Summer is meant to be spent being showered with sea foam and watching the sun play its daily dance across the horizon! Lounging, swimming, chatting, eating, sunbathing… they all feel much better done onboard a boat. If you’re one of the lucky ones who this year have managed to acquire a fabulous sailboat, then congrats is coming your way for becoming a new boat owner!
The excitement will start building up when a day by the sea is coming up, but don’t let your jitters get you in unnecessary trouble. We’ve got loads of boat veterans who were too happy to share their tips to making those sunny wave hopping trips a big success.
DON’T JUMP RIGHT IN – LEARN FROM THE VETERANS
Your excitement might want you to take completely over, and we don’t blame you! However, it is advised to ask experienced boat owners to join you in a couple of rounds to allow you to learn the tricks that come with your new ride and equip yourself with the knowledge only they can share (many times, from their own trial and errors).
It might also be ideal to limit your speed and distance during your first few rides onboard, so if anything happens, you’re within easy reach of the shore.
PRACTICE PARKING YOUR BOAT ON A TRAILER TAKES TIME
You might be too enthused thinking about your adventures at sea, but working your way around taking the boat out of the water on a trailer on land has its own tricks. You’ll thank yourself for the practice if weather conditions turn unexpectedly and your boat needs to head to land safely for some time.
Start off by picking a day where beach goers are few and oncoming traffic is limited so you may take as long as you need to get it just right without any added pressure.
INVOLVE YOUR FAMILY OR FRIENDS
Whilst it is advised to keep the amount of company onboard for the first few times to a minimum, your boat companions aren’t just there to enjoy the ride and jump off for a swim. Get your partner, children, parents and friends involved into prepping the vessel as well as working to get it safely anchored when the day is over.
Should you require assistance, they will be well equipped with knowledge to know what’s required without any detailed explanation – especially if you are not in a position to teach at that particular moment.
EQUIP YOURSELF WITH BOAT INSURANCE
After all, we practice what we preach! No one worries tirelessly about the damages or accidents that can happen at sea – everyone’s super excited to take off. However, you should always be prepared for the worst, even if it doesn’t happen.
A boat insurance will protect you from extensive financial repercussions should you have an accident. Speak to our representatives to learn more what peace of mind such a policy provides and set one that’s tailored-made for you.
GET YOURSELF ALL THE NECESSARY EQUIPMENT
It’s imperative you purchase all the necessities you might need onboard, whether these are flotation devices, life jackets, torches, waterproof backpacks, or marine charts (especially if you’re travelling greater distances).
Delve into a more extensive list slowly, so your next trip will be a success and you’ll be avoiding any problems onboard.
TAKE EXTRA CAUTION IF YOU’RE SPENDING THE NIGHT ABOARD
Being tucked safely in bed is one thing, but having a midnight nap onboard is a whole different scenario. Watch out where you can anchor your boat safely without being in the way of sea currents or ones generated by passing vessels.
Precautions can always prepare you in the best way possible, so take a look at the tip list we created to ensure you can stargaze onboard without extra worries.