Boating Safety on Eclipse Day

  • Boaters should operate with navigation lights activated appropriate to limited visibility conditions.
  • Boaters should be prepared for and monitor weather conditions. A good rule-of-thumb for safe speed on the water is to maintain the ability to stop your vessel within half the distance of the point where you can see.
  • Given the possibility of cell service disruption, radio communication may be best. The Coast Guard is reached on Marine Channel 16. Have an emergency communications plan.
  • Communicate your plans to someone on land so they know when you will be on the water and when you will return to land.
  • Boaters should take into consideration the weather and water temperature and each person on the boat needs to wear a life jacket.
  • Operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal.