The ABC’s of Docking

But it doesn’t have to be that way. Nope. There are a few things to remember, sure, but the main thing is to take it slow (or as slow as the prevailing current and boat traffic allows) and keep your cool. Many good and experienced boaters take more than one shot to back their boat into a slip. You shouldn’t feel too much pressure to get it perfect every time. Life’s too short, and that sort of self-imposed anxiety flies in the face of everything that boating should be about. So there you go. Read these tips, and remember to take your time. You’ll be fine.

• Practice. I know, it sounds crazy, but the folks that are really good at docking a boat have done it hundreds of times. Pick a time when nobody’s around (except a trusted dockhand) and take a run at it. Shoot too far? Cut the wheel sooner. Come in too fast? Slow down. You’ll get it quicker than you think.

• Use what you’ve got. Windy day? Let it push you where you want to be. Strong, ripping current? You won’t be the only one with docking problems. Plenty of room? Ahhhh….take a big, easy angle and work your way in slowly. Always cut a good tight corner on the side of the boat closest to the dock and turn the wheel with authority.

• Don’t lose your momentum. Most docking efforts go awry when you try to pull back too early. If you drop your momentum, you wind up over-compensating and making things worse. Pick a target speed that’s a little slower than you think it should be and stick to it. You can always pull out and start over, but don’t panic and drop the throttle before you get the position you need.

• Understand your prop. You may not know it, but your propeller is your friend. But like any friend, you’ve got to spend some time getting to know it…understanding how it ticks, so to speak. First, and this is where your practice comes in, you should know that your prop-driven boat will tend to “walk.” That means it will want to thrust toward one side more than the other. And it’s not uncommon for that to happen more in reverse than forward gear. If you’ve ever been backing up and felt like you were moving sideways instead of backwards, you know the drill. As long as you respect that phenomenon (it’s different for nearly all boats) then you can compensate and be that much closer to a stress-free trip to the slip.

posted @ 11/8/2011 4:12 PM by Chris

Helpful Tips for Launching and Retrieving Your Boat

If you’re new to boating, you should know that there are a few unwritten rules. Several of them pertain to the way you put your boat into the water from a trailer and the way you take it out. They are time-tested and absolutely guaranteed to make sure you’re one of the “good guys” out of the hordes of Saturday fun-seekers lined up on the boat ramp trying to get out on the water.

• Start at home. Before you ever leave your driveway, make sure you check a few things before you leave. Make sure your trailer tires are inflated to the correct pressure. If you pulled out the drain plug for the ride home, now would be a great time to put it back in. Check the charge on your battery…it seems like someone always leaves the radio on with the volume turned all the way down! Know the sequence you’ll want to detach the boat from the trailer, leaving (of course) the bow hook on until you’re in the water.

• Try a trial run. This is the ultimate way to reduce stress before your first primetime boat launch. Trailer over to the ramp early one morning or evening during the middle of the week. You’ll have the place to yourself, and you can take your time backing down, correcting and dialing in your entry strategy. Take a few passes. If someone shows up, pull up and out of the way, and resume your practice run in peace. And if you have any questions about what you’re doing, now would be the time to ask a fellow boater.

• Park and load. You might be surprised by how many folks wait until they are at the end of the ramp to load up their coolers, floats, pets, and whatever else they’ve lugged to the lake on this beautiful Saturday. The better move is to go ahead and park (hey, that shady spot looks good) and take your time transferring your gear from the SUV to the boat. This might even give the kids time to inflate their tube, the dog to do his business and Mom time to feed the baby. That way everyone’s good to go and focused on the task at hand.

• Be polite. Everyone’s anxious to be out on the water enjoying their boat. It’s probably hot outside. There may be people who haven’t read this article and are struggling with, ummmm, efficiency of motion. Put a smile on your face. Give a nod or a wave to the other “good guys” and maybe even lend a hand to help move things along.

