, floor storage locker, and teak-finished floors. This cat is built to combine luxury and comfort for both onshore and offshore cruising.

7. Bali 4.3

This 43′ (13.1m) power cat is made for ocean crossing in mind. With five different layouts featuring different combinations of cabins and heads, the company ensures you’ll get the kind of setup you want. Regardless of the layout, this cat offers a spacious master suite with a large double bed and other private sleeping quarters.

You can quickly add to the overall space by removing the adjustable glass doors to merge the cockpit with the saloon.

A feature that sets the 4.1 apart from its predecessor is the fixed aft deck between the hulls, which provides a passageway and eliminates the need to go from one hull to the other without entering the cockpit.

8. Sunreef Supreme 68

According to its designers, this model was built with a radical concept in mind while staying true to the company’s promise of building the most comfortable and spacious power cats in the world.

One of the greatest features of the Supreme 68 is its aft garage that houses a 5m (16 ft) tender and two jet skis in addition to other water toys.

You can also transform the aft to a large platform for water sports by lowering the garage door.

The four-stateroom layout features ample storage, ensuite guest cabins, queen-sized beds, and TVs to create a memorable stay. The white and beige furniture with chrome details and floor-to-ceiling glazing create a soothing atmosphere that blends with the practicality of the well-equipped galley. 

However, if you’re looking for something different, you can opt for a customized model from three different layouts.

9. Hudson 48

The sleek, diamond-cut design of this 46.46’ (14.16m) long power cat is usually the first thing to catch your eye.

It’s a light displacement cat that ensures fast cruising with a top speed of 24 knots and cruising speed of 8 knots thanks to the two 370hp Yanmar V8 engines.

The three-cabin layout features a master stateroom with a spacious and well-ventilated design made possible via the three overhead windows and opening deck hatches.

The saloon’s enormous helm station allows for comfortable and safe accommodation, making it great for rough waters and bad weather conditions.

This model also offers a few entertainment options with its large TV systems and mood lighting. The storage areas and the full-sized walk-in wardrobe give this model a comfortable, homely setting.

Here are Some of My Favorite Catamaran Cruising Resources

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it helpful as you hopefully start your sailing adventures. Here are some resources that I use as a sailor that I hope you’ll also find helpful. These are affiliate links, so if you do decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission. But in all honesty, these are the exact things that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Sailboats: If you’re looking for the best boat to suit your needs, I would recommend a catamaran. If you’re interested, I can show you the differences between catamarans and other types of sailboats .

Books:  For getting started, I really like  Cruising catamarans made easy . It is actually a textbook from the American sailing association; it is used to get a cruising catamaran certification. There are some other great books, and I have compiled a list of books about cruising catamarans that you will find useful.

Communication:  Being out on adventures, whether it be sailing or climbing mountains, good communications are essential to being safe. I recommend two things Google fi (incredibly simple cellular data all over the world) and Garmin inreach mini (for text and voice in remote areas without cell coverage)

Sailing courses: Online sailing courses are great for beginners starting out their sailing career; it’s an efficient way of learning the basics of navigation, throttle controls, and maritime safety. I suggest starting with two free courses from NauticEd .

To see all my most up-to-date recommendations,  check out this resource  that I made for you!

Owner of CatamaranFreedom.com. A minimalist that has lived in a caravan in Sweden, 35ft Monohull in the Bahamas, and right now in his self-built Van. He just started the next adventure, to circumnavigate the world on a Catamaran!

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• Celebrity Cruises

Which ships handle rough seas the best?

By In Toronto , May 13, 2007 in Celebrity Cruises

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I have seen mention of certain ships that rock and roll a lot in less than calm seas. Some of you have much experience on various ships. Which ones handle rough seas the best? I love cruising but have to admit that I get a little nervous (I know it is an irrational fear!) when the ship sways and bucks a lot, particularly at night when you can't see what exactly is happening.

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We've been on both. C Class and M Class and really didn't notice a difference. All the big ships we have been on (even HAL and the dreaded Carnival) all felt about the same. Stay off the really small ones.

There is a basic difference between cruise ships such as all the Celebrity ships and ocean liners such as the QM2 which is more suited to Atlantic crossings.

However, we have been on most of the Celebrity ships and have never noticed any significant difficulty in any calm or moderate seas. Probably more important than the ship itself is your location. Cabins located lower and more centrally will ride much smoother.

Rest assured the ships can handle a lot worse conditions than you will likely ever encounter.

We enjoy gentle ship motion, and hope in time you will also.

Happy Sails to You

OOOEEE:D :D Bob and Phyl

The bigger the ship the less the waves affect it.

Dougie Cruise

We were on the HAL Westerdam last December in the Caribe. We went through a storm with 50 knot winds, 30 foot waves, "Very Rough" conditions. The ship, with stabilizers, handled it really well. We were happily surprised. Motion sickness tip: Ginger or Ginger tablets - really helps, supposedly as well as the seasickness patches and pills. Bon Voyage

I don't agree that bigger ships handle better.

Ride has much more relation to hull shape, draft, length and beam.

Case in Point: Princess's Grand class, at 113,000GRT pitch and roll more in heavy seas than the Sun class, at 77,000GRT.

The former Royal Princess, at 45,000GRT rides better than her much larger running mates.

I've only been on Mercury, so I can't compare her to other ships in the Celebrity fleet.

Druke, I agree with you. In my experience, by far, the worst riding ship was Golden Princess. We had very calm seas, and still the pitch and roll were bad on that ship. I think that ship might be sort of top-heavy, and that might contribute to its poor ride?

I'd also say that the best riding ships have been M-class X ships. We were on Infinity, and had 25' seas part of the way to Hawaii, and it was no big deal. It seemed to cut right through those big waves, and rode surprisingly well.

I was also on the Golden and noticed the rough ride in moderate seas. It was my first cruise and made me leary of booking another (back problems + rocking is a bad combo). I was later informed that it was due to the design of the hull.

I booked a cruise on X on an M class and was very happy that there was little movement even in rough water. I have since booked the Connie 2/29/08 cruise for 10 days. Can't wait.

Once on Mercury there was a storm the night before coming back to Florida from Nassau..the ship listed quite a bit--we were thrown out of bed, dishes in the restaurants broke & the auto doors opened letting water wash over lower decks--carpet soaked. The cruise after ours lost ports due to some enhgine damage as well--this was several yrs ago but I have heard this class ship has been known to tilt in bad weather--Still Mercury is a favorite ship!

In crossing the Atlantic - the ships that handle that the very best and are built for such seas are the Cunard QE2 and Queen Mary. These are ocean liners - not cruise ships and when you sail on the high seas on these beautiful ships you have smooth sailing. The rest of the ships out there are cruise ships and although most do a good job handling rough seas, very small ships tend to let you know you are on a ship. We were in a sudden "bad" storm coming back from St Thomas 2 years ago and were aboard the Century - 25-30 feet seas and higher in some cases and although you knew you were in rough seas the ship handled it very well and with the exception of some glassware stacked on a table in the dining room being tossed about and you had to watch yourself while walking as the ship was moving side to side a bit it was doable. We got caught in a hurricane (which came up out of nowhere) up in Nova Scotia in October of 2001 and we were on the Royal Caribbean Grandeur of the Seas (a ship about the size of the Century) and it got pretty rough - and the captain announced to all of us the following morning that "ladies and gents" you ARE on a ship and I just wanted you to know it. I don't think a small 30-40 thousand ton would be too comfortable in high seas - but ships in the 70, 80 and up range handle it pretty well - especially with the stabilizers. I have been on larger ships 105,000 and up (they are actually too big and I prefer the 80,000 ton variety with 1800 passengers) but never been in very rough waters on these (actually they seem to handle the seas the same as the 70-80 ton ships - we were in Bermuda 2 weeks ago aboard the 105,000 ton Costa Magica and the seas were like glass - there were times I wondered if we were actually moving it was so calm. It is also important where your cabin is located on the ship. Midship is always the very best spot. There is a lot of movement in the rear and front of the ship - there is a lot of noise in the lower and rear decks - more movement in the upper and fore decks. We always try to book around decks 7 or 8. I have been at the very top and the bottom - the front and the back - and have learned - dead middle for sure. Hope this helps.

phoenix_dream

I don't agree that bigger ships handle better.   Ride has much more relation to hull shape, draft, length and beam.   Case in Point: Princess's Grand class, at 113,000GRT pitch and roll more in heavy seas than the Sun class, at 77,000GRT.   The former Royal Princess, at 45,000GRT rides better than her much larger running mates.   I've only been on Mercury, so I can't compare her to other ships in the Celebrity fleet.

