Anthony Lodati — 8 Basic Boating Tips
Anthony Lodati, an entrepreneur and experienced boater, claims boating is the perfect hobby to wind down from a stressful week. However, it requires proper training, navigational skills, and years of experience to safely navigate the waters.
Boating combines physical fitness, technical knowledge, and analytical skills to make the experience pleasurable. Here are some of Anthony Lodati’s vital tips that can help a beginner take their trips to the next level:
Receive Proper Training
First and foremost, receive proper training. Without proper training, it is almost impossible to boat properly. Finding someone to help you learn proper boating is simple. First, take a look around the internet to find establishments that are available in your area. These may include boating clubs, boating enthusiasts groups, or marine organizations.
Training will teach you the basics of boating, including terminology, steering, wind awareness, rigging, knot tying, equipment use, safety, prepping boats, downwind sailing, upwind sailing, gybing, recovery of persons overboard, and more.
License and Registration
This part of boating is vital. Every state is different, so research the boating requirements in your state before you start your new hobby. Often the requirements are that you be over the age of 17 and pass a written test.
Understand Your Boating Gadgets
There are many gadgets that can help you take care of your boat and prevent any damage. Thus, it is crucial to be knowledgeable about fishing gadgets, safety gadgets, navigation gadgets, and other gadgets specific to your type of boat, and the activities you want to enjoy. Most importantly, be sure you are familiar with everything that is on your boat.
Check the Weather
Immediately before boating, it is critical that you check the weather. Changes in weather are unpredictable, and a sudden change can prove hazardous. If you live in New York like Anthony Lodati, you understand how fast the weather can change. Be sure to check your local area for upcoming weather reports.
Create a Checklist
Create a pre-departure checklist to ensure that safety and precaution rules are not overlooked. Rather than having another item to carry, consider using your smartphone for this list. This will also ensure that you have a smartphone with you while you’re out, which can be very useful when you are looking for directions or if you run out of gas.
Float Plan
Prior to leaving on your boat trip, be sure a float plan is left on the shore. This ensures someone on shore is aware of when and where to look for you. A float plan is of utmost importance and has saved many a life in the past.
Do Not Forget Lifejackets
This tip is not only for those who do not know how to swim; in fact, most boating-related deaths occurred because people, including swimmers, were not wearing Lifejackets.
Have a First Aid Kit on Boat
Boating is a lot of fun, but it can also be very dangerous. You can cut your hand while fishing, lurch forward and fall, or get a horrible sunburn (perhaps even sun poisoning). Having a first aid kit on your boat is a must have since there is no immediate medical professional available. With a first aid kit, you can treat someone or yourself before returning to shore.
