Distinguished by its length, individuals use yacht watercraft for pleasure and sport with the longest recreational yachts called super-yachts or mega-yachts. Americans own an estimated 17 million recreational boats and yachts, according to Staten Island Yacht Sales. Several simple tips can help new yacht owners enjoy their vessels.
First, yacht owners must learn yachting terminology and operations. New owners should consider the benefits of completing a recreational yacht training course. Owners also must research and comply with all local boating laws and regulations.
Safety courses are important for yacht owners. At a minimum, yacht owners should observe all posted signs and follow local safety procedures. Passengers should wear properly fitted life jackets whenever the vessel is on the water. Yacht owners also must adhere to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration navigation rules.
As valuable as training courses can be, nothing substitutes for first-hand experience on the water. New yacht owners should gain as much experience as possible, ideally by spending time with knowledgeable crew members and observing the flow of operations on a functioning yacht.
New yacht owners must maintain organized spaces above and below deck. Despite their luxury status, even the largest yachts have narrow spaces, and a lack of order can make it difficult for them to move about the cabin freely. Messy living quarters are uncomfortable and may prevent crew members from performing their jobs safely and efficiently.
Any American interested in owning a yacht should choose between performance models and yachts designed for travel or pleasure. However, even if an owner selects the perfect craft for their needs, every day at sea can present new challenges. Yacht owners must remain adaptable when it comes to their sailing experience.
Crew members and passengers must remember that yachting is a team effort. To enjoy a safe, relaxing yachting experience, every person must fill their designated role and communicate with others. Crew members should avoid actions that place themselves, others, or the vessel at unnecessary risk. Passengers should avoid disrupting normal operations above and below deck.
Preparing for a first open-water excursion can be exciting for new yacht owners. However, they must remember small details, such as checking the local weather forecast and sharing the day’s float plan or a comprehensive itinerary with multiple parties in case of an accident. Leave it with the harbormaster and, ideally, numerous friends and family. Float plans feature pertinent information, such as the time of departure and estimated time of arrival, a description of the vessel and its passengers, and a general overview of the route the yacht will take. Travelers must remember to pack relevant documents such as passports if the yacht plans include visiting a different country.
Lastly, yacht owners with no interest in racing should not underestimate the physicality involved in recreational boating. Yachting is a physically demanding pastime that requires physical fitness. Any person with a history of shoulder or back injuries should discuss their ability to safely manage watercraft with a physician. Of course, yacht owners also enjoy strengthened core muscles and increased vitamin D exposure, among other physical benefits.
