I don't understand the 'get it certified by someone else' mentality. I've always done the certification myself. It's a bit like packing your own parachute. I can't trust the one piece of equipment that is the 'last resort' to someone I know nothing about. I'll trust new but not one that's been repacked by someone else.

Then again,, maybe I'm just cheap.

What about the inflatable? He had a large boat. It should have been inflated, on deck and not packed away. In most situations an inflatable is better than the liferaft.

I understand he's been single handing for years. The problem is usually one of complacency as I see it.

Boy,,,, I'm sure good at second guessing without many facts and not being there.