Boat departure checklist

Before casting off, a few essential checks help ensure safe and stress-free navigation. Discover our pre-departure navigation checklist below.

Engine check

The engine and energy system are the heart of the vessel. Their proper functioning is essential to ensure reliability, safety, and overall performance.

Before any use, a thorough inspection helps prevent breakdowns and avoid incidents along the way.

Here are the key points to check:

✅ Fuel level

✅ Engine oil level

✅ Water and coolant levels

✅ Batteries charged and battery switches checked

✅ Engine operation and onboard instruments functioning properly

Onboard safety

Before setting sail, onboard safety is an absolute priority and must never be overlooked. It ensures the protection of all passengers in case of unexpected events (breakdown, man overboard, difficult navigation conditions, etc.).

A thorough inspection of safety equipment helps anticipate risks and ensures safe and stress-free navigation.

Here are the key points to check before departure:

✅ Life jackets available for all passengers
✅ Lifebuoy, fire extinguishers, and first-aid kit on board
✅ Navigation lights and lighting in proper working order
✅ Bilge pump checked
✅ Mooring lines and fenders correctly installed

Preparing your navigation

Before any trip, navigation planning is an essential step to ensure a smooth, safe, and incident-free journey.

Properly anticipating your route and staying informed about navigation conditions allows you to adapt your course, avoid obstacles, and respond effectively to any changes along the way. Good preparation directly contributes to onboard comfort and safety.

Here are the key points to check before departure:

✅ Route planned in advance

✅ Lock schedules and operations checked

✅ Weather conditions reviewed

✅ Water levels and navigation notices checked

✅ GPS, VHF, and navigation equipment in working order

Well-prepared navigation is the guarantee of setting off with confidence and fully enjoying the journey.

Comfort & onboard living

Before departure, onboard comfort plays an important role in fully enjoying the cruise in good conditions.

A well-organised and properly prepared boat allows for a pleasant, functional, and safe onboard experience, while helping to avoid inconveniences once under way.

Here are the key points to check before departure:

✅ Freshwater tanks filled

✅ Portholes and doors secured before setting off

✅ Items properly stowed and secured on board

✅ Refrigerator, galley, and equipment ready for the cruise

✅ Food, drinks, and personal belongings on board

Administrative

Before setting sail, it is essential to ensure that all administrative requirements are in order and easily accessible on board.

In the event of a inspection, incident, or need for assistance, having up-to-date documents readily available saves valuable time and helps avoid unnecessary complications. It also contributes to more peaceful navigation, knowing that you are compliant with regulations and properly covered.

Here are the key points to check before departure:

✅ Boat documents (registration certificate, cruising permit, valid insurance certificate, etc.)

✅ Personal documents (ID card or passport, boating licence)