1. What Is a Float Plan?

• A float plan outlines your trip details on the water.
• It is shared with someone on shore you trust.
• It helps rescuers understand where to start looking if needed.

2. Why It Matters

• Boating emergencies can happen without warning.
• A float plan saves critical time in a search.
• It gives your shore contact real details instead of guesses.

3. When Should You Use One?

• Use one any time someone would need to know where you went.
• Use one for day trips, overnights, fishing runs, and longer cruises.
• Use one when cell service, weather, distance, or timing could become a problem.

4. Who Should Hold It?

• Leave it with a trusted person on shore.
• Choose someone who will notice if you are late.
• Make sure they know when to act and who to contact.

5. What to Include

• Your boat name, type, color, and registration.
• Your route, destination, departure point, and return time.
• Passenger names, contact details, safety gear, and emergency contacts.

6. If Plans Change

• Update your contact if your destination changes.
• Tell them if you are staying out later than expected.
• Close the loop when you return safely.

7. What Your Contact Should Do

• Try to reach you first if you are overdue.
• Review the float plan before calling for help.
• Give the float plan details to the proper rescue authority if needed.

8. Quick Pre-Departure Checklist

• File your float plan.
• Check weather and tides.
• Review safety gear and communications.
• Tell someone your plan before leaving the dock.