Safe on the Water – What to Do If Your Boat Breaks Down

Summer in the Hanko archipelago is one of the best experiences you can have on the water. But whether you're a seasoned sailor or heading out for a weekend trip, the sea has a way of changing fast. A little preparation goes a long way — and knowing who to call when things go wrong is just as important as knowing how to sail.

Before you cast off

A quick check before every trip prevents most problems:

• Fuel and engine oil — don't underestimate distances in the archipelago
• Life jackets for everyone on board, correctly sized
• VHF radio charged and set to channel 16 (international distress frequency)
• Phone charged, with marina and rescue numbers saved
• Flares or visual signals — required by law and genuinely useful
• Someone ashore knows your route and expected return time

If your engine stops or you run aground

Stay calm. Drop anchor if you're drifting. Check whether you can fix the problem yourself — many engine issues are fuel-related or a loose connection. If not, call for help early rather than waiting until the situation gets worse.

For mechanical assistance and towing on Finnish waters, Trossi offers dedicated boat assistance — think of it as roadside assistance, but for the sea. A membership is worth having before you need it.

Finnish Sea Rescue — Meripelastusseura

The Finnish Lifeboat Institution operates volunteer rescue crews along the entire Finnish coast, including the Hanko area. They respond to emergencies 24/7 at no charge. Supporting them through a membership helps keep this service running for everyone on the water — and gives you the peace of mind of knowing the network is there. Learn about membership at meripelastus.fi.

If your boat needs mechanical attention — a breakdown, a fault spotted mid-season, or a service that's overdue — Nylunds Boathouse Hanko is here. Our team handles engine servicing, fault diagnostics, and repairs. Catching a problem early is always cheaper than dealing with it at the end of the season.

Call us at +358 20 155 20 40. We're at Port of Lappvik.