Planning for Safety: How to Write a Float Plan for Your Next Great Loop Adventure
When you make plans to go out, there are some situations where you are sure to tell someone where you'll be, who you'll be with, and how late you'll be out so they know when to expect you back. A Float Plan is the same idea and can be a lifeline to help find you if there's an emergency on the water and you can't communicate to the Coast Guard yourself. Not having a Float Plan can lead to delays in rescue operations and increased risk to your safety.
While cruising the Great Loop, a journey filled with breathtaking sights and unforgettable experiences, having a comprehensive float plan can significantly enhance your peace of mind. In this post, we'll delve into all the essential components of a Float Plan, ensuring your loved ones are well-informed and prepared for any potential delays or emergencies.
What is a Float Plan, and Why is it Essential?
A Float Plan is a written document that details your planned journey. It ensures others know where you are going and when you expect to check in. This document is a safety measure that can provide peace of mind for friends and family. If you are a solo cruiser or traveling as a family, float plans can be especially helpful if you venture into less populated waterways or open waters.
What Details Should Be Included in Your Float Plan?
Basic Information:
Departure Point and Time: Where and when you're starting.
Destination and ETA: Your planned destination and estimated time of arrival.
Vessel Description:
Vessel Name: Be sure to include the name of your boat (e.g., SV Fika) so that your contact knows the correct spelling and how to help identify your boat.
Vessel Type and Size: Describe your boat (e.g., a 32-foot sailboat or 40-foot trawler).
Registration Number: Include registration numbers and any distinguishing marks.
Color and Identifying Features: Note any unique features, such as a painted hull or deck layout.
Safety Equipment on Board: List items like life jackets, flares, fire extinguishers, and a first-aid kit.
Crew Information:
Names of Everyone Onboard: List everyone by name and age (helpful for emergency personnel). If you can include recent photos, that can be helpful, too!
Contact Information: Include a cell number or satellite phone number if you have one.
Relevant Medical Information:
Any significant medical conditions or medications that emergency responders should know. This could include conditions like diabetes or heart disease or medications that could affect your ability to communicate or respond in an emergency.
Communication Details:
Primary Communication Methods: List radio channels, GPS tracking, or satellite communication details.
Check-in Schedule: Mention planned check-in intervals and through which method (text, email, etc.).
Route & Waypoints:
Planned Route or Course: Detail the planned path, including specific routes, stops, or waypoints.
Alternative Plans: Mention any secondary routes or backup anchorages if weather or other factors change the plan.
Who Should Receive Your Float Plan?
Trusted Family or Friends: Ideally, choose someone familiar with your boating habits who has the time to check in on your progress.
Local Marina or Harbor Master (If Applicable): Sometimes, your departure marina may accept and keep a copy of your plan, though family or friends are a better option.
Emergency Contacts to Include:
Primary and Secondary Emergency Contacts: Include their names, phone numbers, and relationships with the crew.
Medical Contacts (If Necessary): Contact information for relevant doctors if a crew member has significant health needs.
Local Emergency Resources: Include the contact information for the nearest Coast Guard station along your route.
How Soon Should Someone Call the Coast Guard if They Haven't Heard from You?
Provide a reasonable check-in buffer.
For example, suppose you're overdue more than 24 hours after the last contact or a significant storm or other event has occurred. In that case, your contact should call the Coast Guard.
Write this down so they don't need to worry about making a judgment call. Clear instructions prevent hesitation, which can avoid delays or early alerts if something is wrong.
Tips for Updating and Sharing Your Float Plan
If you're cruising America's Great Loop, you might not have a float plan for every passage day, but ensuring your land support (family and friends back home) has the basic information about your boat and contact info can help them be prepared.
It's crucial to remember to update your float plan regularly, especially if your written itinerary changes or if you have additional guests onboard. This proactive approach ensures that your plan is always up-to-date and that your loved ones are well-prepared for any situation.
Share your plan through digital copies, make a printed copy for yourself, and ask your land contacts to have a printed copy, too, so the information is easily accessible if they need it.
Establish a consistent check-in time with your emergency contacts at a specific hour every day. This way, it can be built in as a habit, even if it's just a daily text message to let someone know you're still doing well and where you are or where you plan to be next.
Wrap Up
A good float plan is more than just a checklist. It's a lifeline that can make all the difference. Make this part of your regular boating routine.
The US Coast Guard has a great template at this link if you need a starting point.
We'd love to hear from you!
In the comments below, share your experiences or any tips you have for creating and maintaining a float plan. Your insights could be invaluable to other boaters and their families.
