Summer is the perfect season to enjoy the great outdoors, and what better way of doing so than by taking to the open waters? Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a first-time boater, boat safety should always be a top priority. In this blog, we’ll cover some essential boating safety tips to ensure your time on the water is fun and secure. Plus, we’ll even mention some of the top boating destinations across the U.S. that will be the highlight of any summer adventure.
The Importance of Boat Safety
According to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, 11.9 million registered and documented boats were in the U.S. in 2022. With so many boats docked nationwide, it’s no wonder that many take to the water when the weather is warm and conditions are right. Although boating is an exciting pastime, it does come with significant risks. The United States Coast Guard reported a total of 4,040 documented boating accidents during 2022 that accounted for 636 fatalities. According to the USCG, operator inattention, inexperience, improper lookout, excessive speed, and machinery failure ranked as the top five contributing factors for these accidents.
Not only are boating accidents hazardous to everyone on board, but they can also lead to enormous financial burdens. Regardless of your boating experience, following helpful boat safety tips should always be your top priority. Here are just a few tips to follow when out on the water.
Practicing Boat Safety
1. Always Wear a Life Jacket
According to the USCG report on boating accidents, 75% of fatal boating incident victims drowned. Of those drowning victims, 85% were not wearing a life jacket. Regardless of how good of a swimmer you believe yourself to be, wearing a life vest is one of the top boating safety measures to follow at all times. As a boat owner, you are responsible for ensuring you and your passengers have a properly fitted life jacket, no matter the water conditions. Although life vest laws may vary depending on your state, there is a federal requirement that states all passengers under 13 must wear a life jacket while a vessel is on the water in a state with no predetermined life jacket laws.
2. Understand Weather and Water Conditions
A calm and easy day can quickly turn sour when you’re on the water, especially sailing on open seas. Before you even step foot onto your vessel, you must understand the environment that you’ll be facing. Checking local weather forecasts as well as current water conditions is a must for practicing boat safety. We recommend using a radio receiver that can access NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts to stay informed of any potential weather hazards.
3. Knowledge Equals Safety
Being familiar with navigational rules and right-of-way is fundamental to safe boating. As a boater on the water, this is not just a recommendation but a responsibility, as a lack of boating knowledge can put you and those around you in dangerous situations. According to the USCG report, 74% of boating deaths occurred on vessels where the operator had not received proper boating safety instructions. The Coast Guard recommends that all potential boaters take a boating safety course that meets the National Boating Education Standards before hitting the water. Depending on your state, you may need a safety course to receive your boating card or license.
4. Get Your Boat Examined
If it’s been some time since your last voyage or you need additional help ensuring your boat is safe for the water, schedule a U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Safety Check. This complimentary service is a free and convenient way to check that your boat complies with state and federal boating equipment regulations. The boat safety check will examine your life jackets, navigation lights, distress signals, fire extinguishers, and more. Should you not pass the examination, you’ll receive a written report with instructions on how to correct any discrepancies.
5. Don’t Forget About Boat Insurance
Boat insurance is only legally required in Arkansas and Utah. However, if you are financing your boat or have it docked at a marina, you will likely be required to carry some form of boat insurance. Even if you live in an area that does not require you to purchase boat insurance, carrying the coverage can still be highly valuable for protecting your investment and covering any damages or injuries you are liable for. Boat insurance has coverage options similar to auto insurance, such as property damage, liability, medical payments, and uninsured watercraft coverage.
Some individuals may incorrectly assume some of their homeowners coverage will apply to their boat. Although your homeowners coverage may provide some form of coverage while your boat is at home, it will not cover any activity while you are on the water. To learn more about your coverage options, click here.
Top Boating Destinations Across the Country
1. The Pacific Coast Playgrounds
Whether it’s the California Yacht Marina, San Francisco Bay, or the San Juan Islands, the Pacific Coast’s blue waters offer boaters both tranquility and plenty of adventure. These destinations are located along bustling city centers such as Southern California and Seattle, making it easy to go from sea to land and enjoy a variety of activities in between.
2. The Great Lakes
Forming the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth, Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario offer a unique blend of vast open waters coupled with scenic beauty. Plus, with over 83 state-sponsored harbors, the Great Lakes area provides endless opportunities for boaters to experience. Each lake has its own charm and unique characteristics that make each worthy of a stop. Try fishing in the rich waters of Lake Huron, explore shipwrecks in Lake Michigan, or cruise away the day on Lake Ontario. With so many activities, the Great Lakes offer an ocean-like experience for boaters and fishing enthusiasts alike.
3. The Southern Shores of Florida
It’s no secret that Florida is home to some of the best coastal experiences in the country. With its access to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the southern shores of Florida are a boater’s paradise. With diverse boating regions such as the busy marinas of Miami and the laid-back feeling of the Keys, Florida’s blend of cultural experiences and scenic landscapes makes the area truly special. Some of the best times to go boating in Florida are during spring and fall when the weather is pleasant and the waters aren’t too crowded.
4. The Lake of the Ozarks
Located in the southern state of Missouri, The Lake of the Ozarks is an expansive water collection that spans over 1,150 miles of shoreline. However, what makes the area so special isn’t just its size but the vast number of activities in the area that make it a boater’s playground. Whether you’re searching for calm waters for solitude or a lively social scene with waterfront bars, the Lake of the Ozarks has something for everyone. Due to its popularity, the lake is crowded during the summer months. If you prefer smaller crowds, consider adventuring over during the fall.
5. The Northeastern Coast
The northeast coast of Maine is home to some of the best scenic landscapes a boater can enjoy. The coastline is dotted with charming lighthouses, fishing villages, and endless wildlife. Plus, the area’s numerous islands and peninsulas offer secluded harbors that are perfect for anchoring and taking in the natural environment. If you’re an experienced sailor, the challenging winds and tides make for a worthy experience at the helm. And while you’re in New England, don’t forget to try some of the best seafood known across the country.
Need Help Finding Boat Insurance?
Whether you’re searching for a first-time boat insurance policy or are interested in comparing options, AIS can help. With over 55 years of experience, we’ve helped our customers find and secure favorable rates for all aspects of their life, including their recreational vehicles. Our specialists know the right questions to ask to help find a quote that best combines your budget with practical coverage. To learn more about how AIS can help you secure a new boat insurance policy, call (800) 449-8943.
The information in this article is obtained from various sources and is offered for educational purposes. Furthermore, it should not replace manuals or instructions provided by the manufacturer or the advice of a qualified professional. No warranty or appropriateness for a specific purpose is expressed or implied.
