Want to know what the leading cause of boating accidents is? It’s the people operating the boats. Whether it’s collisions, machinery failure, or alcohol use, the biggest risk on the water is the people.
There are ways to mitigate this, and being a conscientious boat owner means taking responsibility for your equipment.
Before ever heading out onto the water, you want to make sure you have all the boating essentials you need to make your experience fun, safe, and comfortable.
Keep reading to find out some of the surprising things you didn’t know you needed!
All Aboard – Safety First
Being out on any type of water can be dangerous, and we can’t dismiss that. However, there is plenty of fun to be had, especially when you remove the stress of planning by having an in-depth checklist you can refer to.
Pre Departure Planning
One of the best things you can do is to have a list that you check before you even head out for the day. A boating checklist is simple:
- Check the weather
- Make a pre-launch operational checklist
- Check your bilge pumps
- Charge your battery
- Top up fuel and oil
- Check that all safety gear is on board
- Work on a float plan
Working through these essentials before any trip is paramount to ensuring that you’re prepared for every eventuality.
The Necessary Equipment
Scenarios can quickly arise that turn an average day out on the water into something unexpected and potentially dangerous. Make sure you have all the equipment to stay safe in even the worst of situations.
Required Safety Gear
The US Coast Guard has a minimum requirement list and is a great starting point for new boaters. Each state has its own laws and requirements, so be sure to check those too. As a whole, the boating industry is well geared to supply you with all the necessary equipment.
Boating Accessories
Besides the required equipment, there are some essential boating accessories you absolutely need.
- Dock lines
- Fenders
- An anchor
- Flash Lights
- First aid kit
- Tool kit
While it may sound simple enough, extra food and water will also go a long way in an unexpected situation. Always pack more than you think you need. And, finally, don’t forget the sunscreen. Bring extra. Trust us.
Boating Essentials You Didn’t Know You Needed
Boating accessories don’t need to be on the boat itself, and there are a few things you should know about to make sure you’re taking care of your investment, no matter what type of boat you have or where you are in the world. Dock ladders, shallow water stairs, and solar lights can go a long way to making your on-land adventures more comfortable. But, that’s not the only thing you want to look at.
You absolutely want to invest in a quality ice eater to protect your assets. It gets cold by the water and ice can destroy even the most well-made docks and boats.
The Fun Stuff
Any smart boating trip needs the essentials, and while we wouldn’t say that fluffy towels are essential, they sure make the entire experience more enjoyable.
While you’re loading your boat with warm towels and spare clothes, why not add in some other accessories, like water skis and tow toys?
That and a cooler to hold your ice, drinks, and snacks, and you’ll be all set for a great day out, especially when you have friends and family around.
Smooth Sailing All Year
Whether you’re new to sailing or a seasoned sailor, you can never be too prepared. Staying on top of your safety equipment and machinery could make the difference between a good day out and a disastrous one.
When it comes to boating essentials, don’t skimp on time or money. Safety always comes first.
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