Boating is one of the most thrilling ways to explore nature, relax, and enjoy quality time with friends and family. Whether you’re ready to reel in the perfect catch or just enjoy the open waters, what could be better than a day spent on the sea?
However, as a beginner, the open waters can be unpredictable, and without the right precautions, your dream outing can quickly turn into a nightmare. Safety should always come first.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top 10 boating safety tips to ensure your first adventures on the water are smooth, enjoyable, and free of unnecessary risks.
Wear a Life Jacket
According to a survey done by the U.S. Coast Guard in 2023, the most frequent fatal boating incidents involved situations where people unexpectedly ended up in the water. Of those people, 87% were found without their life jackets.
Life jackets are called what they are for a reason – they can save your life! In the state of Texas, all boaters are required to have one correctly-sized life jacket on board per person on board their boat. While state law only requires persons 13 years of age and younger to wear a life jacket at all times, it is best practice to wear one at all times. Unexpected events like sudden weather changes or capsizing can leave even skilled swimmers vulnerable.
Choosing the Right Life Jacket
In order for your life jacket to do its job correctly, make sure it fits within these parameters:
- Fit: The life jacket should fit snugly without restricting your movement. If you raise your arms up and the life jacket rides up to your ears, it is too big. If you have trouble zipping or buckling your life jacket, it is too small.
- Certification: Ensure it is U.S. Coast Guard-approved for maximum safety assurance and to comply with Texas state law.
Take a Boating Safety Course
In the state of Texas, passing a boater’s safety course is required for you to obtain a boating license, so you’ll have to take a boating safety course if you want to make waves at Galveston Yacht Marina. We want you to think of this course as more than a have-to, though.
For new boaters, a boating safety course helps familiarize you with the rules of the water before you head out. Even if you would consider yourself an “expert” boater, you may not be aware of all of the various rules and regulations that govern waterways. A boating safety course provides all of the knowledge about boat operation, navigation, and emergency responses that a person could need.
When you take a boating safety course, you’ll learn:
- Basic boating terminologies
- Navigation rules (often referred to as “Rules of the Road”)
- Emergency procedures and communication
You can find in-person or online courses through organizations like the U.S. Coast Guard or local boating organizations.
Check the Weather Before Heading Out
Sudden storms or high winds can make boating dangerous. Before you leave, check a reliable weather forecast for the area where you plan to boat. Pay attention to wind speed, storm warnings, currents, and tidal cycles. All of these things can create rough waves, impair your line of sight, and put your party at risk for electrocution.
Even if the weather seems clear, carry rain gear and ensure your boat is equipped with a functioning bilge pump to remove excess water. Texas is known for it’s unpredictable weather, so be prepared in the case of sudden, drastic changes to the forecast.
Perform a Pre-Departure Checklist
A pre-departure checklist ensures that your boat is in good working order and stocked with essentials for safety and comfort.
Items to Check
These are some of the things you should check for before heading out on the water:
- Fuel: Ensure you have enough fuel for the trip, plus extra. A full tank of fuel is the smartest way to start your trip.
- Engine: Inspect for leaks, wear, or any irregular sounds. If you suspect anything might be wrong with your engine, don’t ignore it!
- Hull: Check the hull for any sort of damage that might inhibit your boat from functioning correctly.
- Steering: Test all steering mechanisms to make sure they are in good condition
- Safety gear: Verify the presence of fire extinguishers, flares, first-aid kits, and a throwable floatation device. This is also a great time to ensure that everyone on board has a U.S. Coast Guard approved lifejacket or PFD.
- Communication devices: Make sure one or more people on your boat have a charged cellphone, and store phones in a dry, safe location.
- Passengers: For any passengers with medical conditions, check to make sure they have any medication or necessary equipment on board, and make sure your boat has a place to keep those things safe and dry.
You can print out this pre-departure checklist and laminate it for future trips.
Know the Navigation Rules
Similar to the roads, there are rules to boating that allow for safe navigation and minimize the risk of crashes and collisions. Understanding these rules is crucial to keeping not only you and your passengers safe, but other boaters as well.
Key Rules for Beginners
- Right of Way: Powerboats must give way to sailboats in most situations.
- Overtaking: Always pass other vessels on their port (left) side unless indicated otherwise.
