Planning-Safety-Courtesy
Planning
- Plan your cruise: Make sure you are aware of your craft (and your own!) limitations and plan accordingly – carefully check weather forecasts and be aware of pull-out locations and sheltered spots. Make sure someone knows where you are going.
- Fuel: Pay close attention to fuel management and re-fuel in a safe way and in a safe place. Make sure you carry enough fuel for your journey (always include a 30% minimum reserve)
- Know your craft and your limits: Plan your route according to both. Don't overload your craft! An overloaded craft will be operating near or at its limit – any minor weather change could push it over that limit!
- Keep within the law: Before operating ensure that your intended route will not infringe local byelaws, navigation restrictions or wildlife sanctuaries.
Safety
- Be Prepared: Full safety equipment must to be carried and checked - carry out a craft preflight check every time you stop! Make sure you have suitable clothing for all forecast conditions (getting wet can be extremely dangerous – always carry spare clothing!). Carry a basic first-aid kit, clean water and an emergency repair kit with you at all times.
- Comms: Make sure you have some way to summon help in an emergency (e.g. marine VHF radio – check reception, mobile phone – check it works where you are going, flares, etc).
- Don’t drink and drive: You know it makes sense. Alcohol badly affects your responses and judgement
Courtesy
- Operate with consideration: Operate with due consideration for others at all times – watch your fan/prop blast and make sure bystanders are kept well clear when manoeuvring on land.
- Noise: Use minimum speed and throttle when close to populated areas, people or wildlife.
- Avoid beach buzzing: Try not to go past the same area more than once an hour. Stay away from populated beaches, shorelines or public areas unless no other route is available.
- Watch your speed: Adjust your speed to suit the conditions or waterway regulations and take extra care when close to other water users.
- Take care of the Environment: Don't damage plants, vegetation or disturb wildlife. Stay at least 100 metres away from feeding birds on water or mudflats and keep a safe distance from seals and cetaceans (dolphin, porpoise, etc.)