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A Beginner's Guide to Boat Float Plans

Aug. 24 2023 How To By Boat Masters Marine

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Boating is a fun and rewarding pastime that allows you to relax and spend quality time with your friends and family. Before you can enjoy an exciting boat adventure, though, it's important to set yourself up for a safe voyage. That's where a float plan enters the picture. Here’s what you need to know about creating a boat float plan.

The Purpose of a Boat Float Plan

A float plan covers key details about a boat voyage. It's created by the boater and given to an individual on land. In the event that a boat fails to reach its destination, authorities can consult the float plan to know where to begin looking. This can drastically speed up search and rescue time! Creating a float plan is an important part of emergency preparedness and should be done before each voyage. 

The Details Included in a Float Plan

Boat Information

Describe the boat so that it can be easily recognized by emergency responders. This can include the size, color, and make of the boat. Also, spell out the boat’s name and list any identifying numbers or unique features on it.

Route

Describe the route in detail, including:

  • The name and location of the launch ramp where the voyage began.
  • The planned arrival destination and any stops along the way.
  • The planned time of departure and return.

Passengers

Provide relevant information about everyone on board, which includes:

  • Name.
  • Age.
  • Medical conditions and disabilities.
  • Points of contact, such as cell phone number and address.

Communication Plan

Establish the communication plan in advance with your on-shore contact, then be sure to detail it in the boat float plan.

This includes:

  • An inventory of the on-board radio equipment and frequencies.
  • The communication schedule with the individual(s) on shore.
  • A time that, if not returned by, the individual(s) on the shore should contact the Coast Guard.

Sharing the Float Plan

Go over the float plan with someone that you can trust, such as a family member, friend, or even a marina dock master. They will be responsible for contacting the US Coast Guard in the event of an emergency.

Updating the Float Plan

It's possible that there will be short-notice changes to the plan. Poor weather could delay launch time. Maintenance issues could slow down the return time. Passenger preferences could change the route. If you make any changes to the planned trip, be sure to inform your contact accordingly. It's important that they have the most up-to-date information about your boat trip.

When you’re ready to check out a great selection of new and used boats for sale in Ohio, stop by our dealership located in Akron to see what we have in stock. Boat Masters Marine is proud to serve our customers in Youngstown and greater Cleveland, OH.