When asked of the most relaxing setting possible, most people dream of places in or on the sea. Many enjoy the soft sand of the beach. Some, however, describe the lapping waves of a small tide against the hull of a comfortable boat. Few places in the world could be more naturally comfortable than sitting in the gentle breeze of a soft sea. But, before one heads out to the open waters, there is some work to be done. These most important boating checks must be undertaken before setting sail, or even the saltiest sea-dog risks being left stranded or sinking.

Navigation has forever been an essential part of riding the waves. Thankfully, sailors have come great strides from the astrolabes and sextants of the past. For shorter trips, a compass is an effective tool. Sailing too far out of the harbor, however, makes GPS an essential technology. With a navigation system onboard trips are sure to be smooth sailing.

Another boating check that cannot be ignored is the engine. Good captains crack the motor up and put an ear to any odd sounds or vibration. After a few trips, even the most negligent of boaters can notice major mechanical problems looming. Most of the common issues require only a quick fix. Disregarding these noises, however, can lead to an outing much longer than initially intended.

When checking the engine, it doesn’t take long to confirm that all the lights are good to go. When unexpected problems or pleasures arise, day excursions can turn into nighttime adventures. A quick light check can ensure one less problem to worry about. Boaters should also ensure they have plenty of flashlights. This makes certain they are prepared for the worst of situations.

Problems can still overcome preparations, regardless of even the most rigorous boating checks. These are times when it is best to call in some friendly assistance from area boaters or coast guard. A working radio should always be on board before taking a trip into deeper waters. This may be the most important boating check before setting sail.

Waiting on help, however, can be a dangerous situation if proper safety equipment is not available. It is essential that every member have a life vest on board. It’s not a bad idea to keep some spare engine parts as well, for emergency situations. A good captain will have a backup battery, plenty of tools, extra lights, and tape to maintain the boat out on the water. He will also, of course, keep a good flare gun.

Ensuring equipment and supplies are available on board can make an outing much more pleasant for captain and passengers alike. In dire circumstances a well prepared boater can even save lives. These simple procedures are not only the most important boating checks before setting sail, but also the easiest ways to experience the enjoyment that landlocked men and women dream about.

Nicole Rodgers has been blogging for three years; she also encourages people to document their boating adventures and build a website to blog themselves about their sailing experiences.

Whenever people hear the term ‘inflatable boats’, a lot of them start thinking about basic types of rafts that just float on water. Well, there happens to be more to inflatable boats than just that.

Read on.

Inflatable boats have air cavities that give them buoyancy once they are full of air. Due to this buoyancy, these boats tend to be more stable than most people think. The fact that they get filled with air makes them even more popular. To fill them up, all you have to do is blow the air in manually or use an automatic air pump.

After the air is taken out and the boat is deflated, it can then be neatly folded into a pile and carried in a bag. This is what makes inflatable boats so convenient: they are easy to transport and easy to put away when they aren’t in use.

It is true that inflatable boats are generally meant to be transportable and lightweight, but they are always made with strong and long-lasting materials to ensure that their users get the most out of them. Inflatable boats can be used for different boating purposes, as well – like fishing and sailing – and they also happen to be very resourceful.

Depending on the user, inflatable boats can have a wide variety of uses. They can be very handy lifeboats for other boats, for example, such as houseboats, yachts, fishing boats and pontoons. Some special versions of them are even made for evacuation purposes in aircrafts.

A lot of other types of inflatable boats also exist in today’s day and age, all of which have special designs that can provide a great boating experience for their users. These special boats include zodiac boats, sailing boats, kayaks, pontoon boats and sailing boats.

Depending on which kind of inflatable raft you are interested in, different materials will be used depending on what would be more compatible for your design of choice. Pontoon boats, for example, are meant to be easy to maneuver so they can stay steady when in water. Since they are also meant to travel quickly, they have to be able to fully support an outer motor, as well.
Zodiac boats, on the other hand, have to feature flat bottoms and flexible tubing on the sides and at the bow. As with pontoons, their platforms have to be firm, so that an outer motor can be attached to them for faster travel on water. It would also be vital to ensure that your zodiac boat uses the right air pressure. This will ensure that your boat gets the ideal buoyancy and guarantee the safety of anybody who uses your zodiac boat on water.

