Tips for sailing at night

Sailing at night is a unique experience, but it also requires special caution and preparation. The lack of natural light and limited visibility make night sailing very different from day sailing, so knowledge and proper equipment are essential. Here are some practical tips to ensure you enjoy safe and enjoyable sailing.

1. Orientation in the dark at night

At night, orientation can become a challenge as we lack clear visual reference points. Before setting sail, it is important to prepare the boat by checking navigation lights, batteries, safety harnesses and flashlights. Inspect any loose lines or sheets to avoid accidents, and make sure everything is in place so you don't stumble in the dark.

Orientation is made easier by the use of lighthouses, beacons and, if possible, electronic equipment such as radar and digital nautical charts. Plan your route in advance, marking waypoints on the chart and calculating bearings to keep on course. Reducing your speed is another useful tip, as it gives you more time to react to any unforeseen events.

2. Use of night lights

In the dark, it can be tempting to light up everything on board, but too much light impairs night vision. It takes about 20 minutes for your pupils to adjust to the darkness, so turning on bright lights, especially white ones, can make it difficult to see your surroundings and pick up lights from other boats.

To preserve your vision, use red-light flashlights, which have less impact on pupil adaptation. If you don't have red flashlights, you can paint the bulbs with red enamel as an alternative. Headlamps are particularly handy, as they allow you to work hands-free, but should be used sparingly to avoid dazzling other crew members.

3. Safety on deck for sailing at night

Walking on deck at night can be dangerous. It is recommended that only members of the watch crew remain outside, always wearing a safety harness and attached to the lifeline, which should be securely attached to an anchor point. As an additional tip, fasten the harness to the back and not the chest, so that in the event of a fall, the crew member is not dragged face down and avoids swallowing water.

Keep a VHF on channel 16 for emergencies, which will connect you to rescue services if necessary. Also, establish watch shifts so that there is always someone watching for possible obstacles, nearby ships or other signals at sea.

4. Planning night shifts

Establishing watch shifts is essential to maintaining order during night navigation. Organize shifts before setting sail and make sure crew members know their responsibilities. Each shift should include a time to adapt to the darkness so that the new lookouts can get used to the environment.

Communication between shifts is key. Before a shift ends, discuss any details or incidents that have occurred with the next shift watcher. Also, establish clear rules about when they should report to the boss or make important decisions.

5. Review of weather conditions

Before setting out to sea, check the weather forecast to anticipate any changes that may affect your journey. If a storm or dense fog is forecast, it is best to postpone your departure to avoid unnecessary risks. Wind intensity also influences night sailing, as waves can hinder the stability of the boat.

Sailing at night can be a memorable experience if proper measures are taken to ensure safety and orientation.