While the weather might be too chilly for a boat ride, it’s the perfect time to get a jumpstart on your preparations for the upcoming boating season. Instead of waiting for warmer days, utilize your downtime to ensure you have everything in order when the time comes to hit the water.
Follow this handy checklist to save time and make the most of your boating experience!
1. Check Your Paperwork:
- Ensure your boat is registered. If not, kickstart the process with the MVC Application for Boat Registration BA-51.
- Display your registration number correctly with proper spacing.
- Validate your registration with the expiration date decal placed appropriately on each side of the boat.
2. Lights, Horns, and Bells:
- Night boating? Confirm you have the required navigation lights operational between sunset and sunrise.
- Check that your horn or whistle is in working order.
- Verify the functionality of your bell if required.
3. Safety Equipment:
- Install a U.S. Coast Guard approved flame arrester for applicable gasoline engines.
- Assess the condition of personal flotation devices (PFDs), ensuring you have at least one wearable Type I, II, or III, or V PFD per person.
- Check and replace any worn or torn PFDs.
- Vessels 16 feet or longer should carry a throwable Type IV device, so make sure it’s in good shape.
- Confirm the presence of an adequate bilge ventilation system.
- Check expiration dates on visual distress signals and fire extinguishers, ensuring they are suitable for marine use.
4. Operator’s License and Certifications:
- If boating on non-tidal waters, update your NJ driver’s license with the “BOAT” endorsement by obtaining a non-tidal boat license.
- Obtain the NJSP-issued Boating Safety Certificate by completing the approved course and passing the exam. Check the schedule at BoatSafeUS.com for classes and exams.
5. Float Plan:
- Create a float plan detailing your boating itinerary, and share it with a trusted individual. Download a template here.
6. Happy Boating:
- Make your preparations now during the winter months to ensure a seamless transition to the boating season.
Don’t let the cold weather deter your boating enthusiasm. By checking off these items now, you’ll be well-prepared for a summer filled with safe and enjoyable boating adventures!
