How to Plan a Weekend Trip on a Boat

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Choose a destination which is realistically within your cruising range.

   For example, the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale is loaded with no-wake zones and drawbridges.
   
   That means slower traveling. , In many areas transient slips are limited and reservations are a must.
   
   Cruisers also have the option (if the weather/wind forecast is favourable) of spending nights at anchor.
   
   In this case you stock your vessel before leaving your home port.
   
   There is nothing more peaceful than having an anchorage all to yourself (or a few friends)! ,,,,,,, Similar to a pilot’s flight plan, a float plan is a simple form that lists all the information about you and your vessel.
   
   The U.S.
   
   Coast Guard Auxiliary offers a click-and-print plan at www.floatplancentral.org/supplimentals.htm. ,,, Any local hazards or boating restrictions? Do you have maps and charts? Is all safety equipment aboard and in good order? Ample reserves of fuel for the trip or will you need to refuel? A good rule of thumb is one-third of your fuel for the trip out, one-third for the trip home and one-third as reserve.
   
   Is your VHF radio working properly? First aid kit, basic tools and spare parts?
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   Step 2: Purchase a cruising guide for your area and reference it with your fuel usage and the average estimated travel speeds for the waterways in your area.

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   Step 3: Confirm that food

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   Step 4: fuel and dockage are available.

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   Step 5: Brush up on your navigation by taking a refresher class.

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   Step 6: Inspect your vessel’s mechanical and electronic system to guarantee that your boat will make the trip.

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   Step 7: Inspect your first-aid kit

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   Step 8: PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) ropes

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   Step 9: ground tackle

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    Step 10: waste holding tank (if so equipped)

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    Step 11: and fresh water supply.

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    Step 12: Run through all you backup provisions (emergency food and water) and spare mechanical parts and fluids (engine oil

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    Step 13: coolant).

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    Step 14: Have an extra ignition key made if you haven’t done so already.

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    Step 15: Make sure that you have appropriate navigational charts.

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    Step 16: Work on your float plan.

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    Step 17: Send the completed plan to anyone who is expecting your vessel at any stop on the itinerary

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    Step 18: as well as any responsible family member not traveling with you.

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    Step 19: Start checking the marine forecast a few days in advance and be willing to delay or cancel if inclement weather is forecast.

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    Step 20: Run through your checklist: What is the weather forecast?

Detailed Guide

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