Spring has officially sprung (as of March 20th, that is). As far as we’re concerned, that can only mean one thing: boating season is back and better than ever!

But before you rush out on the water, there are some things worth slowing down for. Because every year we see the same handful of mistakes. The good news? They’re all avoidable with some proper prep.

Here are five common boat mistakes we see every spring (and how to avoid them). 

1. Skipping the Pre-Launch Check

After months in storage, your boat needs more than just a quick rinse and a full tank of gas. It needs some TLC. 

You could find issues like:

• Cracked hoses
• Loose connections
• Corrosion or wear that went unnoticed

How to avoid it:

• Do a full walk-through before launching. Check your battery, fluid levels, hoses, belts, and safety gear. 
• Check out our 2026 Spring Launch Checklist for a full breakdown.

2. Dead Batteries & Engine Trouble

The colder months aren’t exactly kind to your battery or engine. Imagine you’re ready to go for your first ride of the season and your engine won’t start. That’s very common. Or worse, something fails once you’re already out.

How to avoid it:

• Charge and test your battery before launch.
• Inspect fuel lines and replace old fuel if needed.
• Run the engine briefly before your first trip.

And, of course, always make sure to turn off the power before doing any electrical work! 

3. Insurance Gaps After Upgrades

Many boat owners upgrade electronics, add new gear, or make other improvements during the off-season. If you’ve made any changes, it’s important to update your policy. Otherwise, those upgrades could leave you underinsured or not covered at all. 

How to avoid it:

• Review your policy at the start of the season and make sure it reflects your boat as it is today, not how it was last year.
• Check out our guide on Personal Property and Equipment Coverage. 

4. Ignoring Weather Early in the Season

Spring weather can be quite unpredictable. High winds, heavy rain, and early-season storms can cause more damage than expected. That’s why it’s important to make sure your boat is properly protected from quick weather shifts. 

How to avoid it:

• Keep an eye on the forecast.
• Double-check dock lines and covers.
• Have a plan for adverse weather. 
• It’s also worth making sure your policy includes storm-related coverage.

5. Not Having Towing & Roadside Assistance Coverage

Don’t let a breakdown stop you from enjoying a day out on the water. Dead batteries, engine issues, or fuel problems can leave you stranded faster than you think.

How to avoid it:

• Make sure you have Towing and Roadside Assistance Coverage in place before heading out.
• Learn more about how you can stay protected with SkiSafe’s coverage options. If you’re stranded, you can contact a local service provider for immediate assistance. Our towing and roadside coverage will reimburse you for those costs after a covered claim.