Boating can be one of the most fun and peaceful experiences you have. Whether it be sailing or power boating, being prepared on the water is crucially important. With over 20 years of competitive racing and boating experience, I have found these six items to be of the utmost importance whenever you leave shore.
1. Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
Every boat should have enough life jackets on board for the number of people going out. Life jackets are essential to survival in the water and can make the difference between life and death. Having a life jacket already on is the best way to reduce your risk of water-related accidents. The next best thing is to have them located in an easily accessible place. Don’t pile your cooler, towels, anchor, lines, and other things on them, as it will dramatically affect the amount of time it takes you to get them out and put them on.
Some of our favorite life jacket companies are Extrasport and Astral Designs.
2. Anchor
Having an anchor on board with you is one of the most important pieces of equipment you can have. An anchor allows you to keep your boat in one place should anything go wrong. It also allows you to stop your boat and swim or relax if no beach or dock space is available. Review this guide to learn about different types of anchors that might be right for you.
3. VHF Radio
VHF radios are something every boater should invest in. They allow you to communicate with other boats, commercial vessels, the U.S. Coast Guard, marine patrol, marinas, and yacht clubs. You can also get weather forecasts as well as tide and current information on various waterways. A decent handheld VHF radio will run anywhere between $100 and $200 and come with many different features. You never know when one will come in handy, and it’s nice to know you have one waiting.
4. Multi-tool
You never know when you are going to need to tighten a bolt or cut a wire, so a multi-tool can come in very handy. Instead of carrying a full set of tools on your boat, carry a multi-tool that can handle many jobs. Many multi-tools have a screwdriver, knife, scissors, pliers, wire cutter, wire stripper, can opener, bottle opener, file, and more.
Our favorite multi-tools come from Leatherman and Gerber Gear.
5. Extra Line
We recommend having additional line on your boat in case of an emergency. With extra line, you can tow disabled boats, tie yourself to something if in distress, attach spring lines when docked to reduce forward and aft motion, or replace a line if it finally gives out while underway. It’s also great for keeping kids occupied. Teach them new knots and let them practice.
6. Appropriate Apparel
When out on the water, it is important to be prepared for the different weather conditions that could arise. From hot and humid to cool and rainy, you don’t want to be stranded miles offshore with nothing to protect you. I always like to wear a wicking layer against my skin to remove moisture from the surface of the body. Merino Wool works well to wick moisture, especially in the summer with the lightweight options available.
Waterproof shell jackets are also essential, as they will protect you from wind, rain, and the elements. For colder trips, I typically layer lightweight and midweight Merino Wool. For wool clothing, I use Minus33, and for shell jackets I use Helly Hansen.
Although basic, these boater safety tips can come in handy in an emergency. Be safe and have fun on the water!
