Top 10 Tips for Taking Family and Friends Boating

Boating is one of those activities that becomes even more enjoyable when shared with family and friends. Whether it’s a relaxing day on the water, a fishing adventure, or exhilarating water sports, boating can create lasting memories. However, a successful trip doesn’t just happen—it takes careful preparation and thoughtfulness. Here are my top tips to ensure a safe, fun, and unforgettable outing for everyone involved.

Safety should always come first on the water. A critical step is ensuring you have an adequate number of lifejackets for everyone on board. By law, every passenger must have access to a correctly fitting lifejacket, and it’s essential to verify their condition before setting off.

Having a range of lifejackets to suit different needs is a wise investment. Standard emergency lifejackets are mandatory but can be cumbersome for prolonged use. Compact, inflatable options or waist-style lifejackets offer excellent alternatives for comfort and practicality, particularly for activities like fishing or when children are on board. These modern designs provide safety without compromising movement, ensuring everyone can enjoy the day feeling secure and at ease.

A successful boating trip begins with understanding the conditions. Always check the weather forecast, tides, and wind conditions before heading out. If you’re navigating shallow areas like sand flats, knowing whether the tide is incoming or outgoing is crucial. An outgoing tide can leave you stranded—an experience best avoided when hosting guests.

Equally important is familiarising yourself with local navigation markers and waterway rules. Keeping within designated channels and knowing the area’s hazards helps to ensure a safe and stress-free outing. Apps and online resources can be particularly helpful in planning your route and staying updated on conditions.

An organised boat is a happy boat. Keeping your gear tidy and easily accessible not only reduces stress but also maximises space, especially on smaller vessels. Pack with purpose: bring only what you need for the planned activities. For instance, a tackle box with compartmentalised storage tailored to your fishing plans can save time and effort.

For general outings, consider packing essentials such as a first aid kit, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of drinking water. Organisation ensures that you can quickly find what you need, keeping the day running smoothly and allowing everyone to focus on enjoying themselves.

Not everyone is used to spending extended periods on a boat. Scheduling regular breaks can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Identify locations where you can dock or anchor to allow your guests to stretch their legs, grab a bite to eat, or use a bathroom.

If you’re boating near an estuary or along the coast, look for cafes with accessible jetties. These stops provide an excellent opportunity to relax, refuel, and take in the surroundings. Breaks are particularly beneficial for children, who may appreciate the chance to run around and burn off energy.

1. Modern smartphones are invaluable tools on the water. With the right accessories, such as waterproof cases and portable chargers, your phone can serve multiple purposes. Use it to check real-time weather updates, monitor tides, and navigate using digital maps. Many apps also provide information about nearby fuel stations, marinas, and safe anchor points.
2. In unexpected situations, such as a sudden change in wind direction, your phone can help you quickly locate a sheltered cove or safe docking area. Beyond practicality, smartphones are great for capturing and sharing memories of your trip. Don’t forget to snap a few photos or record videos to look back on later.
   

Adding water sports to your boating trip can bring extra excitement, but it requires careful planning. Before engaging in activities like tubing, wakeboarding, or water skiing, ensure you understand the local rules and designated areas for these activities.

Choose calm, sheltered bays to minimise interference from other boats. Safety is paramount, so make sure participants understand basic hand signals for communication, such as “faster,” “slower,” “stop,” and “okay.” Having the right gear, such as tow ropes, skis, and helmets, is equally important. Proper preparation ensures that water sports become a highlight of your day rather than a source of stress.

Good communication is the foundation of a smooth boating experience. Before departing, brief your passengers on safety protocols, the itinerary, and what to expect during the trip. Explain where safety equipment is stored and demonstrate how to use it.

Throughout the day, keep everyone informed about upcoming activities, such as fishing, swimming, or docking. Clear communication helps avoid confusion and ensures everyone feels involved and included.

1. When hosting guests, especially those new to boating, their comfort should be a top priority. Pack plenty of food and drinks, catering to dietary preferences where possible. Provide ample shade, whether through a bimini top, umbrellas, or portable canopies, and bring extra towels and warm clothing in case the weather takes a turn.
2. For children or first-timers, consider packing games, colouring books, or other activities to keep them entertained during downtime. A little extra preparation can make a significant difference in ensuring everyone enjoys their time on the water.

1. Boaters have a responsibility to protect the waterways. Adhere to no-wake zones, avoid disturbing wildlife, and ensure all rubbish is disposed of correctly. Using eco-friendly products, such as biodegradable sunscreen and non-toxic cleaning supplies, can further minimise your impact.
2. Teach your guests about the importance of preserving the environment. Simple actions, like avoiding overfishing or safely releasing unwanted catches, contribute to the health of aquatic ecosystems and help maintain the beauty of our waterways for future generations.

1. Conditions on the water can change rapidly, and flexibility is essential. Whether it’s adjusting your plans due to weather or finding an alternative destination when your first choice is overcrowded, staying adaptable ensures the day remains enjoyable.
2. Being prepared for unexpected situations—like a sudden drop in temperature or engine trouble—can prevent small hiccups from becoming major setbacks. Keeping a calm and positive attitude will help your passengers feel safe and ensure the trip is remembered for all the right reasons.

1. Boating with family and friends is one of life’s greatest pleasures. By prioritising safety, preparation, and consideration for your guests’ comfort, you can create a day filled with laughter, adventure, and cherished memories. Whether it’s a tranquil fishing trip, an exciting day of water sports, or simply cruising through scenic waterways, these tips will help you make the most of your time on the water.