Before embarking on any trip in a boat it is important to prepare a passage plan. An awareness of all the hazards such as rocks and shallows some of which may be lit and others not is important if a safe passage is to be ensured. Rocks may be just below the surface and may be marked with cardinal buoys and a sensible distance should be allowed from the dangers these are marking particularly if the tide is in full flow. Deeper navigation channels are often marked with buoys, red for port and green for starboard, and mark the way forward. These channels may snake around so it is important to be aware of the course of them. There may be other hazards to contend with such as ferries and other larger boats which have restricted manoeuvrability. A wide berth should be given to all these. Finally being aware of the likelihood of other boats coming to and from marinas should be part of the plan. A good passage plan will help make sure you arrive at your destination safely.
