Memorial Day weekend is around the corner, and if you’re planning on boating, now’s the time to prepare for this unofficial kickoff to summer.
In this post, you'll find a list of Memorial Day boating tips to help you and your crew enjoy a safe and fun weekend. Before your Memorial Day boat ride, it's crucial to brush up on these must-know safety tips.
How to Boat Safely During Memorial Day Weekend
1. Plan Ahead for the Holiday Weekend
Before you hop onboard, be sure to spend some time mapping out the upcoming day(s) of boating ahead.
- Invite only the number of people who will safely fit aboard. Boating with more than the maximum capacity of the vessel is unsafe and illegal.
- Get a weather report and a forecast for the day. Monitor changing conditions and have an exit strategy if necessary.
- File a float plan—whether formally with a marina or informally with friends or family. Share your route and return time, and don’t forget to check in afterward.
- Celebrate safely by designating a Sober Skipper and establishing clear guidelines for responsible alcohol use while onboard. Most importantly, the captain should never operate the boat under the influence.
2. Prep Your Boat (and Trailer) in Advance
Inspect your boat—whether it’s a bowrider, center console, fishing boat, PWC, motoryacht or sailboat—and be sure it’s ready to go out.
- Bilge pumps, running lights, engines, and all critical onboard systems should work.
- If you have a trailer, inspect your brake lights, tire pressure, wheel bearings, and tie-down equipment.
- Carry and display current registration decals, boating or fishing licenses, safety course certificates, and any required Coast Guard documents.
- Bring extra fuel if you’ll be towing a lot for watersports, or if you're planning on going on an extended coastal passage.
- And of course, don't forget the drain plug before launching!
3. Use a Pre-Departure Checklist
Required boating safety equipment differs by size and type of vessel—if you're unsure about your bare minimum needs, be sure to check out our Boating Safety Checklist & Safety Equipment List. At a minimum, start with these "must-have" items:
- U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for everyone aboard.
- Fire extinguisher(s).
- Emergency medical kit
- Visual and sound signaling devices
- VHF radio
Boat Essentials: What Supplies Do I Need for My Boat?
4. Get Your Crew Involved
Educate your crew about some of the basic expectations and tasks they can expect during a day of boating. By involving them, you'll also help to expand their boating skills for future on-water adventures.
- When guests come aboard, show them where life jackets are stowed and how to put them on.
- Show them where fire extinguishers are and how to use them (pull the pin and aim at the base of the flames).
- Demonstrate the proper use of a VHF radio when calling for help.
- Provide a quick safety briefing, including instructions on managing docking lines and fenders.
- Discuss the possibility of seasickness and what to do if anyone feels unwell.
5. Navigate Crowds with Courtesy and Caution
Memorial Day is one of the busiest boating weekends of the year. Before heading out, here are some tips to keep in mind while out on the water:
- Review the rules of the road for boating before pushing off the dock.
- Expect crowds at the launch ramp, which can get chaotic with moving boats, trailers, and even people in the water.
- Maintain a safe speed and familiarize yourself with local boating speed zones.
- Always keep a proper lookout.
- Be courteous and responsible on the water. Don't rely on others to know the rules and always control your wake around swimmers and small vessels.
Enjoy a Fun (and Safe) Memorial Day Boat Trip
Before you know it, you’ll be cruising into a fun-filled three-day weekend. Follow these safety tips to help ensure your boating adventure is safe, smooth, and memorable.
