Summer Necessities For Your Boat

Warm, sunny days are here again and that means everyone’s getting ready to head out to the water. Whether you’re going to boat in a lake, a river, or off the Oregon Coast, you’ll want to make sure that you’re prepared for every eventuality. Here are some things you’ll want to stock on your boat to make sure your upcoming summer boating experience is a great one!

1. Documentation

First, you’ll want to gather up all your necessary paperwork and documentation that proves you own your boat and you’re legally allowed to operate it. This includes your boat license, your boat’s registration, your insurance documents, and a photo ID. Store your documents in a secure place, preferably in a waterproof folio. It’s wise to make copies of all of these documents to keep at home in case something happens to the originals.

2. Comfort Items

Keeping yourself and your passengers comfortable is another important factor when preparing for your summer boating. 

Because the temperature on the water can be several degrees colder than on land, particularly on the Oregon Coast, you should pack some wool blankets and light jackets or sweaters for people to wear when the wind picks up.

A cooler packed full of food and drinks will also keep everyone fed and happy during the excursion. You can pack items like sandwiches, fresh fruit, cheese and crackers, granola bars, bottled water, and canned soda.

3. Safety Supplies

You should also make sure that your boat has the supplies necessary for dealing with an emergency. A first-aid kit should be on board with bandages, ointments, painkillers, and any other supplies you deem necessary. Every single person on board should also have a personal flotation device (PFD), otherwise known as a life jacket, that they wear from dock to dock. Your boat should also have a fire extinguisher and a throwable life ring, along with an emergency radio and signal flares.

4. Fun Water Toys

If you’ve got kids, teens or even just fun-loving adults on board your boat, then you’ll want to pack some fun toys that they can use in the water if you stop to let everyone go for a swim. Pool noodles, floats, and inner tubes are all great choices.

5. Entertainment

Finally, if you’re planning to stay out of the water, you should still bring some items to entertain everyone. A playlist of music and a Bluetooth™ speaker can liven things up. Magnetic travel board games, coloring books, and a deck of cards are other good choices.

Stop by our ABYC and NMEA certified dealership in Clackamas, OR, today to check out our fine stock of new and used boats for sale. We also offer a great selection of boat electronics and accessories to help you get ready for your summer boating adventures. Portland Marine & Electronics hosts an impressive 8,000 square foot facility that serves the metro areas of Portland, OR, and Vancouver, WA.