Carrying OC boat insurance means that mishaps at sea are not the end of the world and that your insurance company most likely will cover the cost of any repairs. Even so, avoiding boat launch mistakes and accidents saves you the hassle of filing a claim and ultimately allows you more time on the water.
Here are four common boat launch mistakes that you can easily avoid with a little bit of forethought.
1. Inviting Too Many Friends
Popularity is one benefit of owning a boat, but sometimes it also is a detriment. For example, you may intend to take a small group out for a relaxing cruise; but when each of your friends shows up with several family members, you may be too polite to tell someone they can’t come. If each person also brings a cooler full of drinks, you can exceed your vessel’s weight limit and end up capsizing.
2. Being in Too Much of a Hurry
Everyone is eager to get out on the water, especially in the summer when you want to beat the heat. Rushing, however, can lead to forgetfulness. For example, one of the most common boat launch mistakes is forgetting to put the plug in the drain. You may not notice it is missing as you speed to your favorite fishing spot, but your mistake will become obvious once you stop and the boat fills with water.
3. Being Too Confident
As the captain of your vessel, you feel confident in its operation. If you have sailed in the same waters for a number of years, you probably also feel good about your navigation skills. However, the lights along a shoreline at night can disorient even the most experienced sailors, and sometimes fog can make it impossible to see. To keep from getting lost, update your maps and nautical charts to the latest digital versions.
4. Operating in Too Shallow Water
One mistake that might require calling your OC boat insurance company is running aground. Sometimes this call may be to request a tow out of a muddy bottom, while on other occasions, it might be to report serious damage caused by rocks. Here are some tips for not hitting bottom with your boat:
- Designate a crewmate as spotter
- Rely on your depth finder
- Keep the outboard motor partially submerged
- Be aware of different colors of open water
OC boat insurance agents will get you out of a jam, but it is always better to prevent boat launch mistakes in the first place. Whether you are new to boating or you’re a pro, simple preventative measures go a long way toward keeping your trip free of mishaps.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
