Man Overboard (MOB)
Step-by-step recovery procedure. Every second counts — know these steps before you need them.
STAY CALM. ACT FAST.
The first 60 seconds are critical. Shout, throw, mark, spot — then recover. Speed and visibility save lives.
Recovery Steps
Shout "MAN OVERBOARD!"
Call out loudly and clearly so all crew are alerted immediately. Ensure someone sees the person in the water.
Throw Buoyancy
Immediately throw a lifebuoy, danbuoy, horseshoe, or any floating object toward the person. Throw a second if available — it creates a trail of markers.
Press MOB Button on GPS
Hit the MOB function on your chartplotter/GPS to mark the exact position. This locks the coordinates for navigation back.
Assign a Spotter
One crew member must keep eyes on the person in the water at all times. Point continuously — never lose visual contact.
Send a Distress Call (If Needed)
If conditions are dangerous or recovery is uncertain, call Mayday on VHF Channel 16. Give position, vessel name, and number of persons overboard.
Execute Recovery Manoeuvre
Use the Quick Stop or Figure-8 method (see below) to return to the person. Approach slowly from downwind in the final approach.
Recover the Person
Use a boarding ladder, sling, or halyard to lift them aboard. If injured or unconscious, use a hoist. Approach the leeward side for calmer water.
Assess & Treat
Check for injuries, hypothermia, and shock. Remove wet clothing, warm them, and monitor. Seek medical help if needed.
Recovery Manoeuvres
Quick Stop Method
Recommended — fastest return
- 1Tack immediately, leaving the jib backed (do not release it).
- 2The boat stops quickly and stays near the person.
- 3Bear away onto a beam reach, then tack back.
- 4Approach the person on a close reach, sails eased.
- 5Stop the boat alongside the person, to leeward.
Figure-8 (Reach & Gybe)
When jib cannot be backed
- 1Head onto a beam reach, sail away ~6 boat lengths.
- 2Tack onto a broad reach.
- 3Gybe around to head back toward the person.
- 4Approach on a close reach with sails depowered.
- 5Stop alongside the person to leeward.
VHF Mayday Call Format
"MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY.
This is [Vessel Name], [Vessel Name], [Vessel Name].
Mayday. Position: [GPS coordinates].
I have a person overboard. [Number] person(s) in the water.
Require immediate assistance. Over."