What Supplies Do I Need For My New Boat?

Your new boat has been delivered, stocked, and moored. Now what? You first need to get a few essential pieces of equipment before you set out on your maiden voyage. Whether this is your first boat or you are adding to an existing collection, there are a few things that every owner needs. Regardless, it is difficult to know what you need and what will add weight and cost. Here is a list of what you should get from the best marine supply store near you before hitting the water.

Fire Extinguisher

The first safety equipment you should buy for your boat is a fire extinguisher. Get one suitable for use at sea and check its pressure gauge before buying it. Note that it should be in the green range. Beyond that, ensure you keep your fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location where you can reach it if the need arises. As a precaution, check its expiration date and know how to use it before leaving for your next adventure. Practice using your extinguisher until you’re confident enough to handle it in an emergency.

Flashlight

A flashlight is a must on any boat. If you think about it, the flashlight is one of your boat’s most versatile pieces of equipment. You can use them to signal other boats and drivers, locate stuff that falls overboard or is under wet gear in a locker, and examine the underside of your boat at night. A good rule of thumb when buying flashlights is to choose a model that has multiple settings, including;  

• High beam and low beam

• Rechargeable batteries that you can also replace

• Waterproof construction

• An adjustable focus so that you can easily regulate light

• Durability; the last thing you want is your brand new investment to break the first time you use it.

Anchor And Rope

 An anchor is a device that prevents your boat from drifting too far from its position. It slows the boat down through friction, buying you more time to react in an emergency. The most important thing to know about your anchor is that it needs to be heavy enough for your chosen situation. For example, if you are anchoring in shallow water less than 10 feet deep, the anchor rope should be at least five times as long as the water depth.  

It also needs to be durable and weatherproof because who wants wet ropes? Finally, ensure that the manual and electric winches onboard are easily accessible so that everything works when you are doing your business.

Bumpers To Moor Your Boat

Bumpers on a boat protect the hull from damage when docking. They also prevent lines from getting caught in the propeller. Bumpers can be rubber or plastic, and they come in different sizes depending on the size of your boat. 

When buying new bumpers, make sure you purchase matching pairs to fit both sides accurately. You should always have a few spare bumpers for replacement purposes; never trust just one. It’s essential to stock up on enough bumpers for your boat and replacement parts and accessories. If something breaks or needs a replacement while boating, you shouldn’t have to be stranded far from shore.

A First Aid Kit

Your first aid kit should contain bandages and other essentials to treat cuts, sprains, and burns. It would be best to carry antibiotic ointment for insect bites and pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. If you will be traveling by boat for an extended period, a motion sickness remedy is necessary.

Also, consider packing a snakebite remedy in your first-aid kit if you’re traveling to an area with poisonous snakes or other dangerous animals.

Compass

A compass is a directional measuring device that uses a magnetized needle to align with the earth’s magnetic field and point north. You can use a compass to find direction, but it is not accurate enough to use it alone for navigation. It is more of an analog backup system to help you determine the direction you are going if you get lost or disoriented on open water. 

There are many different types of compasses, from simple handheld units to sophisticated electronic models that tell you exactly where on the planet your boat is at any given time. Every boat should have a high-quality compass as standard equipment, especially in dense fog or strong winds when visibility is limited. It’s also good to carry a spare compass as a backup if the original breaks.

Fiberglass Cleaning Supplies

Fiberglass cleaners are essential to keeping your boat clean, shiny, and looking good. Manufacturers design them for fiberglass surfaces. Thus, they cannot damage the surface of your boat, jet ski, or other watercraft. If you take care of your fiberglass surface, they will last longer and look better for years. 

However, avoid harsh chemicals such as bleach or ammonia before making any purchases. These can damage the paint and make it harder for you to get it off in the future. You should also avoid abrasive materials such as sandpaper, steel wool, and metal scouring pads as they scratch the fiberglass surface. 

Also, never use a pressure washer or steam cleaner on your boat’s exterior surfaces – they can peel off the protective coatings applied at the factory and irreparably damage your boat’s gel-coat surface.