Filing a float plan is like having car insurance. Car insurance doesn’t prevent a catastrophe, but it does come to the rescue. Similarly, when you file a float plan, it can increase the odds of rescue should an emergency arise.
Filing a float plan simply means telling someone your expected location and time of return. If you don’t return at the appointed time, at least one concerned person can relay the information in the float plan to the Coast Guard. They will relay PAN-PAN messages via VHF radio channel 16, check boat launches and marinas, and send a boat crew to search for you.
Here's How:
Leave a written float plan. Write down the basic information about your boat, then give it to a friend or family member. Also, tell them not only where you will be boating and when you will be back, but who else will be with you and any intended stops.
Give a detailed description of your boat. Include the boat's name, year, make, model, hull and state numbers, and any other distinctive descriptions.
Indicate whether you trailer your boat or keep it at a marina. If you trailer your boat, be sure to tell them where you intend to launch from, and give the color, make, model, and license plate of your vehicle. Otherwise, give the name, phone number and address of your marina.
Tips:
If you go boating alone and do not have friends or family members nearby, you can still file a float plan. If you trailer your boat and launch from a boat ramp, leave the information in your vehicle. If you keep your boat in a marina, file a float plan with a fellow boater or with the dockmaster.
Give as much information as possible. The Coast Guard does not accept formal float plans, but when a person or vessel is reported as overdue, they ask for all of this information, and possibly more. Not relaying enough information could result in fruitless searching in the wrong location, or in some cases, not searching at all.
If you returned safely after being reported overdue, give a courtesy call to the Coast Guard so they can close the case and bring the crew home. They will appreciate it, I promise!