I don't know how Princess rides, but I absolutely agree with your comment that size is not necessarily the deciding factor. However, for Celebrity, since the M and Century class ships are shaped basically the same, the smoother ride will be on the M class as they have a deeper draught.

It makes absolutely no sense for people to comment that this cruise or that cruise they had a smooth ride (or not). It's irrelevant as you would need to compare apples to apples to have a real comparison. For example, 25 foot waves can be not too bad if you are cruising in the same direction, choppy if you are cruising against them, and awful if you are hitting them from the side. It all depends on circumstances. One persons experience does not predict how the next cruise will be (same for locations for that matter -although some are known for predominatly smoother versus choppier seas)

Having also been on QM2 in some very rough weather in Nova Scotia, it is the only one I would consider for a TA cruise. It is designed as an ocean going liner--lots of strength in that ship...

My smoothest sailing ever was on the Radisson Diamond. Even in rough seas, the catamaran design rode the waves like a dream.

I agree with Druke that bigger does not equate with a smoother ride. Freedom of the Seas rode rough out of Boston last year and the weather was not that bad. It's like a minivan with these top heavy ships; the high winds buffet them about more than a sleek sedan:).

:) Caviargal, You're right on with that comment. The ''Grand ''class with Princess is a perfect exemple, like their cousins Diamond/Sapphire....I tend to compare them to a big sail: when they're idling,approaching a port with some good wind force, you can actually imagine them and almost see them sway ....like a big sail...no resistence to the wind. You can imagine what it's like when they're into fussy seas....

Common perception for top heavy/ flatter hulled ship with a stub bow...they get ''bounced around'' and ''swayed'' a lot more, compared to other more ''traditionally built'' ships, with a deeper hull, slender/longer bow, and a good ballast ( such as the one found on Mercury and sister Galaxy& Century). QEII probably handles all sort of seas better than every other ship around...just the way she's built and structured.

I'm presuming that, as I never sailed on her....IOW: My opinion only.

Depends on a lot of things - but Druke is right the V hull can give a smaller ship an advantage over the barge hull.

There is a point where size is going to make a difference regardless of hull shape (probably when you start getting under 30KGT). I was on the old Regal Empress (which I have a bizarre tender spot for) at 22KGT, she's as classic a V hull as you can get, and she moved around a bit. We went through a weather cell that turned into a hurricane 24 hours later - but that was a full day and a few hundred miles later. I don't think the waves were that much.

On Miracle last Thanksgiving, we spent all night going into (which was probably a blessing over any other direction) 40-48 knot winds and pretty good seas between Cayman and Cozumel. I thought the ship handled it great. DW took the dramamine and Cabernet remedy zzzzzzzzzzzzz. Tender operations in Coz were a real thrill ride; I was surprised we went ashore - some ships didn't. The Mexican tender captains did a good job, but these were big tenders and they were banging and pitching like something else. (Carnival's insurers wouldn't have approved.)

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Boating Tips for Rough Seas

• By Capt. Dave Lear
• Updated: August 22, 2022

Unless you’ve got 50-plus feet of fiberglass underneath you, you’re not immune to stormy weather conditions. Run offshore this time of year and sooner or later you’re going to get caught in high winds, big seas or both. Large sport-fishing boats in rough seas have the length and beam to handle the slop. But small to mid-size vessels are at greater mercy. If you slow down and drive accordingly, potentially hazardous situations can be avoided for small boats in rough seas.

“In the summertime, sooner or later you’re going to have a big line of thunderstorms, 40-knot winds and 6- to 8-foot seas between you and the dock,” explains Marcus Kennedy, a tournament competitor on the Yamaha professional tour. “Novice boaters in rough water don’t realize that and they panic and don’t know what to do. But all it takes is common sense to drive a boat in rough water. If you tack like a sailboat with quartering waves off the bow or stern, you’ll have a better ride and make better time. Safety is always paramount.”

Kennedy, who fishes a Yellowfin 36 center console from Dauphin Island, Alabama, often makes long runs to find fish in adverse seas. During a recent out-of-town king mackerel event, he ran 100 miles down Florida’s Gulf Coast to take advantage of calmer nearshore water before angling out to the Dry Tortugas. The final southwest track let him run in a favorable trough.

How to Drive a Boat in Rough Water

“You want to plan your route to optimize the boat’s running angle with the sea conditions,” Kennedy says. “Avoid a dead-head or beam sea whenever you can because it’s nearly impossible to make any headway. During tournaments we partner with another boat and stay in sight or radio contact in case of emergencies. And you should always carry twice as much fuel as you think you’ll need. Boats in rough water and seas gulp the gas.”

Capt. Frank Crescitelli, a New York charter captain and tournament contestant, faces similar conditions off the Atlantic seaboard during the summer months. A run from New Jersey’s Long Beach Island to the Hudson Canyon is 96 miles. Heading south to the Baltimore Canyon is a 92-mile leg, and Crescitelli often targets bluefin tuna out to 40 miles. And he recognizes the best path back to port is not always the one he took offshore.

“I never head out if I know I’ll have two rough rides,” he says. “Our prevailing summer wind is southwest and I can deal with that one way. But I always plan on the possibility of deviating from my course if necessary. I’d rather zigzag or return to a different port if it means a smoother, safer ride.” Crescitelli runs a Regulator 32 center-console for his offshore charters, and radar is an essential part of its onboard equipment.

“I check the forecast beforehand and constantly monitor the radar and Sirius weather during the day,” he says. “I avoid storms whenever possible. My radar has a 50-mile range, so that gives me plenty of time to react. But I always know the compass heading home in case we lose electronics or have electrical interference.

“One of the biggest mistakes people make is running directly for the dock whenever a storm blows up,” Crescitelli adds. “But sometimes it’s better just to ride it out. Most of these summer storms are fast moving, so if you make slow forward headway keeping the bow into the wind, it’ll often blow right by. Otherwise, it could follow you the whole way home and make for a long, miserable ride.”

Knowing your boat’s performance characteristics is also important in how to drive your boat in rough water, says Capt. Dan Stauffer, who runs charters out of Ocean City, Maryland, aboard a classic 31-foot Bertram with twin diesel engines. Stauffer says his hull handles predictably in rough seas yet is also relatively light for its size. He added 1,000 pounds of lead ballast to help keep the bow from porpoising.

“Two years ago we got caught in honest 10-footers,” he said. “I was standing on the bridge looking eye level at the waves. I’ve also been sandwiched between two storms when the straight-line winds were so strong it stalled the radar. But that doesn’t happen often, maybe only a dozen times a year out of 120 trips. If I can’t get around something, my first reaction is turn into the wind, slow down and idle until it moves on by.

How to Trim a Boat in Rough Water

“Some guys never even touch the trim tabs and that always makes me scratch my head,” he added. “It’s all about the tabs. If you tab down in a following sea with certain hulls, you can turn it into a submarine. With my boat, however, I add a little to get that bow down in a head sea so it’s chewing the waves. You have to know how your boat performs under different conditions, and tabs are the great equalizer.”

When Crescitelli encounters rough seas, he has his crew stay nestled in beanbags in the cockpit. He also carries a Winslow life raft aboard, and the emergency ditch bag is tied within reach at the leaning post.

