Taking friends or family out on a boat can be a lot of fun, but a smooth trip starts with proper preparation, especially when your passengers are new to boating. As the captain of your Quintrex boat, it’s your responsibility to ensure that everyone on board is comfortable, informed, and ready for a safe and enjoyable experience. A little guidance ahead of time can go a long way in preventing confusion or mishaps once you're out on the water.

Here’s how to help your passengers get ready for a great day on the boat.

Set Expectations Early

Before the trip, give your guests a quick overview of what to expect. Let them know where you’re going, how long you’ll be out, and what the general plan is; whether it’s fishing, swimming, sightseeing, or just cruising. This helps them prepare mentally and pack appropriately.

Mention things like whether there will be bathroom access, if the boat has shade, or if you’ll be anchoring at any point. If it’s a saltwater trip, let them know it can get windy, wet, or a little rough depending on the conditions.

Dress for Conditions

Remind your guests to wear weather-appropriate clothing. On warm days, that means light layers, sun-protective gear, and a hat with a secure strap. For cooler or unpredictable weather conditions, suggest a light jacket or windbreaker. Footwear should be non-slip and boat-friendly. Avoid wearing heels or hard-soled shoes. Save them for on-land adventures.

Also, stress the importance of sun protection. Even on cloudy days, the sun reflects off the water. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat can make a big difference.

Pack Light But Smart

Encourage your guests to bring only the essentials in a small, soft-sided bag. This could include:

• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Water bottle
• Towel
• Snacks or drinks (coordinate ahead of time)
• Personal medications
• Camera or phone (with a waterproof pouch if possible)

Space on boats is limited, so minimising clutter is key. If you're handling food or drinks for the group, let everyone know ahead of time to avoid doubling up.

Safety First

Before leaving the dock, give a quick safety briefing. Show guests where the life jackets are stored (and insist they wear them, especially for non-swimmers), explain what to do in case of an emergency, and point out the location of safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, flares, and first aid kits. If you don’t have these items, you can get them from your local boat shops.

Manage Motion Sickness

Let your guests know that if they’re prone to seasickness, they should take preventive medicine before boarding or before you start the boat, not after they start feeling queasy. Avoiding heavy meals beforehand, reading a book or staring at the phone, and staying hydrated can also help alleviate motion sickness.

Wrap Up With A Smile

Ultimately, boating is about having a good time together. A little prep makes it easier for everyone to enjoy the trip. When your passengers feel looked after and informed, they’re more likely to relax, have fun, and want to come back for another trip. And that’s what makes boating all the more rewarding.