• Be deliberate. Think ahead about what ramp line feels more comfortable for you. Some folks like the left side, some folks like the right. Give everyone on your crew a job. Your buddy can be your guide on the ramp. Your kids can relay messages and let you know if you’re getting too close to the curb. Everyone can help undo the straps. Mom can pull the tow vehicle up and park while you pull the boat over to the temporary dock for passenger loading. Remember: hands at the bottom of the steering wheel while backing the trailer up…then push the direction you want the trailer to go. Best trailering tip ever.

Trailering your boat can be the perfect solution for you and your boating lifestyle. By taking a few minutes to master the “unwritten rules,” you can make launching and retrieving your boat almost as enjoyable as a day on the water. Almost.

posted @ 11/8/2011 4:09 PM by Chris

Using a Nautical Chart

In these days of built-in, onboard GPS systems it’s easy to lull ourselves into a false sense of security that we’ll always seem to know where we are on the water. Even our phones have mapping features on them. But ask anyone who has had their 12-volt power fail, and they’ll tell you that even on a body of water you know like the back of your hand, your best friend can be a good, up-to-date nautical chart.

While day trippers may choose to stay close to home or frequent the same cove or sandbar, you never know when you’ll need to make a fuel run or follow another boater to a new restaurant, only to find you’re turned around and nothing looks familiar on the way home. So it’s a good idea to buy a paper (or, even better, laminated) chart and store it someplace easy to find.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your nautical chart:

Do a little homework. Study up to get your bearings before you ever leave the house. Once you leave that boat ramp or dock, you’ll be surprised how quickly false coves and trap channels can get you turned around. That’s particularly true if the water levels have been changing since last season.

Know your terms and scale. Reading a chart is like reading a map, but it’s not exactly like reading a map. Terms like soundings (depth readings), channel boundaries (main boating traffic route), sea marks (just like landmarks), and tidal races (strong currents associated with tide changes). Since, like land maps, nautical charts come in many different scales, make sure you have a good understanding of what ratio is used.

Determine major landmarks. You can get out of many jams by simply knowing your major landmarks like bridges, dams, marinas and inlets. You’ll be tired and distracted after a full day of sun and fun, so check your instincts against these key land features. If you remember that Rusty’s Bait & Tackle should be on your left returning to the dock, you’ll have one less thing to worry about.

Check for hazards. This is one of the great reasons to buy a new chart every season. Note new submerged hazards, channel marker locations, bridge clearances, power lines and anything else that you may be cruising past on the way to your destination. Dredging and other maintenance-related obstructions should also be noted.

Share the knowledge. Get your crew, especially children, involved with helping you plot your course and orienting themselves with the surroundings. This will help build their confidence on the water and teach them valuable boating skills. Plus, they’ll be ready and able to assist in case of an emergency.

Keep it current. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) now provides updated nautical charts you can print from your home computer. While these won’t be as user-friendly as your typical dock-store laminated chart, it will be a good source for anything that’s changed since that chart was printed. This is particularly important if you’re venturing into a new area. Just go to nauticalcharts.noaa.gov for more information.

posted @ 11/8/2011 4:16 PM by Chris

How and When to Use a Float Plan

A float plan is kind of like jumper cables. You won’t need it at all until you really need it. Then, you will look like the smartest, best-prepared, sharp-as-a-tack boater on the water. Until then, however, you should get into the habit of using a float plan, if not every time you’re on your boat, at least every time you plan on venturing beyond your well-populated comfort zone.

So, what is a float plan? Simply put, it’s a way to let someone know where you’re going and when you’re likely to return and/or check in. Float plans can cover a few hours, a few days or even months for extended voyages, such as The Big Loop. The idea is that, in the case of an emergency, someone will know where to come look for you or, if needed, help the authorities narrow down the search area.

The best way for a float plan to help (again, when you really need it) is to be short, to-the-point, and in writing. That way, there’s less room for misunderstanding if your plan is needed. Here are some tips for creating an effective float plan.

• Make sure it’s in writing. Did we say that already? Yep…and it deserves repeating. Telling someone over the phone leaves too much to chance. Your plan should be in writing (either on paper, email or even a text). Give (or send) the plan to a family member or friend. It will help if they live in the area you’ll be boating. If you don’t have family or friends close by, you can leave your written plan in your tow vehicle or with a marina neighbor or dockmaster.