“Don’t ever get into panic mode,” he says. “If you do, you’ll make bad decisions. Things have to be really bad to get out of a 32-footer and into an 8-foot life raft. So I’d rather slow down and safely surf the waves home in the boat, even if it takes more time.”

Safety and Boating Tips for Fishing Boats in Rough Seas

• Slow down. Slower speeds allow better reaction time. Adjust the throttle to ascend/descend waves to avoid taking on water.
• Use the trim tabs carefully. Too much down tab can force the bow into oncoming waves, while no tabs allow the hull to plane as designed.
• Keep an eye on the radar or satellite weather. It’s always easier to go around a storm than through one.
• Tack into the waves rather than take them head-on, if possible.
• Alter your course to take advantage of more favorable sea conditions.
• Carry plenty of fuel.
• Know the tides and locations of shoals before running an inlet.
• Wear a life jacket.
• File a float plan.
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Best Boat for Rough Seas

• On May 6, 2023

For recreational boaters and potential boat buyers, finding the best boat for rough seas is crucial for a comfortable and safe experience on the water.

This comprehensive guide will discuss essential factors that affect a boat’s performance in rough water, explore various boat types and their suitability, and provide examples of good-riding boats.

You might also be interested in: The Best Boats For The Ocean .

Table of Contents

The top fishing boat brands for rough seas.

Below we have compiled a list of the top 6 boat brands for rough seas . Most publishers choose their boats based on personal reviews, but we decided to scour the internet to try to find the most popular brands people are discussing and buying.

Price Range for Fishing Boats That Can Handle Rough Seas

The price range for fishing boats that can handle rough seas varies significantly depending on the size, brand, and features. To make it easier to understand, we can break down the price ranges based on boat size and type:

• Smaller Vessels (16-20 feet): These boats typically average between $30,000 and $60,000. They may offer less space and amenities but can still be effective in handling rough seas.
• Larger Offshore Boats: The price of these boats can exceed $100,000, offering more space, better performance, and additional features for serious offshore fishing adventures.
• Large Saltwater Fishing Boats: These boats can range from $30,000 to $300,000, depending on the size, brand, and features they offer.
• Small Fishing Boats (e.g., bass fishing boats): The prices for smaller fishing boats can start at less than $25,000 and go upwards of $75,000.

You might also be interested in reading our article: The best boat hulls and hull designs .

Displacement vs. Planing Boat Hulls

Understanding the differences between displacement and planing hulls is crucial when choosing a boat for rough water conditions.

Characteristics of Displacement and Planing Hulls

• Displacement Hulls : These hulls move through the water by displacing it, creating a wave pattern. They tend to be more fuel-efficient, but their hull speed limits their speed.
• Planing Hulls : These hulls ride on top of the water, reducing drag and allowing for higher speeds. They require more power and fuel to maintain their performance.

Pros and Cons for Rough Water Conditions

• Displacement Hulls : They typically provide a smoother ride in rough water due to their deeper draft and lower center of gravity. However, their lower speeds might limit their appeal for some boaters.
• Planing Hulls : These boats can handle rough water at higher speeds , but their shallower draft may result in a less comfortable ride.

Key Hull Design Features for a Smooth Ride

Deadrise refers to the angle between the hull bottom and the horizontal plane. Higher deadrise angles result in a smoother ride in rough water, as the boat slices through waves more effectively. Optimal deadrise angles for rough water typically range between 20 and 24 degrees.

Length-to-Beam Ratio

The length-to-beam ratio is the ratio between a boat’s length and its maximum beam (width) . A higher ratio generally results in a smoother ride in rough seas. Ideal ratios for rough water conditions are typically around 3:1.

Hull Shape and Following Seas

In following seas (waves coming from behind the boat), a well-designed hull is crucial to minimize bow-steering and broaching risks. A boat’s hull should have sufficient flare to lift the bow in following seas and chine flats to help direct water flow and maintain directional stability.

Boat Types and Their Suitability for Rough Water

Center consoles.

Center console boats offer an open deck layout, allowing for 360-degree access to the water. Their deep-V hulls and high deadrise angles make them suitable for rough water conditions. However, their open design might not provide as much protection from the elements as other boat types.

Cabin Cruisers

Cabin cruisers provide enclosed living spaces and amenities for extended stays on the water. They often feature deep-V hulls, offering a comfortable ride in rough seas. However, their higher profile can make them more susceptible to wind and waves.

Sportfishing Boats

Designed for offshore fishing, sportfishing boats often have large, deep-V hulls with high deadrise angles to handle rough water conditions. They provide ample space for fishing gear and often include accommodations for extended trips.

Trawlers are built for long-range cruising, featuring displacement hulls, deep drafts, and a low center of gravity. These characteristics make them well-suited for rough water conditions, but their slower speeds might be a drawback for some boaters.

Examples of Good-Riding Boats for Rough Water

Here are a few boat models and brands known for their performance in rough water:

• Boston Whaler 285 Conquest (center console)
• Grady-White Express 330 (cabin cruiser)
• Hatteras GT45X (sportfishing boat)
• Nordhavn 47 (trawler)

These examples are just a starting point, and there are many other boat models and brands on the market that perform well in rough water conditions. It’s essential to research and test different boats to determine which one best meets your specific needs and preferences.

You might find our article on the best boat brands very interesting.

Additional Factors for Comfort in Rough Water

Shock-absorbing seating.

Investing in shock-absorbing seating can significantly improve comfort while riding in rough seas. These seats use suspension systems to minimize the impact of waves and vibrations, reducing fatigue and potential injuries.

Proper Boat Maintenance

Keeping your boat well-maintained is crucial for ensuring its performance and safety in rough water. Regular maintenance tasks include inspecting the hull for damage, checking the bilge pumps, and verifying that all navigation and safety equipment is in good working order.

Properly Loading and Distributing Weight

Properly loading and distributing weight on your boat can significantly affect its performance in rough seas. Heavier items should be placed low and centered in the boat, while lighter items can be stored higher. Ensuring even weight distribution helps maintain stability and improves the boat’s handling in rough water.

Key Takeaways

• Hull design plays a significant role in a boat’s performance and comfort in rough seas, with both displacement and planing hulls offering unique benefits and drawbacks.
• Deadrise, length-to-beam ratio, and hull shape are essential design features that impact a boat’s ride in rough water conditions.
• Different boat types (center consoles, cabin cruisers, sportfishing boats, trawlers) have varying suitability for rough water, so choose one based on your specific needs and preferences.
• Consider investing in shock-absorbing seating to minimize the impact of waves and vibrations, improving comfort during rough rides.
• Proper boat maintenance is crucial to ensure performance and safety in rough water conditions.
• Loading and distributing weight correctly on your boat can significantly affect its stability and handling in rough seas.

How does the design of the boat’s deck affect its suitability for rough seas?

A well-designed deck should have non-slip surfaces, secure handholds, and a layout that allows for safe movement even in rough conditions.

What size waves can a boat handle?

Using a 30ft recreational fishing boat as an example, this type of boat could handle waves up to 30% of its length, 9ft high. However, this is just a general guideline because the length of swells is also an important factor.

Is a heavier boat better for rough water?

Yes, generally, boats with a little more weight tend to do better in rough water, although weight by itself is not a determining factor in the seaworthiness of a boat.

Which hull type would not be a good choice for rough water?

Flat Bottomed hulls would not be a good choice for rough waters.

Finding the best boat for rough seas involves considering various factors, such as hull design, boat type, and personal preferences. Displacement and planing hulls each have their pros and cons, and understanding key hull design features like deadrise, length-to-beam ratio, and hull shape is essential. Different boat types offer unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s crucial to find one that aligns with your needs and preferences.

Remember, additional factors like shock-absorbing seating, proper boat maintenance , and weight distribution can further improve comfort and safety in rough water conditions. Ultimately, the perfect boat for rough seas depends on striking the right balance between comfort, functionality, and personal preferences.

