When you get out on the water in the summer, you will want to safely manage your boat across the coast to prevent any issues from happening. Getting out on the water is an exciting way to spend a few hours or the weekend. However, it is only enjoyable when partaken safely and legally. Law enforcement vessels patrol coastal waters to encourage boater safety and compliance with state laws, but these vessels can also come to your aid in an emergency.
Safely Manage Your Boat Across the Coast
Whether you are a new boat owner or a veteran, here’s a refresher on how to stay safe when traveling along the coast.
Staying Safe in Your Boat on the Coast
Safe boating starts before you get on the water. It’s best to follow the specific regulations outlined by your state’s code, but some basics are always applicable.
- Check all the components of the boat for wear and tear
- Carry all documentation, including applicable licensing, boater registration card, boat builder insurance information
- File a float plan
- Check the weather and any advisories
- Ensure emergency kits components are on board and secure life vests
- Obey boat capacity restrictions
Understanding Waterway Markings
Driving a boat isn’t like driving a car. There are many things to learn about water depth, docking, passing, proceeding, and right-of-ways through crowded waterways. Safe navigation relies on the lateral system of buoyage. Numbers, shapes, colors, and light characteristics indicate which side of the buoy must be maintained. “Red right returning” is a phrase commonly used by seafarers to remember that red buoys are to be kept on the right or starboard side of the boat when entering into port from the open sea. Green buoys are to remain on the left or port side.
When leaving port to head out to the open sea, you will see buoys. The green buoys are on the starboard side, and the red buoys remain on the port side. Use the red and white vertically striped buoys to find the center of the channel. Buoys with shapes mark speed zones, danger areas, or restricted areas. Colors and markings are often standard and usually paired with red and green buoys.
Knowing a Little Boat Maintenance
You don’t have to know the ins and outs of boat engines to go sailing, but knowing a few things about how the engine works can help when traveling along the coast. If the engine stalls or there is a malfunction that limits mobility, it’s possible to drift too far toward the shore, shallow waters, or swimmers in the water. Keep the operator’s manual on board when boating and have a small tool chest and replacement parts for common pieces that fail. You should also consider carrying extra fuel.
Proper coastal boat management means preparing for any event, including emergencies. Though boat builder insurance can address the financial risks you face as a boater, it’s best to know how to operate along the coast to prevent incidents safely.
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.
