As a new boater or someone who has never owned a boat, you are about to embark on an exciting new lifestyle. Congrats! You can be confident that you will have plenty of exciting adventures, whether you plan to use your boat for fishing or family fun. The following are some of the most important things new boat owners should do before setting sail on the open seas, once they have found the perfect vessel and proudly own it.
Register Your Boat
During the process of purchasing your boat, you should confirm with the relevant state and federal agencies what paperwork is required and ensure that you have the necessary certificates on board. For example, vessels documented by the United States Coast Guard must keep the original certificate of documentation on board at all times during vessel operation. This requirement specifically excludes photocopies. If vessels registered with the federal government remain in their waters for a set period, many states require them to also register with the state.
Insure Your Boat
Boat insurance, like auto insurance, can adequately cover damage and liability incurred while boating. Watercraft are the focus of certain policies, though. For instance, if your boat accidentally spills fuel or oil while docked, having a policy that covers fuel spill liability can shield you from claims for cleanup expenses or harm caused to third parties. Your boat insurance will cover the cost of fixing or replacing your caravan in the event of an accident. Get the coverage you need. Also, consider the special rules boats must follow when entering or leaving hurricane zones.
Start a Maintenance Log
Some people believe “You take care of the oil, and the gas will take care of itself.”
The boat will indicate when it needs fuel, but it is ultimately your responsibility to maintain your engine.
At the very least, every boat with an engine requires routine annual maintenance. This maintenance may include oil changes, fuel filter replacements, oil changes for the lower unit or gearcase, and even winterization.
An example of preventative maintenance is hiring one of the well-known bottom painting companies to paint the bottom of your boat. This will keep marine growth off the hull.
Learn How to Trailer Your Boat
Trailering your boat will present many challenges and difficulties. However, in no time, you will be an expert in this field.
Verify the towing capacity of your vehicle and familiarize yourself with the Gross Combined Vehicle Rating. After purchasing a boat, the last thing you want to discover is that your vehicle is incapable of towing the boat behind it.
Decide on Your Storage Options
If you want to keep a boat on your property, ask your community. You’ll need creativity to fit it in your garage.
Other possibilities include using a dry stack valet service or marina placement. Any choice you make will increase your ongoing expenses, so keep that in mind.
If you happen to live there, keep in mind the cold weather months as well if you happen to live there. Permanent storage costs more. Your engine won’t survive winter without special care.
Be Familiar with Boat Fuelling
When you use the right marine fuel and oil, your boat’s engine will last longer and run more reliably. Presently in use, petrol engines must not contain more than 10% ethanol. The engine’s warranty will be voided if you use fuel that contains more than 10% ethanol.
Develop a Checklist Before You Depart
Making a float plan is the final item on our list of things to do for new boat owners. A float plan, similar to a flight plan, details every aspect of your boat trip. If you don’t make it to your destination, emergency personnel can use this. A basic float plan should include your boat, the number of people on board, the route you intend to take, who you will contact, and the time you expect to arrive at your destination.
Key Notes
Investment in a boat encompasses a wide range of costs, such as principal, interest, insurance, dock slip rental, repairs in the event of an accident, fuel, storage, trailer, life jackets, water sports equipment, and more.
Think about the amount of time you’ll need to devote to boat ownership tasks like cleaning, fueling, unpacking, getting the boat ready for a trip, and covering it up after each use. Both the internet and boating magazines have a plethora of information. Please familiarize yourself with the water regulations.
