5 Practical Boating Tips For Beginners
If you’ve just bought a new boat, or you’re strongly considering buying one, there are a few things you need to know first. Boating is a great way to release endorphins and help you manage stress – and we are all in need of some serious stress management at the moment.
Buying a boat can be a great way to bond with your family and friends, and it doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Boating is one of the most relaxing and rewarding activities, and you’ll be glad that you decided to go ahead with your purchase because it is a boatload of fun!
Here are five practical tips to help you out in the beginning:
- Safety First
The most important tip before hitting the water is to always practice safe boating. It is vitally crucial that every person on the vessel has a comfortable, high-quality life vest. Boaters have to wear them at all times while they are on board; that is non-negotiable.
90% of drowning accidents get caused by boaters not wearing life jackets. Good quality jackets are sized right, serviceable, and well fitted to each crew member.
Moreover, you’ll better understand the safety protocols of boating by taking a boating course. Most boating courses include the rules of the waterways and how to distinguish navigational aids. They can also educate you on state laws and regulations. You’ll also learn the necessary safety gear and equipment and steps to take if a coastal officer stops your vessel.
In addition, boating courses teach beginners how to keep vessels safe in all types of weather, waves, and environmental conditions. Learners also undergo training on how to use a marine radio for emergencies. Most importantly, a boating course can teach you about general boating courtesy and common sense when navigating different bodies of water.
When you take a boating course, you’ll also obtain a boating license. It’ll allow you to enjoy boating in Ontario and other approved locations in compliance with boating regulatory and safety standards. Ensure you only deal with a legitimate boating course provider.
- Weather Check
Nothing prepares a person for being in the water during rough weather. Most people wouldn’t wish it on their worst enemy! Keep an eye on the weather for a couple of days before you are due to head out – that way, you can plan around any nasty weather changes.
You will need to check the forecast for the entire period that you are expecting to be fishing on the water. While you are out, ensure that you continuously keep an eye on the sky and the rising pressures that could trigger sudden inclement weather changes.
- Have A Plan
As with most successful activities in life, boating requires planning. Even the most experienced boaters know that the first rule is to ensure that your boat has all the necessary safety equipment on board. Your boat also needs to be checked before each voyage to make sure that everything is working properly, like your navigation lights, flares, and horn.
The best way to do this is to draw up a plan that includes a detailed checklist. That way you can tick things off and nothing will be forgotten. You can order your Volvo Penta marine parts if anything needs replacing.
- Watch Your Speed
Motor-powered boats use inertia and momentum forces to assist with docking after they have been out on the water. That means that you need to be careful when floating in to dock, especially if the harbor is full of other boats.
Navigating a boat is easier to do at lower speeds, so keep your speed in check.
- Don’t Drink
As fun as being out on the boat is, you should never allow yourself to get tempted to have a drink with your friends. That behaviour is reckless and is a leading cause of boating accidents. Instead, choose to keep the fun clean – you’ll be grateful that you did.
Conclusion
Boating is fun; beginners may get overwhelmed in the first few drives. Following boating standards and obtaining the right credentials, training, and skills are important to avoid problems. Keep in mind the tips above for a more enjoyable and safer experience. You can also consult boating experts to learn about best practices.
