Boating in Rough Water Conditions

If you own a boat, you will likely experience rough water conditions at some point. It's helpful to brush up on the tips and tricks to safely navigating rough waters...before you get caught in them.

Here at Bob Hewes Boats, we love helping folks plan for safe and stress-free voyages. We gathered up the following tips for boating in rough waters below. For more tips or to explore boats for sale, visit our dealership. We are based in North Miami and Pompano Beach, Florida, and also serve those in Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Look Up the Weather Forecast

Before you leave the shore, always double check the weather forecast. Even if you looked up the weather conditions last night, the expected conditions could have shifted since then. This can be a great way to keep yourself from ending up in unexpected rough water conditions.

Go Slow and Steady

Once you encounter rough water conditions, it's easy to want to speed up so you return to shore quickly. However, it's best to resist that urge. By boating at a slower speed, you give yourself more reaction time to any possible hazards or obstacles in your way. 

It'll also reduce the strain being placed on your boat's hull, which reduces the chances that the rough water conditions will damage your boat. 

Position Your Boat Strategically

One way to reduce the impact of swells is to angle your boat at a 45-degree angle. It may feel odd, but it will help your boat navigate the rough waters without getting damaged as much.

Increase Your Visibility

Rough water conditions can reduce your visibility between fog, winds, and rain. Utilize your navigational lights to help boost your visibility and make yourself easier to be seen by any other boats in the area.

Are you in the market for a boat? Check out the selection at Bob Hewes Boats. Our dealership is located in North Miami and Pompano Beach, Florida. We also serve those in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.