Here are five pro tips all ocean goers should be aware of when it comes to marine weather and leveraging key tech for safer sailing
1 . Know Your Local Marine Weather Inside Out
Marine weather is a beast of its own, far more nuanced than general land forecasts. Pay attention to localised effects like sea breezes and coastal influences, as well as the interaction of wind and currents. Utilise tools like PredictWind to access high-resolution models for a more accurate picture of your specific area, focusing on wind direction and strength at different heights, wave conditions, and the impact of local geography.
2. Stay Ahead of the Curve: Monitor and Adapt
A common mistake is to rely on outdated forecasts or neglect continuous monitoring, as weather at sea can change rapidly. Don’t be fooled by blue skies ahead; it’s dangerous to assume that current calm conditions will last. Be vigilant, use all available resources, and always err on the side of caution by adjusting your plans based on evolving weather information.Â
3. Leverage Technology for Proactive Safety
Modern marine weather apps are powerful safety tools. PredictWind offers several user-friendly tools designed for a safer voyage. The Daily Briefing simplifies complex weather data for a quick overview. Weather Routing helps users plan the safest passage by analysing multiple forecast models. Departure Planning assists in choosing the optimal departure time. Additionally, our world-first Extreme Weather Alerts provide real-time mobile warnings of potentially dangerous GMDSS forecasts, allowing for swift action. For those in whale habitats, Whale Watch aids in collision avoidance.
4. Invest in Essential Offshore Tech
For those venturing offshore, a layered approach to technology is important. My essential setup includes a reliable satellite communication system for receiving updated forecasts, a high-quality GPS and navigation system integrated with PredictWind, and a well-maintained EPIRB as a critical distress beacon. I also always carry a handheld GPS, paper charts, and a handbearing compass as vital backups. If you have access to Starlink for high-speed internet, consider an Iridium GO! or GO! Exec as a lower-power, truly global backup for essential voice communication in emergencies.
5. When in Doubt, Heed the Warnings and Stay Ashore
Ultimately, technology is a powerful aid, but it should never replace sound judgment. If a forecast looks questionable, or if you have any nagging doubts about the conditions, the safest decision is often to stay ashore. Remember, the sea will always be there, but your safety and the safety of your crew are paramount.
Make safety your priority this boating season. Here’s to a safe and enjoyable time on the water!
About Jon Bilger – Founding Director, PredictWind
Olympian, two-time America’s Cup winner, and New Zealand National Champion in multiple classes, PredictWind Founding Director Jon Bilger spent years accessing the very best private wind and marine forecasting tools in the world. Jon founded PredictWind in 2010 to share this potentially life-saving technology with the public at large, and today PredictWind provides the world’s most accurate and reliable forecasting technology to more than a million users. A lifelong competitive yachtsman, Jon lives in Auckland with his wife and two daughters, who share his passion for the ocean and competitive sailing.
