How do you get
There are the obvious things like “don’t lose it in the first place,” but let’s face it, accidents happen. So, how can we increase the chances of recovering our lost items?
One easy hack greatly increases the odds of getting stuff back. And it’s pretty low tech.
Put your name and contact info on your stuff!
What to Label
Take an hour and go around the boat with a waterproof marker. Write at least your boat name (add your phone number or email on the most important gear) on things like:
- Dinghy, including the oars, gas can and life jackets
- Kayak
- SUP
- Deck brush
- Tote bags
- Dry bags
- Laundry bag
- Camera
- Cushions
- Fenders
- Shower bag
- Hats
- Chairs
- Anything that kids would carry ashore
- Phone
- Jackets
- Dishes, glasses, silverware, and all carrying/serving dishes
Remember to label both lids and containers. One won’t do you much good without the other.
Marking Tools
Yes, a fat, Sharpie marker is a good go-to. Most of us have one on board somewhere. Make sure yours is waterproof; why do all that work just to have it disappear in a wet smudge?
But I have another suggestion. Garden label markers are not only waterproof but UV-resistant (Amazon). They are made to write on a variety of surfaces, including plastic. They also work well paired with waterproof, self-adhesive outdoor labels (Amazon).
You can also use laser printing waterproof labels (Amazon). They’re easy for larger items. Keep them on hand to slap onto gear before lending it out or when you bring new things on board.
If you already have a label maker, see if your version supports weather-resistant labels and ink.
Getting Stuff Back
After every community event, the next morning, there are numerous lost-and-found announcements on the VHF net. Ditto every time there’s a windy day or a squall.
People generally want to return your gear. But they can’t if they don’t know who it belongs to. Make it easy for them to return it.
You’ll find you get your lost gear back much more often!
You Might Also Be Wondering About . . .
Carolyn Shearlock has lived aboard full-time for 17 years, splitting her time between a Tayana 37 monohull and a Gemini 105 catamaran. She’s cruised over 14,000 miles, from Pacific Mexico and Central America to Florida and the Bahamas, gaining firsthand experience with the joys and challenges of life on the water.
Through The Boat Galley, Carolyn has helped thousands of people explore, prepare for, and enjoy life afloat. She shares her expertise as an instructor at Cruisers University, in leading boating publications, and through her bestselling book, The Boat Galley Cookbook. She is passionate about helping others embark on their liveaboard journey—making life on the water simpler, safer, and more enjoyable.
Francene McLaughlin says
I have fairly cheap plastic dishes ect, which I use for potlucks, beach parties, or going to another boat for sundowners. I do make an effort to bring them home but if not, no drama.I once had a fairly nice plastic set,which my husband assumed since they were plastic they were disposable, so he threw them away while cleaning up.I still tag them.Fran McLaughlin,s/v AKA,currently, Majuro in the Marshall Islands.Living and sailing aboard since 1986