Do these things to get the best boating experience for the coming year

Another solar cycle is coming up. It is time to review the year that has passed and what a year it has been, right? The pandemic is not over yet, but there’s a lot to celebrate too, like the reopening of the economy and the superb rate of vaccinations in our country. So what will 2022 bring? We don’t know, but you know what they say: failure to plan is planning to fail. Here’s an ultimate New Year’s Resolution list for boaters, so that your upcoming year is both safe, and awesome.

Get an EPIRB

EPIRB is short for emergency position-indicating radiobeacon. This nifty little device is a portable, battery-powered radio transmitter that is used to locate planes and boats in case of emergencies. Search and rescue teams can hone in on the locator via GPS to quickly come to the stricken vessel’s rescue, and of course, the quicker rescue comes, the better. EPIRBS are not expensive, but they do require registration so the relevant authorities have all the information they need to help you. It’s not compulsory in Malaysia for pleasure boaters to have, but we think this tool is essential to have on board.

Refresh your boating knowledge

Any skipper with a few years under their sea hats will have learned much from their time out at sea. However, technology marches on even in an age-old activity like boating, and after a few years it’s best to sign up for a class and learn what’s new. After all, there’s no such thing as being too smart or too safe out at sea. These classes can be quick refreshers, or they may be an in depth course of many weeks. We work together with a local partners for just such courses, and you can check them out here.

Get new life jackets

As mentioned above, technology moves ever onwards. The makers of personal floatation devices know this, and they are always creating newer, better life jackets that are more durable and more stowable. Most boating fatalities are caused by drowning where the unfortunate victim is not wearing a life jacket, so the importance of life jackets can never be overstated. Experts recommend that these PFDs be replaced every couple of years, or as soon as you detect signs of wear.

Replace emergency flares

Another item that should not be overlooked are emergency flares. These have a lifespan of around 48 months from the date they are made, after which they become unpredictable. So, have a look at those on board and see how much longer they can last or if they have passed their expiration date. Our chandlery stocks flares and life jackets as well, so drop us a line if you need some of these items.

Give the yacht some tlc

2020 and 2021 kept many indoors, and many boats were not used as often as they should. The upcoming year should see a yard give the vessel a once over – service the engine, have a look at the health of the hull and rudders, things like that. If the mechanicals are in peak health, why not look into a fresh coat of paint or refinishing the deck? And while the shipyard is working on it, why not upgrade some equipment on board? Raymarine makes some of the best tools and equipment for pleasure boats today.

Colour your boating experience

One of the things that will certainly add to your boating experience is getting a new toy for the yacht. This of course, depends on the amount of space available on board, but even something as simple as water mat will greatly increase your lounging space at sea, while towable inflatables are always a family favourite. Perhaps 2022 is the year you add extra vibrancy into your boating life.

Take the sea less sailed

After two landlocked years, it’s time to take the vessel out for a long-awaited spin. There’s bound to be some islands near your home port that have not been explored yet, or maybe the time is right for a cross-country excursion. Whatever it is, one of the things we have learned from the pandemic is that time is precious, so make the most of the boating experience while able.

Let’s close

The New Year’s Resolution suggestions above are split into safety first, and then fun second, but truly, they all point towards one thing only – a better boating experience. That’s what we really wish for all boaters out there. If your resolution is perhaps to begin your boating journey, then hey, you’re in the right place. Get in touch with us and let’s talk about yachts.