Organizing a boat is a lot like organizing files.
Organizing your boat is more than deciding where to mount the stereo speakers. Safety is always the first concern, along with complying with the laws and rules related to the type and size of boat. The boat's intended use is one of the factors you'll use when you organize your boat -- a boat used for socializing with family and friends doesn't need a bait well.
Instructions
1. Make a simple drawing of the interior of your boat, as seen from above. Owner's manuals frequently have such a drawing that you can trace. Use this drawing in your decision-making process to locate the items or systems you wish to organize items in the boat.
2. Move all navigational materials and equipment to a place where they are readily accessible to the operator's station -- the wheel and throttle controls. Ensure these materials do not interfere with the operation of any control. A collapsible file or briefcase can contain paper charts and hold navigation instruments as well.
3. Add fishing-rod holders to the sides of the boat, if the boat is intended for fishing. Add equipment tie-downs for tackle boxes and coolers near the center of the boat. If the boat is equipped with a bait well, keep the area around the bait well free of clutter. Do not position anything so that it obscures or prevents access to firefighting equipment, including fire extinguishers.
4. Arrange seating, if movable seating is part of the boat's equipment, away from the engine, if the boat is used primarily for entertaining friends or family. Aim the seats generally at each other, so that passengers can see and hear each other with minimum effort.
5. Position life jacket and safety equipment lockers so that they are readily accessible to those aboard, with a minimum of effort. Ensure there is one life jacket for each person permitted aboard. The maximum number of persons permitted is located on the yellow "Capacities" label found on the lower, right-hand corner of the inside of the rear of the boat.
6. Move all equipment away from the access hatches and fire suppression equipment, including fire extinguishers, on a boat with an enclosed space. All entries and exits are potential emergency exits and must be kept clear. Use deck lockers to hold dock lines and the anchor.
Tags: boat boat, bait well, your boat, away from, boat boat intended, boat intended, boat Move
