Boating in the winter is a wonderful thing to do. However, it can be dangerous if you don’t have much experience. So here are some quick tips to get you ready for plain sailing.
Make Sure Your Vessel is Reliable
Sailing lakes and rivers is an enjoyable experience with immense spiritual and relaxation value. But first and foremost, you need a reliable boat for going out onto the water. So if you are thinking of buying a boat for recreational use, purchase one from a reputable vendor like TX Toy Sales. Be wary of online sellers with too-good-to-be-true prices, as there could be something wrong with the boat since they require a lot of maintenance and can become expensive.
Get Rid of Ice
No matter the size of your boat, accidents can happen if the decks get covered in ice. Before you leave the marina, you should make sure to give them a sprinkle of salt water and a sweep to get rid of any icy spots. Good shoes are also a must to keep your feet comfortable and to reduce slipping. But even before you get on your boat, launches, waterfronts, and jetties can get icy, making them dangerous to use. So you might also want to clean any mooring decks.
Be Aware of Time when Boating in the Winter
If you want to cruise during the day, remember that the daylight times of winter aren’t nearly as long as summer, and it gets dark quicker than you expect. You should plan a trip that doesn’t take up too much of the day and gives you enough time to return to the mooring. So pick a nice place close by and enjoy the simple joy of being on the water. If you want to go farther or stay out all night, leave as early as possible the next day so you can get home before it gets dark.
Keep an Eye on the Weather
For the most enjoyment of winter sailing, choose days when the wind is light. But wind chill is something to think about. Also, it’s important to remember that beautiful, sunny, crisp winter days are great. But the sun’s UV exposure can continue to be strong even when it’s cloudy or cold outside. So make sure to protect yourself with the right sunscreen and sunglasses. The easiest way to do this is to check the weather through local news and weather websites.
Keep Yourself Warm
But when you’re out on the water, fuel heaters are some of the best options for staying warm. Fleece underwear and clothing are also recommended because it keeps you warm. Brands like Helly Hansen and Regatta are excellent. Although simple hot water bottles tucked into clothing, hot drinks and soups, and stews will help keep you warm also. So it’s safe to say that even something as simple as a thermos can be very helpful if you don’t have an onboard heater.
Summary
There’s no harm in boating in the winter. However, you need to be aware of some things. Make sure you get a quality boat, pick your times accordingly and take gear to keep you warm.
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