Safety - Pacific Crossing Notes: A Sailor's Guide to the Coconut Milk Run - page 67

Choosing a Life Raft
There are many life raft models available, with prices ranging from US$2,000 and up for a
new unit. By no means should you save a buck and rely on an out-of-date, second-hand life
raft. As you compare life rafts, check that the cradle or valise will fit in the space you have,
and remember to include the price of the container in your budget calculations.
Be aware that some life rafts are designed for near-shore use; features such as insulated
floors and multi-day water rations are not a given. While it is reasonably easy to right an
inverted life raft, we decided to pay a premium for a self-righting model since we have a
young son and did not want to risk having an extra step in a real emergency. Short-handed
or older cruisers might want to make the same investment. Other factors that can guide
your decision are the service intervals of each model (three years is optimal) and ease of re-
servicing (we planned a cruise across the Pacific and therefore decided on a Viking since it
can be serviced around the world).
Size is another important factor. In theory, a four-person life raft should be sufficient for
four people. Having climbed into a four-person raft during a sea-survival course some
years ago, however, it was immediately clear to us that this would be too small if we ever
needed to spend more than twenty-four hours adrift. Therefore, the decision to step up to a
six-person raft was an easy one, although it came at slightly higher cost and a larger space
requirement.