2026 Boat Launch Checklist
Boating season will be here before you know it, and a little preparation now can make all the difference once you leave the dock. This practical checklist is from the Boat Owners Association of The United States, as shared recently in Powerboat World.
Powerboat checklist:
- Hull/Propulsion: Check bottom paint, inspect the hull for cracks or blisters, and examine the propeller for damage.
- Hoses, Clamps and Through-Hulls: Inspect hoses for cracking or stiffness and replace rusty clamps with marine-grade stainless steel. Exercise thru-hull valves and tie a wooden plug nearby in case of failure. Once afloat, double-check for leaks.
- Test Steering and Controls: Make sure the rudder and steering system move smoothly without excess play.
- Safety Systems: Test the bilge pump and float switch. Check LPG systems for leaks. Inspect dock and anchor lines for wear. And always confirm the drain plug is installed.
- Check Fuel Lines and Tanks: Inspect fuel lines, fill and vent hoses for softness, cracking or brittleness. Check fittings, tanks, pumps and filters for leaks. If you use portable tanks, drain any stale fuel before refilling.
- Electrical System: Charge your batteries and clean the terminals with a wire brush. Tighten connections -- especially battery cables -- and top off battery cells with distilled water if needed.
- Ventilation and Engine Safety: Check bilge blower hoses for damage and run the blower to confirm it’s working properly. Test engine warning systems and alarms so you know they’ll alert you if something goes wrong.
- Watch for Hidden Corrosion: If you have an inboard or inboard/outboard engine, inspect exhaust manifolds and risers every few years for corrosion.
- Rubber Components and Cables: Inspect outdrive bellows for cracks or deterioration, especially in the folds. Look over control cables.
- Monitor Fluids and Protection: Check power steering and trim fluid levels. Inspect lower unit oil and top off if needed. Replace sacrificial anodes (zincs) that are more than halfway worn.
Sailboat checklist:
- Examine Standing and Running Rigging: Look closely at swage fittings for cracks or heavy rust. Check halyards and running backstays for fraying or “fishhooks.”
- Service Turnbuckles and Hardware: Remove old tape from turnbuckles, lubricate threads, and retape carefully so water can still drain.
- Inspect Structural Components: If you suspect moisture around a chainplate, remove it and inspect the surrounding core. Make sure masthead sheaves and blocks spin freely and smoothly.
Trailer checklist:
- Tires, Bearings and Brakes: Inspect tire tread and sidewalls for cracking and check air pressure, including the spare. Repack wheel bearings as needed and inspect brakes and brake fluid.
- Lights, Winch and Frame: Test all trailer lights. Inspect the winch and hitch chains. Look for rust on the frame or axles and sand/paint to prevent further deterioration.
Safety equipment:
- Engine Cutoff Switch: Federal law requires certain boats under 26 feet to use an engine cutoff switch when traveling on plane. Make sure the lanyard or wireless system works and that batteries are fresh if applicable.
- Life Jackets and Emergency Gear: Confirm you have properly sized, wearable life jackets for every passenger, including kids. Check inflatable models for charged cylinders and functional inflators. Inspect fire extinguishers and replace expired flares.
Alarms and electronics:
- Test smoke, carbon monoxide, fume and bilge alarms. Check navigation lights. Update your electronic chart software and confirm your VHF radio is working and properly programmed.
- First Aid and Free Safety Checks: Restock your first-aid kit. Consider a free vessel safety check from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary or the United States Power Squadrons for extra peace of mind.
Dock items:
- Shore Power Safety: Inspect shore power cables end to end. Burn marks on plugs or receptacles can signal dangerous overheating and should be addressed immediately.
- Prevent Electric Shock Drowning: Test ground-fault protection on your boat and dock and familiarize yourself with basic prevention steps to reduce the risk of electric shock drowning.
Paperwork:
- Registration and Tags: Confirm your boat registration is current, and if applicable, your dinghy and trailer.
- Insurance and Membership: Review your boat insurance coverage to make sure it reflects your current needs. Ensure your boat owner association and towing memberships are active if you rely on them.
Whether you’re a seasoned captain or launching for the very first time, starting the season with a safety check helps ensure smooth sailing all summer long.
Even when you are prepared, accidents do happen. If you or someone you love was injured in a boating accident and believe that negligence was a factor, please contact us. Having a better understanding of your legal options may help.