• Be as detailed as possible. The plan should include a description of the general area where you’ll be boating, any stops you plan on making, when you’ll be returning and a list of anyone who is going with you. Make sure you include your boat’s brand, model, year, boat name (if you have one), hull identification numbers, and anything else that could help someone spot you on the water. Dark hull? Wake tower? Flag or burgee? Racing graphics?

• Specify where you departed. If you’re trailering, include the name and location of your boat launch ramp, along with your tow vehicle make, model, and tag number. If you’re leaving from a marina, include the marina’s contact information. 

• Cover your plans. If you’re making a fishing run out to the weather buoy off the coast of Cape Canaveral, Florida, you can get the exact coordinates from the National Data Buoy Center website (www.ndbc.noaa.gov) and include those in your plan. It is not uncommon for boaters to use a sea mark like a buoy when making a run. Make it easy to find you if you run into any problems.

• Always check in on time. This is the easiest way to make sure you get help if you need it. If you are consistently late checking in as your plan describes, you run the risk of delaying help when you have a legitimate emergency. A quick call that you’ve made it to your destination or check-in spot will let everyone know that you’re okay and help send

posted @ 11/8/2011 4:11 PM by Chris

Towing your boat? Build your confidence with practice

If you’re one of the many trailer boaters out there, you know that sometimes the trip from the garage to the launch ramp can be as challenging as a full day on the water. But with a little practice and some preparation, you can master the fine art of towing and spend less time behind the wheel and more time on the water.

• Make a checklist. Of all the things that can ruin a boater’s day, there are two that are easy to avoid: failing to replace your drain plug, and not strapping your boat to the trailer properly. And the best way to eliminate those scenarios is to have a simple checklist. Not a fan of paper checklists? Use the “notes” function on your smart phone. While you’re at it, make sure the lug nuts are tight on your trailer wheels and your tires are inflated. Check that the runaway chains are crisscrossed and attached to your tow vehicle. Finally, secure the outdrive or motor in the upright trailering position.

• Remember to turn wide. It’s easy to forget when you’re cruising along that you have an extra 26 feet of trailer and boat behind you. Whipping into an available gas station, grocery store parking space or fast-food drive through without considering your “wide load” is asking for trouble. Your trailer has a tighter turning radius than your tow vehicle. Period. If you’re barely clearing that curb with your truck, your trailer won’t.

• Compensate for weight. Let’s see…trailer, boat, full tank of fuel, three packed coolers, carload of passengers… You get the idea. You will not exactly see the typical performance out of your tow vehicle that you’re used to. That’s okay. That will translate into a full day of fun when you get the to river, but how about exercising a little patience on the journey? Pay particular attention when you’re merging into traffic and when stopping.

• Make sure you can stop. Okay, so once you’ve got that much-heavier-than-usual payload up to speed, consider how much longer it will take to come to a stop. You’ve got thousands of extra pounds and the laws of physics working against you. And don’t be lulled into a false sense of security by having trailer brakes. Assume they will fail. They probably won’t, but at least you will give yourself ample room to stop. It is a harrowing feeling to be pushed into another vehicle or out into the middle of a busy intersection when you misjudge the stopping distance. One of the side effects of slamming on the brakes is that it can lead to jackknifing or cause dangerous trailer sway. Gradually apply pump brakes to bring the heavy load under control.

• Hands on the bottom of the wheel. If you grew up around boat ramps, you’ve no doubt heard this great bit of trailering advice. When you’re backing up, place your hands on the bottom of the steering wheel. Then, move your hand in the direction you want the trailer to go. It’s that simple. Aim toward the passenger side of your tow vehicle and the trailer will go right (from your perspective). Face forward and let your mirrors be your guide. This tip will have you up and down ramp to launch or retrieve like a pro.

