Fall is almost here, but there’s still time to enjoy taking your boat out on the water! While there’s still time to enjoy your boat, it’s important to remember that as the season changes, so does the timing of the sunset. When it comes to the sun setting earlier, there are some safety and planning adjustments you should make to ensure you’re prepared for your trip! We’ll cover some of the basic adjustments and reminders to consider when planning your boating trip during days with less sunlight.
Trip Planning and Timing
Shorten your trips: Account for dusk arriving earlier during your normal outings by cutting your boating trips short. Schedule half-day outings or midday cruises to ensure you return before dusk.
Leave a float plan: You should always leave a float plan, but it’s especially important when boating with new or unexpected conditions. Tell a shore contact your exact route and expected return time so someone knows where you are if you experience any issues.
Watch the weather: As we approach fall, you can expect faster temperature drops and unexpected wind shifts as the sun goes down. Make sure you keep an eye on the weather even while you’re on the water to ensure you can see any issues coming.
Lights and Electronics
Test running lights: If you don’t normally take your boat out near dusk, it’s important that you verify your bow, stern, and masthead lights work properly.
Bring spare power: It’s always better to be safe than sorry! Even if you plan to be back before the sunsets, pack extra batteries for flashlights, headlamps, and handheld GPS units just in case.
Keep electronics charged: Ensure your VHF radio and cell phones are fully charged before leaving. Bring extra power banks on your trip just in case your devices need an extra charge.
Navigation and Operation
Slow down: Reduce your speed in late afternoon or low-light conditions to spot markers and hazards. Running on autopilot during trips you take often during the summer could potentially lead to running into hazards as the sun goes down.
Watch for debris: Shorter days and changing tides can obscure floating logs, rocks, and shallow sandbars. Be mindful of debris; you can also appoint someone on board to help you keep watch. Keeping a good pair of binoculars handy at the helm can also help you to scan darkened shorelines.
Keep noise down: Turn off loud music and ask passengers to speak quietly so you can hear engine sounds or fog signals from nearby traffic. Additionally, if you’re boating near residential areas, they may be less tolerant of late-night noise once summer is over.
Personal Safety and Comfort
Wear life jackets: You should always wear personal flotation devices at all times, but it’s extra important when sailing in different conditions than you and your crew are used to. Ideally, use flotation devices with strobe lights or whistles attached.
Dress in layers: Be mindful of the temperature – the daytime temperature is lower now, and air temperatures drop fast on the water after sunset. Make sure you bring protective layers for you and your family like windbreakers, hoodies, hats, and blankets.
Where Can I Buy A Boat For The End Of The Season?
If you’re looking to buy a boat to enjoy a few more weekends on the water and are located in the Cincinnati or Dayton market area, then you are in luck! Taylor’s South Shore Marina is here to help you find the perfect boat for your budget and lifestyle. You can check out our showroom stock available for immediate delivery. We also have 2027 models that are starting to arrive! Get in touch with our experienced sales team to start the process of buying the boat of your dreams!
