Often heard as a surfing term, however, the same applies for going out in the water either in person or by boat!
Boating is both exciting and relaxing. However, boating can be a hazardous activity and there are several ways that a boating trip can turn sour if you are not properly prepared to handle an emergency.
But with careful planning, preparation, common sense, boating knowledge, and appropriate boat and line handling, you can minimize the risks and maximize your enjoyment of your boating experiences.
In this post, let’s look at the planning stage BEFORE you even think about taking you, your friends and family on the water!
If in doubt, don’t go out!
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced boater, careful consideration is never a waste of time before heading out on the water.
Let’s look at the steps you should consider:
Of course, this is the first point of call when considering a day on the water. But it is important to research several different apps to ensure you get an overall picture of the ‘entire’ time you will be on the water.
As you know, weather can change within a moment’s notice, so ensuring that you have the attire and gear is important, but that you are safely ashore before weather hits that you are not comfortable boating in, is so important.
Obtaining local charts of the area you will be going out boating in. Study them BEFORE and plot your course ahead of time. Being on the water and deciding where and when you go is too late, especially if an emergency occurs or weather changes. Knowing the area you will be boating in is vital.
Ensure you are familiar with the local boating rules and zones for the area/s you will be boating in.
Whilst not a legal requirement, we recommend creating a voyage plan which consists of:
Ensure to leave this detailed information with someone on land that is contactable by yourself and/or emergency services.
Always ensure that you have an experienced skipper onboard if you are unsure of your boating abilities and that this skipper remains sober and responsible during your voyage.
When in doubt, don’t go out. Even if you’ve done extensive preparation and research before your trip if the conditions seem dicey or you are unsure if your abilities will keep you safe, stay onshore. It’s always better to reschedule an excursion to avoid an accident or tragedy on the water.
We recommend creating a simple tick sheet for yourself to complete before taking your boat out which includes the above elements, just to give yourself peace of mind that you have safely given adequate thought before even deciding to go out.
Contact Shorlink today and we would be happy to email you through Pre-departure checklist including a Voyage Plan!
Regarding your skipper experience and knowledge, it may have been a while since you last took your boat out and you have lost confidence, then speak to us! We have many bespoke training sessions which can assist which are conducted onboard your boat so you get the maximum benefit!
If in doubt, don’t got out!
When heading out, especially if going offshore it’s a good tip log with the local rescue organisation and let them know about your boat and number of people onboard.
Please, if you even have 1% doubt about taking your boat on the water, don’t do it! That split decision could mean the difference between life and death, it is that serious.
Contact Shorlink if you have any questions or want a copy of our free Voyage Plan and/or Pre-Departure Checklist!
