Education and awareness is the best method of prevention, so read some of our safety tips below to help build up your knowledge on the best ways to stay safe on board your boat charter.

1. Watch the Weather

Before any trip it is important to keep an eye on the weather in order to know what your sailing conditions will be like. Even while out on your boat you should still watch for any changes in the weather. If you sense a storm approaching, notice rough changes in wind and temperature, play it safe and get off of the water.

2. Share Your Float Plan

It is always best to let others know when you will be out on a boating trip. Make sure you share all the important information with someone who is not on your trip- such as a friend, family member, or someone at your boat’s marina. Share with them information regarding the boat manufacturer and model, where and when you will be boating, as well as a way for people to get in contact with you.

3. Be Smart  and Stay Alert

Being aware and using common sense is one of the best way to keep you and your passengers safe while on board your yacht charter. This means captaining your boat at proper speeds, keeping an eye out and being aware of other boaters. Carelessness and recklessness are usually two factors that contribute to unsafe boating and unwanted accidents. Luckily this is something we all have the ability to prevent. Be smart, be aware!

4. Lifejackets

An essential part of boat safety is having life jackets on board. Your boat should be stocked with enough properly fitting life jackets for everyone. A major cause of drowning is due to not wearing a lifejacket. The U.S. Coast Guard rules requires all children under 13 on moving boats to a wear a bright-colored, reflective life vest at all times.

5. Learn to Swim

Knowing how to swim is invaluable especially when it comes to being on a boat. Aside from all of the fun activities and watersports you can do, knowing how to swim can end up saving your life. Swimming is a skill you should have if you plan on being in or around the water. If you don’t know how to swim, it’s never too late to learn!

6. No Alcohol

Do not drink alcohol while operating a boat. Alcohol consumption is a leading contributor to boating accidents. Stay hydrated a different way, by drinking lots of water.

At Sailo, it is our mission to make sure everyone has a fun and more importantly safe ride. That is why we make sure all our boat rentals and captains are certified to provide you with a safe ride, whether you are hopping on board a captained vessel or are captaining yourself. Now that you know some of the basics of boating safety, check out our extensive fleet of boat rentals and yacht charters in locations such as New York, Miami, Cuba, British Virgin Islands, Thailand, and Europe.