Being the proud owner of a new boat is a thrilling experience, and you’re likely eager to get out on the water as quickly as possible. However, before you do so, you should consider taking a step back and considering what you may need to ensure you have the best experience possible. Allow us to introduce you to three things that every boat owner needs to ensure their time spent is convenient, safe, and enjoyable.
Safety Equipment
In your excitement, it’s easy to overlook the basics. A safety equipment checklist is a good place to start. The US Coast Guard requires you to bring many safety items along, including personal flotation devices, navigation lights, visual distress signals, and even fire extinguishers. Stranding yourself on the open water can be surprisingly easy, so it’s important to prepare for a crisis scenario and ensure help can find you.
Trailer Dolly
The next thing every new boat owner needs is a trailer dolly. Transporting your boat to and from your home and the water can be one of the biggest hassles. Investing in a trailer dolly will vastly simplify the process of maneuvering the trailer down into the water to release your boat. When shopping for a trailer dolly, you should consider purchasing a motorized trailer mover because it can manage much more weight than manual dollies. These dollies will allow you to exert yourself less and simply enjoy the boating experience.
Docking Fenders
Lastly, if you’re not yet adept at handling your boat, you may not feel confident in your ability to dock your vessel without damaging it. Fenders are an easy addition to make that will provide a safety buffer between your boat and the dock. These modifications ensure that even if there is a small collision, both your boat and dock will not scratch or damage each other.