Most of the time, however, inflatable boats are merely seen as highly convenient options because they are easy to carry around and are lightweight at the same time. In fact, if you have to, you would be able to handle an inflatable boat all on your own. How convenient is that?

Patrick Jones is a writer for Brookside Patio Furniture which specializes in resin wicker patio furniture which can be stored in this recommended Toledo storage facility.

If you are fed up with the rat-race, monotonous routines, endless taxes and the cold climate, setting sail on a boat destined for a country abroad is definitely for you. The adventure and freedom to sail where you want, when you want, is priceless.
Most people opt for living on the sea as the price of land has increased drastically everywhere, making living on the ocean a viable option. One of the major benefits of living on a boat is your everyday living costs are drastically reduced, sometimes up to 2/3rd’s of the cost of living in bricks and mortar (as some have experienced) as well as the obvious benefits of the fresh air and freedom.
If this idea really excites you then the following tips and hints will be of real benefit to you.
• You will need to acquire a ship registration document because your boat will be travelling abroad, unless you obtain this the boat can only travel around your native countries seas.
• A Ship Radio License needs to be attained as it will cover all of your radio operated equipment.
• All Correct Taxes should be paid on the boat to ensure you can continue your on bound journey with no hassles from the ports.
• Get a Certificate of Competence to prove that you are experienced to sail the boat and this certificate will show any official that you know what you are doing.
• Maritime Radio Operator’s Certificate of Competence is also important, this enables you to talk on the radio and communicate otherwise you will be able to tune into the radio and listen but will not be able to communicate.
• Looking into the mooring fees of your destined country is a must, as different countries charges vary and it must be taken into consideration.
• Obtaining the correct insurance is important, you should make sure you will be covered abroad as some countries may refuse entry if you do not have the required insurance, so avoid the disappointment and pay the extra for cover abroad.
Once you have looked into the rules and regulations of the specific country that you are en route to and checked out the mooring fees plus all the points mentioned above here are a few helpful things to remember.
Boating Etiquette is important, so get a guide book and research into all important manners while sailing the sea. Things like flying the maritime ensign of the country you are destined for on your boat, this will show that you understand you are in foreign waters.
If you want to moor up in a relatively sought after area take into consideration that there may be waiting lists so organize well in advance.
Remember if you are not going to be moored at a marina you will not be able to get electricity or fresh water.
They are many ways to keep costs at a minimum such as not running the engine at its maximum output, leaving heavy items that you wont use on land as heavy items will mean more petrol usage, lastly something else for you to bear in mind is you can save money if you can buy petrol/diesel cans and fill them up at a regular petrol station for vehicles before you leave then keep them on board for when you need them, as the cost of fuel is a premium on the seas.
It really is possible for your partner and you or your whole family to live on the sea but only you can make it happen as many others have done so.
So now you are ready, climb aboard and sail on as the sea really is your oyster.
About the Author:
Kim Kashmere is a writer for an expat community blog that also provides swiss calling cards and India calling cards She is based in the UK and has a passion for photography, especially in appreciating the world’s beauty.

This is a guest post written by the author of HowMuchIsIt.org, a website where you can find the answer to How Much Does a Fish Finder Cost? to the cost of liposuction.

Is fishing one of your favorite activities or hobbies? Or do you think it’s a good business opportunity on your part? Do you think of joining fishing competitions? If you live in coastline areas then chances are you would need a good bass boat for your fishing needs. Come to think of it, it will be a nice investment.

But how much money do you really have to spend for a bass boat?

Before we talk about the price, let me give you a brief background about bass boats. A lot of anglers consider “Skeeter” to be the forerunner of the bass boat three decades ago. It started as a 12 foot boat with stick steering and a big 20 horse outboard. Now, it has become a 20 foot monster with 200 or more horsepower. Imagine that.

How much do bass boats cost?

