The boating season is an exciting period to set sail and enjoy the summer, whether you’re a new boat owner or you’ve been in the game for some time now. Ensuring that you have essential boating supplies on your vessel is a good way to keep worries at bay and enjoy the waters in a fun and safe way. In this article, we discuss some boating supplies that you need as a boat owner while on the water.

Personal Flotation Gear

Lifejackets are an important part of safety precautions. There should be enough lifejackets on your vessel for each person aboard. Having a spare lifejacket or two might also be vital for safety. When buying lifejackets, it’s important to ensure that you choose the correct size for your loved ones. If you have a child on board, ensure they always wear their lifejacket.

Fenders

Fenders can come in handy when tying your vessel to another boat or a dock. Sometimes referred to as boat bumpers, fenders can help cushion your vessel and avoid costly repairs. You can have two for the front of the vessel and two for the back. However, it wouldn’t hurt to have spare fenders.

Flare Guns

Before sailing, ensure you have at least two kits of flare guns. Flare guns that are visible both during the day and at night will be handy when sending distress signals during an emergency.

First Aid Kit

A well-equipped first aid kit is important for safety on the boat. Whether you plan to purchase one or prepare it yourself, having a first aid kit on board is a good precaution. To customize your kit to suit the boating lifestyle, you can consider adding some sunscreen, motion sickness pills, and an emergency thermal blanket.

Anchors

Anchors help your vessel stay in place when you’re not using it. There are different anchors for different vessels and different water bottoms. If you’re unsure what type of anchor to get, consult a marine professional.

Backup Power Source

Like in a car, your vessel’s battery might run out of power after a long period of use. Installing a backup power source, such as a solar panel, might reduce the worry of your vessel running out of power. If you’re unsure of the size of solar panel needed or need help installing a solar panel, consult a professional.

Looking for Boat Maintenance and Repair Services in Metro Vancouver?

If you’re preparing your boat for the season and are looking for professional help, contact us at OS Marine. We offer various trusted boat maintenance and repair services to boat owners, marine dealers, and shipyards in Vancouver. Our team is experienced in the installation and repair of marine electronics, surface fabrication, boat detailing, and boat winterization and de-winterization.

Call us at +1 (778) 2373565 or use our online form to request a quote.