The Crash Test Boat

The ‘Crash Test Boat Series’ is an initiative launched by Yachting Monthly editor, Paul Gelder, back in 2011. The intention of the series is to replicate a wave of ‘controlled’ sailing disasters. We’ve been involved as a principal participant of the series for the past decade.

men stood on a beached sailing boat. "she will play a starring role in a series of 'controlled' sailing disasters..."

Why would Admiral trust a yacht to this lot?

We’ve seen all sorts of yachting disasters – from UK coastal dramas to mid-ocean calamities – and have dealt with many insurance clients who have fallen victim to the unexpected or unavoidable.

We’ve sponsored a series of ‘crash tests’ that were carried out by the daring folk at Yachting Monthly, to help promote safety and good seamanship.

Yachting Monthly Crash Test Boat

The ‘Crash Test Boat Series’ is an initiative launched by Yachting Monthly editor, Paul Gelder, back in 2011. The intention of the series is to replicate a wave of ‘controlled’ sailing disasters. We’ve been involved as a principal participant of the series for the past decade.

 

Why would Admiral trust a yacht to this lot?

We’ve seen all sorts of yachting disasters – from UK coastal dramas to mid-ocean calamities – and have dealt with many insurance clients who have fallen victim to the unexpected or unavoidable.

We’ve sponsored a series of ‘crash tests’ that were carried out by the daring folk at Yachting Monthly, to help promote safety and good seamanship.

The Crash Test results

Running Aground – What Works?

Measures ranging from simple to increasingly desperate in order to refloat the yacht from various grounding scenarios.

Capsizing! What Happens Below?

Can it be made safe below or cause disaster in the unlikely event of a capsize or knockdown?

Capsizing! What Happens Below?

Can it be made safe below or cause disaster in the unlikely event of a capsize or knockdown?

Dismasted! What Next?

A dismasting and aftermath caught on camera under controlled conditions.

How to Make a Jury Rig

An unlucky crew set about creating a jury rig from what was left on board, resulting in an elegant square rigger.

Sinking! Immediate Solutions

Ten ways to save a sinking yacht are tested.

Leaking! What Plugs a Hole?

Whether a seacock or a log transducer fails, what can you use to stop a leak?

Fire in the Galley! What to Do?

Fires were started in the galley and engine room and put out using out-of-date existing equipment.

Gas Explosion! Avoid This…

The yacht was anchored in 8m and a 200m exclusion zone was set up before simulating a shocking gas explosion.