What do do if caught by NEVERA or a local storm, while sailing in Croatia?

Practical nautical knowledge includes knowledge and abilities in selecting the appropriate location and type of mooring places and berths, as well as the procedure of mooring a ship. The process of choosing mooring places begins right at the outset of your sailing voyage in Croatia, with the creation of an itinerary based on weather prediction. This involves the skipper monitoring of current weather conditions, as well as local Dalmatian fishermen's advice.

What if, despite your preparations, you're still trapped in a high-seas storm!? How do you find a safe mooring?

The crucial interval of 7-10 minutes is essential.

We've heard claims that a sudden storm mainly affects novice captains and sailors, but this is untrue. Sudden storms have occurred since the dawn of sailing, and they are, regrettably, growing more prevalent as a result of climate change. This is why the sudden storm is dubbed "sudden" or "light local thunderstorms at the Adriatic Sea" by Croatian meteorologists! Such a possibility is indicated as probable local storms or light local thunderstorms in the Adriatic Sea in the forecast for that day! Some signs that a storm is approaching may be found by watching the weather situation: suddenly out of nowhere, the wind blows strongly, clouds loom, lightning is ready to come, air pressure decreases... Every seasoned skipper has undoubtedly encountered it.

So, how do you behave in such a situation?

First and foremost, maintain your composure; that is just what you require at this time. React calmly, not panicked, but decisively and resolutely to show the crew that there is no space for doubt in following the skipper's orders. Order the crew's novice members to go below deck, everybody to put on life jackets, and you to dress in a rain suit, boat shoes, and automated seat belts.

To the wind, bow/steer

During the storm, all you have to do is maintain the bow in the wind and try to cut the waves straight using the wind direction indicator.

All windows on board must be closed, all storage spaces must be secured, and everything that may fall to the floor must be secured by the crew below the deck. Remember to close the boat's sideboards and side windows!

The sails must be collected, the Bimini must be closed, and only the spray cover is strong enough to resist wind gusts on a sailboat. They should bow to the wind and move at a minimal pace that permits the ship to steer as soon as the storm hits. This technique implies you were far enough away from the beach when the storm struck. During the storm, all you have to do is maintain the bow in the wind and try to cut the waves straight using the wind direction indicator. Storms on the Adriatic Sea are generally brief, lasting about 10-20 minutes, and when they pass, one of the choices for a secure connection should be chosen.

If you're stuck in a storm on a buoy or anchor, start the engine and take a controlled forward ride to make it simpler to maintain the buoy or anchor holding your boat.