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Insure My Boat

Does the Mooring Have an Impact on the Insurance Rate?

Location and type of mooring can have a significant impact on the risks a motor-driven or sailing yacht faces.

Boat Mooring Rope

Plus, the moorings can have an influence on the insurance rates quoted by underwriters. Most insurance policies provide coverage while the watercraft is afloat in use and laid-up on moorings, including launching and hauling.

Different moorings can make a noticeable difference in the price, terms, conditions, and limitations imposed by the insurance company.

Here are four of the common mooring options for vessels:

Marina berth

A safe and reliable mooring is in the marina berth, but this is the most in demand option up and down the country; therefore expect higher costs and longer waiting lists. Plus, having a boat moored in a marina berth 12 months of the year gives more freedom in use. Other types of moorings can limit the usable time in the water.

Also, other benefits might apply for the insurance policy, such as no loss of no claims bonus should an accident of loss take place while the vessel is moored up in the home marine berth.

Dry sailing

Dry sailing is a practical choice for many types of dinghies and similar small sized vessels. Storing the boat on dry land is certain to protect against the difficult conditions on the water, but there are greater risks of theft and/or vandalism. For this reason it is essential to put in place the proper security measures to ensure the craft is safe throughout this time. Certain types of crafts, such as 12-18-ft speed boats or similar will need to be locked in secure premises when not in use — but the specific requirements will be noted on the insurance schedule.

Swinging mooring

The exact location of this type of mooring is certain to have an impact on whether or not it is acceptable to leave the vessel in the water year-round. Certain regions will have restrictions in place to lift ashore or moor elsewhere for the most difficult months. A swinging mooring should be laid to a professional standard, properly maintained, and regularly inspected. Plus, the company involved in inspecting the mooring should have enough professional indemnity coverage in place. The use of a chain or rope strop will vary with the location and exposure of the mooring.

Laid up

A lay-up period is often stipulated in the policy schedule for those vessels moored in the more exposed waters. This is intended to protect the vessel from the worst of the winter condition. Alternatively, a vessel can be moved to a more secure mooring (afloat) throughout the winter, such as a protected marina or boatyard.

Mooring Covers

Give a vessel laid-up on moorings extra protection by using purpose-made mooring covers. A high-quality cover for the docked boat is certain to provide reliable protection against constant sun, rain, or wind exposure. A preferred type of material is cotton or cotton poly blend which has the ability to keep moisture out because of its breathable properties. Plus, storage and trailable covers are also available to match the specific needs.

Categories
Safety at Sea

5 Tips for the Sea Kayaker Before You Go Out

Whether it is extreme or serene, kayaking is a much more enjoyable adventure when the newcomer to the high seas has gained a certain degree of knowledge and experience.

Sea KayakHere are five tips for the complete beginner to sea kayaking:

1 – Basics

First-time sea kayaking paddlers can experience a variety of mishaps on the initial outing if the standard techniques aren’t learnt, including:

  • Use the proper grip for holding the paddle. A paddle should be held with a light grip to give better control of movement while maintaining a good level of flexibility. Plus, a light grip means less chance of straining the muscles.
  • Move a paddle with a deep, rhythmic, and a swift forward motion to get the kayak moving.
  • Use a sweeping stroke to help with maneuvering and correcting the course. A sweep stroke is much wider compared to the forward and reverse strokes.
  • Paddle at a pace and range that is comfortable for the specific kayakers comfort and enjoyment. Sticking to a personal style makes it easier to move naturally through the sea.
  • Paddling with the upper body held stable. By holding the proper center of gravity there is less chance of the kayak tipping and this ensures the steering action is significantly easier.
  • Practice the proper paddling techniques on the beach or similar shore-based area to get a feel of how to handle the paddles. Move on to shallow waters and get fully used to the proper movement until muscle memory is achieved.

2 – Companion

A solo kayaking adventure for the complete beginner is rarely a good idea. Paddling on the open sea can be quite unpredictable, so going with companions is certain to mean a safer and more enjoyable adventure. Go out with 2-3 other kayakers when first starting out to get a better appreciation of the entire experience. A kayaking adventure can experience several different situations which are much easier to handle when in a group environment.

3 – Lessons

Beginner sea kayakers should start their adventures by learning the basic skills before setting off on to the sea. Basic skills include maneuvering capabilities to paddling strokes. Without the basic knowledge, a paddler can soon find themselves in difficulty. Start with the simple lessons and slowly progress on the path to becoming a professional paddler.

4 – Map

While a mobile phone and GPS can be useful tools while out paddling they do have certain limitations such as reception signal and battery life. For these reasons it can also benefit to have the ability to use a compass and read a nautical chart.

5 – Route and weather

Plan a paddling route that is familiar. Use sheltered areas or bays to get more protection from choppy waters and strong winds. This is certain to benefit the beginner when first starting out. Get a regular update of the weather forecast to determine the likely conditions out at sea. But, when paddling a kayak in the open sea it is always wise to expect a certain degree of waves and wind even on days that appear calm. Avoid kayaking in difficult conditions with fog a real issue – sight of land is easily lost with low-visibility.

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Boat Maintenance & Organization

9 Helpful Tips for Boating Clean and Earth-Friendly

Even though a boat insurance policy will provide protection against wreckage removal, fuel spillage, etc., there are several steps that can be taken to act more earth-friendly.

Green Boating

Below are nine tips to minimize the impact on the environment when boating:

1 – Bilge

Keep the bilge clean and free of oily water. Avoid pumping the dirty or oily water overboard. Alternatively, use absorbent petroleum products like bilge pillows or similar to help with soaking up the oil while at the same time repelling water. Plus, ask the boat yard or marine if a service for bilge pump-out is available.

2 – Chart course

Before setting off make sure to carefully chart the course to avoid issues with wasting fuel or to go in the direction of sensitive sea habitats.

3 – Clean

Use safe and environmentally safe methods to wash down the boat and equipment. Limit the use of toxic detergent. A wide range of boat cleaning products is environmentally responsible and easy to purchase in-store or online.

Ensure all debris and mud are cleaned from the boat and related equipment (anchors, livewell, propeller, trailer, dinghy, life raft, etc.) to minimize the chance of exotic species spreading which can result in degradation and habitat alteration.

4 – Close vent

Close the vent on the portable gas tank when in storage or when the actual motor isn’t in active use.

5 – Fuel tanks

Avoid spillage by filling fuel tanks while still on shore. Try to avoid refilling when on board the boat. Filling the tanks on shore is certain to help with minimizing the amount split in the process. Plus, only fill the fuel tanks to the recommended limit. Fuel can easily expand in warm climates and extra fuel will soon start to flow out the vent lines.

6 – Routine maintenance

Ensure routine maintenance is completed on a regular basis.

7 – Sewage regulations

Stick to the federal and local guidelines that relate to the disposal of sewage. Avoid pumping raw sewage into the open water. Any boat without a pre-installed toilet should rely on a portable unit (port-a-potty or similar). Ensure the port-a-potty is emptied in a predetermined disposal site or pump-out station. A holding tank on board the boat can be useful in certain situations. Minimize the use of disinfectants after cleanup because they are likely to contain toxic chemicals.

8 – Spill kit

Have on board a purpose-made spill kit to help with salvaging any unfortunate issues with wasted oil or similar liquids. Plus, a supply of rags to absorb oil or fuel spillage can help. A minor spillage of oil can result in significant issues in the water so take the appropriate action to avoid these problems. Also, report any sighting of pollution to the local authorities when out on the water.

9 – Trash

Make sure the build up of trash is kept stowed away and taken home. This should include food waste, cigarettes, fishing line, etc. Recycling the waste where possible can also benefit the environment. Plus, batteries or similar items should be disposed of in the correct manner.

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Safety at Sea

7 Safety Tips for Boating with Children

Avoiding boat mishaps with babies and children on board is certain to prevent issues with being fearful and providing memories that can last a lifetime.

Boating with ChildrenHere are seven safety tips to abide by when boating with children:

1 – Encourage the family

Let other members of the family become familiar with certain aspects of operating the boat. A family with more knowledge and experience is certain to mean less danger and accidents on board. Children can be shown how to trim the sails, operate the anchor, switch electrical items on and off, use manual winches, and start or stop the engine.

2 – Get Home

Are other family members able to helm the boat and set sail for home if the skipper is in distress? If planning to go boating with a child it is a practical precaution to teach the basic skills of using the VHF radio, engine starting and stopping, Chartplotter reading, electrical switchboard use, and emergency channel knowledge.

3 – Inflatables & Dinghies

Small children love to engage with inflatable toys and dinghies, while an outboard motor attached can also be quite appealing. Make sure the children are instructed with basic safety and handling techniques. A danger area is other boat users or swimmers, so ensure an inflatable is kept well clear of others and proper boundary rules are outlined.

4 – Life jackets

Abide by standard rules and regulations and ensure each child on board has a life jacket to increase safety in the event of falling overboard. Any life jacket worn should be at the appropriate size to match the child. Avoid an over-sized life jacket because this has the potential to entangle a child and make things more difficult in an emergency situation. A well-fitted life jacket should give a snug fit and should stay securely in place. A life vest can also benefit from a neck support to ensure a child’s head is kept out of the water. Plus, use a life jacket that automatically inflates for extra safety.

5 – No Go Areas

Let the children know the no go areas on the boat like forward of the cockpit on a motor-driven yacht or bow of a motor-launch when in motion. Plus, make sure children don’t use (or left close to) the companion way when the boat is under power. A small child left close to an open companion way might well fall through in a heavy breeze or wave. Plus, boating activities like berthing or mooring up can be quite stressful, so asking the children to be quite during this time is often advised.

6 – Pontoon or dock safety

Don’t let the children run on the pontoon or deck area, and for extra safety ensure a life jacket is worn. A dock area has joints, hoses, ropes, cleats, etc. that can easily result in trip hazards. Falling in the water at a marina can be dangerous for a small child, so take extra care and attention around this particular area.

7 – Safety drills

Regularly conduct fire and safety drills to ensure everyone on board knows what to do in the event of an emergency. Locations of escape hatches should be known.

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Trailers & Parts

Trailer Safety for PWC

A PWC trailer must stay within the guided limits in relation to size and capacity.

PWC TrailerWhen calculating the total load, make sure to determine the weight of the accessories and fuel on top of the weight of the personal watercraft.

Open vs. Closed frames

A PWC trailer is constructed with an open or close frame. The open and closed frames can have an impact on the wiring. An open frame leaves the wires exposed, but this does mean in the event of damage or faults the potential problem is easy to locate. A closed frame is more effective at protecting the wires, but with the wiring concealed the problems are much more difficult to spot and repair. Plus, a further benefit of the open frame design is the ability to quickly drain water.

Frame construction and strength

A proper trailer for a PWC is designed, constructed, and approved for use in a marine environment. The trailer should give proper support to the full weight of the Jet Ski and accessories. Plus, the wiring and lights should be built to withstand submersion in the sea or river water. Also, the finish of the trailer should offer high durability and come with a galvanized or powder coating, which is significantly more resilient than enamel or similar.

Pre-trailering inspection

On each occasion the PWC trailer is used make sure to give a full visual inspection to ensure it is in full working order. Below are eleven of the things to check before each use:

  1. Inspect the wires for signs of wear and inflation
  2. Look at the safety chain and hitch to ensure it is free of stress and wear
  3. Check the brakes for the trailer just after setting off to make sure they will function once on the road
  4. Review the electrical components (bulbs, wiring, terminals, etc.) to ensure there are no burned or corroded connections
  5. Make sure a good amount of bearing grease is applied to the wheel bearings
  6. Ensure each of the main and lug nuts are fully tight and in place
  7. Inspect the bunks, rollers, and stops for early signs of cracks or wear
  8. Test the coupler and ball to make sure it is at the right size and is able to fully secure in place. Look for signs of stress and wear
  9. Safety secure the PWC to the trailer at the bow and stern – use a sufficient number of tie-downs to avoid accidents on the highway
  10. Pack a varied selection of basic emergency supplies, such as highway flares, mounted tire, grease, bearings, spare bulbs, basic tools, etc.
  11. Appreciate the extra dimensions of the trailer at the rear of the vehicle and drive carefully. Give extra space to other road users and make sure to indicate maneuvers early. Also, give more time to complete the journey and avoid speeding.

A regular stop by the roadside to check the rig can benefit and this periodical check should help to minimize accidents on the road. Give the tie-downs, lights, and wheel bearings a regular check.

Categories
Safety at Sea

5 Safe Boat Handling Tips for Bad Weather

Calm seas and winds are certain to mean enjoyable fishing, wakeboarding, power boating, etc.

Bad Weather Boating

A light chop and fresh breeze is practical for an invigorating windsurfing or sailing adventure. But extreme weather with lightning, torrential downpours, gusty winds, or dark clouds are certain to go against a captains wish.

Below are five tips to stay safe on a sail or power boat trip:

1 – Plan ahead

Plan ahead and listen out for local weather forecasts. Use a 3-5 day outlook to help determine the weather for the planned adventure. Use NOAA (The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) or a similar service to determine whether or not it is practical to venture out to sea.

Listen out for storm or gale warnings, small craft advisories, or small boat cautionary statements in the forecast. Most of these services can give a reliable indication on high waves or winds that might occur within the next 24 hour period.

2 – Radio Tips

Use a VHF transceiver that is built to accept the NOAA weather radio stations. This type of VHF radio is readily available and makes it easy to stay in touch with the constant changes in weather. But, the quality of reception will vary significantly with the transmitter and location. An average distance is in the region of 25-40 miles. If planning on cruising beyond that distance, a high-quality HF transceiver (single sideband) might be a practical addition to the boat. The price for an HF transceiver is a lot more, but this piece of equipment should give the desired piece of mind that the property and life are better protected

3 – Stay alert

Because the weather can change without a moments notice it benefits to stay tuned into a weather station like the NOAA for the duration of the trip. Early notification of changes heading in your direction makes it easy to take the required action to protect the passengers and property.

Signs of an approaching storm consist of:

  • Lightning flashes
  • Increase in sea or wind speed
  • Threatening, dark clouds that could indicate a thunderstorm or squall
  • An AM radio experiencing heavy static might indicate a local thunderstorm

Head to shore if a thunderstorm might be approaching and get on land and under shelter as soon as possible. If afloat throughout a thunderstorm the lightning and gusty winds have the potential to impact safety. Put on life jackets and get prepared for the difficult seas. Plus, wait out the storm below deck.

4 – Seamanship

Should a thunderstorm of similar hazard appear out of nowhere within a short time-frame, a captain with good seamanship is certain to be more effective at helming the boat in these conditions. A seasoned skipper will have a broad understanding and skills to helm the vessel in many difficult situations. Plus, an experienced skipper will have knowledge of geography, water, and wind speeds. This type of knowledge is gained from actual boating experience or to a lesser extent in a classroom environment. A boat should be well prepared to handle any sudden change in condition. Safety equipment (life jackets, ropes, anchors, etc.) can be kept ready and available for immediate deployment.

5 – Weather broadcasts

  • Coast Guard NAVTEX (518 kHz)
  • Coast Guard VHF(Channel 22A)(157.1 MHz)
  • Commercial AM and FM Radio Stations
  • NOAA Weather Radio (162.400 MHz)
  • National Institute (2.5 MHz)
  • Standards and Technology (5 MHz)
  • Stations WWV and WWVH (15 MHz)

Categories
Boat Maintenance & Organization

10 Routine Boat Maintenance Tips

A properly maintained boat and equipment is critical to continued safety on the water.

Seasonal Boat MaintenancePlus, a regular maintenance program will help to save money in the long-term as it avoids issues with major repairs and faults.

Below are ten things to include in a boat maintenance checklist to ensure the boat is kept in full working order at all times:

1 – Battery

The battery should be given proper care and attention to ensure it is kept well-maintained and fully charged, while also ensuring the right fluid levels are in place. Plus, a build up of dirt and dampness can result in the battery draining much quicker than usual, so be certain to maintain its condition.

2 – Bilge pump

Give the bilge pump a regular check-up. Plus, it can benefit to ensure the battery has the capacity to operate the pump for a sufficient amount of time if required.

3 – Carbon Monoxide Detector

Any enclosed cabin can benefit from a carbon monoxide (CO) detector. Give the exhaust system a regular check for signs of leaks. Carbon monoxide is a result of deficient fuel combustion, which can lead to a serious case of poisoning.

4 – Cleaning

Washing down the boat after use is a more practical job than giving a shine to the fiberglass structure. A regular clean of the hull, deck, and related equipment is critical to counteract the damage that is caused by sea water and environment impact. Plus, anti-fouling paint and waxing is a further step in the right direction to preserve the integrity of the boat structure.

5 – Cover

Use a purpose-made boat cover throughout the lay-up period to avoid issues with contaminants and ensure the hull is protected against exposure to UV rays.

6 – Electrical components

Electrical components must stay dry to operate in the correct fashion so give a regular inspection to identify issues with corrosion. An extra safety step includes applying a high-grade non-conductive and water-repellent corrosion inhibitor or grease.

7 – Fuel

Fuel must be kept water-free. A well-maintained fuel tank is certain to avoid issues with condensation. A fuel stabilizer is a reliable method to avoid issues with oxidation or fuel degradation. Plus, the addition of fuel filters can further help to avoid issues with water getting into the system.

8 – Mooring

Damage occurs to boats not only when in use, but also when laid-up or docked. Ensure the mooring lines are safe and secure and tied neatly. Give the mooring lines a regular inspection to detect early signs of wear and tear.

9 – Motor

Have the motor inspected at regular intervals to detect signs of corrosion, damage, or rust. Check on oil levels after each outing and ensure proper cleanliness and filtration. Also, monitor the efficiency of the cooling system to ensure it is functioning to the correct grade.

10 – Winterization

Before laying the boat up for the winter season, make sure to put the watercraft through an extensive winterization program to ensure it is more prepared for next season. Whether the motor-driven, sail, or PWC is kept in a lock-up garage, climate controlled storage unit, or in-water, follow the right steps to winterize the boat to protect the machinery and equipment.

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Boat & Yacht Market

Buying a New or Used Pontoon Boat Checklist

Choosing the right pontoon boat to invest in needs careful thought and consideration.

Pontoon Boat

A multi-purpose pontoon can be used for a variety of activities and varies significantly in relation to price.

Below are several tips to help decide on the right pontoon to match the intended use:

What is the intended use of the boat?

A versatile pontoon boat is functional in several different areas, including:

  • Skiing
  • Wakeboarding
  • Entertaining
  • Fishing

Whether it is fishing or parties, there are purpose built pontoons that can offer a practical solution to the boating requirements.

1 – Fishing

A pontoon boat modified for fishing activities comes equipped with live wells, fish finders, built-in tackle boxes, fishing chairs, etc. A purpose built model can vary in relation to the specific outfitting and range from the basic to luxury models.

2 – Party Boats

A spacious boat for parties is certain to include the pontoon boats with the wide open spaces, tables, seating, and perhaps even a bar. Most of the party boats come with a choice of floor plans and include the desired amenities and space to entertain 10-15 guests or more.

3 – Pleasure cruise

A more relaxing cruise is experienced in the pleasure cruising models which aren’t outfitted with the extras needed for fishing, water sport, etc. Pleasure models are designed with comfortable seating and great capacity. An 18-foot pontoon is perfect for 6-8 passengers; a 22-foot model can easily accept 10-12 passengers, while a 26-foot pontoon is more practical for 16+ passengers.

4 – Watersport

A watersport inspired pontoon boat is able to combine the performance of a speed boat with the comfort and luxury of a pontoon boat. A high-performance pontoon boat is built with enough drive and power to easily pull wakeboards, tubes, or skiers. A watersport package is a practical choice for those planning to engage in the various different sports on the lakes.

Calm or rough water

A standard pontoon boat is built to cruise on calm lakes and rivers. But, if planning to use a boat on rough or open waters, it might benefit to look at other options. Certain pontoon can be fitted with heavy-duty riser components and extra welding to provide more efficient stability and function.

Boat market for pontoons

Buying a new or a second-hand pontoon boat often relates to the finances. Carefully search the market to see which models are available. A new boat with warranty can be just as cost-effective to buy compared to a slightly used model. Take extra care when shopping for a used boat to avoid issues with minimal ongoing care and attention.

Shop for a pontoon boat at any time of the year as great deals are presented to the market year-round. Plus, look out for dealer specials or promotions which can take place at any moment. Since there is no best time to buy a boat you should just start the shopping process when you are ready to buy and go boating. Also, for the first time boater, it might be a practical decision to go on a boat safety course before taking charge of a boat for the first time.

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Boat & Yacht Market

Waterfowl Hunting: Tips for Buying a Duck Boat

A well-chosen duck boat has the ability to offer a wide range of opportunities for the water fowler.

Duck Boat

But, a fully outfitted hunting boat can be a large investment, so it is critical to carefully research the available options in the market.

Critical issues to evaluate include:

  • Where you hunt
  • Hunting style
  • Amount of gear carried
  • Passengers on board
  • Traveling distance
  • Other uses for the boat

What are the different hull configurations?

V-bottom

A V-bottom boat is the most practical choice for use on large bodies of water, such as major estuaries and the Great Lakes. The majority are manufactured in fiberglass or aluminum, which makes them reliable enough for the wide-ranging hunting activities. The V-hulled boats are stable and heavy with sharp enough keels to move through the water. Also high transoms and gunwales prevent water washing over the sides.

Semi-V

A versatile option comes with the modified-V or semi-V hulled boats which is a popular model with duck hunters. This type of boat is constructed with a mild keel and pointed bow to help part waves while also have a flat bottom for using on shallow bodies of water. They are often made with the sole intention of waterfowl hunting in mind and quickly fitted with a concealing blind.

