How to Raise a Sunken Sailboat

As raising a sunken vessel is a rather involved and slightly dangerous process, approach the task with caution. Take into consideration the conditions, and choose the calmest time that you can and, if possible, at low tide. Have several hands to help you with the process and ready a patch for the boat that will help stabilize it in case it must be placed back into the water. It is wise to have a scuba diver do an assessment of the damage if you don't have firsthand knowledge of the wreck. Keep safety precautions foremost, and call in professionals if need be.

Things You'll Need

  • Rope
  • Boat
  • Scuba equipment
  • Lift bags (available from your local marina)
  • Air compressor
  • Tarp
  • Pumps
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Instructions

    • 1

      Situate your boat downwind of the vessel that you want to raise. Fasten rope to both ends of the wreck and fasten to your boat. This is a precautionary step to keep the boat from floating away once raised.

    • 2

      Ask your helpers to prepare the lift bags that will be attached to the sunken vessel's rigging. Have the scuba diver attach the float bags to the submerged sailboat.

    • 3

      Start your air compressor and have your diver insert the end hose into the fill bags. As the fill bags become inflated, the boat will rise. Your diver will monitor the boat's progress and alert you to any substantial problems.

    • 4

      Ready your tarp to cover the damage to the boat's hull. Stretch it over the damaged area when you have the vessel raised a bit. It will keep the water from re-entering the boat as you begin to pump it.

    • 5

      Pump the boat's interior until the water is gone. Tow the wreck into your local marina for dry dock repairs. Move with caution and do not go fast as it will remove the tarp and cause the vessel to sink again.