Surfski Rescue Techniques: Deck Rescue

Surfski Rescue Techniques: Deck Rescue

Heather and I practiced some surfski deck rescues after the Deception Pass Dash Race, with renowned BCU coach Leon Somme guiding us on some of the finer points of the technique. It’s AMAZING what a big difference it can make when done correctly, in terms of stability and forward speed of the boat.

The first picture, below, shows how NOT to ride on someone’s back deck. Notice my head (a very heavy part of the body) is up, greatly diminishing the boats stability. And since Heather has her legs out, she has no steerage and forward speed is minimal.




In the next picture, I’ve dropped my head so my face is on the deck, creating a notably more stable condition. My own lower legs are still in the water adding an “outrigger” effect, and Heather’s legs are in and able to steer. Speed was WAY better, and we could definitely get somewhere like this.



There is also technique involved in just getting the swimmer on the deck. To do this, the swimmer is just behind the cockpit ready to climb over the side. The paddler would ideally have her legs in the water for stability, and would brace and lean TOWARD the swimmer.

This lowers the edge (gunwale) of the ski creating more of a “ramp” for the swimmer, as well as enhancing stability much more so than if leaning away from the swimmer. The swimmer stays in a low, laying-down position and slides onto the deck belly first, as if doing a cowboy re-entry.
Once on the deck, the swimmer inches up towards the paddler until he can hold on around her waist. The tasks of both the paddler and swimmer require a certain grace and, obviously, practicing both positions will exponentially enhance survivability.



Part of our Deception Pass Dash practice session was also to see if a 5’6” paddler could effectively “rescue” a 6’6”, 250 pound “swimmer.” As the pictures show, it was entirely do-able.
Happy, safe Holidays!

~In the Spirit of Compassion and Adventure~

Heather, Brandon and Baby HB~