Your step-by-step guide to a safe and trouble-free day on the water

Heading out on the water is one of life’s greatest pleasures — but a great trip starts with a thorough pre-departure check.
This checklist will help you spot problems before they become emergencies, keep your passengers safe, and ensure you’re ready for whatever the day brings.

1. Engine & Mechanical Checks

✅ Check engine oil level and top off if needed.
✅ Check coolant level (closed cooling systems) or ensure raw water intake is clear.
✅ Inspect raw water strainer — remove debris and secure cap.
✅ Verify engine seacocks are open (for raw water cooling).
✅ Verify shaft/transmission seacocks are open if applicable.
✅ Close all other seacocks while underway to reduce flooding risk.
✅ Inspect belts for wear, cracks, or fraying.
✅ Look for leaks under the engine (oil, fuel, coolant, water).
✅ Check fuel levels — don’t rely solely on gauges.
- Log date, fuel added, engine hours before/after each trip.
- Compare fuel burn rate against gauge readings for accuracy.

2. Safety Gear

✅ Life jackets for every person onboard (properly sized).
✅ Check self-inflating PFD cartridges for proper charge and expiration date.
✅ Fire extinguishers — verify charge and accessibility.
✅ Throwable flotation device (Type IV).
✅ Visual distress signals (flares, flags) — check expiration dates.
✅ Sound-producing device (horn, whistle).
✅ First aid kit stocked and accessible.

3. Navigation & Communication

✅ Test VHF radio (including DSC if equipped).
✅ GPS/chartplotter functioning with updated charts.
✅ Paper charts as backup.
✅ Compass operational.
✅ Navigation lights working (even if not planning to be out at night).

4. Weather & Trip Planning

✅ Check current weather and marine forecasts.
✅ Review tide tables and current predictions.
✅ File a float plan with a friend, family member, or marina.
✅ Plan fuel stops if needed — “1/3 out, 1/3 back, 1/3 reserve” rule.

5. Deck & Cabin Readiness

✅ Secure loose items in the cabin and on deck.
✅ Verify anchor and rode are ready to deploy.
✅ Check dock lines, fenders, and boat hook.
✅ Ensure bilge pumps are functioning (automatic and manual).
✅ Test steering and throttle controls.

6. Provisions & Comfort

✅ Adequate drinking water and food/snacks.
✅ Sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses).
✅ Extra clothing and foul-weather gear.
✅ Trash bags to pack out waste.

Pro Tip: Keep This Checklist Laminated

Print and laminate your pre-departure checklist. Keep it at the helm or near the engine compartment so you (or any crew member) can run through it quickly every time.

Pre-Departure Boating Checklist