Tips for Creating a Float Plan for Your Boat

Whether you prefer solo cruises or marine adventures with family and friends, you must prioritize safety on the water. One of the crucial steps you can take to ensure safe boating is to create a comprehensive float plan for your vessel. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the essential details to include in your float plan document so you can facilitate possible search operations if they are needed. Read on to learn more, and for more information, contact Chatlee Boat Marine!

The Basics

A boat float plan is a must-have document to help rescue personnel reach you in an emergency. That’s why you should create a float plan before each trip outlining details of your boating trip, including your starting point, intended route, passenger information, and emergency contact numbers. More importantly, it should have a detailed description of your boat, such as the dimensions, brand, model name, and any specific markings like patterns or designs that can help authorities identify it quickly.

Making a Comprehensive Boat Float Plan

When creating a float plan for your boat, provide accurate and detailed information about your outing. You’ll want to include your vessel’s make and model, the number of passengers accompanying you, their contact information, and the phone numbers of your local Coast Guard unit. Give this document to a reliable friend or family member who won’t join you on your trip.

You’ll also want to mention your expected date and time of arrival at your destination and when you plan to check in with your contact person each day. If you miss any timelines, your contact person can reach you or alert the authorities.

If you change your plans, update your float plan and share it with your contact person before leaving home.

Finally, close your float plan after reaching your starting point by letting your contact person know you have returned safely.

We hope you find this guide handy when creating your boat float plan. If you need more tips or are still searching for a reliable boat, contact Chatlee Boat Marine. We have a fine selection of premium Avid boats and can help you select a model that fits your needs. We proudly serve Sanford, Raleigh, and Greensboro, NC, so swing by today!