Boating After Dark

You are sitting back with your friends on the boat hanging out, having a good time when you realize the sun is almost set and you are still a ways away from the dock. It will be dark in a matter of minutes and you are just pulling up your anchor. What do you do?


Boating at night is a little more challenging, but it can be done. There are 4 main steps to keep you and everyone on board safe and get you back to the dock.


Slow Down


Most places have a lower night time speed limit any ways, but you will want to slow down so that you will have time to react to obstacles in your way. Also, familiar landscapes have a way of changing or disappearing all together at night.


Minimize Distractions


Shut off all interior lights and turn down the radio. The extra lights make it harder to see thing out on the water. You need to focus on reading the subtle clues that the water is giving you.


Careful With Your Lights


Most think that headlights are the answer, but most boats don’t have headlights. Boats come equipped with docking lights that are only good for close quarter maneuvering only. If you have a spot light, that can be useful. Just remember to be care and not shine it directly into anyone else’s boat.


Learn The Lights


On the top of most of the bigger boats, there are different color lights. Depending on what color combo you are seeing can tell you the position and direction of another boat.


Always remember, if you get stuck out on the water after dark, stay calm and just take it slow all the way home.