Life rafts

[SV Hope]

Hello All,

I am considering the purchase of a life raft for coastal & limited offshore cruising. (Cape Horn is not on the list). I am seeking answers to the following questions.

1. Valise or container style. (or is it a matter of personal preference?)
2. The best place to locate one on a P 365.
3. Manufacturer.

Hope your summer sailing is in full swing.

Michael

[Dale Tanski]

My first question would be, are you planning on a single cruising event or are you truly going to be offshore for multiple occasions?  I ask this because if you are just going on one longer passage once or even with years in between, renting a life raft may prove to be more cost effective.  Remember it is not only the initial cost of the raft but it is the periodical recertification costs that you have to take into account.

That being said...

1)  A hard deck mounted storage case is very convenient.  It also makes a statement.  Many have been swept off the deck in severe weather however and many have been found to be empty when the raft is required due to theft.  A valise does take up room below but it is safe there. It can also be moved from boat to boat as required. You will be a popular person if you show up for a weeks passage on a friends boat carrying a life raft.  The size of a raft suitable for a 365 is small enough to be put in a valise.

2) If you go the Valise route the best place on a 365 is the center aft cockpit locker. If you go hard case you have little choice but way up forward. Think about how difficult it may be to retrieve a 70 pound life raft from forward of the cockpit in severe weather.

3) Life rafts are like ground tackle... as long as they work for you, you are good to go.

Safe Sailing...
Dale

[SV Hope]

Hi Dale,

Thanks for your valuable comments regarding life rafts. I will most likely rent as an interim measure.

Michael