Bailers on a Buccaneer Sailboat?

Question

How do the bailers work on a Chrysler Buccaneer 18? I was told to open them when sailing to drain water. This seems to have the opposite effect instead :-)

Answer 1

Most cockpit bailers only work when the boat is moving forward at a pretty good speed. When you slow or stop, they don't work so well.

Answer 2

The bailer (called scupper valve) should only be opened when moving forward at least 4 to 5 knots, preferably more.  The forward motion  will cause a suction to draw the water out of the boat.  If they are open when you are standing still or moving very slowly,  water will come into the boat.  Normally you should only open them long enough to drain all of the water, then close them.