Planning your first voyage as captain of a ship can be daunting; you are responsible for getting your ship safely from point A to point B. Pack the right tools, perform the proper safety checks and plan out every step for a safe trip.
Make sure to check that all equipment is in good working order before filing your float plan. On the day of your trip, be sure to bring:
While preference will play a role in what you choose for your first aid kit, there are some items that should always make the list.
When out to sea, an equipment failure can be very problematic. You will only have the tools and parts available that you bring with you. Make sure you have what you need to fix the most critical systems so that you can get safely to shore.
Another major category is food and water. You need to make sure you have enough food and water to last for several days longer than your planned journey. If something happens and you are left on the open sea, it might take some time for rescue to reach your ship. Always include some non-perishable food items and plenty of drinking water.
Filing all of the proper paperwork is another safety step for any boating trip. When sailing from one port to another, there is always the possibility that you will experience bad weather, an equipment failure or health issues. By filing an accurate float plan and sticking with it, you minimize your risks while out on the open water.
