Every year thousands of boaters go out on the water without the proper safety equipment that is required by law. This equipment can be of great benefit and comfort and can mean the difference between a great day out on the water and a potential disaster.

The skipper is responsible not only for the safety of the boat and those on board, but also for their behaviour. These responsibilities include legal requirements, appropriate environmental action, prudent steps for the skipper to take and acts of common courtesy.