Off Unije, HERA picks up a buoy for the night. It costs 60 euros for the 50-foot yacht, and the manoeuvre remains a special moment even with experience.
Discuss the manoeuvre in advance
Approach direction, speed, transfer point and feedback are agreed. The exact method follows buoy, line, wind and equipment.
Check after the pick-up
The first connection does not finish the manoeuvre. Attachment, material condition, clearance and swinging room are checked before the crew changes into leisure mode.
The distance from helm to bow shapes the manoeuvre
On a 15-metre yacht, the buoy disappears from the helmsperson’s view shortly before pickup, while engine noise and wind sound different at the bow. HERA therefore needs agreed hand signals or very short calls before the approach. Boat hook and line are ready, loose loops stay out of the working area and speed allows another attempt at any time. Only after connection, chafe, neighbour distance and swinging room are checked does the crew settle at Unije.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a 50-foot yacht different at a buoy?
Length, weight and the distance between helm and bow affect the approach and communication.
Who handles the line?
A prepared person at the bow; exact duties follow crew and situation.
What follows the first attachment?
Checking connection, swinging room and distances to other yachts.
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Large sailing yacht at a buoy in a sheltered Croatian bay