What is the primary purpose of a float plan?

The primary purpose of a float plan is to inform others of your intended route and expected return time. This crucial document serves as a safety measure for boaters, providing detailed information about where you plan to go, how long you expect to be gone, and when you intend to return. If something goes wrong, having a float plan allows search and rescue teams to have a clear idea of your last known location and your planned itinerary, which can significantly enhance the chances of a successful rescue.

While logging speed and fuel consumption, outlining safety equipment, and recording weather conditions are important aspects of boating, they do not fulfill the primary function of ensuring that someone is aware of your plans in case of an emergency. These other aspects support safe boating practices but are secondary compared to the immediacy and lifesaving potential of a well-documented float plan.