You might also be interested in reading:

What Size Boat For Offshore Fishing

The Best Boats for the Ocean

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Steve is an accomplished professional photographer and marketer who specializes in the Fishing, Yacht, and Boating industry. With a strong presence as an influencer and marketing expert in the Marine Industry, he has made a significant impact in the field. Additionally, Steve is the original creator and co-founder of Sportfishtrader. Prior to his career as a marine photographer, he gained extensive experience as a licensed boat and car dealer in South Florida.

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How to Drive a Boat in Rough Water

A boat operator is enjoying a day on the water when all of a sudden the weather changes . What can they do?

Get ready to learn how to handle rough water!

Boating in rough water: stay safe! 

When boating in rough water, there are several things you can do to stay safe:

Slow down and be cautious: Be prepared to stop quickly rather than resorting to sudden evasive maneuvers. Adjust your boat’s speed to prevent the bow from getting buried in waves.

Head to a safe location: If you encounter increasingly high seas, it’s best to head to a sheltered bay, cove, or breakwater. If the waves and water make it unsafe to continue, anchor your boat right away and use a marine distress signal to call for help. 

Assign lookouts: If you have passengers on board, make sure they are wearing PFDs and position them at the bow and stern to act as lookouts while you maneuver to safety. Remember that in high wave conditions, other boats may not be easily visible.

Use navigational tools: Both you and your passengers should actively watch and listen for other boats and navigational aids using your eyes and ears. In addition, always use your own navigation lights and other navigation tools such as radar to broadcast your position to other boats in rough waters or reduced visibility.

A storm is approaching: get ready! 

If you’re on the water and a storm is approaching, take these steps to keep you, your boat and your passengers safe:

• Make sure everyone on board is wearing a lifejacket that is the right size and fit .
• Close all hatches and ports to prevent swamping by big waves, and secure loose items.
• Keep passengers low and near the centerline for stability and safety.
• Pump out bilges to raise the boat in the water.
• Consult marine charts for the nearest shelter, noting any hazards, and slowly and cautiously head to the nearest safe shoreline, keeping a lookout for other boats and floating debris.

Navigating rough water during a storm

If the storm has already hit, follow these additional tips for everyone’s safety:

• If there is lightning, unplug all electrical equipment, stay low in the boat, and avoid touching metal objects.
• Position the boat’s bow at a 45-degree angle into the waves for stability. PWC operators should cross the wake at a 90-degree angle. Never attempt to jump waves.
• If the engine stops, drop an anchor from the bow to prevent drifting and swamping. Never anchor from the stern.

Avoiding boating in rough water: watch the weather

You can’t always accurately predict the weather, and conditions can change rapidly when out on the water. Always fill out a float plan before setting out, and be prepared for any eventuality by carrying visual distress signals  and appropriate safety equipment like fire extinguishers on board at all times. 

Stay vigilant by closely following weather forecasts and anticipating shifts in weather conditions.

• Watch the sky: Keep a constant eye out for fog, dark clouds, and lightning, which are clear indicators of approaching bad weather.
• Monitor barometric readings: Rising barometric pressure signals good weather, while falling barometric pressure suggests unfavorable conditions.
• Shifts in wind and temperature: Pay attention to these simple signs of changing weather.
• Westward Awareness: Be mindful of the West, as bad weather typically approaches from this direction.
• Monitor radio and weather channels: Stay alert for information about local weather patterns, especially when navigating unfamiliar waters. Tune in to a VHF-FM weather station. You can trust the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for precise, detailed, and current weather information. NOAA Weather Radio is regularly updated and provides continuous weather broadcasts covering the coastal areas of the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and the Mariana Islands. Never go boating during fog, wind or hurricane warnings.
• Observe other boaters: Take note of what other boaters are doing. If they are heading for shore, this may be a clue that weather changes are imminent.

Before venturing into new or unfamiliar waters, familiarize yourself with local hazards by acquiring local marine charts and asking local boaters and marinas for tips. In rough water, you are more likely to be vulnerable to other dangers, so you should get informed and be prepared to avoid them.

Learn to navigate safely with Drive a Boat USA

Did you know that you need a boating card to legally operate a vessel on over 70% of US waters? When you prepare for your online test by taking a boater safety course , you are not only ready to go boating anywhere in the States, you are also giving yourself a chance to learn about important safety procedures like how to navigate rough seas. 

Our course includes interactive quizzes and instructional videos, all available online. Trust Drive a Boat USA to teach you what you need to know about boating across the States, including New York , California and Florida !

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Techniques for Handling a Boat in Rough or Foul Weather

Sometimes the best way to deal with foul weather is to simply stay at the dock. Great advice, but what happens when you are  boating and the seas turn with little notice?  In this post we’ll explore some of the best practices with respect to boat handling in rough seas. You will gain familiarity with techniques for handling the various types of conditions you may encounter.*

Knowing what to do with the helm and throttle(s), combined with constant vigilance, are key to maintaining safe boating during inclement weather.

6 Types of Rough Seas

Here are six potential conditions you could encounter in rough seas:

• Head sea: A sea that is broad on the bow, coming at an angle between the bow and amidships.
• Broad sea: A sea coming at you between the bow and amidships.
• Beam sea: A sea coming at a right angle to the keel of your boat.
• Quartering sea: A sea coming at an angle between amidships and astern.
• Following sea: A sea coming directly on the transom.
• Chop or confused sea state: A combination of wind, waves and current produces a confused sea that seems to batter the boat from all directions at once.

Each of these conditions mentioned requires a different approach at the helm, and all can present some degree of danger if not handled properly. Being ready to immediately adjust your course and speed is critical in rough-water operations. Keep one hand on the helm and the other on the throttle in order to quickly maneuver in sea conditions that could be constantly changing.

In some cases it may be necessary to go as slowly as possible and still retain steerage. Keep a sharp lookout for other vessels. Visibility can be drastically reduced in rough seas whether from rain, fog or by the simple fact that with the waves and wave sets so high, you may find yourself in a trough every few moments thus reducing your visibility down to a couple hundred yards.

Although transiting directly into oncoming waves may provide the greatest amount of directional stability for your vessel, navigating into a head sea may not be the most comfortable course to steer due to the rapid pitching that occurs when you’re running directly into the waves, also referred to as taking the waves “on the nose.”

Comfort aside, heading into or slightly off the waves does provide the greatest margin of safety. The bow generates the least possible resistance to the waves and rudder effectiveness is maximized. Additionally, the waves are directly in front of you in a head sea, where they are easiest to read and anticipate. You may still have to reduce power on the downward slope to keep from burying your bow into the next wave. Try utilizing trim tabs to help avoid bow slam after cresting a wave. 

When your course requires traveling in a beam sea, there are two options open to you. If the waves are broadly spaced, you may be able to stay your course and ride up and down them without excess rolling.

Otherwise, you can set a broad zigzag course, where you travel with the sea broad on the bow for some distance before turning 90 degrees and accepting a quartering sea for an equal distance. While neither leg may be particularly comfortable, such a strategy will reduce the danger that some beam seas can present.

Quartering Sea

Handling a quartering sea can be difficult and uncomfortable because it not only causes rolling and yawing but affects steering as well. Using a zigzag course may not be very inviting because you would end up alternating between a beam sea and a following sea during every cycle.

The alternative is a combination of wrestling with the rudder to keep the boat under control and delivering enough power to the prop to maintain speed while simultaneously keeping the waves from pushing the stern sideways as this can lead to broaching or capsizing in the trough of a wave.

Following Sea

With respect to following seas, there are many different elements that determine how a following sea will affect you and the amount of effort you will have to exert to avoid problems. The type of boat that may be in most danger in a following sea may be an outboard-powered boat with a low or cutaway transom. The combination of the aft weight of its propulsion and the absence of a barrier to oncoming water make it susceptible to swamping where the water rushes in from astern.

Following seas can propel the boat down the far side of a wave fast enough to bury its bow in the trough or they may push the stern sideways on the way down, causing the boat to broach. This can happen very quickly and has caught many skippers off guard.

In large, steep seas usually found in open waters, you will find yourself increasing power as you labor up the backside of a wave or swell and having to throttle back to control excess speed on the way down the other side to avoid burying the bow. The tricky part is to avoid slowing to the point where you lose steerage and the sea can push the stern aside. If you sense that happening, immediately steer in the direction the stern is being pushed and apply as much power as necessary to quickly maneuver back to your original intended heading. make sure trim tabs are up and engines are slightly out to help keep the bow from submarining. 

In an extreme situation, such as navigating high waves that are rolling over the bar of an inlet, the best course is to work the throttle carefully so that you maintain a position just behind the crest and ride it in until you reach calmer water.

Chop/Confused Sea

Now let’s discuss chop, otherwise known as a “confused sea state”. Larger boats usually are unaffected by chop, and most smaller craft can handle it easily to a point. However, when opposing wind, tide and current combine into a sea of confused 3- or 4-foot waves, piloting the smaller boat will require close attention.

There is no specific way to handle such a situation. The best practice here is to simply reduce speed and maintain a good lookout. Deal with the oncoming waves that are the most precarious. This slow approach will allow you to steer into each peak or trough individually to keep the boat under control. The situation will make it difficult to maintain a course exactly, so keep an eye on your heading and position as you go.

Navigating in rough seas is a skill that must be learned through experience. Conditions vary greatly, and every boat responds with its own handling characteristics.

Maintaining your boat in good shape, knowing how to rig it for foul weather, and having a plan in place will go a long way to ensuring your safety.

* Yachts360 strongly advises against boating during adverse weather conditions and this post is for general information only, not a guide and therefore Yachts360 holds no liability. Use extreme caution and good judgement before each and every boating session. 

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That Boat’s Got Chops: How to Find the Best Center Console Boat for Rough Water

Have you been on a boat when the sea is really rough? Being tossed by the waves and getting seasick can be a very unpleasant experience.

You might expect to feel the effects of rough seas while on a passenger ferry, but you probably wouldn’t expect a leisurely day of boating to be ravaged by rocking.

Feeling queasy or getting soaked by waves while on a private boat can ruin what is supposed to be a peaceful and relaxing experience. And it could destroy any dreams you have of ditching the house and living on the open seas.

But luckily a well-designed center console boat can be the antidote. Here’s how to find the best center console boat for rough water to ensure you have the smoothest, safest ride.

Size Matters

Boat size is probably the most important factor when it comes to withstanding rough seas. A bigger boat can handle the waves more easily.

Really rough seas require a boat that has a length of at least 30 feet. The larger the boat the less likely you will feel a jolt as the boat mounts the big waves.

Keeping Dry

Whether you’re cruising around the bay, exploring the Florida Keys or island hopping in the Caribbean, you want to be able to enjoy the view without getting soaked by waves every few minutes.

With two of the best yacht clubs in the world in Florida, boating is a popular activity and boats are a source of pride for their owners. If you want to entertain on your boat, you’ll want to ensure that guests enjoy a comfortable ride on a boat that’s in top condition.

The best way to prevent disappointment is to test-drive the boat first. Most people wouldn’t purchase a new car without the opportunity to test drive it, so why should a boat be any different?

If you take the boat out for a test run and notice water splashing around on the deck, you know it’s probably not going to provide the ideal level of comfort.

Keep in mind that how dry the boat stays and how well it glides across the waves depends on the waters you are testing it in. If you primarily plan to boat close to shore or in places where the waters are typically calm and waters where you are testing the boat are choppy, you need to factor this into your test and make adjustments for it.

A Hull For All Seasons

Another factor that is important to consider when looking for your dream boat is the hull.

Hulls are often the pride and joy of boat builders. Months of engineering and testing can be spent on the hull alone. Boatbuilders work to ensure that the hull not only looks the part, but it can stand up to serious waves and provide a smooth, safe ride.

The Best Center Console Boats For Rough Water

Intrepid Powerboats prides itself on crafting each of its boats with an advanced transverse stepped hull designed to maximize stability to ensure a smooth, dry ride. Top center console models for rough-water performance include the Intrepid 400 Center Console and the 375 Nomad.

475 Panacea

Intrepid’s 475 Panacea is one of the best center console models for handling rough waters at a length of over 47 feet. The higher freeboard of this model provides a safer, wave-crushing, and more secure-feeling cruising experience. Safe, comfortable and family-friendly, the 475 Panacea features a roomy head with sink, vanity and shower, an oversized sun pad, and wraparound seating that creates a VIP lounge, which converts to an alfresco dining area.

One of Intrepid’s most premium center console models, this boat includes many customer-favorite features such as integrated wells that can be customized as insulated coolers or baitwells, and a hi-low actuating table that has 3 different settings.

For enhanced visibility, the 375 Nomad features a self-actuating helm sole that raises the cockpit sole height by 4 inches at the push of a button.

There’s also a host of optional equipment that you can install on the boat including mechanical docking lights, a gyro stabilizer, and a pressurized freshwater system. There’s even an option to have a pullout cooler and refrigerator.

Consider Engine Type

One of the most important features you can customize to help you power through rough waters is the engine. Most Intrepid Powerboats models can be equipped with twin or triple engine configurations, while some larger models allow for quad engines as well.

You can choose a long-trusted and reliable Yamaha engine, a supercharged 6.2L v8 Seven Marine or a v6 Suzuki engine, which has a 12.0 – 1 compression ratio and a state-of-the-art dual prop system.

Mercury is another trusted option. It has industry-leading electronic fuel injection, on-board digital monitoring and low fuel consumption.

With Some Boats, It’s Not Always Smooth Sailing

Many boats are built with comfortable features but not all can guarantee a comfortable ride in rough waters.

A sizeable center console boat with a strong, well-designed hull will better flatten the waves.

If you expect to cross rough open seas regularly, invest in a boat of at least 30 feet in length. Remember that smaller boats struggle in choppier conditions.

Be sure to test out multiple center console models and pay close attention to how much water hits the deck, as well as how much the boat rocks.

For more details on center console boats for rough waters built by Intrepid Powerboats, check out our complete range of center console boats on our website.

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Tips and Best Practices for Securing Items on a Yacht in Rough Seas

Setting sail on a yacht is an adventurous experience, but it does come with its own set of challenges. This is especially true when yachting in rough waters or facing rough seas, which can be caused by inclement weather, water currents, and many other reasons.

Whether on small boats in rough seas or navigating larger ships in rough sea conditions, one must ensure the safety of the persons aboard as well as the belongings of the vessel. One of the crucial aspects of boating in rough conditions is securing items on board correctly.

Below, Yacht Management South Florida guides you through the best practices for how you should secure items when cruising. 

How to Secure Items On a Boat Securing items on a boat is essential, especially when traveling through rough waters. If you are boating in rough waters, here are some tips to ensure that everything stays safe and secure:

• Plan Ahead: Before leaving the dock, check the weather forecast and anticipate any rough sea conditions the forecast calls for. This will give you time to plan and prepare your vessel accordingly.
• Stow Properly: Secure any loose items into cabinets, lockers, closets, or storage compartments to prevent them from becoming projectiles if you encounter unforeseen rough weather.
• Use Non-Slip Mats: Install non-slip mats or liners into any cabinets, shelves, or drawers to prevent the stowed items from moving around.  Secure Heavy Items Low & Center: Place any heavy items onboard onto the floor or deck in the center of the boat’s hull to promote stability and prevent any potential damage. 
• Use Cleats & Tie-Downs: Utilize cleats or tie-downs to secure any larger items and equipment, such as anchors, water toys, deck furniture, fishing gear, dinghies, and tenders. Ensure that the knots are securely fastened. 
• Minimize Clutter: The deck and living spaces should be free of any unnecessary clutter to reduce the risk of tripping over items and things becoming unorganized. 

