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Owning a boat gives you access to the open sea, adventures and relaxing getaways. However, boat ownership also calls for maturity and attention to detail. Here are three important responsibilities that come with owning your own boat.
Safety
Many states do not require the same type of operator’s license to run a boat as they do for driving an automobile. However, you still need to understand maritime laws and conventions along with safety practices.
- Ensure all passengers are wearing life vests
- Know your boat well, including all of its safety features and how to use the radio to call for help
- Make sure your boat always has an up-to-date fire extinguisher
You want to equip your vessel with equipment and yourself with knowledge that would easily pass a U.S. Coast Guard safety check.
Maintenance
Keeping your boat clean and shiny is rewarding, but you also have to care for all of the machinery and working parts under the surface. There are some simpler things you can do yourself, and if you are mechanically minded, you also may be able to handle simple repairs. If you do not know a screw from a hammer, though, be sure you find a reliable mechanic to keep your boat in great shape. You also need to have a dependable source for quality replacement parts for boats.
Storage
You also must decide how and where you will store your boat. Options include storing your vessel in a safe, specially designed shelter on dry land or in the water in a marina. Your circumstances and available choices where you live are major factors in this decision, as is your budget.
Sailing the Seas With Responsibility
As with many luxuries, boat ownership requires accountability and a sense of duty. You must keep your vessel in good shape and know how to operate it as well as provide safety measures for all passengers. The good news is that when you take boat ownership seriously, you can have a lot of fun.