Before you start the engine, check the health of the batteries. You need to make sure they are clean and corrosion free. Check the connections and that the batteries are well secured as well as recharged. Also, take a look at your transmission fluid levels.

When you are getting ready for boating season, you have to remember to check your engine. When was the last time you changed the oil and filters? Refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specifics for your particular boat.

Another thing to check is your engine’s cooling system. Consult the manufacturer’s manual and ensure that everything is as it should be (coolant reservoir full, drain cocks closing well, and any couplings on the tubing well tightened).

Before you start the engine, check the health of the batteries. You need to make sure they are clean and corrosion free. Check the connections and that the batteries are well secured as well as recharged. Also, take a look at your transmission fluid levels.

Check over all your safety equipment and make sure everything is in good condition and well stocked. Replace expired fire extinguishers, replace and replenish items in your first aid kit, ensure all your life jackets and personal flotation devices are sufficient and restock your emergency food and beverage provisions. Test your GPS and other communications technology to be certain everything works.

When you are getting ready for boating season, you have to remember to check your engine. When was the last time you changed the oil and filters? Refer to the manufacturer’s manual for specifics for your particular boat.

You will want to make sure to keep an eye on the skies and an ear to the weather reports while you’re out on the water. It’s easier than ever to get accurate weather information for boaters these days, but if it looks like storms are brewing, then trust your gut and get back to shore.

You will want to leave a float plan with someone you trust: This should hold true for every single trip you take on your boat, but it becomes even more important when boating in the off-season. Here’s everything you need to know about filing a float plan so that if something goes wrong, your rescuers will know when to raise the alarm and where to look to find you.

Refresh your first aid smarts about hypothermia: Take a minute to read about the signs, symptoms, and risks of hypothermia. If you are far from shore, you must act quickly to remove any wet clothing, get protection from wind and cold, and start trying to warm the victim with warm, dry clothing and blankets – or your body heat. Warm liquids can help, but not if they are caffeinated or alcoholic.

Obviously when the temperatures dip below freezing, your risk of life-threatening hypothermia increases. Plan for the cold and dress appropriately with lots of good warm and waterproof layers, a hat, and good gloves. You might want to consider a float-coat, which is great for safety because they come with a built-in Personal Flotation Devices (PFD). Pack an extra change of clothing for each person on board because if anyone gets wet or falls overboard, you’ll need dry clothing urgently. Also, plan to have a fully stocked first aid kit and warm beverages like hot chocolate or foods like soup available.

Key West, Florida has long been a favorite destination of America’s top political figures and celebrities as well as families, young professionals, and diving enthusiasts drawn by its famous coral reefs. This subtropical paradise, the most southern destination in Florida, has stunning landscapes, important cultural and conservation sites, sightseeing and water sports, world-class dining, and a flourishing nightlife.

Maui, the Hawaiian island voted the best island destination by the readership of Conde Nast Traveler for nearly two decades, is truly a natural wonder. Its unique landscape includes pristine beaches, the sacred Iao Valley, and the awe-inspiring bamboo forest and waterfalls in Haleakala National Park. Add to this the opportunities for outdoor activities, fine dining, a vibrant arts community, and quaint shops and you can see why Maui is a perennial favorite.

The Thousand Islands in NY are an explorer’s dream. There are ample opportunities to stop at historic sites and charming towns and cities along this seaway, all of which cater to nautical tourists. If you bring your passports, you can also venture over to the Canadian side where you will find Boldt Castle and Fort Henry. The scenery on either side of the border is idyllic – just make certain your yacht insurance coverage includes international travel.

Hilton Head, SC is the go-to island destination on the east coast for outdoor sports and activities. The championship golf courses here are legendary, bringing visitors from around the world to try these rolling fairways. Tennis and polo are other popular pursuits, plus all the water sports you would expect in a place with seemingly endless beaches. Exploring the Sea Pines Forest Preserve and the Harbor Town Lighthouse are excursions popular with travelers of all ages.