Tips, Advice, And Reminders All Novice Boaters Should Hear
No one knows better than we do how much fun boating is and what a rewarding hobby it is. But what we also know is the responsibility it takes to be at the helm. There is a lot to remember and a lot to learn when it comes to being the captain of your boat. For many novice boaters, it can seem overwhelming with how much there is to learn, but knowledge and confidence come with time. That being said, we’ve got some tips, advice, and reminders from experienced boaters that can help novices feel more comfortable navigating the water.
Be Prepared
Have a float plan. Tell someone trustworthy on land approximately when and where you will be taking your boat out and when you will be returning. In the event of an emergency, this person will be able to help rescue teams find you faster.
Don’t be afraid to utilize a checklist. Instead of relying on your memory when you’re starting out, utilize a list to make sure that you’ve done everything you need to get on and off the water.
Teach another person on board how to safely operate the boat in the event of an emergency. Even if you’re as careful as possible, emergencies can still happen, and having someone with enough knowledge to get you to land can save lives and reduce panic.
Always double-check your drain plug and keep a spare plug on board. Forgetting the plug is a common boating mistake, but it can be a dangerous one. A forgotten plug will cause it to start taking on water. If you notice immediately after launch, pull your boat back onto the trailer to drain it. If you’re already on the water, run on plane so the water begins to drain as you make your way to shallower water to insert the plug.
Check forecasts. Continue monitoring the weather and tide forecasts even once you’re on the water. A change in weather conditions can come on fast, especially in the summer, so it’s important to keep an eye on incoming weather to prevent getting caught in a dangerous situation.
Be careful in water you aren’t familiar with. Spend some time learning the area slowly and patiently.
At the Ramp
Never approach a dock faster than you’re willing to hit it. Accidents can happen if you’re not cautious, especially at a crowded ramp.
Take a pool noodle and throw it out in the middle of a lake. Practice pulling up alongside it as if it were a dock face or another boat. This practice can help you learn how your boat handles at different speeds and in different conditions.
Find a remote ramp with little traffic. Spend some time practicing getting your boat in and out of the water so you can learn in a low-pressure environment.
Accept help at the boat ramp if you need it. There’s nothing embarrassing about learning from those with more experience. Better safe than sorry!
On the Water
You are the captain of your boat, and you are responsible. Don’t be afraid to set rules when it comes to your boat and the behaviors happening aboard.
Keep a battery jumper on board and consider a BoatUS membership in the event that your battery dies.
Learn the most useful knots and how and when to use them.
Always bring more layers than you think you need. It’s colder on the water than on the shore.
Tie your anchor line off before you throw it overboard.
Travel at a speed that you’d be okay hitting something at. Steering a boat is very different from driving a car, and cockiness at the helm can be dangerous.
Limit the alcohol intake by passengers on your boat,t and don’t partake in drinking if you’re at the helm. Intoxication is a contributing factor in a large portion of boat fatalities.
Wear your life jacket. Have your passengers wear their life jackets. They can feel annoying and unnecessary, but in an emergency,y they can save your life.
At Fay’s Marina, we help you get on the water with our selection of new and used boats. But we’re also here to help after you hit the water. If your boat isn’t in top shape, our service and parts departments are available to help make sure your boat is water-ready. Get in touch with us if you need help getting your boat back on the water!