You may never forget that time you ran out of gas or hit a sandbar, but I’m betting you never want to recreate that kind of day. Instead, you likely crave boating success each time you venture offshore.
While a non-boater might think arriving at an intended port is a victory, boaters know location alone rarely transforms a ho-hum day into a memorable one. What makes an outing a hit is when all aboard have fun, feel comfortable, and consider the skipper calm, cool, capable, and considerate.
The kind of skipper who gains respect on the water likely receives esteem on land, too. Sound like the kind of person you want to be all the time? Just follow these 16 nautical practices on land as well as sea to improve relationships and ensure workplace success.
- It’s What You Know
Not content with just a basic boater safety course, you take additional courses to improve your skills.
- It’s Who You Know
Pre-season, you have an annual Vessel Safety Check to make sure your boat, jet ski, or paddlecraft is as safe as can be. The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadrons both offer this free service.
During the season, you never leave the shore without informing someone where you’ll be and approximately what time you’ll be back.
- Inform Your Team
Yes, you’re the captain, but passengers and crew must be in the loop. Before departing, you show everyone where to find life jackets, cool water, extra sunscreen, and the first aid kit. You demonstrate proper use of the VHF radio, how to flush the head, where to place garbage, and instruct those aboard to never dangle their arms and legs overboard.
- Designate
You point out the spot each person should go in case of an emergency and stress that everyone must look out for those who are frailer or smaller.
- Stay Current
Before departing, you make note of the harbors and protected coves along your route in case elements change or someone feels ill.
You also check the marine forecast before your departure. If the weather is sub-par, you take responsibility for staying put.
- Have a Backup Plan
You know you can’t control the elements, so you build a rain date into your boating invitations. This way rescheduling won’t be a big deal and you won’t think twice about canceling.
- Play to your Strength
You don’t venture out on a blustery day if your boat handles like a dream only when the wind is calm. Others aboard trust you to keep them safe, so stay in your comfort zone (but see tip number one for improving your skills).
- Never Get Cocky
If all was fine when you departed, you continue to check weather conditions throughout the voyage.
- Respect Authority
If you’re hailed and ordered to stop by law enforcement, you comply immediately.
- Be Heard
Your boat is equipped with low-tech and high-tech communication — mobile phone, VHF radio, personal locator beacon, whistle, air horn, flares, and signaling mirror.
- Dress for Success
Actually, dress to survive by wearing your life jacket and sunscreen.
- Plan Ahead
Everyone has to go sometime, even captains. If you need a brief reprieve, you always have someone aboard who knows how to keep you on course safely.
- Don’t Let Your Guard Down
You know a lack of hydration can fog up your brain and getting involved in a heated conversation or checking text messages can knock you off your game. Stay alert and aware — it’s your job to prevent accidents and keep everyone safe.
- Don’t be Isolated
You ensure everyone aboard is doing OK by calling out periodically.
- Hide the Sweat
If a mishap happens, you keep your head. You breathe deeply as you assess the situation and speak authoritatively as you enlist help and account for all aboard. A calm demeanor prevents panic.
- See the Big Picture
You love boating; it allows you to be on the water with loved ones, surrounded by natural beauty. Therefore, you always take time to soak up the moments and cherish the wonder of the floating world!
