Boating on your Quintrex tinny or Polycraft boat is an enjoyable and relaxing activity, but it also requires a certain level of responsibility and awareness. Regardless if you’ve been boating for years or just started boating, knowing what not to do is just as important as understanding what you should do. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience for yourself and others.

Here are some key "don'ts" of boating to keep in mind:

Don’t Overload the Boat

This can be a common occurrence as a lot of people tend to invite a lot of people or bring extra gear but overloading is really dangerous practice. All boats have weight limits, and exceeding this can lead to instability, making the boat harder to control and more likely to capsize. Check your boat’s capacity including passengers, gear, and fuel weight. Knowing this info is especially important for small boats, where even a slight overload can sink or capsize the boat.

Don’t Ignore the Weather

Ignoring weather reports or failing to monitor changing weather conditions can lead to serious accidents. Before heading out, always check the weather forecast and be mindful of any potential storms, high winds, or sudden temperature changes.

If you’re already on the water and notice dark clouds, choppy waves, or a sudden drop in temperature, don’t ignore these signs. Return to shore immediately or find a safe harbour to wait out the storm. Weather can change quickly, and being caught in bad conditions is one of the leading causes of boating accidents.

Don’t Neglect Safety Gear

One of the biggest mistakes boaters make is failing to carry the necessary safety equipment such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, VHF radio, and first aid kits are all crucial safety items that should be onboard at all times. Before setting out, ensure that all safety gear is present, in good condition, and accessible. Being unprepared can put your safety at risk.

Store them in a safe place and let everyone onboard know where they are located. If you’re exclusively boating with family or close mates, make sure to get life jackets that fit them properly.

Don’t Forget to Plan Your Route

Even if you’re familiar with the waters, don’t set off without a plan. Always let someone know your intended route and when you expect to return. Failing to do this can lead to a scary experience where you’re completely lost and you’ll have trouble contacting authorities for help. Planning your route also helps you avoid hazards, shallow waters, or areas with heavy boat traffic.

Don’t Skip Maintenance

Neglecting regular boat maintenance can lead to serious issues, including engine failures, leaks, or breakdowns while on the water. Regularly check your boat’s engine fuel system, electrical components, and hull for signs of wear and damage. Before every trip, inspect key components like the bilge pump, battery, and navigation lights to ensure they’re functioning properly. Skipping maintenance not only shortens your boat’s lifespan but also increases the risk of breakdowns that can leave you stranded on the water.