Renting or buying a boat in Croatia
06/02/2024Rent a boat quick guide
31/07/2024RENTED A BOAT?
Here are 6 things you should not be doing
Summer is here, and your vacation can finally begin. You’re packing your favorite lightweight clothing and preparing your suitcase for your seaside getaway. Your mind is solely focused on the sun, a stylish hat, and finding a serene cove where you can gaze into the blue for hours, disconnecting for a few moments, or even days.
You’ve decided to rent a boat and explore hidden coves, beaches, and areas in Novi Vinodolski that you’ve never seen before, all ready for an adventure on the water like never before. It sounds like an ideal scenario and an excellent way to spend your vacation. However, with utmost freedom and carefree vibes, there are certain actions that you should never attempt while operating a boat, no matter how seemingly harmless they may be.
We’ve put together a short guide on how to operate a boat safely and comfortably and the five rules you should never break to smoothly dock your boat in the harbor.
1. Don’t rush into the depths
We understand. Your only wish is to reach your destination quickly and discover your own piece of the blue lagoon. However, safety always comes first, especially when it comes to navigating a boat. “Festina lente” (make haste slowly) is the term to remember. Even though the sea is usually transparent and it’s easy to spot swimmers, buoys, or other objects on the surface during the day, we must consider the unpredictable situations that can arise, especially in shallow areas. A stray diver, swimmer, child, or buoy can easily find themselves in close proximity to danger. Therefore, it’s crucial to drive slowly and carefully at least 300 meters from the shore, and only increase speed when the coastline is further away and the vast expanse of blue lies ahead. Diver markers should be avoided by at least 100 meters, and it’s highly recommended to consult a navigation map to avoid shallow areas, rocks, or other hazards in the sea.
2. Mind the numbers
Renting a boat often leads to changes in plans, sometimes converting a solitary escape into a group outing. While embracing the spirit of togetherness during summer is wonderful, it’s essential to pay attention to several factors. Overloading the boat with more people than the prescribed capacity or not having enough
mandatory safety equipment can lead to dangerous situations, penalties, or uncomfortable experiences.
3. Safety comes first
We understand we’re reiterating ourselves, but on the sea, there’s never too much caution. Before setting sail, pay attention to a few more details and listen to the lessor’s advice to ensure a safe entry into a calm harbor. Check the weather forecast and adjust your desired route accordingly. Even if a distant cove is at the top of your list, it’s important to consider weather conditions. If they’re not ideal, it’s wise to reconsider and choose a safer destination.
Alcohol is a common companion during vacations, helping us relax and unwind. However, intoxication and boating should never go hand in hand. As previously mentioned, the vastness of the sea might seem foolproof, but don’t forget the final docking process and additional activities that need to be carried out calmly and safely to ensure everything goes as planned. Therefore, we suggest enjoying a drink only after securely mooring the boat. Additionally, we strongly advise against operating a boat or any motorized vehicle without a valid license, as it’s illegal and highly discouraged.
4. Brush up on the essentials before departure
Riding a bicycle is a skill we all master and rarely forget. Tying knots, even after a thousand times, might seem simple and reliable. Nevertheless, always remember the procedures before stepping into the boat and leaving the shore. Properly tying ropes and dropping anchors, no matter how routine they seem, are crucial for safe docking and departure, whether in a harbor or in the middle of the sea. Entrust these tasks to the most experienced member of the crew, or if you aspire to become that person, allow those more knowledgeable to guide you and verify the end result.
5. Keep the sea and the environment clean
Research shows that during the season, the sea can be up to six times more polluted than in the winter months. This is a clear indication of how maritime tourism, fishing, and various marine activities have a negative impact on ocean preservation. While it’s commonly believed that shoreline garbage solely arrives via wind drifts and not intentional dumping, the truth is more complex. We’ve witnessed the seabed cluttered with debris and objects that don’t belong there. In addition to the fact that the sea provides many people with their livelihoods and business opportunities, it’s also a part of our environment that brings us much joy and beauty. Therefore, it’s crucial to refrain from littering the sea with waste, food, or other objects. Apart from
contributing to the plastic choking of the ocean, this behavior can result in penalties from maritime authorities. We recommend stocking up on sufficient supplies for your boat adventure, being mindful of your purchases and consumption, and properly disposing of waste in designated areas. By doing so, we can repay the sea for all the good it provides us and enjoy its offerings responsibly.
6. Surely return to the harbor (praise the sea, stick to the shore…)
Docking a boat in the harbor can be described as the most challenging maneuver. Therefore, it’s important to approach this task with a dose of caution and concentration every time. Regardless of the conditions on the open sea or the port from which you set sail, when you arrive at your destination, remember that the final steps are crucial to ensure everything proceeds smoothly.
Pay attention to the wind direction, the conditions in the harbor, and whether other boats and vessels are approaching. It’s also a good idea to seek advice and assistance if needed. Slow the boat to the lowest speed, prepare the ropes for tying at the front and back, and don’t forget to lower the fenders. Alert and guide other passengers not to disturb you during the docking process and be aware of potential unpredictable situations during the approach. It’s advised to turn the steering wheel in the desired direction first and then increase speed (never the other way around). Make sure to ask for detailed instructions when renting a boat and heed the lessor’s advice to obtain all the necessary information and recommendations for enjoying your boat vacation to the fullest.
At Nevera – Rent a Boat in Novi Vinodolski, we approach our lessors with maximum helpfulness to avoid any possibility of mishaps. We also provide support and education to our users, enabling them to relax and enjoy their holiday adventure.
Check out our recommendations for hidden harbors and destinations here (link na tekst o uvalama) and find your ideal boat for your summer vacation.
