2023 New Year's Boating Resolutions

Happy New Year Sailors! Over here at Shipshape I am excited for what 2023 has in store for us all. As I was enjoying time with my family over the holidays,

we were all coming up with our New Year's Resolutions, and I wanted to share some of my favorites that my fellow boaters came up with.

1. Repair one faulty component every month

We all know what it's like to have life come snowballing down on us and all of a sudden everything feels overwhelming. This resolution helps us take control of our surroundings and put a halt to the amplification of this effect. Some ideas of what you might want to tackle first are anything that is damaging or capable of damaging other components of your boat. These could be leaky hatches, windows or deck hardware, thru-hulls that can't be closed, unprotected and faulty circuits and deferred engine maintenance.

2. Be a better dock neighbor

Here all we need is a shift in our global perspective, simple enough right? Just pay attention to your neighbors as they are pulling into the dock, could they use a hand catching a dock line so know one has to make a "leap of faith"? This is also goes for when they're away from the dock if you notice an unsecured line or something that could be blown overboard. If you don't have your neighbor's number, let Harbor Patrol know what you noticed and they'll be sure to check it out.

While we're on the topic, I noticed a leaking hose bib on a dock in Marina 3 recently. I let the Waterfront Maintenance crew know about it, and the whole bib was replaced within 24 hours. I consider that outstanding service in this sector.

So your neighbor has it all under control? Consider getting them an oil change from Shipshape Boat Service, that way you know your neighbors boat is running better, you're supporting a small, local business and you feel good about yourself. That'll get you some brownie points with Poseidon

3. Inspect, Repair or Replace Safety Equipment

This often overlooked yet very important piece of boating equipment needs attention at least once a year. Not only will you check to see if your equipment is up to snuff, but you also gain familiarity with its accessibility and function. Here's a quick rundown of some of the vital safety devices we should all have and check on our boats:

• Lifejackets

• Flares

• Fire Extinguishers

• Throwable Flotation Device

• Distress Flag

• Whistle, Horn, Bell

• Anchor and Rode

• Engine Room Blower

• Bilge Pump

• Condition of Batteries

• Navigation Lights

4. Run your boat more often, bring a friend

I put this on the blog last month, but the challenge this month is to bring someone out that's a landlubber. There's not much better than introducing someone to a passion of yours, and hopefully they'll catch the bug. Not only will it bring a new experience to your friends lifestyle, it should also improve your boating by being a mentor to them.

Let's not forget the bonus of running your boat. Our boats truly gain from being run frequently. Not only is it good for all the systems, you will also be clued into any components that aren't currently working, thereby giving you the opportunity to fix them before they compound.

5. Create a maintenance schedule

Here's one that I'll do for you, you just have to stick to it. Download Shipshape's boat maintenance checklist and start tackling your boats must do tasks one month at a time. Obviously there are a wide variety of boats out there, yours may have way more or less than what I've included here.

And finally, Happy New Years Boaters, I wish you an exciting and enjoyable year ahead on the water with new destinations and longer voyages!

Sam