Tips for Boating at Night
There are so many ways to enjoy your boat. It’s easy to get caught up having fun that you end up continuing your journey after the sun goes down. This can be a beautiful experience so long as you take the right safety precautions. After all, it can be difficult to see where you’re going in the dark. Fortunately, Jet Ski of Miami has gathered some helpful tips for boating at night. Keep reading to learn more. If you have questions or you’re still searching for the perfect vessel, visit our dealership in Miami, FL, near Hialeah.
Install Boat Lights
Whether or not your boat comes with lights, you’ll want to take a moment to decide if what you have is sufficient. There are essentials that you shouldn’t go without, like overhead lights and running lights. These will not only make it easier for you to see, but it’ll make it easier for others to see you as well. Docking lights are useful for close-quarter maneuvering and cockpit lights can make it easier to read charts and utilize navigational equipment.
Don’t forget that these lights should be on the dimmer side. Bright lights are helpful in certain scenarios, but you may not want to be constantly readjusting the brightness level. If you want something brighter now and then, consider investing in a spotlight or searchlight.
Learn to Read the Lights
If you reside in an area that sees a lot of nighttime boat traffic, then most of the boats are going to have navigation lights. These are a series of green, red, and white lights used between boaters to communicate the direction in which they’re headed. You’ll find the green light on the starboard (right) side and the red light is on the port (left) side. Larger ships often come with white navigation lights, too.
When you know what certain lights mean, you’ll be able to navigate the water more safely and easily. For instance, if you observe white and red lights, it means the boat is coming up on your right and you should allow it some room. It’s crucial to understand navigational lights when you’re boating in high-traffic areas, so take some time to familiarize yourself before you hit the water at night.
Slow and Steady
If you’re unable to see much in front of you or around you, you’ll need to take it slow. This applies to any vehicle, but it’s particularly important on the water when you’re unable to rely on street lights. Be aware that you’re not only trying to avoid collisions with other boats but you also need to avoid hitting anything else in the water, such as rocks or a sandbar.
Pay Attention
This last tip should go without saying, but it never hurts to emphasize the importance of paying attention. When it’s dark outside, you’ll need to be even more alert than usual. While your eyes can spot a lot, it would be wise to ask your crew to keep their eyes peeled, too. They can look in directions that you’re unable to see from the helm and spot obstacles before you do.
When your vision is affected by the darkness, you’ll need to engage your other senses like your hearing. You want to be able to hear bells and horns that will draw your attention to something you might miss otherwise. It’s critical to remain alert so you can safely travel from one place to another at night. Make an effort to minimize distractions and stay focused at all times.
The good news is that with the right strategy in place, you can stay out on the water even after the sun goes down for the day. It’s a new type of boating, so it makes sense that you might have some questions. If you want more tips, give us a call or stop in and talk to our team at Jet Ski of Miami. Our dealership can also assist with parts and service. You’ll find us conveniently located in Miami, FL, near Hialeah.