If you’re an experienced boater, you probably know the general spring prep routine well: inspect, lubricate, repair, and replace. For those not yet a nautical wiz and those of us known to forget a thing or two, we’ve prepared some memory joggers for things that might be overlooked during spring prep. (By the way, your keys are in the refrigerator and your glasses are by the dog.)
- Check everything that might clog, bend, rot, leak, ding, crack, rip, evaporate, disintegrate, corrode, chafe, or loosen over the winter. That includes the boat trailer if applicable. Don’t fall into the “I just replaced that last summer” and/or the “I checked those before I winterized the boat.” Stuff happens.
- Don’t assume the horn will work. Give it a test beep.
- Check the model of your vessel’s fire extinguishers and smoke/CO detectors for recalls and expiration dates. Replace as necessary.
- Update paper charts (yes, you do still need them) and software for navigation/operation electronics.
- If cushions, pillows, curtains, towels spent the winter aboard, check for mold (it’s not always green).
- Boat with children aboard? The kids may have grown up or out of last season’s life jackets. Don’t wait for the “It doesn’t fit” wail right before your first outing to buy better-fitting jackets or adjustable inflatables. The same goes for your nautical canine companions — check out the fit before setting out.
- Look at your paperwork. Do you have the proper boating certificate for your state? Is your registration up to date? If applicable, do you have the proper parking and launch permits? Some localities have allocations for non-residents and stop selling permits once they reach that quota.
