Whether you will be joining mega boat raft-ups at Catalina Island or watching fireworks exploding over the San Francisco Bay, boating is one of the best ways to celebrate the 4th of July. For those who live in an area that shoots fireworks over the water, your boat can give you, your family, and your friends some of the best seats in the house. For many, boating is a weekend affair, and with so many new boaters out on the water, proper preparation can be crucial to getting the most out of the holiday weekend. We hope you enjoy the following tips and wish you all a safe and happy fourth!
Need some last-minute supplies? Our Parts and Accessories department is open Monday-Friday 9-5:00 and is located at 6060 Nicolle Street in Ventura, California.
Get Your Guest List Ready. The fourth of July is a great way to celebrate our nation's independence and is even better when we celebrate with family and friends. If you are a boat owner, you know your popularity increases in the summer, especially around the long holiday weekend. Next thing you know, your boat can be overloaded with people and gear turning a relaxing day on the water into a dangerous one. Make sure you stick to your boat's capacity and don't overload your boat with unnecessary supplies. We suggest getting those invites out early to ensure you know exactly who to expect on your boat and that you have enough safety gear for everyone!
Bring out the toys. If you plan on spending a full day on the water, you can make the most of it by preparing for some fun on the water activities! Floating water mats, such as the Airhead Watermat Inflatable Dock, create a great alternative to bathing beachside in calmer waters. Make sure you have all the necessary dock lines and fenders, and check your mats connection regularly.
One of our favorite daytime activities on the water is stand-up paddle boarding. However, if your weekend plans are a family affair, space can significantly influence what comes out on the boat with you. That's why Zodiac inflatable SUPs are one of our favorite paddle board options for boaters. You can expect the same reliability and durability with these paddle boards as you do with Zodiac boats. These compact paddle boards come in two sizes, an 8 foot board that is perfect for a solo adventurer or an 11 foot board that can easily fit two people. Inflating these boards is quick and easy with an electric or foot pump.
Before the big show. If you plan on watching the fireworks from your boat, it is a good idea to plan ahead. A boater's needs at night vary significantly from the recreational day boater. You want to ensure your boat has all the necessary equipment and is functioning properly. Accidents can happen quickly, especially after a long day on the water when people are racing to return to shore after the fireworks show. Make sure all your navigation, running, and anchor lights are working properly before you launch. Fuel your boat up all the way before you hit the water, as many water fueling stations close once the sun has set. Consider bringing an additional fuel tank for emergencies. A working fire extinguisher can be a lifesaver to combat any sparks that may rain down onto your boat. Remember, communication is vital to a successful day on the water, so make sure those VHF radios, phones, and EPIRB transponders work! Consider carrying a portable cell phone battery charger as a backup.
Plan ahead. Whether this is your first time taking a new boat out on the water or holiday boating is a tradition passed down through the generations, it is always an excellent idea to plan as much as you can ahead of time. Being a boat captain, even for just a few hours, is a big responsibility that should be taken seriously. It is vital that all guests understand any safety protocols before launch and that all lifejackets are age and weight appropriate. Map out your destination beforehand, including areas to drop anchor for leisurely activities, preferred fishing spots, and the best places for watersports like tubing and skiing.
When packing for the day, it is essential to prepare for a variety of situations. A dry bag can keep your gear safe and dry, we like the WoW Dry bag that can easily hold up to 30L of gear! Don't forget items that can easily be overlooked, such as sunscreen, a first aid kit, a patch kit, and a toolbox. Remember, the temperature can vary drastically on the water, so let your guests know to bring a jacket for the post-sunset firework show!
Raft-Up Tips for Large Boat Gatherings. There is nothing quite like rafting up to a group of festive boaters to celebrate. While large boat gatherings, often called flotillas, can be challenging even for the most seasoned boaters, there are plenty of things you can do to mitigate any risk.
If you are planning on meeting with friends, we recommend mapping out a location to meet ahead of time. Things can quickly become hectic if too many boaters are out on the water without a plan. Consider your boat's position and remember while the center of the action may be appealing, your ability to depart quickly will be severely limited. For safety, approach your location at idle speed and designate observers to keep an eye out for other boats, swimmers, and tubers. The largest boat in the fleet should always anchor up first; once secure and appropriate lines and fenders are in place, the captain can cut the engine and start throwing dock lines to connect with other boaters. At the end of the day, you will need to leave the location just as carefully as you arrived, keeping the speed to an idle. If you are departing after a firework display, wait until the air has cleared of any smoke and debris for improved navigation, and remember, patience is key to getting your family and friends safely back to shore!
Boat Specialists will be closed Monday, July 4th, in observance of Independence Day.