Autopilot tether attachment routine

A tether routine should be planned around the boat’s attachment points, deck layout and the equipment instructions. The transition from below to the cockpit deserves particular attention because it can involve changing handholds and moving into an exposed area. Review that movement with a competent instructor instead of assuming one attachment sequence works on every vessel.

Review the deck routine with the actual crew and equipment before the next passage. Discuss which jobs can wait, when additional crew should be called and how everyone returns to a secure position. Harness and attachment arrangements need to suit the vessel and be used according to their instructions. Keep the helm and takeover controls accessible while the crew is working. The editorial habit here is preparation: decide how the boat will be controlled during a task before anyone starts it, and pause the task when conditions make that plan unsuitable.

Walk through the intended movement alongside, using the actual clothing, harness and equipment. Identify where secure attachment is available and whether the person can reach the next position without an unsuitable stretch or obstruction. Questions about attachment strength, tether selection and jackline — definition layout need boat-specific assessment.

Include the return below and access to the helm. Equipment that catches on a control, blocks the companionway or prevents takeover creates another problem to resolve. This is a layout review, not a recommendation to improvise attachment points.

Before a crew member leaves the cockpit, agree who controls the boat, how they communicate and what would cause the task to stop. Consider whether the work can wait for more suitable conditions or additional crew.

Keep recovery planning separate from prevention. Wearing a harness does not remove the need for an appropriate person-overboard response, and the pilot should never be assumed to recognise that someone has fallen. Rehearse the boat’s agreed procedures with competent supervision.