Are you tired of the city life, the routine nine-to-five-job, and urban noise? What isn’t clicking, then? Perhaps you need to pack up and decide on your next adventure. Why not try a boat adventure?
These days, people have various options for rest and relaxation activities, ranging from vacations to spas and even going to the gym to ‘sweat it out.’ However, boat adventures might prove incomparable to the typical or usual options. The strong winds, the heat of the sun, and the vast oceans—all there for the taking—might just be a few miles away. The peace of the lakes hidden in the arrays of oaks and pines is waiting for the next batch of adventurers and navigators.
Basic Boating Adventure Essentials
Before getting all excited for a boat adventure, though, there are many things to consider beforehand. Some of them include the location, the weather, and the essentials to bring. To help with the preparations, scroll through the following list of things to bring on your upcoming boat adventure.
1. Boating License
In most countries and US states, obtaining a boating license is a must. Think of it as a driver’s license but an aquatic transportation version. Different states may have certain regulations, though, so it’s best to secure the right one. For instance, if there are questions on how to get a Missouri boating license, one can visit sites like ilearntoboat.com/missouri/ that provide answers.
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Boating licenses are essential for safety reasons. If one goes on a boating trip without the knowledge and skills to operate such a watercraft, there’ll be grave consequences. Unfortunate events are most likely to happen, and authorities will get involved. No matter how simple it may sound, adventures can be dangerous, especially if adventurers will do the boating in rougher bodies of water.
Aside from the boating license, IDs and documentation are also some of the things one might consider bringing.
2. Emergency Safety Equipment
Next to the boating license, boating safety equipment is most important. These are for safety purposes, of course, in case an emergency arises. Safety equipment includes—but isn’t limited to—flares, horns, and whistles. These are used to catch attention on a long-distance scale. Although there’s a slim chance of the adventure not going as planned, it’s better to remain on the safe side and bring all the necessary safety gear.
Check the following recommended boating safety equipment:
- Two bailers with a bilge pump and a line attached
- Two appropriate anchors with cable
- Two handheld orange smoke signals
- Two handheld red flares
- Small fire extinguisher (for those with cooking facilities)
Marine safety equipment also includes a life raft, marine life jacket, offshore work vest, lifebuoy rings, personnel transfer basket, and immersion suit.
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3. Fishing License
Aside from the boating license, there’s also a fishing license. This is only relevant if the adventurers want to spice up the trip and add some fun activities. Fishing licenses are usually required on locations that are classified as protected areas, like marine sanctuaries. There’s a limit on fishing activities, and it’s illegal if one doesn’t have a fishing license. Moreover, this is highly dependent on the kind of trips like boating on seas, canoeing on lakes, or kayaking.
Fishing regulations, such as issuing a fishing license, aim to protect fish populations. It’s the same principle applied when issuing a hunting license. It promotes responsible fishing practices. The money generated by issuing fishing license sales funds habitat programs, fish stockings, clean-ups, and trash removal. What you’re essentially funding is the upkeep of waterways to reduce pollution and promote a healthier ecosystem.
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4. Life Vests
Part of personal safety equipment is the life vest. In case of an emergency, wearing one could save your life. If there’s no life vest, working floaters will do. Life vests can last up to 10 years, so they’re a good investment for those who love boating adventures.
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) requires all boat passengers to have a USCG-approved life vest or personal flotation device. Children under 13 years of age must wear a life vest when on a boat. There are different types of life vests; the Type III life vest kind is the recommended life jacket for boating, offering 15.5 pounds of buoyancy.
5. Boating Equipment
Boating equipment pertains to things or items needed to make the boat run or make the trip safer. Familiarize yourself with items like nautical charts, a compass, communication devices required in a boat trip, electronics that make the boat move, GPS, and phones. However, note which of these you need to purchase, rent, or borrow and which are already provided or installed on the boat you’ll use.
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For those you need to bring yourself, you can source boating equipment from many reputable sellers. Check customer reviews to ensure you’ll be buying only good quality boating items. Order online early to avoid or resolve shipping delays and returns. Learn how to use the new boating equipment to prepare yourself for your forthcoming boating experience.
6. Health Protection Essentials
In every adventure, health essentials are needed to enjoy the experience to the fullest. They’re primarily for comfort and relaxation, but they‘re also for protection and safety. Such essentials include any health-related items you might need to bring according to your specific needs. If you have medications, pack them. Sunblock and other skin protection are also counted as essentials.
When one goes for a boating adventure, don’t forget to pack light and have an intelligent clothing choice. Thus, no heavy clothing like denim and such. Also, pack food items that are easy to prepare and clean up. There’s a high chance of dehydration during a boating trip due to prolonged exposure to the sun’s heat. Therefore, bring enough drinking water supply.
Conclusion
If anyone is interested in boating adventures, get a boating trip guide to have a more fun and relaxing day off. It’s an activity one shouldn’t miss. Plan with your family, friends, and coworkers to enjoy the day. Aside from being a new experience, it’s also an opportunity to celebrate important occasions. Being prepared with everything you need will surely make your boating adventure a lot of fun.