Today’s top of the line bass boat may cost between $30,000-$40,000. But if you want to save money, you can still purchase a second-hand bass boat for as low as $13,000.

Consider the size

If you really want to buy a boat, you must ask yourself several questions. For instance, ask yourself what size water will you be fishing? If it’s going to be just lakes and small rivers, then I suggest you use a smaller boat with a smaller outboard motor. However, if you are into fishing over very large bodies of water, then it’s best that you buy a larger boat. An ideal boat for large bodies of water is at least 19 feet especially if you’ll be running 20-30 miles.

Budgeting the price

Another thing you need to ask yourself is how much can you afford. You need to consider whether you have enough money for a bass boat. Today, you can purchase a bass boat through credit in which you have to make monthly payments between $225-$250 on $20,000 and between $350-$400 on $30,000.

For seasoned fishermen, if you can only afford a 17 foot boat with 115 horsepower motor, then better try to buy one next season. Larger, higher horsepower boats are safer and will assure you optimum performance. If the wind blows between 20-30 miles per hour and the waves reach 4 feet, chances are you will be safer with a larger bass boat. Larger boats also have more capacity for storage, carry more fuel and they even provide more angler room and a more stable platform for fishing. So if you’re into competition, then it will be perfect for you!

There is a lot to think about before you purchase a boat. Most importantly, set up a budget, and make sure you find the kind that meets your needs!

Traditional sea kayaking can be great fun but requires a fair amount of skill. The boats are usually very long and narrow for greater efficiency, but that means they tip over easily and rolling them over and getting back in can be quite a challenge, especially in rough water. You’ll also have to empty all the seawater out of the kayak with a hand pump for a start.

Image credit: oreenuar via flickr, under a Creative Commons license.

The introduction of the sit-on-top kayak removed a couple of the biggest safety problems associated with kayaking both on rivers and on sea. They are completely open on top, so there is no closed compartment that can fill with water, and they have a fairly flat, wide base which makes them very stable and hard to capsize.

Of course there is a price to pay. Sit-on-tops are much slower and more cumbersome to paddle than closed-cockpit sea or whitewater kayaks but for many casual paddlers the ease of use and safety features more than compensate for that. They may not be ideal for serious, long distance sea touring, but the more relaxed sit-on-top design makes this kind of kayak ideal for play in light surf or for exploring quiet shallows and rocky coves. They’re also increasingly popular with fishermen.

For kids and nervous kayakers a closed-cockpit boat can be intimidating. An open design means there is no chance of getting trapped in the boat if it does tip over, or even feeling like that might be a danger. Sit-on-tops are a really good way of getting kids into watersports and teaching them the skills they need to enjoy being on the water and stay safe there.

Single-person models are available or you can go tandem. The biggest sit-on-tops allow space for up to three people, or at least two adults and one child. Some are fishing or surf-specific but most are pretty general. Features like see-through deck portholes can be fun and pedal-power options can help deliver a little more speed, but they’re not essential. Pick the right size for your weight and most sit-ons are adaptable to a wide range of usage. They’re a whole lot cheaper than specialized sea kayaks too.

In flat-water situations, helmets are not usually worn on sit-on-tops but buoyancy aids are a good idea- for kids and less confident swimmers, they’re highly recommended. Some people use life jackets, which are not quite the same. A life jacket will float the wearer on their back with the head above water while a buoyancy aid (BA to kayakers) will just keep you afloat. It’s easier to swim in a BA but they won’t automatically help keep your face out of the sea.

Touring sailors are now catching on to the sit-on-top revolution. Having one on board is a little like taking a bicycle with you on an RV holiday. It provides an easy, fun way to explore the area around your mooring site and means you can get into places that won’t accommodate a deep-water boat. The shallows are suddenly accessible. Sit-on-tops are pretty versatile. You can fish from them, surf them, snorkel from them, use them as tenders, or just go for a quiet, relaxed paddle along the shore. Every yacht should have one.

Jess Spate is a keen kayaker and a watersports enthusiast. She works for Appalachian Outdoors when on dry land.

