It’s a thrilling experience to get a boat new. The possibilities are endless! It’s easy to start daydreaming about activities and itineraries with family and friends even before the engines turn on.

Before you take off for the open seas, make sure you have a list of all your boat necessities.

• Boat Safety Equipment

It is a good idea to look at the List of boat accessories in perth to help you determine what you need. This list includes many items required by the U.S. Coast Guard and many items we already have. Registration numbers and documentation, PFDs and documentation, visual distress signals, fire extinguishers and sound producing devices, navigation light, and more.

A VHF radio with digital selective calling can be added to recommended equipment.

• Register Numbers and Proper Documentation

You should check with your state and local authorities for the right paperwork.

Tip: Keeping paperwork dry and safe onboard is always a good idea. The pouch should be kept separate from the larger waterproof bag, which protects smartphones, cameras and other accessories guests bring for the day.

Learn more about the documentation required in your state.

• Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs), also known as Life Jackets

Next, consider life jackets. Consider the number of people who will be aboard your boat at any time and their size. Children’s life jackets should be considered if children are involved in the cruising plans. For adults who prefer to buy larger sizes than XL, some manufacturers make “big and tall” life jackets.

• Basic First Aid Kit

Consider adding a basic first-aid kit to your boat’s gear after removing the life jackets. These kits are made by multiple manufacturers and include survival blankets and hydration tablets.

• Devices for visual and sound signaling

In case of emergency, you will also need distress signaling equipment. Smaller boats than 16 feet do not require a distress signal operating between sunsets and sunrises. You can probably go if you don’t plan to use your boat at night.

For boats 16 feet and larger, you will need to use a combination distress flag, floating smoke signals, and flares. You can find information at a boating-supply shop about the various options available for your boat.

• Fenders and Docking Equipment

You’ll need to purchase fenders next. You will likely pull up alongside a dock or boat to tie up. Having at least two fenders as a buffer zone to protect your boat and whatever you are tying up to every day is a good idea.

You may need specialty fenders depending on the use of your boat. You can make a specialty fender to protect a pontoon, swim platform, or a corner of your boat. An anchor and a line are also useful.

Here are some tips to help you dock your boat.

• Boating Accessories

The fun stuff is last, and that’s decking your boat out with the most recent gear and accessories.

• For drying off after a swim, use big fluffy towels.
• Tow toy and water skis for pulling behind your boat
• A cooler that can hold all your drinks, snacks and ice you need for a day in the sun.

Speaking of the sun, always have extra sunscreen for guests who forgot to bring it. If you plan to spend a lot of time on the water at midday, you might consider purchasing a removable Bimini Top or another type of portable shade.

If your boat’s ignition key does not include a floating keychain you can purchase one to protect your keys from getting lost in a drink. You can store small items inside floating key chains, such as cash or coins, while at a bar or restaurant on the beach.