The most important things to remember are to slow down, don’t panic and use common sense. Trailering a boat can be the perfect solution for your boating lifestyle. These tips can make sure you spend more time enjoying your time on the water.

posted @ 9/23/2011 4:39 PM by Chris

Top secrets to finding the best fishing spots on vacation

Sure, you know your home fishing hole like the back of your hand. You know what bait to use and when to use it. You know exactly where everyone dumps old Christmas trees in the lake to build up a perfect fish structure. You know where the hardcore, on-the-water-at-4 a.m. guys go before the rest of us even think about getting up and heading to the boat ramp. You know all that. What you may not know is where to find those honey-holes while you’re on vacation. Here are some secrets to help you tap into that “local knowledge” and get you on the fish quickly.

Plan Ahead

Whether you’re hitting the Gulf Coast, Flaming Gorge or Lake Texoma, you’ll do yourself a favor by doing a little legwork before you hit the road. Spend some time on the Internet, and you’ll be amazed at what you find. Many times the Chamber of Commerce or the local fishing guide association will have posted some great information to influence anglers like you to spend some time (and money) in their community. You may not find too many specifics, but you’ll likely track down what’s biting when and get a good idea about the proper bait and gear you’ll need. Also, check out www.takemefishing.org. You won’t believe how much good information they have, plus you can download a free smartphone app that uses your location to find launch ramps, bait shops and just about anything else you’d need for a fishing trip.

Go Local

Once you’ve done your computer research, it’s time to go old school and start “talking” to people. You know that bait shop you found? It’s in their best interest to put you on some fish. You’ll be back. And you’ll buy fuel, snacks, ice, and, of course, more bait. And anything else you forgot. Just make sure you’re listening to the guy behind the counter, and not the silver-tongued angler who’s just hanging around the shop. He may have a vested interested in steering you the wrong way. Another great source for information is local guides. In fact, you can take some of the pressure off and get to the fish faster if you hire a guide for your first day. For a reasonable fee, they can get you to the secret fishing holes quickly, and you can spend more time hauling in your catch.

Finally…Be Respectful

If you’re on vacation, chances are other anglers might have the same idea. As you spend time with the locals, show them the appropriate respect. You’re a visitor. Be a good one. That means paying up for current fishing licenses for you and your family (as required) and knowing the keeper species and catch limits. Practicing a catch and release policy for any fish you don’t plan on consuming during your trip is the responsible thing to do. And it provides a good lesson for the young anglers on your crew. And make sure that you pack out a little more than you packed in. Nothing can ruin a great fishing hole like out-of-towners who leave a body of water more polluted than they found it. Go beyond “No Littering” and pick up extra trash you see.

posted @ 9/23/2011 4:38 PM by Chris

Winterizing Your Self-Contained A/C System

posted @ 9/23/2011 4:35 PM by Chris

Proper Use of A VHF Marine Radio

posted @ 9/23/2011 4:37 PM by Chris

Buying a Marine Air Conditioning System – Considerations for Boat Owners

Buying a boat for the first, second, third or tenth time is always an adventure and outfitting it with the latest hi-tech gear is all part of the fun. This should also be the case when selecting your on-board air conditioning (A/C) system. To make choosing the right system for you a care-free experience, just ask yourself these questions:

It’s a common misconception that air conditioners simply cool the air, but in fact, there’s a lot more to it. Quality A/C systems can also ensure a comfortable on-board environment by providing year-round heating and cooling capabilities, removing moisture from the air, preventing dampness, rot and mold and controlling humidity, not just in the living spaces but other parts of the yacht too. So, if the temperature in the location you normally boat in is not particularly warm, there are still other factors to consider such as high humidity of air due to close proximity with water. 

When determining which system to buy, the size of your yacht is very important. Marine air conditioning systems use water cooling methods rather than air, which is logical considering the vast amount of water provided by the sea, and this allows us to build a more compact unit to suit space limitations on-board. For smaller boats up to 40ft, self-contained systems are the best choice due to the lower cost and easy DIY installation, which is usually under a bunk or settee. Larger yachts up to 80ft should consider split-gas air conditioning systems, which have the condensing unit in the engine room and air handler in the living space. Chilled water systems are the ideal option for larger boats and superyachts and can be tailored to specific needs by specialist manufacturers.

