What is a float plan?

A float plan is a crucial safety tool for boaters. It involves providing detailed information about your boating trip to someone who is not on the boat with you. This includes specifics about your departure point, destination, expected return time, and the boat's details, as well as any contact information. The purpose of a float plan is to ensure that someone knows where you are and when to expect you back, which can be vital in case of an emergency or if something goes wrong while you are out on the water. Having this information can help search and rescue teams locate you more quickly if needed.

While planned boating routes and safety measures are important aspects of boating, they do not encompass the entire purpose of a float plan. A checklist for equipment is also essential for safety but serves a different function. The float plan is specifically about communication and safety with respect to your whereabouts during the trip.