The float plan starts with the basics: phone numbers to be called if the boat is overdue, a description of the boat, registration numbers, etc., that can be penciled in at the start of the season. copies can then be made and details added before each trip.. Get in the habit of filing a float plan. it can assure quicker rescue in the event of a breakdown, stranding or weather delay. fill out the permanent data in sections 1 and 2. then, make enough copies to last for the season. if you file a float plan with someone not at your home, such as a harbormaster or boating friend, be sure. The float plan itself. several organizations — boatus, power squadron and others — offer pdf “fill-in-the-blank ” float plans. my favorite is the one put out by the us coast guard auxiliary. us coast guard auxiliary float plan (pdf).
This float plan is just as important for a 10-foot kayak as it is for a 24-foot chris craft runabout or a 90-foot sport fishing vessel. any of these can run into trouble. the form starts out with basic information on the vessel.. If you plan a longer cruise, leave a copy of a written float plan with your marina, yacht club, or friend. a float plan includes a description of your boat, who is on board, a description of the safety equipment you are carrying, where you expect to be, and when you expect to be there.. Complete this form before going out on your boat, and leave it with a reliable person who will notify the coast guard and local authorities if you do not return as scheduled. if you are delayed and it is not an emergency, inform the person with your float plan to avoid an unnecessary search. float plan 1..
