If you are going for just a few hours on your boat, let someone know where you expect to be and when you expect to return. If you plan a longer cruise, leave a copy of a written float plan with your marina, yacht club, or friend. A float plan includes a description of your boat, who is on board, a description of the safety equipment you are carrying, where you expect to be, and when you expect to be there. Instruct the person holding the float plan to notify the Coast Guard or other appropriate agency if you do not return within a reasonable time after your scheduled arrival (taking into account weather, etc.). When you arrive at your destination, or if your plans change, notify the person holding your float plan to avoid unnecessary worry and possible waste of search and rescue resources. There is no special or offical form that you must use for a float plan, though you may find convenient pre-printed ones available in boating supply stores and catalogs, or you can generate a customized form using Float Plan Generator found here.
FLOAT PLAN GENERATORIt will allow you to input all of your personal and vessel information.It then electronically files the plan in a system that is monitored for any overdue vessels and then proceeds to enlist emergency rescue aid if necessary.
Everyone should have a float plan if they are cruising for more than a few hours.
IT COULD SAVE YOURS OR SOMEONE YOU LOVES LIFE.
