What should you do before launching from a dock? Our new boater checklist can help new and seasoned experts answer this question. Plus, you can ensure a safer ride for everyone by following one of these boat launch checklists before leaving the port. This yacht pre-launch checklist includes a yacht safety equipment checklist and precautions to take before departure.

 

Prepare Your Safety Gear

Take an inventory of your safety gear and ensure it all works properly. The Coast Guard inspection checklists mandate your yacht to carry safety devices such as:

– Personal flotation devices

– Fire extinguishers

– One bell, plus one whistle or horn

– Flares, orange distress flag or SOS light

– Marine sanitation devices (toilet and equipment)

– Pollution regulation signs

You may also have safety equipment, such as:

– Liferafts

– MOB kit and lights

– Nylon towline

– Emergency beacon

– Toolbox and spare parts

Remember also to take copies of the documentation you need before leaving the dock, including your boat registration, boater’s license and fishing permits.

 

Establish a Float Plan

Before every yacht trip, complete a United States Coast Guard float plan. This form gives you space to provide important safety information about your:

– Boat

– Passengers

– Safety conditions

– Emergency contacts

– Itinerary

Once you fill out the float plan, give it to someone you trust and tell them where you plan to go and when you want to come back. The end of the plan has directions that tell your contact how to get help if necessary.

 

Check Conditions

Look at the weather forecast and water conditions before you launch your yacht. Even if you check the night before, remember to read them again right before you leave. Weather, tide and current reports can change over time.

 

Walk Around and in Your Boat

A visual inspection of your boat can help you find any major changes that happened since you last used it. Inspect as much of the outside as possible for anything unusual such as damage. Enter the cabin to unlock all doors, open the hatches and check the compartments.

 

Prepare Your Passengers

Get everyone who will ride the boat familiar with the yacht’s layout and safety equipment. Ask them if they can swim and provide a life jacket to anyone who can’t. Assign someone as your second-in-command in case of an emergency. In addition to your Coast Guard required safety items, tell them where to find your:

– VHF radio

– GPS

– First aid kit

– Anchors

– Sunscreen and seasickness medication

Most importantly, establish an emergency plan, so everyone knows what to do if an accident happens.

 

Inspect Your Equipment

Check these systems and equipment devices for obstructions or damage:

– Engine and drive unit

– Cutless bearing

– Bilge pump and switch

– Electrical connections and devices

– Control cables

– Cockpit drains

– Spars and rigging

Make sure the boat also has enough gas and oil to last for your entire trip.

 

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