How Do You Handle a Boat in Rough Seas? Handling a vessel in rough seas requires great knowledge and skill. To navigate through rough water safely, it's important to maintain the correct course by keeping the boat’s bow pointed into the waves to prevent any rolling or pitching of the hull.Adjusting your speed is also crucial for boats and ships in rough seas. Slowing down will help you stay in control and prevent the boat from slamming into the waves. We recommend that you use your trim tabs to help stabilize the vessel and improve overall handling in rough sea conditions.Effectively communicating with the crew and persons onboard will help everyone stay informed and prepared for the sea conditions, which is crucial in ensuring everyone’s safety. 

Head Sea For powerboats traveling against the waves or in a head sea, ensure that the bow is trimmed down slightly by adjusting the trim tabs or moving the outboard engine. One must evaluate the seas’ conditions in order to decide how trimmed up or down the bow should be.

There is a thin line for downward trim setting. Trim down too much and you will snuff the bow into the waves. Trim too little and you will not track effectively through the rough sea. Use your throttles wisely to keep the bow controlled into the oncoming waves. Reducing power as you go over the wave and smoothly increasing power again toward the next wave can also help in maintaining control.

Following Sea Power management is very important when navigating through a following sea in rough conditions. When traveling on a following sea, when the water is moving in the same direction as the vessel, one should slightly trim the boat’s bow upward to stop it from burying into the waves.

Larger, more powerful vessels can drive wave to wave with the bow up. However, in lower-powered vessels, one must keep track of the waves behind to ensure they aren’t traveling faster than your vessel. 

Securing Your Vessel with Yacht Management South Florida Securing items on a boat in rough seas is a crucial task that requires planning and attention to detail when stowing items away. By following these tips and best practices, you can minimize any damage and ensure the safety of the persons onboard.

At Yacht Management , we will ensure that your vessel is well-prepared for any conditions the sea throws your way. Learn more about our monthly maintenance program and management services now!

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Getting a Smooth Ride in Rough Seas

• By Jim Hendricks
• Updated: March 18, 2016

Steep, capping waves and dark holes jarred our brains, compressed our spines and knocked the wind from our chests in half-pronounced expletives as we crossed the howling passage between Catalina Island and the California mainland on a bad afternoon. Every part of every crew member ached.

As the captain, my strategy consisted of slowing down and slogging it out. That was as smooth as I could make it. Or was it? Could the ride have been more comfortable? Maybe.

Over the years, various systems and products — from simple to complex — have emerged to ease the impact when the going gets rough and help avoid injuries.

One of the most remarkable products consisted of a suspended deck. In 2005, Boston Whaler introduced the Active Deck Suspension System (ADSS) on its 320 Outrage Cuddy Cabin. The innovative, albeit short-lived, $20,000 option employed adjustable pneumatic shock absorbers under a hinged deck, allowing the sole to compress a few inches and reducing the impact of hard landings by as much as 40 percent, according to Whaler.

The patented ADSS worked fairly well and remained on the optional equipment list for a few years, but it was eventually dropped, likely because the cost of the complicated upgrade proved a tad too steep for potential buyers, especially once the Great Recession scuttled the economy. Thankfully, there are other ways to reduce the impact rough seas have on your body.

Cost of Comfort Products that offer greater seating comfort in punishing seas have been available for years. Take Stidd Systems’ shock-mitigating seats, for example. The Stidd model 500N-V5 offers 4 inches of shock-absorbing travel, thanks to a nitrogen diaphragm shock inside the pedestal. It works so well, it’s used aboard U.S. Coast Guard boats. At more than $6,000, it is one of Stidd’s least expensive shock-mitigation seats.

Shock-absorbing marine seating systems from companies such as Cleemann, Grammer, Shockwave, Stidd and Ullman don’t come cheap, and many have footprints so large, they won’t fit on most recreational boats less than 30 feet in length — ironically, the very boats that need shock-absorbing seats the most.

In recent years, however, the cost of comfort has dropped. Whether you like to stand up or sit down, a number of affordable products can help smooth out the thumps and bumps of rough seas.

Companies such as Seaspension and Springfield now offer shock-mitigating marine seating systems that are far more affordable and fit well on just about any boat.

Springfield’s Shocker Pedestal, for instance, incorporates a mechanical spring and an adjustable hydraulic shock absorber inside an articulating base to dampen impact. The aluminum and stainless steel seat pedestal sits 161/3 inches high and offers 4 inches of travel to cushion your tush. It sells for about $1,300.

If that price is too high, Springfield also has a 2-inch-diameter, anodized aluminum EZ-Ride Pedestal that sits 12 inches high and offers 31/2 inches of shock-absorbing travel. It sells for around $240.

Sweet Seats The Seaspension shock-mitigating seat pedestal system uses an engineered dampening system, consisting of stainless-steel springs and a shock absorber with velocity-sensitive internal valves for optimum dampening.

Available in heights ranging from 11 to 29 inches, the 6061 T-6 aluminum pedestal tube allows for 3½ inches of travel, says Peter Burer, the inventor and president of Seaspension, which is distributed exclusively in the United States by Taco Marine.

Unlike the Springfield pedestals, the sliding portion of the 4-inch-diameter Seaspension pedestal is protected from water and corrosion by rubberized bellows. Delrin bearings help ensure smooth operation.

You can use a Seaspension pedestal in single, double or tripod configurations, depending on the size and shape of the seating surface. A bucket seat would use a single pedestal, while a leaning-post-style helm seat would use two Seaspension pedestals. Tripod configurations are designed for heavy-duty commercial and military applications.

A 25-inch-high Seaspension pedestal retails for about $750. Yet how well does it work in smoothing out jolts and pounding? To find out, we compared the system using a boat equipped with a Seaspension pedestal to starboard and a conventional seat pedestal to port. To learn the results, turn to page 77.

Beanbag It Shock-absorbing seats at the helm are great for the captain and co-pilot, but what about the rest of the crew? How can you soften the ride for them?

One of the simplest ways to alleviate suffering is a beanbag seat. Beanbags were popularized by anglers participating in the Southern Kingfish Association (SKA) tournaments where high-powered center-console boats might run more than 100 miles in rough seas at speeds of 40 to 60 mph.

Crews needed a way to survive the beatings, and beanbags proved effective and cheap. Typically, the bags are braced against the transom (where the ride is smoothest) with crew facing forward, but you can also wedge the bag between the gunwale and console and face aft, which some crew members do to hide from the wet side of the boat.

Beanbag use has grown beyond the ranks of the SKA, and today there are at least two companies — E-SeaRider and Ocean Wave — that offer beanbags designed specifically for marine applications.

Our seat-of-the-pants experience leaves little doubt as to the cushioning effects of beanbags. With E-SeaRider seats, for instance, waterproof Styrofoam pellets conform to your backside to serve as myriad shock absorbers.

Marine beanbags differ from run-of-the-mill bags in a number of ways. They feature UV- and abrasion-resistant vinyl, mildew- and rot-resistant stitching, and special web straps and loops to secure the seat on a hardtop or elsewhere when not in use. A basic round marine beanbag starts at about $100.

“When I first came out with marine beanbags, a lot of boatbuilders just laughed at me,” says Pat Bennett, owner of E-SeaRider. “Now boat companies come to me to create customized marine beanbags with their brand names on them.”

Marine beanbags have evolved beyond the basic sphere to shapes like teardrops, high-back and armchair bags, and wedges that occupy a smaller footprint. There are even beanbag ottomans to prop up your legs.

“Beanbags will wrap around any surface, so you use them just about anywhere on the boat,” Bennett says. “The portability factor means you can sit wherever you want, even if you want to use it ashore.” You can also stuff a beanbag in a cabin or console to get it out of the way when you don’t need it.

Stack the Deck While Boston Whaler’s ADSS might not have been a commercial success, the idea of creating a shock-absorbing deck is far from dead. Companies such as SeaDek and Skydex offer shock-absorbing nonskid soles that are a lot simpler and less expensive than the ADSS.

