boating tips Archives

5 Must-Have Boating Accessories

Posted on July 25, 2022December 15, 2022 Camille Smith

As the weather is getting warmer, now is a great time to take advantage of the summer sun. Whether you own a boat or opt for a boat club membership, getting out on the water is a perfect way to spend the day. But before setting sail, it’s important to make sure you have all the necessary assets aboard. Today, we’re covering the five most important boating accessories!

First Aid Kit

When you’re spending the day water skiing, tubing, and swimming, injuries are bound to happen on occasion. And when you’re far from the bathroom cabinet of your lake home, it’s essential to have a first aid kit on board. A few must-have components include bandages (of a variety of sizes), antiseptic, Neosporin, and pain relievers. Additionally, you may need a few extra marine-specific things like sunscreen, motion sickness medication, and aloe vera. Especially in the summer, sun protection is of utmost importance.

Personal Flotation Devices

Also called PFDs for shorthand, personal flotation devices are an umbrella term that encompasses both life jackets and throwable devices. PFDs fall under five different classifications depending on your boat and water. For instance, Type I (offshore vests) have a higher minimum buoyancy for rough, remote waters while Type II (near shore vests — the most common at lake homes) are suited for more manageable lake waters. By law, there must be enough PFDs for every passenger on board a boat. As such, these are absolutely essential on board.

Proper Documentation

Just like you keep your car registration paperwork in the glove compartment of a car, it’s a good idea to keep papers in your boat as well. Between the registration papers, the correct decal stickers, and your boating license, it’s important to make sure every documentation that is required by the state and local authorities is accounted for. As a good rule of thumb — the pouch that holds your boating documents should stay separate from other plastic bags on board that hold cameras, phones, and other technology items.

Signaling Devices

In case of an emergency, it’s important to keep the right signaling devices on board. For boats smaller than 16 feet, you only need a distress signal between sunset and sunrise, so you’ll only need a signal when you’re boating at night. Other exceptions to this rule include boats involved in racing, manually propelled boats, or small sailboats without propulsion machinery. Otherwise, if your boat is larger than 16 feet, be aware that you’ll need a combination of floating smoke signals/flares and a distress flag. Not sure what you need? You can always consult a local boating supply store in your lake area.

Docking Equipment

Even if you’re planning on an “out and back” trip home, it’s important to bring docking equipment on board. You never know if you’ll want to dock for lunch, or if you’ll need to pull over in case of an emergency. First, you’ll need at least two fenders as buffers between the boat and the dock. Additionally, it’s not a bad idea to carry an anchor on board as well. Of course, don’t forget ropes for tying your boat. For more detailed tips on tying up your boat, check out this instructional video from BoatUS.

Wishing everyone a safe and enjoyable day out on the water!

Benefits of Boat Club Memberships

Posted on July 6, 2021August 11, 2021 Camille Smith

During the pandemic, people have been investing in lake houses at higher rates than usual due to the social distancing benefits of the lake lifestyle. In particular, boating is a popular socially distant activity that also has clear benefits for your mental and physical health. If you’re new to boating, joining a boat club is a great option.

An exceptional alternative to buying a boat, joining a boat club offers plenty of benefits. These clubs are monthly memberships that allow their members access to a group of boats for a fee. Maggie Maskery of Discover Boating comments, “Boating is one of the safest, most enjoyable things to do to escape pandemic stress. If you are not quite ready to purchase a boat but want to test the waters, a boat club membership is an excellent alternative.”

Low Costs

Statistics courtesy of Champlain Fleet Club

One of the most apparent benefits of boat club membership is the lower costs. Especially compared to the cost of buying a boat, the price of boat club memberships is incredibly affordable. While the average cost of purchasing a boat is $20,000, an average boat club membership fee is between $1,000 and $6,000 with a couple of hundred dollars monthly fee. Plus, you don’t have the extra responsibility of maintaining the boat or handling insurance!

More Variety

Photo courtesy of *@Barefoot_Traveller via Twenty20*

One of the key benefits of boat club membership is the ability to check out multiple types of boats. You have an entire fleet of boats available to you. Especially if you’re trying to decide what kind of boat to buy, boat clubs are an excellent way to do extensive test drives and discern your favorite. Maskery adds, “Joining a boat club provides access to a wide range of boats, which allows you to experience different activities whether it’s fishing, watersports, cruising or sailing – you get endless adventures and something for everyone!”

Fun Perks

If you’ve just moved to a new lake area, boat clubs are excellent ways to connect with your lake community. By joining a boat club, you have immediate access to social events such as social club gatherings, parties, and cruises. If you’re new to boating, you’ll also benefit from the boating classes and on-water training that many boat clubs offer. Further, many boat clubs provide a complimentary supply of water skis, slides, and other water toys to enjoy. This way, you’ll be able to make the most of your time on the lake.

Location Flexibility

Photo courtesy of *@f_zahn via Twenty20*

If your lake house is in a different location than your home state or if you frequently travel, a boat club might be perfect for you. Many boat clubs include reciprocal rights to rent boats at locations in different areas of the country. “You may be able to utilize your membership from coast to coast,” says Maskery. Of course, some policies have changed during COVID, but once things open up again, it may be possible to rent boats wherever you go.

Given all the benefits of boat club memberships, it’s no wonder that boat sales have recently reached an all-time high. Take advantage of this safe and fun water activity as soon as possible!

Boat Lingo: Boat Terminology 101

Posted on April 16, 2020March 15, 2022 Camille Smith

One of the best parts about living on a lake is the opportunity to sail or go boating. Especially as the weather is getting warmer, more people will be enjoying the fresh air and sun while out on the water. Whether you’re new to boating or you’re a seasoned sailor, we all can share the common nautical language. That language is different from the terms we use on dry land. Boating jargon can undoubtedly be confusing (what does starboard mean anyway?) but no need to worry. We’re here to help you out with the basics of boat lingo. Not only is it a necessary, common language shared among boaters — it’s also fun. We’ll cover several standard boating terms, their meaning, and history. Whether it’s directions, parts of the boat, or other nautical terms, you’ll be talking like a real sailor in no time!

Port and Starboard

Port and starboard refer to the right and left sides of a boat, with port, meaning the left side, and starboard, describing the right side. At first, it may seem silly to introduce new words in place of pre-established terms — why not just call it right and left? It’s because the words right and left are subjective to position, and they’re different depending on where a person is standing on a boat. On the other hand, port and starboard refer to fixed locations and will be standard no matter which way your crew is facing.

But why the names port and starboard? In the early days of sailing, the steering oar was located on the right side of the boat since most sailors were right-handed. The steering side fuses two old English words, steor (steer) and board (side of the boat). Eventually, this was shortened to starboard. On the side of the boat opposite the steering wheel, sailors would load shipments. Since the loading side faced the port, the term port became shorthand for the left side of the boat. And if you have trouble remembering which is which, remember this simple trick — ‘port’ and ‘left’ both have four letters.

Stern and Bow

Just as the terms right and left have been tossed out of the porthole (window) when it comes to proper boating lingo, front and back are history as well. Instead, stern refers to the back of the boat, while bow refers to the front. When moving towards the bow of the boat, sailors use the term forward while aft refers to moving towards the stern. If that’s not perplexing enough, you can also use combined terms like starboard-bow to refer to the front right of the boat, just as you might use the word “northeast” when giving directions for a car.

Tacking and Jibing

Tacking and jibing (gybing) are both sailing maneuvers that involve turning the boat’s bow towards the wind, so the wind changes from one side of the ship to the other. While tacking refers to turning your boat against the wind, jibing means turning your boat directly into the wind. As the idiom “may the wind be at your back” implies, tacking is the most common technique to create smooth sailing. Jibing is less common and used when the destination is downwind on the opposite tack. That said, you might not hear sailors use the word “downwind” to describe this direction — the name leeward refers to downwind, while windward refers to upwind (the direction from which the wind is blowing).

Mainsail and Headsail

Not every sailboat has the same number of sails, but most boats have at least one headsail (head-sill) and one mainsail (main-sill). Both sails are attached to the central pole or mast, while a system of ropes, chains, and cables called the rigging holds up the mast. The difference between the two sails lies in their function and positioning on the sailboat.

The mainsail is located behind the mast. It is attached to both the mast and the boom. The boom is a pole attached to the bottom of the mainsail perpendicular to the mast, which improves control. Its purpose is to control the ship’s stern.

By contrast, the headsail controls the bow and increases speed. As any sailor knows, the wind is entirely unpredictable. As such, extra sails like spinnakers (spin-acres) and storm sails help sailors prepare for the unknown.

Of course, this is not a comprehensive list of terms. This beginner’s shortlist is only a starting point to the full world of sailing jargon. Just as you would when learning any new language, the key is practice. So get aboard your boat, hoist the mainsail, and enjoy the open waters!

Buying The Best Boat For You

Posted on June 5, 2019September 30, 2019 Staff

Like the lakes that host them, boats come in a variety of shapes, sizes and have many different uses. If you’re asking yourself “What boat should I buy?”, you’ll want to make sure you’re buying the best boat for you and your lifestyle.

