6 Things Every New Boat Owner Should Do In Florida

Everyone remembers their very first boat, even if it’s a budget-friendly value boat to start with. Taking the keys feels like a magical moment to be cherished, but your experience can be soiled when you soon encounter problems that you didn’t account for beforehand. Everyone at Sovereign Yachts Stuart wants you to be proud of your new purchase with minimal setbacks which is why we encourage you to take a look at these crucial things that every new boat owner should do in Florida:

1. Get Your Boating License and Registration

Owning a boat isn’t as simple as buying one and hitting the water. Just like you need official documentation for a brand-new car, you have to go through the same process when buying a new boat. This includes attaining a boating license and boat registration. Although this is a legal requirement that can’t be skipped, keeping things on record is also good for your own safety. If anything were to happen, you and your boat can be traced so you can get the help you need.

2. Sign Up For Boat Insurance

Another way to protect you and your boat is by looking into boat insurance. There are plenty of accidents that can happen out on the ocean, or even in a lake. You could misjudge the weather and run into some harsh waves that can do a number on your hull, or you can encounter a small impact when trailering. No matter what may happen, it’s best to prepare for everything with the right coverage. You wouldn’t want anything bad to happen with your shiny new boat, after all.

3. Stock Up On All Safety Measures

Before you hit the ocean, stocking up on all necessary safety gear is non-negotiable. Make sure your new boat has these things before you go on your first voyage:

First aid kits

Life jackets

Throwable flotation devices

Containers for bailing

Fire extinguishers

Flares or other signaling devices

Industrial-strength flashlights

Oars or any rowing equipment

4. Find Out How to Properly Maintain Your New Boat

Keeping your new boat well-maintained does more than preserve its appearance, looking like the day you bought it. Regular maintenance does a number of things like ensuring your safety, stabilizing its overall value, and helping it reach its intended lifespan (or longer). Every boat has different needs, so it’s best to keep your owner’s manual handy and follow the instructions to the letter. If you bought a used boat with no manual, you may be able to request a copy from the manufacturer or find a digital version online.

5. Learn How to Operate a Boat, From Trailering to Launching

Operating a boat isn’t something you can just “wing” on the spot. It takes careful preparation and planning for the safety of you, your passengers, and anyone within range of your vessel including properties. Before setting out to sea, make sure you have a deep understanding of the controls and how to properly launch and retrieve your boat to avoid any mishaps. It can also help to know how to hitch your boat to ensure it’s nice and secure when towing it around.

6. Start Paying Attention to Weather Reports

If you’re not much of a weather person, that changes today. The skies can determine whether or not you’ll have a good time out on the water, so you’ll want to know if it’ll be a good or bad day before you set out. Horrible accidents can happen when you’re caught in an unexpected storm, but you can prevent the worst by choosing your trips wisely.

Consult Your Local Boating Experts In Stuart at Sovereign Yachts!

Ready to become a proud boat owner? Visit Sovereign Yachts Stuart today to get started on your new venture! Or, you can check out our inventory of boats and yachts near you on our website.