Boaters always hope for a bright sunny day when out on the water, but this is not always the reality. Unfortunately, rain is encountered from time to time. I have been caught in heavy rainstorms frequently and can tell you that operation becomes more stressful. Without a doubt, it is essential to make adjustments when driving boats in the rain. Operating as if you’re in blue, sunny skies are unsafe. Here are the safety precautions you must follow when boating in the rain. 

Weather Conditions Change Rapidly

Unquestionably, avoiding rainy weather is best when driving a boat. However, understand that this is not possible. At one point or another, you will encounter rain; therefore, you must be prepared to navigate safely. 

It is important to understand that weather conditions change quickly. What was once a bright sunny day can transform into stiff winds and heavy rains in minutes. I have been caught off guard despite monitoring the weather. 

Furthermore, you cannot always rely on a weather report. Weather is unpredictable, which is why you should pack rain gear. Despite the weather station calling for clear skies, it is not accurate 100 percent of the time. 

Top 4 Safety Precautions When Boating In The Rain

It is essential to make adjustments when operating a boat in the rain. Remember, visibility is reduced; therefore, safety becomes a concern. Follow these 4 safety precautions when boating in the rain. 

Slow Down

No, you can’t run full throttle as if it is a clear and calm sunny day. Not only are you putting yourself at risk, but your passengers and fellow boaters. 

Without a doubt, pull back on the throttle when operating in rain. Remember, boats don’t stop quickly. You’ll have more time to react if you encounter an object or boat due to reduced visibility. 

I get it; you want to return to the dock to tuck away from the rain inside a vehicle or property, but it’s simply too dangerous to speed back. 

Turn On Your Navigation Lights

Navigation lights are critical in low light conditions. Importantly, you need to make yourself visible to other nearby boaters. The most effective way to do so is to turn on the boat’s navigation lights. All too often, boaters forget to turn on navigation lights when heavy rain sets in. 

The navigation lights are also important because it is a guide when passing. Boat operators can tell who has the right of way based on the port (red light) or green (starboard light). 

Lastly, the all around white light is beneficial for you to spot other vessels and for them to spot you. 

Monitor The Weather

I wouldn’t suggest holding your phone tuned into the radar loop, but instead, ask a passenger to do so. You don’t need to be distracted when driving the boat in the rain. Conversely, if you’re boat is equipped with a radar, you can dial it in on the navigation screen. 

However, it is essential to know where the storm is moving and if it is intensifying. In the situation where you’re headed into heavier rain, you may want to consider alternative options. The alternatives include temporarily docking elsewhere or adjusting the route to return home. 

I have been forced to seek new routes outside of the heaviest rain bands when returning from offshore. New routes were chosen to increase the range of visibility. Also, I have been forced to secure at random docks until the bad weather passed. Again, the intent is to reduce or eliminate the risk of colliding with a boat or object. 

Keep Your Eyes Ahead

As previously mentioned, don’t keep your eyes glued to your phone checking the radar. Instead, focus on the waters ahead.

Without question, visibility is significantly reduced in heavy rains. Additionally, the water becomes more difficult to read. Floating objects and reefs become obscured by the rain hitting the surface of the water.

Additionally, it is challenging to spot markers and vessels. The limited visibility puts you in close proximity to boats and markers until they are seen. 

When driving in heavy rain, always focus on what is ahead and on the starboard and port sides of the bow. 

Follow Safety Precautions When Boating In The Rain

Do your best to avoid heading out on the water when rainy weather is expected. However, understand that you will be faced with the challenge of operating in the rain. Take the necessary precautions to keep you, your family, and your friends safe.