Owning a boat is a dream come true for many of us. The freedom to explore the open waters, the thrill of the wind in your hair, and the serenity of the sea—it’s a lifestyle that’s hard to beat. But let’s face it, maintaining a boat can sometimes be a daunting task.
Boat maintenance is a crucial aspect of ownership, ensuring not only the longevity of your vessel but also the safety of everyone on board. However, managing maintenance for multiple boats or large fleets can quickly become overwhelming.
That’s where Tracket comes in, the ultimate all-in-one app designed to keep your power boat, yacht, or personal watercraft (PWC) in check.
With the best boat management software, you can effortlessly handle all aspects of your boat’s maintenance using your mobile phone, from routine inspections to major repairs.
Whether you’re a seasoned boater or just starting your nautical adventures, Tracket will revolutionise the way you care for your vessel.
Understanding Boat Maintenance and Safety Compliance
Recent news highlights the diligent efforts of Marine Safety Officers who conducted inspections on more than 500 vessels in early 2023. The report revealed a decrease in the number of non-compliant vessels, with only 32% found to be non-compliant compared to 35% in the same period last year.
This significant improvement emphasises the importance of prioritising boating safety compliance and maintaining vessels to meet the necessary standards.
Regular boat maintenance is essential to ensure that your vessel lasts long and that it functions properly. It involves various tasks, including engine checks, electrical system maintenance, hull inspections, and proper upkeep of safety equipment. By proactively addressing maintenance needs, you can identify potential issues early on and prevent costly repairs or accidents.
In addition to maintenance, complying with safety regulations is very important. These regulations are implemented to set standards for boat safety, including equipment requirements, navigation rules, and readiness for emergencies.
Complying with these regulations ensures that vessels are properly equipped and operated in a safe and responsible manner. That way, the risk of accidents can be reduced, promoting a secure boating environment.
Boating Essentials: 6 Tracket Features Every Boater Needs
As a cloud-based boat app, Tracket provides a single platform to organise and manage all your boat’s records, ensuring that your vessel remains in top-notch condition.
With our complete dashboard, you can access all your boat’s information right at your fingertips. By staying organised with Tracket, you’ll save valuable time and money, making your boating journey even more enjoyable.
Explore six essential features of Tracket, designed to empower every boater:
Effortless Document Management: With Tracket, you can say goodbye to the frustration of digging through paperwork and hello to easy organisation. Upload all your boat-related documents into one place, accessible through specific folders. Whether it’s warranties, registrations, or safety equipment expiry dates, you’ll never have to go searching for important documents again.
Seamless Boat Expense Tracking: Keep track of your boating expenses effortlessly. Tracket allows you to categorise your expenses and provides a personalised view of your average monthly spending. You can even upload invoices for safekeeping, ensuring you have a clear overview of your financial records.
Streamlined Boat Maintenance: A well-documented service history can significantly impact the resale value of your boat. Tracket keeps your maintenance records organised and easily accessible. Categorise and store all your maintenance-related information in one place, including survey reports. With Tracket, you’ll have the peace of mind of having one of the best-documented boats on the water, which can even lead to potential insurance discounts.
Customised Boat Checklists: Stay organised and never forget essential tasks with Tracket’s customised checklists. Create lists tailored to specific occasions, such as fishing preparations. Tracket ensures you remain on top of all activities on and off your boat.
Handy Boat Reminders: Tracket keeps you updated on important events and deadlines. Set reminders for boat servicing, warranty and insurance due dates, or anything you want to be reminded of. Enjoy peace of mind and stress-free boating with Tracket’s reliable reminders.
Real-time Boat Log Book: Keep track of your boat’s usage and maintenance needs with Tracket. Log engine and generator hours after each outing and receive real-time notifications for upcoming scheduled maintenance based on logged hours. With Tracket, you’ll never forget when your next service is due.
Tips on How to Prepare for Your Next Boating Trip
Before setting sail on your next boating adventure, it’s crucial to take the time for proper preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
The Department of Transport has developed the BEST boat check, a comprehensive guide designed to assist boaters in maintaining their vessels and reducing the risk of breakdowns.
Check Your Boat
Begin by conducting a thorough inspection of your boat. Examine the batteries to ensure they are in good condition and fully charged. Verify the fuel and oil levels, making sure you have at least 50% in reserve. Test the steering mechanism to ensure it functions properly, and check for your keys and bungs, ensuring everything is securely in place.
Check Your Equipment
Start by running a test on your motor to ensure it operates smoothly. Utilise your trailing bracket to securely transport your boat, providing stability during transportation. Make sure to load all the necessary equipment for your voyage, ensuring you have everything you need on board.
Check Your Safety Equipment
Verify that you have all the necessary safety equipment required for the specific area of operation This includes life jackets, fire extinguishers, distress signals, and any other required items. Stay updated on the boating weather forecast. By monitoring weather conditions before and during your journey, you can ensure safe boating conditions and make informed decisions to protect yourself and your crew.
Check Your Trailer
Proper maintenance of your trailer is crucial for smooth and safe transportation of your boat. Test the functionality of your trailer lights, check the wheel pressure and bearings, inspect the tow hitch and safety chains, and use proper tie-downs.
