What is the purpose of a float plan?

A float plan serves a critical function in boating safety by informing others about your itinerary and the details of your trip. This plan typically includes information such as the type of boat being used, the destination, expected return time, and the names of all individuals on board. By sharing this plan with someone on land, you create a safety net; if you do not return as scheduled, rescue efforts can be initiated more quickly and accurately, as the information in the float plan helps authorities understand where to look and what precautions to take.

The other options, while related to boating activities, do not capture the primary safety-oriented intent of a float plan. Tracking fishing locations, keeping travel distance records, and estimating fuel consumption are practical activities for boaters but do not enhance safety in the same way a float plan does.