WRITTEN BY: Amanda Prevosk
Jun 04, 2026 
Dan Trusty knows about safety.
With a 50-Ton Captain’s License and a former career as a Ski Patrol Officer in Colorado, being prepared with the proper gear for changing conditions has always been part of the job. As a lifelong boater and Yacht Specialist for our Connecticut office, Dan knows that the best boating days are made before you ever leave the dock.
From weekends in Montauk, Newport, or Martha’s Vineyard to everyday cruising throughout Long Island Sound, Dan shares some boating safety essentials, as well as some of his favorite cruising "must-haves" in our latest video.
The Essentials
New England boating conditions can change quickly. Wind against tide can create rough conditions, especially around places like Fishers Island Sound and Block Island Sound. That’s why Dan recommends preparing with the basics first. Below is a helpful list to get you started:
- Properly Fitted Life Jackets - Life jackets are the most important safety item on any boat, but fit and comfort matter, too. Dan recommends ensuring regular guests and family members have life jackets that fit properly and are comfortable enough to wear for long periods.
- Backup Handheld VHF Radio - Electronics can fail unexpectedly. A handheld VHF radio provides a backup method of communication with bridges, marinas, fuel docks, or emergency responders if your primary system goes down.
- Flashlights with Fresh Batteries - Whether you are checking the bilge, troubleshooting something mechanical, or navigating after dark, a reliable flashlight is one of those items you never want to realize you forgot.
- Backup GPS -Handheld GPS units can provide peace of mind if your primary navigation system experiences issues.
- EPIRB for Offshore Cruising - For anyone spending time offshore, an EPIRB is a necessary safety item. In a worst-case scenario, it allows emergency responders to locate your vessel quickly when you are outside of normal cellular service range.
- Sharp Serrated Knife - It may sound simple, but having a sharp knife that can cut rope quickly is incredibly important.
- Towboat Membership Services - SeaTow or Boat U.S. are considered essential by many experienced boaters. Mechanical issues, dead batteries, and unexpected situations happen, and having on-call assistance available quickly can make stressful situations much easier.
- Paper Charts and Cruising Guides - Even with advanced marine electronics onboard, Dan still recommends carrying paper charts and cruising guides. Resources like the Eldridge Tide and Pilot Book help boaters better understand tides, currents, local navigation, and changing conditions throughout New England waters.
- Extra Drinking Water - There are many reasons to bring extra drinking water. Whether it's taking longer than expected to reach your destination because of weather or mechanical issues, it's hotter than anticipated, or you have an extra-thirsty guest; always carry more drinking water than you think you will need.
- Making Your Trip More Comfortable - Good rain gear, quality binoculars, and coffee onboard can make a surprisingly big difference during a long day on the water. If you are particular about how your gear is secured, bungee cords are a great thing to keep with you. It's worth keeping a pair of swimming goggles on the boat as well- just in case you need to take a look at something on your bottom.
One of the best parts about boating in the Northeast is that every destination is unique. You can enjoy a quiet anchorage near Mystic one weekend, and visit the historic shipyard- the next weekend you can be docked on Block Island, sipping Mudslides and soaking in the summer vibes. However, each trip and destination is unique. The better prepared you are for the trip, the easier it becomes to relax and enjoy the experience.
Watch our full video with Dan Trusty of SI Yachts for more boating safety tips, cruising essentials, and practical advice for enjoying life on the water throughout New England.
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