As of late, R/C toys have become extremely popular with adults and kids alike. Not so long ago, RCs were simply remote toy cars that could run forward and backward and nothing more. Nowadays, more sophisticated RC boats, helicopters, cars and tanks have graced the RC industry and bringing pure delight and enjoyment to RC enthusiasts and just those looking for some leisure time. If you want to join in the fun, you can get your own remote control boat at Xenon Project. Xenon Project aims to provide hobbyists and those interested in high quality RC products enjoy their time indoors and under the sun. With the wide range of RC toys, boats, helicopters and more that they offer, you will surely find an RC or two that will help you make a grand entrance into the exciting world of RCs!

Basic Tips for Boat Maintenance

Whether your boat is shiny and new or a “plain Jane” model, proper care is important, to keep it working well and looking good. It will also add years to the time you can enjoy your boat with your family and friends.

Boat maintenance generally consists of washing or cleaning and waxing or polishing the exterior, cleaning the upholstery and carpet, the livewell and bilge, and polishing the metal parts of your boat. It may also include making minor repairs like filling in cracks in your fiberglass.

You may elect to clean your boat up before you store it for the winter. You can give your boat a thorough wash and wax when the season is over, to repel dirt while it’s stored, and to make it easier to get it ready for the next season, when the time comes. Expect some mildew and dust to accumulate while your boat is stored, especially if it’s kept outside.

It’s advised not to use heavy-duty marine cleaner to clean your boat up, without waxing it afterward. The stronger cleaners will strip off wax and the protective sealants, so don’t put a “bare” boat away, or it will lead to stains and oxidation.

Basic Steps to Proper Maintenance of Your Boat:

You should wash your boat well before you store it for the winter, with a mild soap that will get rid of dirt on the surface without harming the undercoat of wax. This probably won’t get rid of rub or grease marks, or water-line scum, but it will help set you up for spring cleaning when you get your boat out of storage. You can put the cleaning off until spring, since you’ll be cleaning the boat up anyway. The scum and algae from freshwater areas will be easier to clean after they die and then dry out. A heavier duty marine cleaner will be needed in the spring, and this will help you sponge it off easily.

Don’t use automobile cleaners or polishes on your boat. Select products that are specially made for boats, since the stains on boats are not like those on cars. They will work better, with less effort, than automobile cleaners.

Marine cleaners in spray bottles can be purchased for many boat cleaning chores. You spray the surface with the cleaner, and then allow it to sit, before you scrub it with a brush or sponge. Many of these products are biodegradable, which makes great sense for the environment you boat in. You can also buy streak-free cleansers for mirrors and windows.

There are also products designed to clean and help maintain the fiberglass areas of your boat. They clean and shine, as well as protect, all in one step. You can apply them easily, even in direct sunlight, and they work on metal, fiberglass and painted surfaces. They will condition and protect your boat from UV rays, and they help to make water bead up, and remove light oxidation.

Carnuba and other boat waxes are available to give your boat a sleek finish. You can find them in liquids and pastes, and they are usually applied with a clean cloth and then rubbed to give your boat a shine. One-step cleaning and waxing products help to restore your boat’s gelcoat, fiberglass and paint. They remove oxidation and restore the original luster and shine. Some products are anti-static and remove oil, grease, dirt, dust and lighter water spots. They also work well for plexiglass, aluminum, chrome and windows.

Marine cleaners for your boat top and upholstery should be used at least yearly, as part of your basic boat maintenance. Use a stain remover first, if needed, and then a product that can restore the original brightness to your upholstery and canvas.

Vinyl shampoo will help to remove stains, grease, mildew and dirt while restoring your older vinyl seats so that they look like new. Heavier-duty products are available to clean ground-in dirt, and other products restore and clean vinyl and rubber surfaces.

You can use a vinyl paint to give your old vinyl a great new look. These products have been used in car interiors for years, and they contain pigments that are UV-stable to guard against weathering and fading, to keep your upholstery looking new. This paint adheres well to leather and vinyl.

You can purchase rug cleaner made for spots and stains on boat carpeting. It will cut through dirt and food and gently lift it away. Proper marine products won’t change the nap or remove the carpet colors.

