WATCH this video before going offshore - Boating tips & mistakes for beginners on small bay boats.

Today we will be talking about taking a bay boat or small boat offshore. Though the risk may seem minimal weather conditions and factors out of our control may occur. Follow along in this video in order to be at the top of your game may havoc occur. We will go over tips & tricks for the beginner boater, like safety equipment, essentials, and much more, Enjoy!

[outofstep]

I run a 23' CC upward of 65 miles offshore in New Jersey. Here's what I've learned:
1. Buy an ePirb and a SPOT. Redundancy is key.
2. Buy a VHF Marine Radio and a handheld backup. Redundancy is key.
3. Buy an inflatable safety raft and have a ditch bag.
4. Become a student of weather. High pressure with the right wind direction is key for small boats.
5. Never turn your engine off and make sure you have more than sufficient fuel for the trip.
6. Don't be stubborn. If weather conditions materialize differently from forecast, abort mission.

Hope this helps. Tight lines!

[proaudiohd]

I would add: Sea Anchor. If you lose power and the waves are big, hook your sea anchor to the bow. It will orient the boat bow into the waves so you don't take one broadside or over the transom. Lightweight and folds up small.

[cepaasch]

The Coast Guard's primary means of communication with the public is via VHF-FM. In most places you can still communicate with the C.G. over 30 miles offshore. Out Of Step is correct in redundancy is the key. I only spent 27 years in the CG looking for people that didn't make it back to the boat ramp.

[JungleJimABAB]

Your video has made a very significant contribution to our knowledge of inshore boaters going offshore. For me, your statement of having dual engine redundancy speaks volumes. I appreciate your efforts.

[michaelgerlach]

one thing we have found to be essential is a float plan.

[kriskell]

Very nice video. Great refresher. I am from the Midwest, and travel to marathon a few times per year, and it takes me a day or so to get back in the swing of the ocean with current and wind. I would also recommend the coast guard auxiliary do boat inspection every year. It’s not mandatory for most, but reminds you of the smaller important things. The PLBs/EPIRBs are great, but remember they have to be registered and updated every couple years. If they’re arent registers it may delay a help by several hours.

[ammywilson]

This was a very informational video. Thank you for explaining everything so easily. Keep posting!

[boatsafeamericahandsonboat]

Great video! I would mention getting the bow up in larger waves and approaching wakes from larger vessels. Many people don't understand that concept. Love the video, great job!

[benperry]

I love this video! So informative and to the point.... well done!

[yailinsaab]

Definitely epirb and vhf are a must. Another important aspect is making sure the boat is sea worthy and this is apparent when you risk going offshore and realize you knew your batteries were iffy or your bilge pumps needed replacing. I run a 35 donzi cc to the bahamas and the basics always get you guys. Good job captain.

[julienrobins]

Truer words have not been spoken. Great video Clay !!

[neilcooney]

Thank you guys for sharing your adventures, I can't stop watching you guys, I leave your channel on all day lol. You guys are living my dreams 😊

[Kbare]

Thank you Clay, very informative and on point.

[TimBigBendFishing]

Thank you Clay for doing this video. I’ve learned a ton from your channel and I’ve used that knowledge to keep me and my family safe.

[AnnexF]

Great video!! Thank you for the tips. I just bought a Boston Whaler Guardian 25 foot. Still learning how to safely go offshore. Took notes and practiced daily. Your videos helped me a lot.

[adamsadventures]

Some nuggets of wisdom in this video. Thanks!

[fishnchips]

Very good video but the only thing I would add with regard to safety is whether you're boating, biking, hiking or even going out of town is tell someone what your plans are. There are lots of people like me who like to venture out alone so if you're not heard from for a length of time at least someone knows where you were headed.

[justinmorrison]

I really like the tracker idea. Gonna be adding one to both my boats forsure👍

[nicholasmartin]

Hello from England! VHF range varies greatly. Can be line of sight or 40 miles. Flares are really important: red for distress, white for collision. Fire extinguisher. Stay safe!

[RT-cvjg]

Really good, informative video. Thanks from South Jersey