Summer Beers

Amid endless months of social distancing, boating allows you to enjoy amazing bonding time with small groups of friends and family.

LIFESTYLE BOATING

What to think about when on water

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Rules of the Road

U.S. waterways feature navigational markers that may also warn of shallow water, rocks, or other hazards. Keep the boat centered between these markers, staying on the right side just as you do on a highway.

looks from the water and the joys of finding a quiet spot to toss out the anchor, transforming the boat into a waterfront restaurant with no wait or mask mandates.

What to Know

The only thing a boat has in common with a car is the steering wheel; instead of a gas and brake pedal, a lever controls the throttle for speed and engine direction (forward, neutral, and reverse). While most states don’t require special licensing to operate a small boat, it’s always a good idea to have someone experienced at the wheel because every boat cruise is a practical lesson in physics. Wind, water currents, and even the wake from other boats affect speed and direction. These forces have a direct relationship to the comfort and safety of the passengers on the boat. As an example, crossing a large wake from a passing boat or applying too much throttle can cause the bow to unexpectedly rise up, throwing the boat off course while jostling passengers.

Operating a boat is fairly straightforward, but it does require your full attention. In addition to making sure guests are comfortable, they need to stay safe, keeping arms, feet, and hands inside the vessel while underway. Dangling legs over the bow may seem like fun but it could go wrong in an instant if a passing boat’s wake causes one of your guests to fall overboard in the path of the spinning propeller. When the boat is anchored to take a dip, no one should go in the water until the engine is turned off and the key removed from the ignition. And just as drinking and driving don’t mix on the road, the person operating the boat needs to be clearheaded from the time the boat pulls away from the dock until it is safely tied up again at the end of the cruise.

A boat allows you to discover how the world looks from the water and go on adventures those confined to dry land can’t imagine.

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Safety Equipment

Ensure there is one PFD (personal flotation device) sized to fit every person on board, as well as a throwable flotation device, all kept within easy reach. If the family dog is coming aboard, make sure it also wears a PFD.

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Essentials

Essential gear for every cruise includes sunblock, sunglasses, hats, medications (in case delays keep you on the water longer than expected), a basic first aid kit, cell phone and charger cable, snacks, and a cooler filled with water.