- Anchoring: Avoid anchoring in channels or near navigational markers.
- Speed: Some waterways will have speed limits, but sometimes it is up to you to maintain a reasonable, safe speed. This will depend on the proximity of other boaters,
Just as interstates differ from dirt country roads, each waterway will require different strategies of navigation. Invest in nautical charts of the area and familiarize yourself with buoy systems, water depths, and restricted zones.
Avoid Alcohol While Boating
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, alcohol use is a leading factor in fatal boating accidents. Operating a boat under the influence is not only illegal but also extremely dangerous. Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and increases the likelihood of accidents.
While passengers in a boat are allowed to drink alcohol, there should be a designated sober driver who is in charge of operating the boat. Even a small amount of alcohol can affect your ability to steer and navigate safely. If you are driving a boat, it is best to not drink any alcohol before or during boat operation.
Practice Proper Anchoring Techniques
Improper anchoring can cause your boat to drift into dangerous areas, damage the seabed, or make retrieval difficult.
Steps to Anchor Safely
- Choose a Safe Spot: Look for a location sheltered from strong currents and winds.
- Let Out the Anchor Line: For every foot of water depth, let out at least 7 feet of anchor line.
- Secure the Line: Once the anchor has gripped, secure the line to a cleat.
Monitor your position periodically to ensure your anchor is holding steady.
Create and Communicate Your Float Plan
Before you head out on the water, you should let somebody know what your plan for the day is in as much detail as you can. Doing so means that, if you get in an accident or get lost, someone knows to alert local authorities or rescue teams sooner rather than later. Not only could this save you hours of being stranded out on the water… it could save your life.
This plan is often called a float plan, and it should include key details about your trip:
- Your estimated departure and return times
- The route you plan to take/where you plan to be
- Contact information for all passengers
You can leave this float plan with a trusted friend or family member, or you can leave it with marina staff. Here at Galveston Yacht Marina, the safety of our guests is our top priority, so feel free to talk to one of our staff members about your float plan.
Learn Basic First Aid
Accidents can happen anywhere, especially on the water. However, on the water, there’s a possibility you could be miles from land, meaning that care and treatment for accidents will take longer to get. Knowing how to respond quickly can save lives and prevent minor injuries from escalating.
Key Skills to Master
- CPR for adults and children
- Treating minor burns, cuts, and hypothermia
- How to use a first-aid kit effectively
Ensure your boat is equipped with a comprehensive first-aid kit and keep it easily accessible. Additionally, inform all passengers of the location of your first-aid kit in the case of an accident occurring to you.
Respect Wildlife and the Environment
Boating allows you to connect with nature, but it’s vital to do so responsibly. Careless behavior can harm wildlife, damage ecosystems, and even lead to fines.
Help preserve your marina’s natural wildlife and ecosystem by following these tips:
- Slow down in wildlife zones: Avoid startling marine animals.
- Avoid littering: Always bring trash back to shore.
- Minimize wake: Reduce your wake in sensitive areas to prevent shoreline erosion.
- Keep your boat clean: Pay attention to how clean your boat is to prevent oil, fuel, or other substances from contaminating local waters. Additionally, unclean boats can serve as a breeding ground for invasive species, such as the zebra mussel in Texas lakes.
Additional Tips for Beginners
For beginners, boating can feel like a daunting experience. Here are some additional things to keep in mind to help you protect the health and safety of yourself and your passengers:
- Understand your boat: Take time to familiarize yourself with your boat’s controls, capacity, and capabilities. Read the owner’s manual thoroughly.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen: Pack plenty of water and apply sunscreen. Prolonged sun exposure and dehydration can lead to fatigue and poor decision-making.
- When in doubt, choose caution: Before venturing far, practice in calm, familiar waters. This helps you build confidence in handling the boat.
Safety First!
Boating can be a fun experience and a great way to spend time with friends and family. However, safety should always be your top priority. By following these tips, you can minimize risks and ensure a smooth, enjoyable outing every time you hit the water.
Whether you’re preparing for your first trip or looking to brush up on safety skills, these guidelines will set you on the path to becoming a confident and responsible boater.
Ready to set sail? Keep these tips in mind, and enjoy the adventure responsibly!