Skydex’s shock-mitigating decks are installed in more than 6,000 boats, according to the company’s literature, and they reduce peak G-forces by as much as 90 percent. Skydex was designed for the U.S. military to reduce the injuries of Navy Seals while traversing rough seas in high-speed, rigid-hull inflatable boats.

It features a network of hourglass-shaped air cells sandwiched between a base mat and nonskid surface. The cells compress under sudden pressure to absorb shock to help protect your knees and back. The result is a higher level of comfort when standing in rough seas. The suspended nature of the Skydex matting also helps isolate occupants from engine and boat vibrations.

SeaDek made its name with custom-made, closed-cell EVA foam nonskid that cushions your feet, legs and back. Now SeaDek has expanded its offerings with the Dual Density Helm Station Pad for even more impact protection.

An 18 mm low-density foam bottom (shown above) absorbs shock while a 3 mm medium-density top layer with a brushed texture (seen below) provides traction, whether wet or dry. Thanks to six heavy-duty hook-and-loop (aka Velcro) fasteners, the helm pad can be easily removed in order to access hatches, or even to transfer the pad to another vessel.

Testing by SeaDek indicates that the Dual Density helm mat is 50 percent softer than SeaDek’s original single-density helm pad and requires 60 percent less force to compress, which translates to a more comfortable sole and greater shock mitigation. Offered in five popular color combinations, SeaDek’s Dual Density Helm Station Pad retails for $119.95.

Ultimately, there are a number of ways to soften the ride for you and your crew beyond just slowing down and slogging it out; however, you need to think ahead and equip your boat with the latest in shock-mitigating products and systems. Your crew will thank you, and so will your back.

Shock and Aah

There’s a line from one of the all-time greatest guy movies, The Godfather, in which the aging Don Vito Corleone character says offhandedly to his grown son, Michael, “I like to drink wine more than I used to. Anyway, I’m drinkin’ more.”

To paraphrase Don Vito, when it comes to boating, I like to sit down more than I used to. Age catches up with us all, and, as a result, many of us don’t stand at the helm as much as we did when our backs and legs were younger and more resilient. Yet some helm seats are not a lot more comfortable than standing while running in rough seas.

Seaspension has not only recognized this, but it has also developed a relatively affordable shock-mitigating seating system that pampers us middle-aged guys and might save the backs of younger skippers.

Shock-mitigating helm seats are not new. Stidd Systems, for example, has been around for years, but its shock-mitigating helm seats are designed for yachts and military applications, and prices start at around $6,000.

By comparison, the Seaspension seating system, which is distributed exclusively in the United States by Taco Marine, costs far less. One of its 25-inch-tall M30 pedestals retails for about $750. The pedestals are designed with footprints to replace a standard recreational marine pedestal seat. The question is: How well do they work?

To find out, we ventured into the notorious Santa Barbara Channel aboard a Parker 2520 Pilothouse boat equipped with both a Seaspension M30 pedestal (at the helm) and a conventional Garelick pedestal (for the portside passenger). The seats were both Garelick 251 helm chairs with armrests.

With the help of Taco Marine’s Mike Kushner, Seaspension inventor and president Peter Burer, and Eric Hermann of Executive Yachts (who loaned us the boat), we were able to experience and gather data using a sophisticated IST EDR-3 triaxial accelerometer with three sensors — one each placed on the deck amidships, on the passenger in the portside conventional pedestal seat, and on the helmsman seated in the Seaspension-equipped seat.

Our goal was to measure the G-force of each, comparing data from sensors on the deck and conventional seating to the Seaspension seating. Unfortunately, the infamous Santa Barbara Channel was pretty docile on the afternoon of our sea trial — great for boating, but bad for testing a shock-mitigating seat. We were, however, able to find some gnarly wakes from passing ships and oil boats, and we pressed hard on the throttle as we crested the man-made rollers.

We learned that the Seaspension seating reduced G-forces by 60 percent compared to the conventional seat (see the IST readout above). “The harder the landings, the more of a difference the Seaspension will make in G-force reduction,” Burer says.

The Seaspension-equipped helm seat was clearly more comfortable than the conventional seat. “As someone who developed back problems as a result of boating, I would not go out on a boat without Seaspension,” says Hermann.

Unlike Don Corleone, I don’t like to drink wine more than I used to. But I do like to sit down while underway, and with the comfort afforded by the Seaspension system, I will be sitting a lot more.

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Top 10 Tips for Handling Your Boat in Rough Seas

My Best 10 Ways to Boat in Rough Seas and Nasty Weather

When you’re out on the water, extreme weather and rough sea conditions can be a dangerous mix.

As alert, as you can be, you can still be caught by surprise by the weather and water.

Heatwaves bring high-pressure fronts in the summer boating season and can bring about storms quite suddenly.

And, particularly because you already know how to avoid and heal a wobbly stomach, there are worse things that can happen to you than getting seasick.

The good news is that you should take precautions to ensure that you don’t head right into a storm’s mouth where you’ll be boating in rough seas. And when you’re not in an optimal boating situation, there are steps you can take to remain healthy.

We will help you escape the more severe problems that rough seas pose here. You may also need to learn about safety considerations in addition to reading this article, such as basic boating navigation and having important safety items on board.

1 – Pay Attention to the Weather Forecast

I never go out on my boat without checking the weather. Even if I’m just planning to ski near the launch or marina. Wind knots are a tell-tale indicator of how big swells are going to get and whether you might experience whitecaps or not.

There are many free boating applications such as Windfinder and also desktop pages such as Wind Speed Convertors.

How to calculate wind knots from a wind speed converter.

• Capture wind speed, determined by an anemometer in kilometers.
• To get the mph of wind speed, divide the kilometers of wind speed by 1.61.

Ex: 100 kph ÷ 1.61 = 62 mph = 62 mph Ex:

• First, translate the wind speed from mph to feet per hour, then divide it by the number of feet per nautical mile.

Ex: 62 mph x 5280 ft = 327,360 hourly feet

327,360 hourly feet ÷ 6,076 feet = 53.8 knots

Note: a statute mile is 5,280 feet. A nautical mile is 6,076 feet.

And to note, the rough measurement of the distance of a thunderstorm in miles needs to be known:

(# seconds between thunder and flash) ÷ 5 = # miles away

2 – Wear your Personal Flotation Device

Be sure to put on lifejackets and USCG-approved PFDs if you encounter heavy seas. To send passengers flying overboard, all it will take is to strike a wave at the wrong angle. By having passengers sit in the middle and lowest section of the ships, this can be avoided.

And invest in some foul weather gear while on the subject. Cold rains and winds will also leave passengers soaked and chilled to the bone in poor weather conditions, resulting in hypothermia. Invest in hooded raincoats or ponchos, any moisture-wicking, and rapid-drying garments, and wear several layers or an additional set of clothing. The trick is to make sure your head, which releases the most heat, is protected.

3 – Fill Up Your Fuel Tank and Have an Emergency Kit

You should always have a boat emergency kit and some life-saving safety equipment, particularly if you’re on large or coastal bodies of water. That’s the time you can break those things out of lockers and get them close by while in rough seas. You have to do the following:

Have horns and instruments on hand for signaling.

• Turn on your VHF marine radio (check price on Amazon) and set it to international distress channel 16.
• Just in case you lose motor maneuverability near shallow water, rocks, or otherwise hazardous shores, prepare an anchor.
• Take the bailer bucket out in the event of water breach and spillage.
• Finally, pick up the Dramamine. I have a fairly good constitution and can withstand rough seas, but even strong stomachs can’t hack the choppiness of some monster swells.

4 -Reduce Your Speed and Turn on Navigational Lights for Visibility

Slow down and maintain the speed of your vessel! You will also need to tilt it at 45 degrees to minimize the effect of swells. It’s the best path, even if you’re not going straight to your destination.

Ask fellow travelers to have an additional pair of eyes when slowing down, alerting you of nearby boats and even debris. Even if you have 20/20 vision, nearby boaters can not! Torrential downpours and dense fogs will bring bad weather, so it is important to decrease speeds and maintain a lookout.