While this is by no means a complete list, this essential guide provides an overview of some of the most common crafts you’ll find on lakes across the country.

The Pontoon Boat

Pontoon boats are great for both novice and long-time boaters, and perfect for groups of friends and families. Their large size offers plenty of storage for coolers, floaties, and fishing gear. Most crafts can seat an average of 8 to 10 passengers.

Pontoon boats typically reach top speed at about 20 mph, so they aren’t ideal for tubing or skiing, but they are perfect for the leisurely lake lover.

On average, new pontoon boats sell for between $15,000 to $50,000 based on size, engine, features and build quality. Pontoons range in size from 16 to 30 feet in length.

The Deck Boat

Deck boats are traditionally boxier than your average fishing boat, and unlike many freshwater boats, these vessels have wide, flat bows (rather than pointed ones) often used as additional seating or sunbathing.

Their versatility makes deck boats an attractive option to many lakers and is just right for the daytime cruiser who may want a little bit extra oomph.

Powered by either stern drives or outboard motors, deck boats can just as easily be used for fishing as they can for a long day of water sporting.

Deck boats have an average price of roughly $42,000. They range in size from 18 to 28 feet use stern drives, outboard engines, and even jet propulsion.

The Jon Boat

Jon boats are the most common type of freshwater fishing boat you will find on the lake.

Not only are they available in a wide range of sizes, between 9 and 20 feet, but Jon boats are also among the most affordable boats on the market at $5,400, on average. Jon boats use outboard engines for propulsion.

These vessels have flat bottoms and are typically built out of aluminum; however, fiberglass has recently begun to make its way onto the Jon boat-construction scene.

Primarily used for fishing, Jon boats are also great for trot-lining, duck hunting, and alligator hunting.

The Ski Boat/Wakeboard Boat

As the name implies, these boats are used for recreation rather than leisure.

What sets ski and wakeboard boats apart from other types of activity vessels, like deck boats, is their propulsion systems.

Whereas a deck boat is powered by stern drives or outboard motors, ski and wakeboard boats, also known as “tow boats,” feature inboard engines or jets.

These boats also differ in seating capacity, designed to host three or four passengers at a time.

Tow boats are also more expensive, with an average price of $75,000.

The Bass Boat

You can guess how these boats are used from the name.

Designed with low sides for easy casting and minimal seating, bass boats feature powerful engines and only two seats. Other features include a large, flat bow and a large live well for storing the day’s catch.

Bass boats are not ideal for families or children and aren’t recommended for use as recreational crafts.

While they are great for speeding around on tournament day, these boats do not fair well in rough waters and should be operated by a veteran boater.

The average price of your basic bass boat is about $30,000.

Don’t end your quest for boat knowledge here! Be sure to read our other boating “Recreational Boating – Tips for Buying a Used Boat” and “Unique Boats for Family Fun at the Lake.”

The information featured in “Buying the Best Boat for Your” was sourced primarily from boats.com. For more information visit https://www.boats.com/explore/#boatTypes.

Boating License 101: Must-Know Boating Regulations

Posted on August 29, 2016December 5, 2017 Staff

Have you ever been in a boat with an operator that seemed a bit reckless and/or ignorant of seemingly obvious safety issues?

Has anyone ever admitted to you that they have a boating license but that their spouse, child or friend took the online test for them?

If so, you will be interested to know there are a variety of ways to educate yourself and others on common boat terminology, regulations and restrictions.

When it comes to water sports you can never be too careful so share your knowledge with anyone operating a boat.

State Boating License Requirements

Most states require boat operators to obtain a boating license prior to driving in the water.

Obtaining a state license requires you to pass a written or online test.

Although state regulations may differ slightly there are numerous requirements that are the same across the country from lakes to oceans and rivers.

There are only eight states that do not require a boating license in the United States. America’s Boating Course has the full list showing which states require and which do not require a boating license.

Vessel Versus Boats and Ships

Vessel is a catch all term for all types of floating devices designed to carry people or goods. Larger boats and ships are usually referred to as vessels more often than smaller boats.

Boats are small vessels propelled by oars, sails, or engines.

Ships are large vessels that usually carry boats as a safety measure.

What Boats Need Registered

Small non-powered boats such as canoes and kayaks do not require a boating license.

Sailboats, personal watercraft (PWC) and power boat regulations differ state to state depending on the engines horsepower and/or the size of the boat.

Basic Terminology

Make sure to know these common terms for boats prior to taking the drivers seat.

