Sometimes we all just need to getaway. The demands of the world around us can get to be too much to bear sometimes. An escape is necessary.
And what better way to escape the rat race than to head out onto the open sea?
Planning a boat trip is a perfect getaway. It’s relaxing and peaceful with just the right amount of excitement mixed in.
But you may be overwhelmed by this idea, wondering how to plan a boat trip properly. And you’re right to wonder. There are lots of things you need to keep in mind for an overnight trip in a boat, whether you’re a beginner or an expert seaman.
Don’t worry, though. Here are 5 important tips for you to remember when planning a boat trip.
1. Plan a Course
First things first: you need to have a plan. Don’t just sail away on a multi-day boat trip without a clue as to where you’re going or when you’ll get there. Decide on your destination before you leave, and make sure it fits within your skill level.
Check your nautical maps and the currents and tidal exchanges to plan a proper course for your trip. It doesn’t need to be exact, but you should have a general idea of where you’re going to prevent any nasty surprises along the way.
2. Check the Weather
Take a look at the weather predictions before you go on your boating trip. You should be prepared for anything, whether it’s clear and calm or dark and stormy. If the weather looks too troublesome for your skill level, maybe you should leave the boating trip for another time.
Also, keep in mind that the weather can change quickly at sea. You should bring clothing for all different types of weather to cover your bases.
3. Tune-Up Your Boat
The last thing you want is for your boat to break down on you while you’re out on the water. Fix anything that hasn’t been sitting right before you go, even small things. If you don’t have a boat of your own, you can go here for bareboat charter.
Look at all your onboard tanks and make sure that they’re fit to go. Top up your fuel and water tanks and empty your waste tank.
You’ll also want to inspect your dinghy, as it’s your only way on and off your boat at a moored site. If caught in an emergency, you don’t want your dinghy to fail!
4. Keep Track of Your Equipment
When planning your boat trip, you need to be sure you have everything you need. You can’t exactly run to a grocery store in the middle of the ocean.
Stock up on food and water, and be certain that you have more than enough for the trip you’re planning. Go through all your emergency supplies and make sure none of it is expired. Keep spares of everything, especially important fluids, and have a spare anchor just in case.
5. Have Fun
There’s a lot that you should keep in mind when planning a boat trip, but the most important part is to leave room for relaxation.
This trip should be fun! You don’t want to be working the whole time. Give yourself some wiggle room in the schedule to sit back and enjoy yourself on the water.
Learn More About Planning a Boat Trip
Now that you know the basics of how to plan a trip by boat, you’re ready to get going! Planning a boat trip can be easy when you keep these tips in mind.
Read more articles to learn more about travel and recreation!
