While you often see groups of people aboard privately owned boats, it is not uncommon to boat alone. I enjoy going on the boat alone, especially if I have the opportunity to go out fishing. However, when venturing on the water without anyone else, it is imperative to consider safety factors. With that said, here are 6 tips to remain safe when solo boating. 

Keep A Cell Phone In Your Pocket

One of the best safety measures when boating alone is to keep a cell phone in your pocket. A cell phone is without question a lifeline if you end up over the side and into the water. 

Importantly, the cell phone must be sealed up in a waterproof pouch to avoid it from being rendered useless. 

For this reason, you can place the phone in a zip lock bag or a pouch with a lanyard designed specifically for the water. 

In the event you fall in, you’ll be able to make a call for help. 

Connect The Engine Cut Off Lanyard

Believe it or not, it happens, boaters fall into the water and watch the boat drive away as the motor runs, and it remains in gear.  

Fortunately, boats are engineered with an engine cut-off lanyard. The lanyard clips to the driver so that in the event they go overboard, it shuts down the motor.

More people than you think have gone overboard only to watch the vessel drive off into the horizon. It is imperative to utilize the cut-off lanyard when you’re boating and, especially alone. 

Remain Centered In The Boat

The last thing you want to be doing is dancing along the side of the vessel if you’re boating alone. 

It is essential to stay centered at the helm when you are out on the water. As an angler, it can be challenging to avoid hanging over the side. 

I fish alone often and have needed to bend over the side of the gunnel frequently. However, I always remain firmly planted on the deck and try to hold a fixed object with one hand. 

Do your best to stay behind the wheel because it offers you not only a place to sit but a solid point of contact. The steering wheel, when held firmly, is a means of support, especially in rough conditions. 

Use Extra Caution When Decks Are Slippery

No matter if it is rain or spray from rough seas and high winds, decks become slippery when they are soaked with water. 

In the situation when you’re encountering wet decks, slow your pace. In addition to moving more slowly, use grab bars to your advantage. The extra support can help prevent you from ending up on your backside or in the water. 

Another way to avoid slipping or falling is to wear the proper footwear. I recommend wearing quality boat shoes for extra traction under these types of circumstances. 

Wear A Life Jacket

It goes without saying that a life jacket should be worn at all times, however, particularly when operating solo. 

Accidents happen when they are least expected. For this reason, wearing a life jacket is an added safety measure. 

It is already too late if you end up in the water without a PFD. Yes, you may be able to swim back to the boat, but if not, you’re in a tough situation. 

Treading water without question becomes tiring. You are putting yourself at serious risk of drowning in this type of scenario. Find a life jacket that is comfortable and wear it at all times when boating solo. 

Make Sure The Boat Has Received Proper Maintenance

Boaters often fail to consider the implications of improper boat maintenance. Failing to perform maintenance on routine intervals can spell disaster. 

As a solo boater, you don’t want to end up stranded because of a mechanical issue or be taking on water as a result of a bad bilge pump. 

Undoubtedly, having someone else onboard can help you better assess an issue. When you’re alone, you constantly have to be aware of your surroundings while diagnosing boat problems. 

With that said, make sure that your vessel is up to date as far as service is concerned. 

Stay Safe When Solo Boating

Taking into consideration these 6 tips when boating alone will help keep you safe. Safety while boating and, especially alone, is of the utmost importance. Remember, there is no reason that you can venture out on a boat independently. However, extra precautions must be taken because nobody is available to lend a helping hand.