Note: anytime you get within 3-5' of the COB pole that return was successful. It is rare and has potential danger to the rescuer to make hand to wrist contact. Having them right next to the boat may also be hazardous to the person in the water. So if you do not connect to the pole when you make the return it may still be a success. If you can't make contact with a thrown line or devise, then turn off to the next method based on your point of sail. 

 

Three primary sailing return options depend on which point of sale you are on at the time of spotting a person, or thing, to be retrieved from the water:

If sailing upwind (close reach or close hauled = Quick Stop) 47sec to 1min

If sailing across the wind (Beam Reach = Figure 8) 3-5 min

If sailing down wind (broad reach or Wing n Wing = Reach Return) 1.5-2 min

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If motoring use the Williamson Turn as the safest (prop damage free) and fast way to get back & stop.

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If you want a Crew overboard clinic, request one.

Contact Afterguard. Can be with people in the water or not.