This weekend is Memorial Day and unfortunately that usually means multiple mishaps on the water, I feel compelled to address safety on the water.
Few things are more enjoyable than being out on the water to watch a special event, but when it's over, it may be dark, and there'll certainly be lots of other boats all trying to get home at the same time. Here's how to make sure that your summer outing stays fun from start to finish:
This excerpt from an article in BoatsUS Reports is dead on.
Manage the guest list. An overloaded boat doesn't handle well, and when this gets combined with washing machine-style wakes generated by a pack of boats making their getaways, it can lead to swamping or capsizing. Be mindful of your boat's capacity, keep extra people off the flybridge, and have a properly fitted life jacket for everyone aboard.
Check your navigation lights. In the dark, the only way for another boater to determine your boat's direction is by tracking your navigation lights. Fix any broken lights before you go, and make sure that nothing blocks any part of the arc of the light. If your boat has a combination bow light, check that the lens hasn't been reversed during installation. Make sure you're showing red on port and green on starboard.
Don't paddle your own canoe. Standup paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes are great — but not in the middle of a crowd of boats after dark.
Boat responsibly. Wait until after you've tied up for the night before consuming alcohol. Operating a boat while under the influence is illegal, and in some states it could cost you your car driver's license, or worse.