Welcome back to the third instalment in my series on learning how to safely head out in a powerboat. So far, we've talked about getting to know your boat and understanding propellers and speed. Now it's time to dive into something equally important, if not a little less glamorous: planning.
Good planning can make the difference between a fantastic day on the river and an unexpected adventure involving rescue boats and soggy sandwiches. As skipper, you are responsible for not just yourself, but your crew, your boat, and even other water users. So, let's look at how to properly plan your day on the water, taking into account weather, tides, river conditions, and the equipment you'll need to ensure everything goes smoothly.
First and foremost, the skipper is the one ultimately responsible for the safety of the boat and everyone on it. It sounds a bit serious—and it is—but with proper planning, it doesn't need to be daunting. Here are some key responsibilities of a powerboat skipper:
Check the Weather:
Before you even think about launching the boat, check the weather forecast. Wind speed, direction, and any potential changes are important to know. You want to avoid unexpected gusts or find yourself out in conditions that are more challenging than you're comfortable with. Since I'm using an electric outboard, the wind has a big impact on battery life, so calm weather is often a plus.
Understand the River Conditions:
On the Thames, conditions can vary depending on rainfall, currents, and river flow. Make sure you check for any alerts or warnings—for example, red boards indicating strong currents. If the river is running fast, it might be best to stay ashore and have a cup of tea instead.
Tides and Water Levels:
Depending on your location on the Thames, tides can play a big part in your day. Knowing when the tide will be high or low will help you plan your journey and make sure you avoid any shallow spots or tricky currents.
Create a Float Plan:
Always let someone onshore know your planned route and expected return time. This way, if something does go wrong, someone will know when and where to start looking for you. It might seem like overkill, but you’d be glad of it if you ran into any problems.
Having the right equipment on board can be the difference between a minor hiccup and a major inconvenience. Before setting out, make sure you've got everything you need—both for yourself and for the boat.
1. Personal Equipment
Buoyancy Aids:
Everyone on board should have a well-fitted buoyancy aid or life jacket. There’s no point in stowing them under a seat where they’re inaccessible in an emergency—keep them on at all times.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing:
The Thames can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and make sure you have a waterproof jacket to keep you dry. Remember, wet and cold crew members are not happy crew members.
Footwear:
Non-slip, waterproof shoes are essential. There's nothing quite like trying to navigate a slippery deck in unsuitable footwear—trust me, I've seen enough wobbly moments to know!
Personal Items: Sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a bottle of water are always a good idea. Even if it doesn't look sunny, reflections off the water can lead to sunburn - we have the experience to know this..
2. Boat Equipment
Safety Kit:
A good safety kit should include a first aid kit, a whistle, flares (if needed), a throw line, and a fire extinguisher. You don't want to need these things, but you’ll be glad you have them if you do.
Anchor and Line:
Make sure you have an anchor and enough line to secure your boat if needed. This is especially important if you’re navigating areas with tricky currents or want to moor up for a picnic.
Paddle or Boat Hook:
Even with an engine, having a paddle or boat hook is useful in case you need to manoeuvre in tight spots or retrieve something from the water.
C
harged Battery:
Since I use an electric outboard, my routine before heading out is a bit different. I always check that my battery is fully charged, and since it's a hefty 30kg, I usually charge it at home from our solar batteries. Make sure any charging cables or backup batteries are securely stowed on board—the last thing you want is to run out of power halfway through your trip!
Navigation Lights:
If there’s any chance you’ll be out after dark, ensure your navigation lights are functioning. Even if you’re planning a daytime jaunt, unexpected delays can happen.
To give you an idea of what planning looks like in action, here’s a typical checklist I go through before setting out on the Thames:
Check the Weather and River Conditions: Look at the forecast and river boards for any warnings.
Charge the Battery: Make sure the electric outboard is fully charged and ready to go.
Inspect the Boat: Give the boat a once-over. Is the safety equipment all present? Are the lines in good condition?
Load Personal Gear: Make sure you have buoyancy aids for everyone, appropriate clothing, and other personal essentials.
Float Plan: Let someone know when you’re planning to leave, where you’re headed, and when you expect to be back.
Launch with Care: Once everything is ready, launch the boat calmly and confidently—and off you go!
Planning may not be the most exciting part of powerboating, but it’s certainly one of the most important. Proper planning ensures that when you’re out on the river, you’re free to enjoy the ride without worrying about what might go wrong. It’s all about making sure your boat, your crew, and you are ready for whatever the Thames might throw at you.
In the next episode, we’ll look at the finer points of boat handling, from leaving the dock to coming alongside smoothly—hopefully with a little more grace than my early attempts!
Until then, happy boating, and may all your plans lead to smooth sailing!