All of this cleaning and maintenance will pay off when you spend another great summer on your boat.

About the Author:

Jane Warren enjoys swimming, scuba diving, boating, tubing, and anything else related to outdoor water sports. Because of her love of water sports, Jane runs a website that provides information and reviews on quality water sport equipment, such as the best Garmin GPS units. Other items include Airhead G-force towable, wakeboards, kayaks, water skis, and fishfinder GPS combos.

Every year many boaters are subjected to carbon monoxide poisoning due to lack of information or understanding. It’s very important that boaters watch out for the often misread symptoms and pay attention to the key places where this silent killer can attack.

Watch out for:

Exhaust outlets
Make sure that your exhaust outlets are not blocked. Blocked exhaust outlets cause carbon monoxide to build up and around the cabin and cockpit, even if the hatches, windows, portholes and doors are closed. Always double check to make sure the exhaust clamps are secured safely on your vessel.

Neighbouring boat
To prevent carbon monoxide fumes from entering your boat from another vessel it’s important you dock a minimum of 20 feet away from the other running boat. Even if your vessel is properly ventilated, fumes from a generator or engine can travel into your boat’s cockpit and cabin from your neighbour’s boat.

Slow speeds and Idling
Idling or operating at a slow speed while in the water can cause carbon monoxide gas to build up in the bridge, cabin, cockpit and aft deck, even in open areas. Tailwinds (force of wind entering from aft section) can increase this accumulation. Always keep forward-facing hatches open so fresh air can circulate shared spaces to help prevent this problem.

Backdrifting
Backdrifiting, also known as the “station wagon effect”, can cause carbon monoxide to build up inside the cockpit, cabin and bridge when you’re driving at a high bow angle, with improper or heavy loading. Exhaust can also be drawn in from various openings. It’s always a good idea to run the boat so prevailing winds can dissipate the exhaust and blow it away from entering the inside of the boat.

Swimming Safety
It’s very important to avoid swimming near or under the back deck or swim platform. These are extremely dangerous areas because carbon monoxide from exhaust pipes of inboard and outboard engines, and generators build up inside and outside the boat around the same areas the exhaust vents are located. Anyway one swimming too close can easily inhale the invisible gas.

Always make sure to have someone moderating any swimmers next to the boat because carbon monoxide poisoning is often mistaken for seasickness or intoxication. Here are some of the symptoms to look out for:

• Irritated eyes
• Headache
• Nausea
• Weakness
• Dizziness

Boating safety is a top priority for everyone in or around the water. It’s always a great idea to learn more about boating safety to help educate your friends and family and keep everyone safe. And remember, that in order to legally operate a boat you must have your Florida boating license.

Safe boating!

Protect your boat & family with insurance

When the weather turns warm, boat owners head to the water in droves to take in as much boating time as possible. Marinas, lakes, rivers, and just about every mile of coast line play host to people in desperate need of a bit of “aqua therapy”. While the popularity of boating is quite obvious, it does come with a certain amount of risk. As is the case with any type of vehicle, the owner needs to take certain steps to protect him or herself in the event an injury or unexpected situation arises. This means that boat insurance is an absolute must!

What Exactly Is Boat Insurance?

Similar in nature to automobile insurance, boat insurance protects the owner should an unexpected expense pop up. This can mean someone was injured while riding in your boat, or because of your boat; your boat was involved in an accident; or your boat was damaged due to a storm, fire, or docking issue. All boats should have insurance, including smaller row boats, and sail boats that are powered only by wind or man. Just because the vessel is not motorized does not mean that injuries and accidents will not happen, so you should always be protected.

As is the case with other types of insurance, there are many different forms of boat insurance, with various corresponding rates. A good boat insurance policy should cover the cost to replace or repair the boat in case of an accident, as well as the cost to repair or replace other boats involved, and any medical expenses for people who may become injured. A proper policy should always fully safeguard you and your other assets if a catastrophic event should occur.

Where To Find Boat Insurance Or Get A Quote?