The cheapest option is not necessarily the best and you should remember that buying an air conditioning system is not something that should happen often. High-quality, innovative engineering is a must as is a manufacturer’s history in producing rugged systems that can withstand the harsh marine environments and work efficiently with the boat’s power source. Check out the brand’s reputation and whether it has a service networkfor instance – you never know when you might need it.

What maintenance is required?

If the air conditioning unit is properly manufactured to a high standard, then only minimal maintenance will be required to ensure maximum performance and longevity of the system. For boat owners with self-contained systems, some DIY summer and winter preparation is recommended. This includes checking areas such as the seawater strainer, thru hull and heat exchanger for any debris pulled in with the seawater as well as the condensate pan to make certain it is draining properly. Alsocheck the system’s hoses, coils and other piping for leaks and check your return air filters to make certain they are clean and free of debris. In winter, you should run a little biodegradable antifreeze through the unit. Maintaining a split-gas system takes a little extra effort because different components are located in different parts of the boat but the principles remain the same, just ensure there are also no refrigerant leaks. Chilled water systems will require regular service checks by on-board or local service engineers due to the complexity of the system.

Most marine A/Cs run on alternating current (AC) power and come in different power configurations, but the electrical consumption depends on the size of the air conditioner. Specification sheets will show the running current information for the unit and will also advise how to select the right circuit breaker, but make sure a generator, inverter or shore cord can handle the inrush current of the compressor when an air conditioner starts.

By Doug Curtis, Vice President of Marketing, Dometic Marine.

Dometic Marine is the world’s leading supplier of marine air conditioning systems. The company’s expert engineers work closely with boat owners and offer an extensive range of problem-solving products. For further information, visit www.dometic.com.

posted @ 9/23/2011 4:21 PM by Chris

The pros and cons of living aboard

posted @ 9/12/2011 3:54 PM by Chris

America’s Top Spots for Boaters to View Fall Foliage at the Helm

Summer is nearing its end, but that doesn’t mean boating season comes to a halt. Autumn is one of the best times to take in the colorful sights from the water. So, DiscoverBoating.com compiled a list of the top eight U.S. waterways for viewing fall foliage and many of them offer cruising, rental and charter options:

Bar Harbor, Maine: As the entrance to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor offers spectacular New England autumn scenery along the rugged Maine coast. Boaters can dock locally to explore this charming town and its abundance of seafood restaurants. Novices can take advantage of Bar Harbor’s numerous rental and charter opportunities from nature cruises to their very own customized boat ride.
Peak Season: Late September to Mid-October

Lake Chelan, Washington: Located on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains, the narrow and deep 55-mile long lake boasts tree-lined state parks and forest service campgrounds. Lake Chelan also leads to Stehekin, a tiny mountain wilderness village only accessible by water with spectacular scenery. It’s easy to enjoy the sparkling water by boat with several marina, charter and rental options in the area. There are also ferries that leave for Stehekin daily, but you can also charter a boat with friends and family.
Peak Season: Mid-September to Mid-October

Lake George, New York: Nicknamed the “Queen of American Lakes” and located at the southeast base of the Adirondacks, Lake George, is the largest lake in the area covering more than 30 miles of shoreline. Nature takes center stage during the autumn months with tree-lined mountainsides surrounding the lake with reds, oranges and golds often painted against clear blue skies. “Leaf Peeping” boat tours are popular at Lake George in addition to many rental and charter options to enjoy the fall scenery from the water.
Peak Season: Late September to Early October

Lake Jocassee, South Carolina: This 7,565-acre, man-made lake is tucked deep in South Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains and accessible through Devils Fork State Park. It boasts an undeveloped shoreline with picturesque scenery, such as waterfalls cascading into the lake. In addition to outstanding fall foliage at Lake Jocassee, autumn also brings green marsh grasses to shimmering fall hues of gold and amber.
Peak Season: Late October to Early November

