With Memorial Day weekend likely comes your first big day on the water of the season. Between the high-volume traffic that comes with a holiday weekend and the fact that it’s one of the first times taking your boat out for the season, it’s important to put some time into planning your trip. Preparing well for your weekend can be the difference between a trip to remember and one you wish you could forget. Our latest blog will help you cover your bases to make sure that you have an unforgettable weekend!
Trip Planning and Logistics
Planning your trip is important for any day on the water, but it’s especially important when you’re going out on a holiday weekend. So now is the time to start planning if you haven’t already!
Strategic Timing: Plan for the land and water traffic during a holiday weekend. If you’re looking to beat traffic on the water when you’re launching your boat, you’ll want to get an early start. Or, consider a later launch time after the mid-morning/early afternoon rush if getting an early start doesn’t align with your plans.
Create a “Float Plan”: Creating a float plan is an important step when it comes to boat safety, especially during a busy holiday weekend. Inform someone on land about your plans for the day, including where you plan to launch, who will be with you, and what time you plan to return. With the chaos of a holiday weekend, having someone who can advise emergency services to your approximate location is important.
Check Local Conditions: In the days leading up to Memorial Day weekend, start checking what the conditions are looking like. Depending on where you’re planning to go, the tides and water conditions may have a big impact on your plans. Don’t wait until you’re preparing to launch to realize you’ll have to cut your day short. Check conditions early and have a backup plan in place!
Pick a Sober Skipper: Holiday weekends are notorious for partying. If you plan on bringing alcohol on the water, it’s important that you pick your designated skipper before you launch. A Boating Under the Influence charge is just as serious as a DUI, and drinking while operating a boat is a leading cause of fatal accidents.
Boat Maintenance and Gear
For many, Memorial Day is the first outing of the season. This is why it’s important to ensure you’ve gotten your boat ready to get back on the water. Doing a thorough mechanical and safety gear check is critical.
Mechanical Inspection: If this is your first time back on the water this season, make sure you check propulsion systems, electronics, bilge pumps, fuel levels, and the drain plug. Give your battery a test to ensure that it’s functioning and fully charged.
Safety Equipment: Check that you have all of your necessary safety equipment on board, including U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for every passenger, a working fire extinguisher, visual distress signals, and a first aid kit.
Legal Documents: Nothing will ruin a holiday on the water faster than realizing you are missing necessary documents. Confirm your boat registration, insurance, and operator’s licenses are current and stored in a waterproof dry bag.
Food and Onboard Comfort
Being prepared for fun on the water is an important step in the planning process. As you’re preparing for fun, don’t forget to pack things that will keep you comfortable and safe during the day. For a long day on the water, you’ll want to bring sun protection, as well as food and drinks that will keep you hydrated and nourished.
Drinks and Food: Even if you plan to grill or stop somewhere to eat, make sure that you bring some quick and easy snacks. Snacks and water or other hydrating drinks like Gatorade will help combat the heat and reduce the risk of heatstroke or fatigue. For your food and drinks, try to avoid glass bottles and containers.
Sun and Weather Protection: Sun protection is critical for a day on the water! Even if it’s overcast, being in a shadeless area will lead you to get burned if you don’t take precautions. Bring broad-spectrum sunscreen, hats, and polarized sunglasses. You should also bring extra light layers in case the weather takes a turn or if you plan to be on the water at night when temperatures start to drop.
Entertainment: Don’t forget to pack everything you need for a day on the water! Grab your waterproof speakers, games, toys if you’ll have small children aboard, and water accessories like floats, tubes, and snorkeling gear.
Need A Ride This Summer?
If you want to spend a summer on the water but aren’t ready to commit to buying a boat, then the Carefree Boat Club is the perfect choice for you! If you are looking to become a member in the Tuckerton area, look no further than Sheltered Cove Marina! A Carefree Boat Club membership gets you access to a fleet of boats across the country. Ready to learn more about what your membership offers? Check out our website to learn more and get in touch!
