Crossing A Bar? We Can Help

Bar crossings can be one of the trickiest, and riskiest parts of boating in Aotearoa. They change fast, they don’t always play nice, and they’ve caught out even the most experienced skippers. Each year, we see serious incidents and tragedies happening on our bars, so it’s super important to know your stuff before you head out.

That’s where we come in. Join us at Coastguard Raglan for an interactive and relaxed seminar. You’ll hear straight from local Coastguard skippers and boating legends who’ll share their real-world tips, local knowledge, and a few stories from the water.

This event includes a trip out on the Coastguard vessel Gallagher Rescue (subject to weather). there is a cost to this and the local crew request that you please email raglancoastguard@gmail.com to secure your spot on the vessel and arrange a contribution to cost.

Bring your mates too – whether they’re brand new to boating or have been around since the days of paper charts and handheld compasses, there’s something in here that could save a trip… or a life.

Why it matters:

In 2024, 23% of craft-related drownings happened during bar crossings.
5 lives were lost due to capsizing while crossing a bar.
Older blokes are still the most at-risk – but everyone can make safer choices with the right knowledge (and a lifejacket on).