Lake Monroe, Indiana: Situated in south central Indiana near Bloomington, Lake Monroe is the state’s largest lake. Surrounded by 13,200 acres of lush, protected forest and three recreational areas, it’s an ideal destination for viewing fall foliage. The lake is served by a full-service marina with nine launch ramps, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists.
Peak Season: Mid-October to Early November

Lake Tahoe, California: Located at 6,225 feet above sea level in the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the border of Nevada and California, Lake Tahoe is a boating paradise. Fall foliage along the shoreline is filled with varied hues of yellow as the aspen trees change color. Visitors may also be fortunate to catch a rare bird migration or the chance of a meteor shower. Those looking to take in the sights aboard a boat have an abundance of options with numerous marina, rental and charter options at their fingertips.
Peak Season: September to November

Lake Tellico, Tennessee: With more than 15,000 acres of surface area, 373 miles of shoreline and waterways connecting to Fort Loudon Lake, the Tennessee River and other waterways, Lake Tellico is the perfect boating destination. It’s an ideal spot to experience an array of fall colors from the pure blue waters that back up into the Great Smoky Mountains, where onlookers get a unique vantage point of hillsides overflowing in crimson, gold and scarlet leaves. Lake Tellico provides beautiful autumn scenery, but also offers scenic, long-distance cruising options. For instance, boating to a University of Tennessee football game on the Tennessee River outside of Neyland Stadium is a great opportunity to give nature enthusiasts and football lovers the best of both worlds.
Peak Season: Mid-October to Late November

Saugatuck, Michigan: With more than 11,000 inland lakes and 3,200 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, this is a popular destination for those who love life on the water. Michigan’s southwestern coast, situated on Lake Michigan, includes the quaint artist’s haven of Saugatuck. With spectacular views from the water of tree-lined hillsides, dunes and Lake Michigan sunsets, this is a perfect spot to take in the autumn’s hues.
Peak Season: Throughout October

posted @ 9/6/2011 3:26 PM by Colleen

Top 10 Recreational Boating Tips

As Labor Day weekend approaches, it is important to be aware of safety on the water, especially if traveling on a vacation for the long weekend. Recreational boaters are flocking to local waterways to beat the heat. Stay safe with these tips form ACE Recreational Marine Insurance!

 

posted @ 8/23/2011 12:38 PM by Chris

How To Choose The Right Wakeboard

There are lots of aspects to consider when choosing a wakeboard. Options include:
1) where you buy it (board shop or Internet)
2) board length (too short or too long can affect your ride)
3) cost (based on your skill level and goals)

But having lots of choices will ultimately make your wakeboard-buying experience as much fun as a day on the water.

Key things you need to decide: Some choices (length, for instance) affect several other components such as weight, so expect to make some tradeoffs along the way. That’s especially true if you get your heart set on a certain graphic, because many times different designs go with separate board styles and may not be on the board that fits your needs.

How Much Should I Expect To Spend? This really depends on your financial situation, and how much time you expect to spend on the board, realistically. There are plenty of great introductory boards that will help you master the basics of wakeboarding. If you find you’re sticking with the sport and are working up into a higher skill set of tricks, then it might be time to move into a more appropriate board. You might be able to find used boards locally through Craigslist.com or local classified ads if your budget is really tight. If you need someone to help you through the process, however, a watersports specialty shop or Internet site may be your best bet. Many board shops may even offer a demo plan, so you can try it before you buy it. Expect brand-name boards to run from about $150 to $500.

What’s the Right Length? The general rule of thumb is that heavier riders need longer boards. That may not always be the case, but it’s a good starting point. Just remember there are other factors such as width and weight to consider. If the board is too big, you may have a hard time riding and an even tougher time launching up in the air for tricks. On the other hand, if you have a board that’s too small, you may not have enough surface area to keep you on top of the water while riding.

How Do I Decide The Proper Width? There are a couple of things to consider regarding the width of a wakeboard. The more tapered the end of the board, the better it will turn, but the more limited you are with tricks that require launching off the wake. The wider the middle of the board is, will help you launch more easily, but will be tougher to turn in normal riding conditions. With most boats, with a small wake, you would be better off with a board that’s slightly more narrow. If you will be riding behind a dedicated wakeboard boat that carries a lot of weight and creates a large wake, go with a wider board. That will also help your soften your landings.

