The following safety information has been kindly supplied by RNLI:
The Coastguard gets many calls reporting vessels overdue. The emergency services must then decide where to start the search pattern. Knowing where the vessel is likely to be can increase the chance of a successful rescue.
This principle applies to large vessels, but also to those using sea kayaks and smaller types of craft.
Larger vessels are encouraged to use the CG66 form (UK) or this form (RoI) and give the coastguard passage information.
If you use a smaller craft, you can inform someone ashore of your intended trip, and your return time.
Knowing where you are is also an advantage. By keeping your charts up to date and learning basic navigations skills, you will decrease your chances of going aground on sandbanks or rocks.