Flat-bottom

A Jon boat with flat-bottom is perfect for shallow waters and even more efficient when combined with a mud motor. Most are built with a high degree of stability with a wide and open platform that is perfect for installing a boat blind. But, the square bow can give a quite rough ride in the more difficult waters.

Outboard motors

2-stroke

A duck boat is easily combined with a 2 or 4 stroke outboard motor. 2-stroke outboards are a versatile and reliable option. They are more cost-effective, portable, and lighter compared to the 4-stroke. Plus, the 2-stroke units usually give more responsiveness and acceleration compared to the 4-strokes. But, the 4 stroke outboard is more fuel efficient and quieter than the 2-stroke motors.

4-stroke

Modern duck boats are fitted with the 4-stroke motors for the fact it isn’t necessary to mix and measure oil and gas, quieter to operate, more fuel-efficient, and overall cleaner to use. Plus, the 4-stroke outboard is more efficient at providing a higher top-end speed compared to the 2-stroke units. The 4-stroke motors do present certain issues though, including being more expensive, larger, and heavier.

Mud Motors

Mud motors come with a choice of configurations: surface-drive and long-tail. They are highly effective at riding over obstructions and the preferred choice for passing over shallow waters compared to the more traditional motors in the market. Both configurations are practical for 2-3 inches of water, but the surface drive is the most desirable option to use for soft bottom and open areas. Use the long-tail motors when likely to experience issues with stumps or similar obstacles.

Outfit with accessories

Essential accessories for the duck hunter can vary and might consist of a bow-mounted floodlights, plug-in spotlight, trolling motor, depth finder, bilge pump, gas tank, anchor, fire extinguisher, life jackets, etc.

Categories
Safety at Sea

11 Safety Tips to Using Inflatable Rafts, Canoes & Kayaks

Inflatable boats such as white water rafts, canoes, kayaks, etc. are extensively available and made water sports a mainstream activity.

Inflatable Kayak for White Water RaftingWhile a reliable and high-quality boat can be helpful it is also critical to practice safety and take precautionary measures with an inflatable to avoid accidents. Mishaps at sea are easily caused by ill-preparedness, ignorance, and negligence.

Here are eleven tips for staying safe while in control of the inflatable boat:

1 – Alert skipper

Similar to road vehicles, avoid operating the inflatable when under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or at times of illness. Controlling the boat on rough waters can require an alert and quick mind so make sure the skipper is always in a position to instantly make the proper handling decision.

2 – Boat safety course

A practical method to enhance the boating knowledge and navigation skills is to complete a boat safety course. An in-class or online course can teach everything there is to know about the safety operation of the boat.

3 – Boat skills

Be familiar with the all-round handling skills of the inflatable before venturing out on the water. Get experienced before taking charge of the inflatable and rely on those with experience or use less challenging and shallow water to get a full appreciation of using the boat.

4 – Life jackets

To comply with local rules and regulations make sure a life jacket is made available for each person on board the inflatable. Plus, the life jackets should be at the correct size (adult or child) to match those on the boat.

5 – Outboard motor

Give the outboard motor a test and visual inspection before setting off to ensure it is fully operational. Also, ensure there is enough fuel (with some spare) to complete the intended trip.

6 – Safety equipment

Make sure the inflatable boat is outfitted with the essential safety equipment before leaving port. Compile a checklist of safety equipment that can be quickly checked before setting off. Essential safety equipment includes:

  • Emergency repair kit
  • First aid kit
  • Flares
  • Flashlight
  • Handheld radio
  • Life jackets
  • Maps
  • Mobile phone
  • Personal floatation device

7 – Seated position

Passengers should stay in a seated position while the inflatable is moving to increase safety and avoid falling overboard.

8 – Shore party

Let a nominated person know the intended itinerary, how long you expect to be out, and personal details of those on-board.

9 – Swimmers

Avoid unsafe areas such as those that attract swimmers or other water sport activities. If it is necessary to pass through an area with swimmers make sure to keep a watchful eye on the water to avoid any mishaps.

10 – Taking passengers

A backup skipper or at least someone with knowledge of operating an inflatable is certain to benefit when passengers are on board. A nominated person should be available to take control of the boat in the event something happens to the skipper.

11 – Water regulations

Make sure to have a practical understanding of the local water regulations for the body of water that you intend on using. Check with the local authorities if you aren’t entirely sure of what is involved.