How Do the Fins Affect My Ride? Riders often refer to fins on the bottom of a wakeboard while describing the difference between a “loose” ride and a “tight” ride. Whether the fins are bolted in or molded into the board, they essentially serve the same purpose. The bigger the fins, the more surface you’ll have in the water, and the more ability you’ll have to cut and turn sharply in the water. Small fins will have less surface in the water, and you’ll have to lean into your edge more while turning. Generally speaking, most beginners will find the stability of larger fins easier to use while learning. Higher-end boards may actually come with several sets of fins that you change out as your skills improve. It also helps to cushion your landings.

The final consideration to make (usually the first thing that catches your eye) is the graphics. There are several big-name wakeboard manufacturers that constantly compete to come up with wild new designs. That’s part of the fun! Just make sure that you get the right board set up that matches your riding style. That way, you can really enjoy the sport and spend time out on the water improving your skills.

posted @ 8/11/2011 1:50 PM by Chris

6 Tips to Get Kids Involved

Here are some ideas to help get your children, grandkids, nieces and nephews involved in your boating lifestyle. Obviously the responsibilities will need to be age-appropriate. And be prepared to add new tasks when they’ve honed their skills at the first assignments. You don’t have to tell them that they’re learning responsibility and teamwork, but rest assured they will be getting some great “teachable moments.”

Get their help in creating a pre-launch checklist. If they had a hand in putting it together, they will be especially vigilant about checking for the appropriate number of life jackets, test the battery charge, and always verify a properly secured drain plug.

Teach them to tend the fenders, dock lines and how to stow them the proper way. Let them see you communicating with dock hands at a marina or gas pump station so they understand how the system works. Once they master the hand signals and nuanced gestures, they will get in the proper position before you have to say a word.

Make sure they are familiar with the basic boating terminology. You wouldn’t take them to a foreign country without coaching them on basic communication skills, would you? Take the time to clarify fore and aft, port and starboard, lee and windward, etc. It will help them feel like they’re one of the “insiders.”

Always look for an opportunity to reinforce the “why.” Children are learners. You may have noticed they don’t respond well to “because I said so.” Why not explain how the safety equipment works. Or show them how the trim affects the ride of the boat. They thrive on “behind the scenes” knowledge.

Show them how to operate the VHF radio to communicate with other vessels, the dock master or the local boating law enforcement. It’s important they know the proper etiquette, plus they will love the chance to communicate with others via an “official” microphone.

Give them their own “log book,” an unofficial record of your travels, complete with destinations, time of departure, passenger manifest, and illustrations they create to remind them of their trip. Later, they can add photos from the day to remind them of the highlights.

As long as you clearly explain what needs to happen, and resist the urge to constantly “advise” your crew, you can help make boating a family-friendly activity and keep your crew fired up about the next trip.

posted @ 8/1/2011 11:04 AM by Chris

Basic Boating Etiquette Tips

Just as there are social norms you’re expected to know on land, you’ve got to know certain basic rules of boating etiquette if you’re going to be spending any time at all on the water. While it may feel like you’re the captain of your nautical domain, remember that a little consideration for your fellow boater can go a long way toward avoiding any misunderstandings or conflicts.

• You are responsible for your own wake and any damage done by it. If you’ve caused boats to bang into each other or knocked someone’s grill off their deck or otherwise harmed their property, you’re the one on the hook for the damages. Big wakes in crowded spaces is bad news.
• Slow down if another boat is trying to overtake you. For safety and the serenity of everyone around you, just slow down and let them go around.
• The first one in blazes the path. If you’re entering an anchorage, mimic the other boats in how you tie off, how you anchor, how much line to use and how much distance you allow between the other boats.
• Respect your neighbors. If you have a loud boat make sure you leave plenty of space. Sound carries much farther on the water, and you can be heard clearly from a good distance away.
• Know your ramp manners. Think in advance about how you can cut down your ramp time. Delegate responsibilities and practice them before you get to the ramp.
• Move along already! Fueling is a necessary part of your boating experience, but be considerate of other boaters who would also rather be out on the water.
• Lend a hand. It just takes a minute, and you’ve shown everyone what a standup boater you are.
• Keep your area tidy. Buckets, shoes, carts and other items need to be stowed properly. And if you’ve used a piece of equipment, put it back where you found it.

