Emergency preparation is most useful before something goes wrong. Learn the boat’s communication arrangements and equipment locations while you can still ask calm, specific questions.
Ask the skipper how to contact local emergency services, communicate your position, and reach routine operator support. Learn where the relevant equipment is and who knows how to use it. Tell the skipper about medical concerns that could affect the outing and keep necessary personal medication accessible.
If someone is injured, missing, or in immediate danger, alert the skipper and contact the appropriate emergency service as instructed locally. Describe what has happened and your location as accurately as possible. Follow professional directions, avoid putting another person in danger, and do not improvise a rescue beyond your abilities.
A mechanical problem may need operator assistance, while fire, serious injury, or a person in the water can require urgent professional help. Ask about these distinctions during the briefing. After immediate danger is addressed, record relevant details and follow the operator’s reporting process without delaying assistance to collect evidence.
Denmark, Greece, Croatia, Italy, Spain, France, Germany, Netherlands, United Kingdom
European boating qualifications need to be checked against the exact vessel and waters. A certificate accepted for one trip may not answer every question elsewhere.
Read guideGeneral boating
A boat trip with children is easier to enjoy when adults plan supervision, comfort, and simple activities before everyone reaches the waterfront.
Read guideDenmark, Germany, Netherlands, France, Croatia
Not holding a boating licence does not settle which experiences are available. Start by asking who will operate the vessel and where it will go.
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