Also, you can switch your navigation lights on! These aren’t just for navigation at night, they’re there for foggy conditions too. This helps boaters to see the bow and stern of your vessel and from wading too close.

Riding too fast in rough seas and bad weather can make everyone seasick . Remember – your goal is to have fun, not win a race!

5 – Find Calmer Conditions – Change Course

If you have an app or a way to monitor the Doppler radar, you might be able to stay out of the path of the storm. Find shelter in other ways to find calmer situations if you can’t do so. In a pinch, bridges, coves and even the dock of a stranger will serve as large umbrellas and wind barriers.

Some boaters, if there is lightning, are afraid to go near bridges. But the logic behind this falls into another way of thinking: if lightning reaches the bridge you are under, it will fly back to the land in either direction along the bridge with already tiny chances. I’ll take those chances if it’s a severe enough storm!

6 – Disconnect Electrical Equipment

You need to disconnect all electrical devices if the storm has brought lightning with it. And don’t touch anything metal!

7 – Run With the Swells

If you find yourself caught riding the trough in the lower parts of the swells, take note! This will start to rock your boat and may probably cause it to roll. It may not target you in the direction you need to go, riding parallel with waves, and it may take you a lot longer to get home, but it is considered the safest way.

With a 45-degree angle within the trough, you might find more stability, too.

8 – Don’t Outrun the swells

You can outrun the waves occasionally by riding the crests, but it’s a fine line. Just remember: If it’s the wave or your vessel, it must come down to what goes up!

It is tricky to run ahead of the waves and can often lead to broaching, meaning you crash into the wave ahead, usually from too much momentum on your part, resulting instead in the wave behind moving the vessel sideways along the trough. And a sharp turnabout of broaching can lead to capsizing!

9 – Ride Out the Storm

If all else fails, the swells are high and your vessel is being thrown around so much you feel like you’re not going anywhere, don’t struggle against it. Just ride out that storm.

There’s only one technique you need for this: guiding the bow as much as you can into the swells and wind. You don’t want the swells to strike the hull any harder than they need to. The bow will break through the waves in this way and ease the effect (and your stomach).

You might even need to heave up if you’re low on petrol. You should deploy an anchor and use limited steering power while heaving to protect the fuel you have left to make it back to land when the storm lets up.

10 -Take a Boating Safety Course

Boating in rough seas depends on learning how to navigate your boat safely. Any of the above strategies are maneuvers that you can practice to become more prepared in calmer waters, but the best choice I can suggest is to sign up for a USCG Auxiliary Boating class (or two) such as Weather & Boating or a well-rounded course in Boating Skills and Seamanship.

The majority of water injuries are caused by human error. The more relaxed you feel handling your vessel, the easier it will be in rough seas to navigate boating .

Keep safe and relaxed and the sailing will be smooth!

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Sailors help rescue dozens of passengers on disabled boat in eastern Mediterranean

An MH-60S Sea Hawk flies above the destroyer USS Bulkeley in the Mediterranean Sea on Dec. 24, 2023. U.S. Navy sailors helped save the lives of 30 people stranded on a boat adrift for days in the eastern Mediterranean on July 16, 2024. Another passenger died following attempts at resuscitation. (Jacob Mattingly/U.S. Navy)

NAPLES, Italy — Quick action by Navy sailors on routine patrol in the eastern Mediterranean Sea helped save the lives of 30 people stranded on a boat adrift for days.

Sailors assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 79 spotted people indicating distress aboard the vessel Tuesday during flight operations and reported the sighting to the destroyer USS Bulkeley, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa/U.S. 6th Fleet said in a statement Wednesday.

While working with the Joint Rescue Coordination Center, Bulkeley requested that a nearby commercial ship, Seaways Sabine, help the stranded single-engine inflatable small boat.

Crew members from Seaways Sabine ultimately found 31 people aboard the boat, three of whom needed medical attention, according to the statement.

Corpsmen from Bulkeley traveled by rigid hull boat to the commercial vessel to offer medical assistance to the three unresponsive people. One died following an extended period of CPR, the Navy said.

Sailors from the destroyer USS Bulkeley participate in small boat operations, Jan. 2, 2024, in the Mediterranean Sea. U.S. Navy sailors helped save the lives of 30 people stranded on a boat adrift for days in the eastern Mediterranean July 16, 2024. Another passenger died following attempts at resuscitation. (Joseph Macklin/U.S. Navy)

The other two people were in stable condition and taken to the nearest suitable port by the merchant ship. The remaining 28 passengers on the boat were being taken by Seaways Sabine to Port Sidi Kurayr, Egypt, the Navy said.

“This incident, while unfortunate, underscores our Navy’s ability to respond to those in need and showcases the readiness and capabilities of our team,” said Cmdr. Arturo Trejo, commander of Bulkeley, one of four destroyers deployed to Naval Station Rota in Spain.

Each year, tens of thousands of migrants and refugees attempt risky sea crossings from the coasts of Libya, Tunisia, Turkey and other countries seeking safe haven and economic opportunities in Europe.

Many die when often overcrowded and unseaworthy boats are overcome by rough seas or become disabled.

Last month, 64 people were reported missing after the boat they were in caught fire and capsized off the southern coast of Italy near Calabria. Although 11 people were rescued, one died soon after, The Associated Press reported June 18.

In another shipwreck the same day, dozens of people were rescued from a sinking wooden boat near the Italian island of Lampedusa, but rescuers found the bodies of 10 people trapped below the deck, AP reported.

Sailors aboard the destroyer USS Bulkeley participate in flight operations Jan. 5, 2024, in the Mediterranean Sea. U.S. Navy sailors helped save the lives of 30 people stranded on a boat adrift for days in the eastern Mediterranean July 16, 2024. Another passenger died following attempts at resuscitation. (Joseph Macklin/U.S. Navy)

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One man dead, one rescued after boat capsizes in rough seas at Tweed River near Queensland-NSW border

A man has died and another man has been hospitalised after the pair were rescued from a stricken boat at the Tweed River mouth on Saturday morning.

A major rescue operation was launched after the men were seen clinging to the upturned hull of a 6-metre runabout in rough conditions. 

What's next?

Investigators say initial enquiries indicate neither man was wearing a life jacket. 

A man has died and his companion has been rushed to hospital after their boat capsized in rough seas while trying to cross the Tweed River bar in far northern NSW.

Police say the men were spotted clinging to the upturned hull of a 6-metre half-cabin runabout just before sunrise this morning.

A major rescue operation was launched involving water police, volunteer marine rescue, surf lifesavers and a rescue helicopter.

Rescue crews were able to bring one man to shore.

The other man was winched out by helicopter but was unable to be revived.

The boat washed up on Duranbah Beach, a popular surf break on the Queensland border.

It is believed the men had launched the boat from the Kennedy Drive Boat Ramp in Tweed Heads.

The Tweed River bar is a notoriously treacherous crossing – a powerful 2.5-metre swell at the bottom of an outgoing tide made conditions particularly dangerous.

'Very, very rough' surf

A spokesperson for the rescue helicopter said one man was found unresponsive near the northern breakwall, while the other man was retrieved from the water by members of the public on a jetski before emergency services arrived.

Dale Hack, who witnessed the incident from the beach, said the surf was extremely rough.

"From about 12pm yesterday the swell rose and [the bar] was very, very rough," Mr Hack said.

"No one was surfing — it was just a wash."

Investigators say initial enquiries indicate neither man was wearing a life jacket.

Swimmer rescued

In a separate incident, a 47-year-old man had to be winched to safety by the rescue helicopter from the ocean at Broken Head.

Rescue crews say he was pulled out to sea and called triple-0 from his smart watch, staying on the phone to emergency services while he waited for help.

He was found more than 1 kilometre offshore near Suffolk Park and dropped back to the beach, where he was able to walk to a waiting ambulance.

He was taken to hospital for assessment but has since been released.

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