---
title: Pre-Departure Checklist
description: We should check everything about our boat before leaving the dock to prevent an unpleasant situation.
image: https://21118949.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/21118949/courses/usa2024/images/images-transparentes/boat-pre-departure-checklist.png
---

## What is a pre-departure checklist for boating?

A good way to avoid unwanted surprises on the water is to complete a pre-departure checklist before each trip. A pre departure checklist is easy to review, and it ensures that you don't get caught on the water unprepared. It is also useful to keep new passengers informed and comfortable.

![Pre-Departure Checklist](https://21118949.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hub/21118949/hubfs/courses/usa2024/images/images-transparentes/boat-pre-departure-checklist.png?width=1100&height=619&name=boat-pre-departure-checklist.png)

**Common sense tells us that we should check everything about our boat before leaving the dock to prevent an unpleasant situation.**

## What should be included in my pre-departure checklist?

### Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

- At least one Coast Guard approved device per passenger and a minimum of two on board.
- An additional throwable device is required if the vessel is more than 16 feet long.
- Explain the location and use of all PFDs to passengers and crew that may be new to the vessel.

### Sound Producing Devices (Whistle)

- Must have a horn capable of producing a four-second blast audible for at least 1/2 mile.
- If a portable air horn, have a spare can of air or an alternate device.

### Lights and Shapes

- All navigation lights as required.
- Instrumental lights working.
- If you intend to engage in an activity that requires a day shape, have the required shapes.
- Flashlight on-board.

### Distress Signals

- Accessible flares, day signals, etc., stored in a dry location.
- Carry signals at all times even if not required by the Coast Guard.
- Inform the crew and passengers of their location and their use.

### Tools and Spares

- Basic tool box on-board.
- Box of spares aboard, e.g., fuel filter, light bulbs, head parts, through hull plugs, etc.

### Ventilation

- On any powered vessel or auxiliary powered sailboat, or vessels using LPG for cooking or heat, check that all interior spaces are well ventilated before departure.
- If fuel smells are detected before ventilating, check after running the blowers for several minutes before starting.
- If odor persists, stop and look for the source of the leak.

### Fire Extinguishers

- Accessible fire extinguisher. Do you have at least those required by the U.S.C.G.?
- Check to be sure mounts are secure and functional before departure.
- Take the time to point out locations to passengers and crew.

### Fuel and Oil

- Are your tanks topped-off?
- If not, have enough fuel to provide a reasonable margin of safety for your return.
- Check the engine oil and coolant level.

### Bilges

- Check to be sure bilges are reasonably dry and that pumps are not running excessively.
- Clean up any spilled oil or waste in bilges so as to prevent overboard discharge.

### Battery  

- If you have a dual charging system, is the selector switch in the proper position?
- Is the power on to the entire vessel?
- Spare batteries for accessories such as a handheld radio, flashlight, portable navigational aid, etc.
- If they are rechargeable, are they charged?

### Weather Forecast

- Did you check the weather forecast?
- Radio on board to receive weather updates.

### Docking and Anchoring

- At least one anchor set up and bent-on to your anchor line.
- Two or three extra docklines in case of unusual conditions dockside.
- Visually inspect the lines you use for chafe or wear.
- At least two fenders on-board for docking or towing if required.

### Documentation

- Have the ship's papers, radio license, fishing permit, etc. on board.
- Have the chart or charts for the area you intend to cruise in, regardless of your level of local knowledge.

### Boat Operator Safety Orientation

**Before departure, the boat operator should review the following emergency equipment with everyone on board**

- Locate PFDs, explain when to put them on, demonstrate how, and emphasize the importance of proper fit.
- Locate fire extinguishers and explain their use if there is a fire emergency.
- Locate required flares (VDS) and explain why, when and how they are used.
- Point out the location of your first aid kit.
- Point out Oil Pollution Placard and Save Our Seas Placard (if required) and explain details of discharging waste and waste management procedures.
- Point out location of anchor and give brief explanation of its use and how to deploy.
- Explain operation of the Marine Radio (if equipped) and explain its use during an emergency.
- Have a discussion of weather watching and explain passenger/crew duties and responsibilities in the case you encounter heavy weather.
- Prior to docking or undocking, explain fully the procedures for line handling. Use terms describing lines that the passengers/crew can understand or explain the terms you use.
- Explain what to do in case of operations emergencies such as loosing steering, loosing an engine, etc.
- Explain procedures and responsibilities of passengers and crew in case of a crew overboard situation.
- Appoint others on board to serve as lookouts for people in the water, marine life, and submerged obstructions (including coral reefs, where applicable).

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