5 Tips To Prep Your Boat For Launch

There’s nothing better than enjoying warm sunny days exploring the waves with family and friends. But how do you know if your boat is ready to go? Whether you’re a first-time boater or an experienced captain, follow these helpful tips to ensure everything is shipshape and your boat is in excellent condition.

1. Clean Your Boat

First things first, give your boat good dust, wash and wax. We recommend cleaning your boat with soft-bristle brushes and mild soaps as some products may be too harsh and abrasive for the gel coat and vinyl upholstery. For stainless steel, Super Stainless cleans and protects, and Formula 409® Multi-Surface Cleaner can remove stains from vinyl. Once you’re done, don’t forget to let your boat dry thoroughly before replacing any covers. Read more pro steps on cleaning your boat.

2. Inspect Your Boat & Trailer

Make sure your next boating adventure is carefree. Give your Sea Ray a once-over while you’re still on land. Look for any cracks or holes that could cause water leakage, and double check that all systems are working, and maintenance is up to date. You can download the owner’s manual for your boat to find the maintenance schedule.

3. Check Your Registration & Licenses

Has your registration expired? Will you be boating in a different state? Are boating or fishing licenses required? Discover Boating and Take Me Fishing can help you navigate the specific requirements for your area. Boat and trailer registration is required in all 50 states, but the laws can vary. In addition, a boating license or boating education course may be needed for anyone who will be taking control of the helm. If you’re new to boating, be sure to learn how to properly and safely operate your boat and that you’re familiar with local waterway rules.

4. Have the Right Gear

Outfit your boat with everything you need for a comfortable and safe trip. It’s essential that you have safety equipment on board in case of an emergency, including life jackets, a first aid kit, a VHF radio, a throwable flotation device, signaling and sound devices, fire extinguishers and a mobile phone. The U.S. Coast Guard requires one approved life jacket or personal flotation device per passenger and a minimum of two on board. Take extra care when choosing a child’s life jacket – it should fit properly and the child’s weight should fall within the range shown on the label. Shop for all the safety gear and accessories you need online at our boat accessories shop. You can also find branded items and apparel to complement your boat and show off your love of Sea Ray.

5. Touch Base with Your Dealer

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your local authorized Sea Ray boat dealer is the go-to resource to get your boat summer-ready or serviced any time of the year. Contact your dealer for a recommended list of maintenance specific to your area’s climate and boating conditions. Technicians in our extensive dealer network are specially trained and licensed to understand the unique needs of your Sea Ray. In addition, they can perform warranty repairs and assist you in purchasing genuine parts.