Trip planning

@ C

New member
Maybe we can make this the definitive (if there is one) trip planning thread. Have not done a trip for a long time
and need to start again.
I've done a search and not come up with
anything that I would not have to read through many, many posts to find. And many of those are not related to this topic.
Kathy and I will be going across the Chesapeake for the meet at Lankford.
We have not done the trip for many years and then it was on a 25' vessel.
Lots more room to store stuff. We will not have @C but will be going from Annapolis in our 20' Trophy 2002 WA.
Depending on condx it should only be a max 2 hour trip. We have accommodations on shore
so will not be overnighting on board.

So, what things do I need to be thinking about and planning for and bringing along?
I know this is pretty wide open and depends on what type of wx and conditions one is traveling in,
but is there a checklist I can use to make sure I have at least the essentials?
Thanks,
Bill
 
@ C":1cni3yvu said:
So, what things do I need to be thinking about and planning for and bringing along?
I know this is pretty wide open and depends on what type of wx and conditions one is traveling in,
but is there a checklist I can use to make sure I have at least the essentials?
Thanks,
Bill

Bill, Beer and a Kazoo! :lol: :lol: :shock:

See you there...

Charlie
 
Start with basics. The engine is in good shape, properly serviced (first trip of the year--impeller for water pump, check cooling, that gas is OK, and there fuel filters are good (changed, plus at least 2 extra filters).

Check on weather conditions--both coming and going. Look for rapidly developing storm conditions to be predicted?

Safety gear--check fire extinguishers, flares, life jackets, bilge pumps (operational, extra pump, battery capacity, hoses OK?--etc) Manual bilge pump. Anchor and anchoring gear. flash lights, extra light bulbs and fuses. Tools for simple repairs, same with fuel hose, primer bulb etc-extra prop, prop nuts, cotter pins, crown nut and prop wrench.


VHF radio working properly--hand held back up. GPS--and chart plotter--again hand held back up.

Charts of the trip--plan the compas course, and look for any obsticals. Check the tides and currents on all aspects of the trip. I also read any guides about the area I am visiting before leaving on the trip.

Have a towing insurance, or a back up engine (kicker). File a float plan with some responsible person. Make a phone call when you arrive to let that person know you are safe.

Go over on paper what your plans for the trip are, look for any specific problems.

I also carry "Ditch bag, a dinghy, a Personal Locator beacon--but those are extra expensive, and may not be necessary for this area.

Have fun
 
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