First Time Driving a Boat: What to Expect
Driving a boat for the first time can feel intimidating, but it’s not as difficult as you might imagine. While there are no lanes to follow on the water like there are on roads, you will need to navigate channels and understand that boats don’t have brakes. With a bit of practice, you’ll learn quickly. These tips are primarily for operating outboard power boats.
How to Start Your Boat
Starting a boat engine requires a little more preparation than starting a car. While this guide will cover the basics, always refer to your boat’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
For Inboard Engines: If you have an enclosed engine (inboard motor), you must run the blower to remove any vapors from the engine compartment—this is extremely important for safety.
- Ensure the engine is trimmed down and fully submerged in the water.
- Attach the kill switch lanyard to yourself.
- Double-check that the throttle is in neutral before starting.
- Start the engine either by key or push-button.
- Check the back of the outboard to ensure water is flowing from the engine’s cooling system.
Moving the Boat
Operating the boat involves three basic controls: forward, reverse, and neutral.
- Starting Movement: Boats always start in neutral. Shifting into forward or reverse takes some finesse. If you shift too slowly, you’ll hear a grinding noise, similar to shifting gears in a manual car. With practice, you’ll learn how to quickly “pop” the lever in and out of gear.
- Safety: Always ensure everyone on board is seated and holding onto something, especially children and elderly passengers. Loose gear should be secured because the boat can lurch forward or reverse if you shift too forcefully.
- Steering: Unlike cars, which turn by moving the front wheels, boats turn by moving the engine behind you. It’s more like driving a bus—you need to take wide turns.
Rivers and Lakes vs. Intracoastal Waterways
Boating in the St. Johns River or a lake is very different from navigating the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW).
- Rivers and Lakes: Depth and channels are often less of a concern. These are generally calm waters, which makes learning to operate a boat much easier.
- Intracoastal Waterways: Currents are stronger, especially near inlets like Camachee Cove. Boating here requires more attention to depth, channels, and tides. The water can be more choppy, so take it slow until you’re comfortable.
Stopping the Boat
Unlike cars, boats don’t have brakes. This can be intimidating at first, especially when you’re heading toward an object or dock. It’s common for new boaters to panic and throw the boat into reverse, which can make things worse.
- Go Slow: Always approach docks or obstacles at a slow pace—never faster than you’re willing to bump into them. Boats have a lag when shifting gears, so allow time for the boat to respond.
- Practice: In open water, toss something overboard (like a hat) and practice circling back to retrieve it. This helps you get used to the boat’s momentum and handling.
- Currents: Strong currents can make docking tricky. Start by practicing on calm days in less busy areas to build confidence.
Understanding Wake
Every boat creates a wake, and managing both your wake and others is key to a day on the water.
- No-Wake Zones: These are areas where you need to slow down and avoid creating a wake. They’re often near marinas, docks, or bridges. Always adhere to no-wake signs to avoid damage or accidents.
- Handling Other Boats’ Wakes: When encountering a wake from another boat, it’s best to take it at a 45-degree angle and slow down. This will minimize the impact on your boat. Some boats handle wakes better than others; for example, the Key West 239 FS performs better than the smaller 203 FS in rougher conditions.
- Your Wake: Be mindful of your wake, especially when passing boats that are anchored or fishing. Always slow down to minimize the disturbance. Keep an eye on how large a wake your boat generates, especially if you’re new to boating.
Towing and Using Boat Ramps
If you own a boat, you’ll need to figure out how to get it to the water. While you can rent a slip at a marina, it can cost upwards of $500 per month. If you prefer to trailer your boat, practice makes perfect.
- Towing: Towing a boat can be straightforward, but if you’re new to it, practice turning, backing up, and parking in an empty lot before attempting busy boat ramps.
- Boat Ramps: Patience is key at the ramp. Expect slower, less experienced boaters and busy conditions on weekends. Practice using the ramp on off-peak days, and always follow a set routine—don’t forget to check your drain plug before launching.
Consider Joining a Boat Club
If you want to skip the hassle of trailering, boat ramps, and storage, consider joining a boat club. Boat clubs provide access to a variety of boats without the need for ownership. This can be a great way to test the waters and learn boating basics without committing to the full ownership experience. It also gives you the chance to try out different types of boats before deciding which one suits you best.
Final Thoughts
Learning to drive a boat is an exciting process, and while it may seem intimidating at first, you’ll quickly get the hang of it. Take your time, go slow, and practice in calm conditions until you feel confident. Whether you’re out on a river, the ICW, or considering joining a boat club, these tips will help you navigate your boating journey with ease.