Why a Float Plan is Needed for Your Boating Trip
You’re going on a week-long boating trip. Do family and friends know where you are going and how to contact you? Do you have a float plan for your boating vacation?
You need a float plan for your boating vacation in case you do not arrive at your destination as planned. A float plan can make the difference between your safety and a tragedy.
Do you know what a float plan is?
A float plan is also called a trip plan or a sail plan.
As a recreational boater, you should file a trip plan before going out on the water, especially if you are going on a boating vacation for any length of time.
What if you’re just going to be out on the water for a few hours? You may not want to file a written trip plan, but you do need to tell someone about your destination and when you will return to shore for your safety.
Who do you give your trip plan to?
Trip plans/ float plans are usually left with a friend, family member, or marina so that a rescue coordination centre or a search and rescue team can be contacted and mobilized if you fail to arrive at your boating destination.
A float plan can be written or verbal and it provides valuable information in an emergency. It’s like the equivalent of a pilot’s flight plan.
What’s in a float plan?
Description of your boat
A float plan includes your boat’s size, colour, make, whether it is motor- or wind-powered, and its identification number.
Where are you going?
You need to include a plan of your boat route to help rescuers find if there’s an emergency.
Starting point
Where are you leaving from? Name the marina or launch ramp.
Vehicle information
Include location and license plate number of your vehicle or tow vehicle.
Number of people aboard your boat
List names, ages, genders and any medical conditions or disabilities of the people on your boat that could be relevant in a rescue operation.
Destination
Include your destination and when you plan to arrive. If your trip is lengthy, you should consider including places and arrival times in your trip plan.
Contact information
Provide contact information for your boat, including cell phone numbers and VHF radio.
How do I file a written float plan?
Transport Canada has boating trip plan form that can be filled out online and emailed to your designated family member or friend.
You can also file your trip plan with a marina or your local Canadian Coast Guard detachment.
A float plan/trip plan isn’t legally required in Canada, but it can help keep you safe if you have a boating mishap or accident and you do not arrive at your destination.
Equipment you need for your boating vacation
- Personal floatation devices (PFDs): By law, recreational boats must have enough Canadian-approved flotation devices of the appropriate size for everyone on board. Lifesaving cushions are not approved as personal flotation devices.
- Lights: Make sure all navigation lights and all instrument lights are working.
- Tools: Carry a basic toolbox with tools appropriate for your boat. Carry a box of spares including fuel filter, light bulbs, head parts, through-hull plugs.
- Fire extinguisher: Carry at least one fire extinguisher.
- Distress signals: Make flares accessible and ensure they are stored in a cool, dry location.
Before you leave on your boating trip:
Make sure you have enough fuel for your return to shore. Check the engine oil and coolant levels.
Check the weather forecast before boating. Have a radio on board to get weather forecasts.