There are few things that demand the attention of the small-boat skipper like an excess of water where it should not be. If your boat leaks, she will need periodic dewatering. Spray and even solid water will have to be removed in heavy going. Even if the boat is not being used, she must be bailed after any significant rain. Finally, although too few people prepare for it, there should be a plan in place for the ultimate event: recovering from a swamping or capsize. Sponges, bailers, pumps, and buckets are the primary dewatering tools, and I'll describe the virtues of each on the following pages, in ascending order of capacity and descending ability to get rid of the last bit of water.
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