Just like when shopping for homeowners insurance or automobile insurance, finding affordable boat insurance that offers proper coverage take a bit of work. There are, however, three basic ways to start the search for affordable boat insurance:

1. Determine Your Coverage Needs: Coverage options can vary a great deal depending on the owner, other assets, what you use your boat for, and even the size of the boat. For example, if you only use your boat for a leisurely pleasure cruise a few weekends a year, you will require far less insurance than someone who takes their speed boat out on a daily basis. An insurance agent will be able to help you determine how much coverage you need, the different options available, and provide rates.

2. Speak with Your Current Broker: Because you most likely already have homeowners and/or automobile insurance, you should begin your search for boat insurance by speaking with your existing broker. Many automobile insurance providers also offer insurance options for boats and other recreational vehicles. This means you may be able to bundle your existing plans into a new plan to receive a bit of an extra discount.

3. Compare Rates and Packages Online: The internet is a fast, easy way to compare a large number of boat insurance rates all at once. There are many sites that allow you to type in your information just once and provide you with a variety of packages and quotes in just minutes. This is one of the best ways to compare coverage options and find out what types of discounts are being offered.

While online, take a bit of time and shop around. Just as there are tons of insurance companies willing to provide low cost options for your home or car online, many also provide boat coverage. Internet quotes often offer additional discounts for new customers or customers who will switch all of their insurance needs to a new company. Shopping for insurance online often allows users to find coverage, sign up, and receive a policy with just a few clicks of the mouse. This means you can get the policy you need, rest assured you have proper coverage protection, and get back to the water in less time than ever before!

Do not ignore the importance of having boat insurance. This small investment is well worth the expense and will provide you with great peace of mind. Think of a boat insurance policy as a life jacket for your vessel; hopefully you will never need to use it, but it is nice to know it is there to keep you afloat in the case of an emergency.

About the Author:

Jane Warren enjoys swimming, scuba diving, boating, tubing, and just about anything else related to outdoor water sports. Because of her love of water sports, Jane manages a website that provides information and reviews on quality water sport items, such as Garmin GPS unit reviews. Other items include Airhead towable boating tubes, wakeboards, kayaks, water skis, and fishfinder gps combos.

Boston Whaler describes this classic looking boat as the sport utility vehicle of the water.

Like an SUV, the Ventura family of boats is big, powerful, rugged and versatile but it’s still stylish. Like all Boston Whaler products the Ventura is built with the fisherman in mind but it can easily be adapted for other kinds of fun on the water.

A feature that fishing folk will love on the Ventura 180 is the folding stern seat that will let them go after the big tuna and swordfish in Florida waters. Water skiers will enjoy the ski pylon.

Even though it’s only 18 feet long the Ventura 180 still packs a punch with a 135 XL Mercury Verado four stroke standard engine. For those who want even more power 150 XL DTS Mercury Verado Engine is optional. A sixty gallon fuel tank gives owners the ability to stay out all day if they want. Hydraulic steering tilt steering makes the Ventura 180 easy to drive.

Despite its small size the Ventura 180 has lots of storage including four under gunnel rod or ski racks and aft ski and gear storage. The Ventura 180 seats eight persons with seating on the bow, the cockpit and full width stern seat.

The optional fishing package is what sets the Ventura 180 apart from other boats in its range. A trolling motor package enables fishermen to get the right speed to find the fish, stainless steel rod holders are mounted on the stern and gunnel so you can switch positions as the fish move, and a a removable bow light helps with night fishing.

Another option that fisherman will appreciate is two pedestal fishing seats to make fishing comfortable. Fishermen will also enjoy the cushioned bow seat. The optional Northstar 650  color fish finder and chart plotter will help fishermen find their favorite place and the fish.

To protect people from the sun or the weather there are a number of option canvas covers available. A weather curtain set keeps the spray out of the cockpit, a sun top protects boaters from sun burn and UV rays, and a cockpit cover keeps boaters dry.

Another great electronic option is the Clarion AM Digital Stereo and Radio with CD player and four waterproof speakers. This can help boaters listen to their favorite tunes or keep up with news and sports while they’re out on the water. Those who want more to listen to can order the Sirius Satellite radio with antenna.