Schedule a Free Vessel Safety Check in Clearwater
VESSEL SAFETY CHECK
The Clearwater Club gives Vessel Safety Checks free of charge. The program helps to achieve voluntary compliance with federal and state recreational boating safety laws. The program also checks for the carriage of safety equipment while raising boater awareness about safety and environmental issues through voluntary contact by a Vessel Examiner.
What Gets Checked
Our certified Vessel Examiners conduct free voluntary inspections to help achieve compliance with federal and state recreational boating safety laws and raise boater awareness about safety and environmental issues
Life Jackets and PFDs
Proper number for boat size, in good condition, and correct sizes for all passengers.
Fire Extinguishers
Proper type and quantity for your vessel, easily accessible, and current inspection tags.
Navigation Lights
All required running lights, anchor light, and any special lighting in proper working condition.
Sound Signals
Whistle or horn that can be heard at proper distances and bell or gong where required.
Visual Distress Signals
Flares, mirror, or other visual signals appropriate for your boating area and vessel type.
Ventilation
Proper ventilation in engine compartment to prevent explosive gas buildup and reduce fire risk.
Peace of Mind on the Water
A Vessel Safety Check gives you confidence that your boat meets all federal and state safety requirements. Our trained examiners are volunteers who genuinely care about keeping boaters safe on Clearwater’s waters.
The inspection is completely free, takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and we come to your boat wherever it’s docked or stored.
What If Your Boat Doesn't Pass?
First, there are no penalties for failing an inspection. A Vessel Safety Check is designed to help you, not punish you. If our examiners find any deficiencies, they will provide you with a detailed report explaining what needs attention and why.
You’ll receive recommendations on how to bring your boat into compliance. Many items are simple fixes or inexpensive replacements. Our goal is to help you have a safe boat and a safe boating experience. We recommend taking any findings to heart and addressing them before heading out on the water.
How to Schedule
VSC FAQ
A Vessel Safety Check is not required by federal law. However, having one is a great way to ensure your boat meets all federal and state requirements and is safe for you and your passengers.
We perform inspections at the boat’s location. Whether it’s at your home dock, marina, or launch ramp, we come to you. Just have the boat accessible and ready.
A typical Vessel Safety Check takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on your boat size and complexity. Our examiners work efficiently but thoroughly to ensure nothing is missed.
The Vessel Safety Check is completely free of charge. It’s our way of helping ensure that boats operating in our local waters are as safe as possible for everyone.