posted @ 7/20/2011 2:22 PM by Chris

7 Tips for Watching Fireworks on the Water

Talk about the best of both worlds! Enjoying a fireworks show from your boat is a wonderful way to combine two favorite activities. There’s just something about seeing the bright reflections off the water that makes you feel like you’re getting double the entertainment. And if you’ve only experienced a fireworks show from dry land, you are in for a real treat.

Challenges:

1. It will be dark
   
2. It will (probably) be crowded

Just recognizing those two factors will go a long way in terms of helping prepare for the festivities. Here are some tips to help you enjoy the evening:

• Check that all running and anchor lights are working properly.
• Make sure you have all of your safety equipment including a whistle (or other approved noise-making advice)
• Remember you need life jacket for everyone on board. Sometimes you’ll have more passengers than usual for a special trip like this, so a life-jacket count is important. Remember that water-enforcement authorities will be out in numbers.
• Use ear protection for children or hearing-sensitive adults. The sound of exploding fireworks is greatly amplified across open water.
  
• Think about leaving pets them at home. The disorienting lights and loud sounds can cause anxiety in even the calmest animal. And there are already enough distractions for the captain and crew.
• Find a good spot well before the show starts. Whether you’re beaching, rafting with other boats, or dropping anchor in open water, you will not regret getting there a little early and staking your claim (well outside the restricted area around the launching platform) while there’s still some daylight.
•  For the safety of your passengers and other boaters, keep libations off limits for the captain and vital crew. You will have plenty of things to keep track of before, during and after the show. 
• Don’t add to the show. That means turning off all non-required lights onboard and never launch your own fireworks from the boat.. It just detracts from the viewing experience for your boat and everyone around you.
• Keep your radio off or turned down. There will be plenty of ambient noise and sounds to keep you occupied.
• Don’t be in a hurry to leave. Most accidents happen when there’s a mad dash back to the dock. Often the ones in a hurry have not heeded the advice to stay away from the holiday “spirits.” You’ve already taken the time to get set up and properly anchored. Enjoy the mass exodus and a sky full of stars while the crowds file out of the area.
  

Enjoying a fireworks show from the water is one of the great delights for any boating family. It’s an experience you won’t forget. And with a few precautions and a little planning, you can make it an experience you can enjoy safely.

posted @ 6/30/2011 5:49 PM by Chris

Want to be a Day Tripper?

A little preparation goes a long way, so think it through and make a list. It will make your day on the water that much more enjoyable for you and the rest of the crew.

posted @ 6/23/2011 3:03 PM by Chris

Discover Boating On The Air With NBC Chicago

posted @ 6/20/2011 12:58 PM by Colleen

WATCH: The Latest Boating Technology And Gadgets!

 

posted @ 6/14/2011 11:06 AM by Chris

Visit Your Local Marina to Get on the Water

Saturday June 11th is National Marina Day

National Marina day promotes the role marinas play as family-friendly gateways to boating, and celebrates the marina personnel who act as stewards of the environment.

On National Marina Day, marinas around the country open their doors to their community as a means of introducing them to the fun and benefits of boating and the marina lifestyle.

Marinas will be hosting activities like:

• Tours of their facilities
• Complimentary cruises
• Children’s activities and events
• Raffles and fundraisers
• Clean up day
• Environmental demonstrations
• Charity fundraisers
• Youth centered events
• New boat demos
• Fishing rodeos
• Boating safety demonstrations

For a full list of participating marinas by state, visit www.nationalmarinaday.org .

posted @ 6/7/2011 12:35 PM by Chris