Tips for Boating During Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend is right around the corner, and this unofficial kickoff to summer deserves some preparation--especially if you're planning on boating over the weekend. Discover Boating has compiled some basic Memorial Day boating tips to help you and your crew have safe and enjoyable days on the water this busy holiday weekend.

These pro tips will help you plan more effectively. Also, take note of basic boating etiquette and common sense to increase your awareness of your surroundings during outings.

1. Make a Plan for the Holiday Weekend

You're probably excited to enjoy a three-day weekend on the water. But before you jump onboard and get off the dock, take some time to visualize and map out the days ahead.

Only invite those people who can safely fit onboard. It is illegal to boat with more than the vessel's maximum capacity.
Get the weather forecast for the day. You should be alert for changes or deterioration and prepare an exit strategy in case of such.
A float plan can be filed with an organization such as a marina or towing company. Or it can contain just a brief description of where you will be and when you will return. If you arrive late, someone will need to notify authorities.
Designate a Sober Skipper and establish clear guidelines regarding alcohol consumption aboard (if applicable) Before your passengers step aboard, make sure they understand and agree to the rules.

2. Get your boat (and trailer) ready in advance

Inspect your boat, whether it's a center console, bowrider, fishing boat, PWC or sailboat, and make sure it's ready for the outing.

All critical onboard systems, including bilge pumps, running lights and engines, must be in good working order.
You should use a Pre Trip Trailering Checklist to ensure that your trailer is properly inspected.
Current registration decals for your boat and trailer must be displayed.
If you plan on traveling long distances, you should bring extra fuel.
Don't forget to attach the drain plug before you launch!

3. Make sure to use a pre-departure checklist and check your onboard gear

The required boating safety equipment depends on the size of your vessel. These "must-haves" are a good starting point:

All aboard must have appropriate-sized, approved by the U.S. Coast Guard life jackets. Children under 12 years old must always wear a lifejacket when onboard a moving vessel.
Fire extinguisher(s). The type of vessel determines the type and number.
Have a fresh supply of medical supplies and an emergency kit. If you are going to be boating at night, make sure you have a flashlight, warm clothes, extra water, and food.
To get help in an emergency, use visual and sound signaling devices
To communicate with others and get help, use a cell phone or VHF Radio.
If your boat has an engine cutoff switch (ECOS), make sure you have it onboard . This prevents the engine from running if the driver is thrown overboard. The Coast Guard has established new rules that require the use of an ECOS Link as of April 2021.

4. Get your crew involved

Inform your family and friends about the basics of what to expect from a day of boating. You'll help them to improve their boating skills for any future adventures.

Show guests how to put on life jackets and where they are stored. Show them where fire extinguishers are stored and how to use them. Pull the pin and aim at base of flames.
Demonstrate proper use of a VHF Radio when calling for assistance.
For a brief safety overview, including how you manage docking lines .
States have different minimum ages for operating motorized vessels. It's a good idea learn the rules of your state and share it with your guests to ensure there aren't unreasonable expectations.
Discuss the possibility that you might feel seasick and what you should do if this happens.

5. Get ready for crowds and familiarize yourself with the "Rules of a Road" in boating.

You certainly won’t be the only one going boating this Memorial Day weekend. You should have realistic expectations for the weekend. There will be lines at the boat ramps, and people navigating the waterways to and from marinas and inlets.

Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day are three of the busiest weekends for boating. These are some other things you should remember before you head out on the water.

Read the rules for boating before you push off the dock. Get back to basics about what constitutes a giveway and get on your vessel. A boat that is not in control of another boat does not have the right to pass it. If there are two boats in a collision, the right boat has the right of way. If there is a head-on collision, you should try to turn to starboard (right), and pass port to port or left to right.
Be prepared for crowds at the launch pad, where there can be chaos with trailers, boats and people in the water. Get a refresher course in Boat Ramp Etiquette101. Try to book a launch time if possible. To give boaters time, launch and clear the ramp quickly. Do not stay on a launch dock longer than is allowed.
Keep your speed safe and be familiar with the local boating speed zones. See Boat Regulatory Zones: What's a "No Wake" Zone? Avoid speeding around docks, beaches and ramps. Boats can't stop like cars. Use markers to navigate on the right side of a channel/waterway. Slow down in narrow channels or blind turns.
Always keep an eye out for other boats, swimmers, divers, or hazards. Situational awareness is crucial when you are towing a water skier, kayaking, or entering an anchorage. You should be aware of other boats, swimmers, divers, and hazards, as well as the tides and currents.
Be courteous and responsible when creating. Refusing to give way to other boaters will cause a collision. Be aware of swimmers and those using small, human-powered craft such as canoes and standup paddleboards.

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