Before you set sail on your new boat, knowing the ins and outs of boat care is crucial to prevent damage, accidents, and other negative experiences. Here are a few tips for owning and maintaining a new boat.
Maintenance Goes a Long Way
Regular boat maintenance is one of the guaranteed ways to keep your boat operational for a long time. Take your boat care seriously by splitting your maintenance into easy activities and sticking to a regular cleaning schedule. For instance, if you sail your boat in salt water, you should spray it down with clean water after each voyage to prevent salt residue buildup.
Take Time Learning To Drive
A key responsibility for new boat owners is learning how to drive. Every boat has a different feel, so practicing in an empty lot before hitting the water is essential. Attach your boat to a trailer and learn the feel of your boat by practicing backing into a space and performing complex maneuvers. This will help you prepare for the open waters.
Get Boat Insurance
One crucial tip for owning a new boat is to get the necessary boat insurance. Similar to home, auto, and health insurance, liability insurance protects you and your boat from unfortunate incidents, such as fuel spills and boating accidents. Ensure you speak to a marine insurance specialist to explore various coverage options that fit your finances.
Practice Trailering Your Boat
Before you put your boat in the water and enjoy the splashing waves, you should learn how to trailer your boat. Some things to consider when storing a boat trailer include avoiding parking under trees, providing WD-40 lubrication to prevent rust, and using proper anti-thievery methods, so your boat stays safe. Further, ensure you’re prepared to tow your boat on your own, but don’t hesitate to ask experienced boaters for advice.
Purchase Safety Equipment and Gear
If you and passengers follow safety procedures, someone falling off the boat is unlikely. However, it’s always a possibility, as is unplanned damage to your craft. Therefore, ensure you always have the proper safety equipment and gear on board to keep you and your riders safe. Your boat should have PFDs, a first aid kit, essential spare parts, dock lines, fenders, and a standard tool set in storage.
New boat owners have a lot to learn, but following this advice will help you tackle the learning curve with ease. Take everything slowly and cautiously, and you’ll become a natural boat operator before you know it.
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