Bail

To remove water from inside a boat using a bucket, scoop or similar container.

Bailing is common in dinghies, tenders and open boats after rain, spray, a capsize or water shipped over the side. A hand bailer may also supplement a pump or self-bailer when water accumulates faster than the installed system removes it.

Removing the water does not address its source. Continuing ingress, reduced freeboard, instability or contamination requires prompt investigation, and a bailer should remain accessible rather than being stowed where flooding makes it unreachable.