Short answer
Stop the engine and check that everyone on board is unhurt. Then check whether the boat is taking on water. Don't try to reverse off at full throttle until you know the state of the hull. If in danger: call MAYDAY on VHF channel 16 or dial 112. If fuel or oil is leaking, notify Kustbevakningen (the Swedish Coast Guard). Document everything and contact your insurer before repairing anything.
Checklist right afterwards
- Put the engine in neutral or shut it off. Count the people on board, and everyone puts on a life jacket.
- Lift the floorboards and check the keel bolts, through-hulls and rudder tube.
- Sound the depth around the boat and find where the deep water is.
- If the boat is taking on water: start the bilge pump and raise the alarm on VHF or call 112.
- If you get free: motor slowly to harbour and keep an eye out for leaks and vibration.
- Take photos and note the position and time.
Common damage
| Part | Signs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Propeller | Vibration, reduced speed | Straighten or replace, see propeller |
| Sterndrive/outboard | Oil in the water, unusual noises | Check the oil, see knocking in the drive |
| Keel and keel bolts | Water in the bilge, cracks at the keel root | Haul out and inspect at a boatyard |
| Rudder | Stiffness, play | Haul out and inspect |
| Gelcoat | Scratches | See repairing gelcoat |
What does it cost?
The cost depends on what needs doing: lift-out and storage, survey, parts and labour. A light knock may cost you a new propeller. Keel damage can mean a lift-out, new keel bolts and laminate repairs. The cost of the lift depends on length and weight, see cost of launching and hauling out. Insurance usually covers sudden damage, minus the excess. Contact your insurer before work starts. Request quotes from several boatyards via Marinpedia.
If the boat is stuck
If you've run aground and aren't taking on water, there are a few ways to get free. Stay calm and take it one step at a time:
- Shift the weight: move the crew to the side or end that is clear of the shoal.
- Heel the sailboat: swinging the boom out or hanging weight from the halyard lifts the keel.
- Kedge off: row the anchor out towards deep water and pull the boat free with a winch or windlass.
- Wait for the water to rise: on the west coast the water level can rise. Check the water level forecast.
- Get help: a tow must be done carefully so the stem or cleats aren't damaged. Agree on payment before accepting help from a commercial operator.
Tilt outboards and drives up as far as possible before you try. Don't run the propeller into rocks.
Avoid next time
- Carry up-to-date charts and learn the navigation marks.
- Slow down near shallows and in unfamiliar coves.
- Set a depth alarm with a margin for the boat's draught.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to report a grounding?
Leisure boats normally don't need to report a minor grounding, but if oil or fuel is leaking, Kustbevakningen (the Swedish Coast Guard) must be notified, and if anyone is injured, call 112.
Can I keep going after running aground?
Only if the boat isn't taking on water and the steering and drivetrain work normally. Go slowly and haul the boat out for inspection as soon as possible.
Does insurance cover running aground?
Usually yes, minus the excess, if your boat insurance includes hull cover. Read the policy terms and document the damage.
Sources
- Nödkommunikation till sjöss, PTS pts.se
- Kustbevakningen kustbevakningen.se
- Flytande sjömärken, Sjöfartsverket sjofartsverket.se