A holiday boat parade is a popular seasonal event that draws boaters and spectators out to enjoy the lights and festivities. Whether you are on a participating watercraft or watching from the shore, the lights and creative holiday displays on boats and yachts make for a memorable tradition.
Things You Need for a Holiday Boat Parade
Viewing the parade is the easy part. Participating requires some preparation, including boat or yacht insurance, safety precautions, and decorations.
Power Up
The music and lights of a holiday boat parade can quickly drain your watercraft’s batteries. Ensure you have fully charged your batteries and they are ready for the additional power demands. Consider using LED lights and a separate lithium battery for less power output and longer-lasting energy.
Chart the Course
You should secure a map of the parade route in advance from the event organizers. Be sure you are familiar with the dock area and route. If you can, run through the course during the day to identify challenges or obstacles that may be difficult to spot at night. As holiday boat parade prep, you will also want to ensure you have enough fuel before the parade.
Choose a Designated Driver
The same drinking and driving dangers that apply to the road also apply to the water. Boaters must be aware of the watercraft’s liability, hazards, and consequences of boating under the influence, especially with the additional challenges of nighttime navigation. If passengers are permitted to drink during this event, each boat should appoint a sober skipper who agrees to refrain from drinking to operate the craft. Check your yacht insurance for applicable guidelines on passengers drinking on your vessel.
Dress Appropriately
The essential attire you need is a life jacket, given that 86% of drowning victims did not wear a life jacket. The weather could also be a bit cold, depending on where your holiday parade is. Choose the proper attire for your local conditions. High-tech fabrics will keep you dry, and hats will help to lock in warmth. Consider packing additional clothing layers in a waterproof bag to keep them dry. Bring plenty of towels and blankets and store them in a dry spot when not in use.
Check Safety Gear and Yacht Insurance
Ensure you have all the necessary safety gear on board, and check it ahead of time to ensure it is functional and easy to access. A signaling device is essential. Consider a waterproof mini strobe light to clip on your life jacket for additional visibility in an emergency. You will also want to carry a VHF radio on board and be familiar with its use.
Holiday boat parades are a fun tradition for the whole family. If you are planning to participate from out on the water, ensure you check your yacht insurance and take the time to prepare correctly to get the most out of the experience.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
