After the inspection on 6 May and warming the engine, the bilge remained dry and clean. This provides a clear reference for the later observation on 28 June.
Without that starting point, it would be harder to determine whether the amount found was new, usual or already present for some time.
A photograph can outperform memory
A dated image, a short note and the operating state are often enough to compare a later change. The purpose is not bureaucracy but a traceable reference.
Reference conditions belong to the individual yacht
Every yacht has its own systems and characteristics. General statements help only so far; HERA’s documented normal condition is what matters for HERA.
A baseline improves every later search
A dry, cleaned bilge is more than a pleasant condition. On a clean surface, the first new drop and its path are easier to see, while old salt marks, oil traces and residual water do not obscure a fresh event. Recording the date, inspected area and operating condition turns the 6 May finding into a technical baseline for HERA. It does not explain the water found on 28 June, but makes that change far easier to assess.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a dry bilge important?
It makes new liquid and traces easier to recognise and provides a clear comparison.
Is the owner’s memory enough?
A dated note or photograph is more reliable and can also help a workshop.
Was HERA normal on 6 May?
After warming the engine, no oil or water ingress was observed and the bilge remained dry and clean.
Talk to ONBOAT.
If a story raises your own question: we support yacht projects, deliveries, service and owner representation.
View service
ONBOAT schematic of a dry bilge as a technical reference