What is a Float Plan, and Why Use It
 

You can download it and fill in the descriptive facts about you and your boat.  Make photocopies, saving for later printing, and then all you have to do is fill out the rest of the information each time you take a trip.

You can fill in the information using your computer while online, and print it out before your trip. Or you can save the completed copy to your computer, and attach to an email message you send to a friend or relative ashore -- a person who will know who to notify if there are problems.

It's important to file your float plan with a friend, relative or neighbor.  The plan tells them where you are going and the route you will take.  It also tells them when you will be back and whom to call if you don't return on time.

Most often you will ask that the Coast Guard be notified if you are overdue. 

The Coast Guard does not accept Float Plans, but will mount a search as soon as you are reported overdue.

When you are trailering and you can't find someone to accept your Float Plan, leave a copy under your windshield wiper.  Some police authority will find it, probably soon after dark.

Cancel your Float Plan when you return!  The person with whom you left it may not know you have returned and a needless search may be started.

An interactive copy -- one you can fill out while online and then print and/or save -- is available here:

Float Plan Form

Supplemental information about float plans is available at: