A float plan is kind of like jumper cables. You won’t need it at all until you
really need it. Then, you will look like the smartest,
best-prepared, sharp-as-a-tack boater on the water. Until then, however, you should get into the habit of using a float plan, if not every time you’re on your boat, at least every time you plan on venturing beyond your well-populated comfort zone.
So, what is a float plan? Simply put, it’s a way to let someone know where you’re going and when you’re likely to return and/or check in. Float plans can cover a few hours, a few days or even months for extended voyages, such as The Big Loop. The idea is that, in the case of an emergency, someone will know where to come look for you or, if needed, help the authorities narrow down the search area.
The best way for a float plan to help (again, when you really need it) is to be short, to-the-point, and in writing. That way, there’s less room for misunderstanding if your plan is needed. Here are some tips for creating an effective float plan.
• Make sure it’s in writing. Did we say that already? Yep…and it deserves repeating. Telling someone over the phone leaves too much to chance. Your plan should be in writing (either on paper, email or even a text). Give (or send) the plan to a family member or friend. It will help if they live in the area you’ll be boating. If you don’t have family or friends close by, you can leave your written plan in your tow vehicle or with a marina neighbor or dockmaster.
• Be as detailed as possible. The plan should include a description of the general area where you’ll be boating, any stops you plan on making, when you’ll be returning and a list of anyone who is going with you. Make sure you include your boat’s brand, model, year, boat name (if you have one), hull identification numbers, and anything else that could help someone spot you on the w
ater. Dark hull? Wake tower? Flag or burgee? Racing graphics?
• Specify where you departed. If you’re trailering, include the name and location of your boat launch ramp, along with your tow vehicle make, model, and tag number. If you’re leaving from a marina, include the marina’s contact information.
• Cover your plans. If you’re making a fishing run out to the weather buoy off the coast of Cape Canaveral, Florida, you can get the exact coordinates from the National Data Buoy Center website (www.ndbc.noaa.gov) and include those in your plan. It is not uncommon for boaters to use a sea mark like a buoy when making a run. Make it easy to find you if you run into any problems.
• Always check in on time. This is the easiest way to make sure you get help if you need it. If you are consistently late checking in as your plan describes, you run the risk of delaying help when you have a legitimate emergency. A quick call that you’ve made it to your destination or check-in spot will let everyone know that you’re okay and help send