What information should be inclued in a float plan?

A "float plan" is like a "flight plan"; where you're starting from and when, where you're going, and what route you expect to take. It's so that if you don't show up at your destination when people expect you to be, that rescue agencies will know where to start looking for you. That's because Search and Rescue flight crews would like a chance to find you before you die of exposure, thirst, or hunger.

A "flight plan" covers one airplane trip from here to there. With boats, your "float plan" may need to cover more time and several segments. For example, your sailboat from San Diego to Tahiti will take several weeks and may include a few stops, in Hilo, Kauai, and Johnston Atoll. You should include what kind of rescue beacons you are taking, what radio frequencies you will monitor, and your approximate planned track.