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A bag of boating tricks
Tips and Tricks for Summer Boating
story by Dari Mullins McBride
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Summer is here and boating season is in full swing! Whether you are a new boater, a novice or an expert, there are always new ideas, tips and tricks to increase fun and stay safe on the water.
Taking advantage of your time on the water requires just a little time and planning to ensure that you and your passengers get the most of life on the lake.
SAFETY FIRST
One of the best ways to ensure a fun and safe day on the water is adequate preparation. When getting ready to take the boat out for a day, there are several things you should do.
Of course, making sure the boat is operational is first and foremost. Check fuel levels and plan to get fuel prior to departure if necessary. If you are towing your boat, be sure your trailer is ready as well. The lights and brakes should be checked. Also be sure there is enough air in the tires and that your towing vehicle is up to the task.
Secondly, check the weather for any potential issues that could arise. Also, keep in mind that, when you are on the water, pop-up storms can happen at any time, especially in hot summer months.
In fact, lake resident Becca Richards and her family have devised a quick retrofit of their pontoon to ward off those storms.
“We combat the pop-up storms with a large tarp that has metal grommet holes so it can be tethered to our boat using bungee cords and carabiner clips,” she explained. “Through trial and error, we’ve found that it is best to angle the tarp downward from the Bimini to the front of the boat. Usually, some water pools on the tarp near the front, but a well-placed camping chair usually solves that dilemma. We keep ponchos on board and have learned it’s best to wait out the fierce storms that blow through.”
Boaters should also be aware of how many people are going out on their boat and their swimming ability. Any child under 12 must always wear a lifejacket in the boat. It’s recommended that anyone over 12 who cannot swim also keep a lifejacket on while riding in the boat. Double check with your passengers to be sure you have the correct size and number of lifejackets.
Whether it’s just lounging around on deck or engaging in watersports, the best idea for enjoying time on the water is to plan ahead.
In addition to lifejackets, be sure your boat is equipped with all other required safety equipment. Boats over 16 feet must have a throw cushion, and it should be easily accessible in case of an emergency. Other required items include a fire extinguisher, whistle (or horn) and navigation lights. There are several recommended items including a rope strong enough for towing in case of a breakdown; a first-aid kit that includes band aids, antibiotic cream and pain reliever; a communication device that is charged and an anchor with adequate rope to reach the bottom where you plan to stop for the day.
Another good idea is to dress children in bright colors to make it easier to see them when they are swimming in the water.
Finally, before launching it’s good to explain the rules to everyone, including safety rules such as not standing up or moving while the boat is in motion. You may also have personal rules such as no shoes on the seats or no loud music. Informing everyone of your expectations makes for less stress and more fun.
SUPPLIES ARE ESSENTIAL
The additional supplies you pack depends on what you are doing, how long you plan to stay out, and the ages of your passengers. In general, most trips require several items.
Don’t forget sunscreen. Be sure you have extra in case someone forgets. Tinted sunscreen can stain upholstery and oils can cause fibers to break down. It is a good idea to ask your passengers to apply sunscreen prior to boarding the boat. If it needs to be reapplied, just ask them to be careful where they are spraying. Having everyone sit on towels is another way to protect upholstery.
Becca Richards says her family has retrofitted their pontoon with a large tarp that has metal grommet holes so it can be quickly tethered to the boat using bungee cords and carabiner clips, creating instant shelter when pop-up storms catch them out on the lake.
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“Snackle boxes” can come in many shapes and sizes, but among the most popular is a simple tackle box whose compartments are used for a variety of onboard snacks.
“SNACKLE BOX” ITEMS
Pepperoni, salami, cubed cheese, berries, small crackers, olives, nuts, bite-sized cookies, pickles, cucumbers, carrots, button tomatoes, grapes, apple slices, mini-marshmallows, pretzels or dried fruit.
Speaking of towels, they’re essential. The number needed will depend on how many people are planning on getting in the water and how warm it is outside. Usually, it is good practice to take one towel per person. An extra towel or light blanket isn’t a bad idea if you plan to stay out past dark. Other necessities include shoes, sunglasses, lip balm and re-sealable plastic bags for items needing to stay dry.
A few supplies passengers can share include phone chargers, bug spray and an emergency hygiene kit that can be made easily by putting a roll of toilet paper, hand sanitizer, feminine products and disposal plastic bags in a large re-sealable plastic bag. This can stay tucked away for future use but be sure to keep it well stocked.
DON’T FORGET THE GOODIES
Food and drink are needed if you plan to stay out for a few hours. Water is the most important, and plenty should be available for passengers. If you plan to bring alcohol on your boat, be sure to drink responsibly. Most boating accidents result from drinking too much alcohol. Designate a driver who won’t be drinking. Don’t forget to bring juice, soft drinks or other beverages for those unable or not planning to consume alcohol. Be sure to bring plenty of ice and a cooler to store the drinks. Garbage bags are vital to have on board to dispose of trash properly.
Food on a boat can be tricky. You want to take items that are not messy, keep well and don’t crush easily. Some tried and true options include beef jerky, crackers, pressed or wrapped sandwiches, granola, fruit kabobs, frozen grapes, nuts, cheese snacks, bite-sized cookies and pre-made sandwiches.
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One easy way to transport sandwiches is to get a package of standard dinner rolls, make them into mini-sandwiches and put them back in resealable bag or a plastic container. Another popular option is a “snackle box,” especially if you have children on board. Bento type boxes are food safe, but you can also just purchase a regular tackle box and designate it for food only. The individual compartments make it perfect for keeping just the right amount of an item. Each person can have their own box with items they enjoy, and they easily fit in coolers.
Again, Richards has some foody suggestions.
“I pack lunch items and snack items in one kid’s lunchbox so I don’t have to haul an entire cooler,” she said “It’s oddly surprising how much food you can fit into one lunchbox. For longer boat days I have a backpack-style cooler because this momma has to keep her hands free to guide littles on and off the boat.”
She also suggests taking along towel clips for hanging wet bathing suits to the Bimini railing so they can dry on the boat ride home.
“I also keep extra lifejackets on the boat for my kids so when they are done playing in the lake, I change them into their dry clothes and dry lifejackets, then clip all the wet stuff to the railing,” she added.
BE SURE TO HAVE FUN
For many boaters just being out on the water is all they need. However, there are lots of things to do out there to make your day even more fun. Besides all the popular water sports such as tubing, skiing and wake boarding, some fun items to take along are binoculars, fishing gear, snorkels and fins. If you have small children, be sure to include items to keep them occupied such as water toys, small handheld toys or any “favorite” toys. Remote control boats are always a good time when your boat is beached. A deck of cards or a good book also work and be sure you have a good playlist for cruising down the lake! n
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