Sculling Self-Rescue Guide

Every sculler must know how to perform a self-rescue after a capsize. This guide covers the mandatory flip test procedure and the step-by-step process for returning to your boat and resuming rowing.

Understanding Capsizing

Capsizing can happen to anyone, from beginners to experienced rowers. Common causes include:

  • Balance Issues: Small shifts in weight or uneven oar heights
  • Technique Errors: "Catching a crab" (blade stuck in water) or uneven pressure
  • Environmental Factors: Wakes from other boats, unexpected wind gusts, or waves
  • Equipment Problems: Open oarlocks, loose equipment, or rigger failure
1
Prepare
2
Capsize
3
Right Boat
4
Re-enter
5
Resume

Self-Rescue Process

Video Demonstrations Available

Watching the self-rescue process before trying it can be extremely helpful. Check out our visual demonstrations: Watch Self-Rescue Videos

Before any rowing session, be prepared for the possibility of capsizing.

  1. Wear appropriate clothing suitable for water immersion
  2. Remove loose items from pockets
  3. Understand the self-rescue procedure

The first moments after a capsize are crucial. Your primary focus should be on personal safety.

  1. Stay calm and get your bearings
  2. Exit the boat - avoid getting caught by the oar or rigger
  3. Stay with your boat - it's your primary flotation device
  4. Keep hold of both oars if possible
  5. Assess the situation - check for injury or dangerous conditions

Important: If you are injured or in dangerous waters (strong current, very cold water), prioritize signaling for help over attempting self-rescue.

If your boat is upside down, you'll need to flip it right-side up.

  1. Position yourself at the cockpit (center) of the boat
  2. Reach across to the far side and grasp the rigger
  3. Push down on the near rigger while pulling up on the far rigger
  4. Watch out for the oars and rigger coming towards you
  5. The boat will roll back to upright position.

Technique Tip: Use the riggers as leverage points rather than trying to lift the entire weight of the boat. Think of it as rolling the boat rather than lifting it.

The side re-entry is the most common technique for getting back into your shell from the water.

  1. Set the Near-Side Oar
    Float the near-side blade flat on the water, shaft perpendicular to the hull. This gives you a stable brace. Verify the oarlock is properly closed.
  2. Retrieve the Far-Side Oar
    Swim or lean over to grab the other oar. Ensure this oarlock is also properly closed.
  3. Extend both oars perpendicular (t-position)
    Push them out so they are fully extended with handles overlapping. The near-side blade should rest flat on the water surface, while the far-side blade remains feathered in the air.
  4. Position your hands
    Grasp the overlapping handles in one hand. Keep your elbow high over the shaft. The other hand is on the center strip between the tracks.
  5. Hoist Yourself Onto the Hull (Two methods)
    • First, bob down to utilize your natural buoyancy, then use a strong kick to gain upward momentum
    • Push down firmly on the oar handles and the center strip while executing a strong scissors kick, similar to getting out of a pool
    Option A: The Belly Flop Method
    • Propel yourself forward and across the boat in a "belly flop" motion
    • Land with your torso flat across the hull, perpendicular to the boat's length
    • Keep your weight low and centered over the boat
    • Lift the hand holding the oars to lower both blades flat onto the water surface, which stabilizes the boat and prevents it from rolling.
    • Once stable in this position, rotate your hip, sit up, and bring one leg across
    Option B: The Hip Rotation Method
    • Rotate your hip onto the tracks as you rise
    • Keep your weight low and centered over the boat
    • Lift the hand holding the oars to lower both blades flat onto the water surface, which stabilizes the boat and prevents it from rolling.
    • Once your hip is secured on the tracks, sit up, and bring one leg across
  6. Re-seat Yourself
    • Wait until the boat settles, then while both feet are outside, pull the seat below you and re-seat yourself. Insert your feet into the cockpit and foot stretchers.

Technique Tip: This technique relies on leg power and body mechanics, not upper body strength. Using your natural buoyancy and a strong scissors kick while pushing down on the oar handles and the center strip will help lift your body horizontally onto the boat.

Once back in your boat, follow these steps to resume rowing.

  1. Perform a quick equipment check
  2. Signal to your coach or others that you are okay
  3. Begin gentle rowing, when stable, resume normal rowing
  4. Consider heading to the dock to drain the boat

Recovery Time: Take your time getting settled back in the boat. It's normal for the boat to feel unstable at first—gentle movements and patience will help you regain control.

Alternative Self Rescue Click to expand ↓
If you cannot re-enter your boat and need to get to the dock or shore:
  • Position yourself flat on the stern deck, much like you would lie on a surfboard.
  • Use your hands to paddle towards the shore or dock.
Once you reach the dock with your boat:
  • Push the boat to the side of the dock, keeping it parallel to the dock.
  • Position yourself next to the boat, facing the dock.
  • Place both hands on the dock surface.
  • Use a strong push/kick motion to lift your upper body onto the dock
  • Once your torso is on the dock, swing one leg up and roll onto the dock surface

A Note on Physical Sensations: During self-rescue practice, some individuals might experience minor bruising on areas like legs, hips, or torso as they learn to get back into the boat. This is a normal part of the learning process.

Safety First: If at any point during a real capsize you feel unsafe or unable to complete the self-rescue, signal for help immediately and stay with your boat while awaiting assistance.

Back to Safety