The steps below are helpful for getting started. We do want to mention that there are many different types of vessels, and operation can vary from one to another.

Before heading out on the water, be sure to read through our guide on how to choose a marine GPS app because it will be immensely useful for navigating unknown waters. With that said, let’s dive into the basics of how to operate a boat.

• If you have a gas-powered boat with an engine compartment i.e inboard or inboard/outboard motor, fumes can build up in the engine compartment. Run the exhaust fan or blower before you start up the engine. You’ll find more information in the boat’s manual, but often you’ll run the fan for at least 4 – 5 minutes.
• Inspect around the boat to ensure no one is in the water and nothing is close to the propeller.
• Before you embark, make sure that the boat has all of its equipment, and all passengers are inside. You should also make sure everyone has access to a lifejacket. If there’s children on board, lifejackets may be required by law.
• Attach your kill switch using your lanyard. One of the most important safety measures that you can take is to attach the kill switch to prevent propeller injuries and the boat from going off course if something happens to the captain.
• Start the boat’s engine with either the push button or by inserting the key in the ignition and turning it.
• Remove any lines between the boat and the dock. Untie the line that leads into the direction of the wind last. When ready, don’t be afraid to give yourself a push off the dock.
• Use the throttle to gently engage the engine and turn the wheel to your direction of travel. Cycle the throttle between being in gear (forward or reverse) and neutral to control your speed. If you’re launching from a boat ramp or near a channel, be sure to keep your eye on your map. The Wavve Boating app will highlight the shallow areas in red so that you know where to avoid.
• Slowly proceed out of the area. Be mindful of speed limit signs and other markers along your route. There are often no wake, or wake warnings near boat launches and marinas, make sure you are clear of any wake warnings before increasing your speed.

Key Tips:

• Read through your boat manufacturer’s recommendations. You’ll learn a lot of model-specific tips and recommendations that you didn’t know or may need to brush up on.
• If you’re having issues starting the boat, make sure the throttle is in neutral and the safety cut-off switch is seated.

Reversing your boat is a crucial maneuver that you’ll need to master. You’ll want to go in reverse slowly because it’s often done near a dock or marina where you shouldn’t be going faster than an ‘idle speed’. Practice reversing your boat when away from any vessels or obstacles to get comfortable with how your boat performs. The direction the stern will travel when in reverse and your steering position is turned can vary if your boat is fitted with a jet drive or a traditional lower unit.

Slow and steady is the way to reverse properly so that you don’t lose control of the vessel and bump into a dock (or another boat) in the process.

Learning how to slow and stop a boat takes practice. Remember – boats don’t have brakes. To slow down, you’ll need to reduce the throttle. Just keep in mind that the stopping distance can vary from one boat to the next and things like wind speed and currents can affect how a boat handles drastically. Slight and momentary applications of reverse throttle will help stop your boats forward momentum, be mindful of your passengers and the effects of sudden stopping. A sudden decrease in momentum can cause injury to passengers if they’re not braced for the change. This is why it’s extremely important to get comfortable with reversing your vessel and managing it’s momentum first in a low stakes/no stress situation before you need to use these skills at the dock.

Operating a boat on a lake is not unlike operating a boat on the ocean. In fact, in some ways it’s considered easier because of the lack of currents and tides. But because lakes are more confined, they tend to get more crowded. Which can present its own hazards to contend with.

People love kayaking, jet skiing, canoeing, fishing and swimming in lakes. Crowds and smaller spaces mean that you must be aware of your surroundings and operate your boat with additional care. As you get more comfortable behind the wheel, always try to keep your eyes high while steering. Don’t just look out at the front of your boat. Similar to driving a car, you should give people (and smaller watercraft) the right or way. A small sailboat or canoe won’t have an engine to help them slow down or change course.

Learning the basics of steering, maneuvering and operating a boat is important. It’s also important to practice good etiquette when you’re on the water or launching your boat.

Here are tips:

Take it easy when you’re out on the water, especially if you’re just learning how to boat. Cruising at 20 mph instead of 30 will give you more time to respond and avoid a collision.

One perk of taking it slow is that you get more time to enjoy your surroundings. Trust us, it’s a whole vibe

It should go without saying that you should never operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In many states, boating under the influence (BUI) has the same consequences as a drunk driving (DUI).

Make sure that you always designate a sober skipper as alcohol is the leading factor in fatal boat accidents.

In our unwritten rules of boating guide, we talk about how important it is to watch your wake. Always be mindful of where you are and the waves you’re leaving behind. Large wakes can be especially dangerous in crowded areas. The last thing you want is to toss other boaters around in their craft – not a great way to make friends!

If you’re approaching a large wave or wake, try not to hit it head-on. Aim to take them on at a 45-degree angle to minimize the impact..

Learning how to drive a boat takes time and practice. Follow the rules, always put safety first and take it slow. Once you get a feel for how the boat operates and responds, driving it will come naturally – just like driving a car.

If you’ reinterested in hitting the water, but aren’t sure exactly where to go (or how to get there) check out the Wavve Boating App. You can review the top rated destination near you and easily connect with your friends out on the water. It’s an all-in-one tool that’s sure to have everything you need…no matter which boating adventure you’re on.