As winter fades and the weather starts to warm up, it’s time to get your boat ready for the summer boating season. Getting your boat out of storage if it has been stored all winter, there are a few things you need to do to ensure that it’s in top shape for your first voyage. In this blog post, we’ll go through the steps you need to take to get your boat ready for the summer boating season.
Before the Launch
Before you launch your boat, it’s important to do a thorough check outside the boat and inside the boat. Here are some things you need to check:
- Inspect the hull: Check the hull of the boat for any signs of damage or cracks. If you find any issues, make sure to address them before launching the boat.
- Check the propeller: Make sure the propeller is in good condition and not bent or damaged. If you find any damage, have it repaired or replaced before launching.
- Check the engine: Check the oil level, fuel lines, and battery. If the oil level is low, add oil. If the fuel lines are cracked, replace them. If the battery is dead, replace it.
- Check the electronics: Make sure all of the electronics on the boat are in working order. Test the radio, GPS, and any other electronics before launching.
- Check the safety equipment: Check that you have all of the necessary safety equipment on board and that it’s in good condition. This includes life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and more.
- Clean the boat: Give the boat a thorough cleaning, both inside and out, to get rid of any dirt, grime, or mold that may have accumulated during the winter.
During Launch
When you’re ready to launch your boat, make sure you take the following steps:
- Make sure the drain plug is in: Before launching the boat, make sure the drain plug is in. This will prevent water from entering the boat and sinking it.
- Check the bilge pump: Check that the bilge pump is working properly. This will ensure that any water that does get into the boat is pumped out.
- Check the steering: Test the steering to make sure it’s working properly.
Before Your First Voyage
Once your boat is in the water, there are a few more things you need to do before you set sail:
- Test the engine: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to make sure it’s running smoothly.
- Test the steering: Test the steering again to make sure it’s working properly.
- Check the weather: Check the weather forecast to make sure the conditions are safe for boating.
- Double-check the safety equipment: Make sure you have all of the necessary safety equipment on board and that it’s easily accessible.
- Plan your route: Plan your route and let someone know where you’ll be going and when you’ll be back.
Getting your boat ready for the summer boating season after it has been stored all winter requires a bit of work, but it’s essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Follow these steps before launching and during your first voyage to make sure your boat is in top shape and ready for the water. Happy boating!
