Whether you're heading out for a day of fishing or embarking on a multi-day cruise, one of the most powerful safety tools you can carry isn't on your boat & it's on paper. A float plan is a simple yet vital document that can dramatically improve your chances of being found quickly in an emergency. Think of it as your boating itinerary with a rescue-ready twist.

What is a Float Plan?

A float plan outlines the key details of your boating trip, including:

• Your vessel’s name, type, and registration
• Departure and return times
• Planned route and stops
• Crew and passenger information
• Emergency contacts and onboard safety equipment

This information is shared with someone on shore - typically a friend, family member, or marina staff - who can alert authorities if you don’t return as expected.

Why Float Plans Save Lives

In the event of an emergency, time is everything. A float plan:

• Narrows the search area for rescue teams
• Provides critical details about your vessel and crew
• Helps responders act faster and more effectively
• Offers peace of mind to loved ones

Without a float plan, rescuers may have no idea where to begin looking. With one, they can launch a targeted search that could mean the difference between life and death.

Before you set sail, you (or the skipper) write down all the details about your voyage. This includes information about your vessel, the equipment on board, your crew, and your planned route. You then share this plan with a friend, family member, or neighbor staying on shore.

Why Is It Important?

By having a float plan, you're making sure that someone knows where you're headed and when you plan to return. If you don't check-in as expected, the float plan can significantly help rescuers narrow down their search area to find you faster. It's a simple step that can make a big difference in keeping you safe.

So, next time you're getting ready for a boating trip, don't forget to fill out your float plan and share it with someone you trust. It's peace of mind for you and those who care about you!

How to Create and Use a Float Plan 

You don’t need fancy software—just a commitment to safety. Here are two excellent resources:

The U.S. Coast Guard Float Plan is a downloadable PDF that includes fields for vessel specs, crew info, route, and emergency contacts. It’s designed to be filled out and left with someone reliable before departure.

The California DBW Float Plan and Checklist adds a pre-departure safety checklist covering fuel, life jackets, radios, and more. It also reminds boaters to cancel the float plan upon return—a crucial step to avoid unnecessary rescue efforts.

Pro Tips for Float Plan Success

• Always update your plan if your route or crew changes.
• Include photos of your vessel if possible.
• Make sure your shore contact knows how to reach local rescue agencies.
• Cancel your float plan once you’re safely back. 

Safety Starts Before You Launch

Boating is about freedom and adventure—but it’s also about responsibility. Filing a float plan is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect yourself and your crew.

It’s not just paperwork—it’s a promise to return.