Trip Plan
July 25, 2019
If you are planning a cruise or trip, it is always a good idea to leave a trip plan (also known as a sail or float plan) with someone you trust, for example, a family member, a neighbour or a friend.
An example trip plan form is provided in Appendix 6. Note that it contains information similar to that required for making a Distress or Urgency call and message, as well as details about the voyage.
If you are late or fail to complete your trip in the time specified, the person holding your trip plan may contact Search and Rescue authorities who can then commence search procedures to find the missing vessel or persons.
If you are taking a long trip, you should send a daily position report (especially if you change your planned route) to the holder of your trip plan and be sure to let people know when you return or safely arrive at your next stop. If you do not, people may worry and launch a search, which can waste Search and Rescue resources.
