Seasonal boating safety / Fall 2026

When the clocks fall back, your boating plans need to change, too.

Wherever clocks fall back, sunset moves about an hour earlier. Check the time for your own location.

DAYLIGHT SAVING TIME ENDS NOVEMBER 1Southport, CT example: Oct 31 at 5:49 p.m. → Nov 1 at 4:48 p.m.

Earlier evenings

Same afternoon. One hour less daylight on the clock.

Sunset on Saturday, October 31 vs. Sunday, November 1.

What changes?Plan for an earlier return trip.

Oct 31 Nov 1

Bridgeport, CT

5:49 p.m. → 4:48 p.m.

Chicago, IL

5:45 p.m. → 4:44 p.m.

Seattle, WA

5:53 p.m. → 4:51 p.m.

Miami, FL

6:39 p.m. → 5:39 p.m.

4:305:005:306:006:307:00

Local sunset times (p.m.). Source: Timeanddate.com, 2026.

The time change on the water

Same time. Different daylight.

Harbor before the clock change — **Before the clock change**October 31, 2026 · 4:48 p.m. EDTSunset: 5:49 p.m.

Harbor after the clock change — **After the clock change**November 1, 2026 · 4:48 p.m. ESTSunset: 4:48 p.m.

Illustrative comparison using the supplied Bridgeport, Connecticut sunset times. Local conditions and sunset times vary by location.

Boating checklist

Before you leave the dock, reassess:

FOUR ESSENTIALS

The return trip

Check sunset for your location and date. Set an earlier turnaround time and allow for delays.

Wind and water

Fronts bring gusts, rapid wind shifts and changing waves. Review the marine forecast for the whole outing, not just departure.

Safety equipment

Test navigation lights, check communication and signaling devices, inspect life jackets and restock first aid.

Cold-weather supplies

Pack dry clothing, warm layers, hats, gloves and blankets. Dress for the water temperature and wear a life jacket.

Required navigation lights must be displayed from sunset to sunrise and in restricted visibility.

Seasonal preparation

Winter prep looks different across the country.

Your location shapes what your boat needs next.

Snow-covered boats wrapped for winter storage

01 / COLD WEATHER

Northeast & Upper Midwest

Ending the season? Complete freeze protection before your boat faces freezing temperatures.

02 / STORM READINESS

Pacific Northwest

Storm readiness: clear drains, secure moorings and protect vulnerable water systems, even in milder coastal areas.

Center console boat in warm-weather waters

03 / YEAR-ROUND BOATING

Across the South

Boating continues year-round, and so does routine maintenance, along with a plan to protect the boat before a cold snap.

Plan for the season ahead

Winter storage, or your next trip?

Use the time change as a reminder to reassess your trip plans and your boat’s seasonal needs.

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BRANDS WE SUPPORT

Bentley · Landau · Stingray · Shallow Sport · Sea Pro · Sea Born · Zodiac · Veranda

Sources: NIST; Timeanddate.com; NOAA/National Weather Service; U.S. Coast Guard; BoatUS.