10 Things to Check Before Cruising
Cruising on your boat is a lot of fun, but it also requires a good amount of planning. You don’t want to realize your forgot something important once you’re underway. Make sure you have what you need by going over this pre-cruise checklist.
- The most important equipment you bring onboard are lifejackets. Make sure you have enough for all onboard. Also, throwable devices are required on any vessel over 16 feet.
- Check that your boat’s navigational and instrument lights are working properly.
- You should have flashlights and/or headlamps along with spare batteries onboard.
- You need a sound-producing device onboard. You should have a horn that can produce a four-second blast that can be heard a half-mile away.
- Make sure you have distress signals such as flares and day signals onboard and that they are easily accessible.
- Have basic tools onboard, plus equipment spares such as light bulbs, a fuel filter and more.
- Have a well-stocked first-aid kit.
- You should have at least one fire extinguisher and make sure it is easily accessible.
- Weather conditions can change rapidly, so even if you’ve been checking the weather forecast, make sure to check again before departing.
- Always leave a float plan with someone onshore in case you run into problems.