A. Bow – front of the boat

B. Stern – rear of the boat

C. Port – the left side of the boat when onboard and facing bow

D. Starboard – the right side of the boat when onboard and facing the bow

Hull – main body of the boat (i.e. bottom, sides and deck)

These terms are just the beginning of the detailed information on regulations you will need to know to pass your test.

Other important terms include certain lights and other items that help one to pinpoint the direction and location of your boat in the water.

Age Variations

Alabama requires that all operators 12 and over pass a boating license test unless they were born prior to April 28, 1954. Those born prior to this date need a vessels license but are exempt from taking the test.

Other states only require vessels license for those under the age of 16.

The minimum age that can obtain a license in a lot of states is 12 but others are 14.

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has a detailed listing of age restrictions, personal flotation device requirements, minimum passing scores and more useful information broken down by state.

Approved Online Test

The USCG link above provides information regarding which states allow and which do not allow online testing. All of the states reviewed for this article, Lake Homes Realty states, allow online testing.

This link also provides a lost of several boating courses and tests boat operators must take.

Cost of Courses and Tests

Most states require an online course be taken prior to taking the test. Boater-ed.com offers online courses with the final exam at the end.

Pricing for the course and test in Texas is $20 whereas pricing in most of the Southeastern states is $29.50.

Boater Exam also offers courses by state and the online test for around the same pricing.

Renewal Periods

The majority of states have no expiration date for boating license certificates.

Texas boating license are only valid for a year and Minnesota boating licenses expire at the age of 18 when the license is no longer required.

Boating License 101 Extra Prep

For the overachievers, Boater Exam has 134 videos on YouTube that detail all of the information you will need to take a boating license exam and be safe operating your boat or PWC.

Why Boating Regulations Matter

For your safety and the safety of those around you the knowledge of boating regulations, standards, requirements and terminology is priceless.

Knowing boating laws makes you all the wiser and more prepared for any adventure you may encounter even when your state does not require you to obtain a license.

How to Store & Maintain Your Personal Flotation Devices

Posted on October 15, 2014February 15, 2023 Glenn S. Phillips

Life jackets laying on lake deck how to properly store personal flotation devices

One of the best safety measures that you can rely on while out on the water is the use of personal flotation devices (PFDs).

A personal flotation device, also referred to as a life jacket or life preserver, is a piece of equipment designed to assist a wearer, who may be either conscious or unconscious, to keep afloat.

In case you’re wondering, you can check your state’s PFD requirements here.

The bottom line is that PFD’s save lives. But, these devices will only work as they should if they are maintained and stored properly between uses.

Here are a few tips on how to store and maintain your personal flotation devices to be sure they’re always ready to go at a moment’s notice.

Cleaning Your Personal Flotation Device

Cleaning products — Photo courtesy of Pexels.

To keep PFDs clean, all you need to do is wipe them down with a solution of mild soap and warm water and then rinse thoroughly. When cleaning stains from life jackets, use a stiff-bristled brush to gently scrub them away, but avoid using bleach, solvents, or other stain removers. The strong chemicals in these products can break down the materials PFDs are made from, thereby compromising their integrity. When exposed to saltwater, a quick rinse is needed to remove residue before allowing your device to dry.

After washing your PFD, hang it up in the open air away from direct sunlight and leave it there to dry thoroughly before storing it. Never place it in the dryer or near a heat source, as this could cause the vinyl or plastic components to warp or crack. Personal flotation devices should never be dry cleaned.

Inspecting Your Flotation Device

Kid inspecting life jacket — Photo courtesy of Pexels.

Flotation devices should be inspected on a regular basis, preferably before each use. Some of the things you should look for include:

Broken or damaged hardware
Ripped, torn, or missing webbing
Webbing that has become unattached
Mold or mildew
Rotted material
Large rips or tears
Oil spills, as this could affect buoyancy

Inflatable vests should also be inspected for:

Bobbins and pins that aren’t operating properly
Evidence of any corrosion on the CO2 cartridges
Nozzles that have not been punctured by the firing needle

It is also a good idea to manually inflate vests from time to time in order to check for leaks. Allow them to remain inflated overnight to be sure they are working properly, and repair or discard any that are not holding air as they should.

Storing PFDs

Storing lifejackets personal flotation device on boat — *Photo courtesy of The Hull Truth.*

Boating laws typically require that PFD’s are readily accessible to all passengers onboard a vessel. Make sure that your PFDs are actually taken out of the plastic wrapper they came in prior to use. The U.S. Coast Guard does not consider these devices to be ‘readily accessible’ if they must be unwrapped first. In addition, you must generally carry a throwable device onboard all watercraft that is 16 feet in length or longer.

When you’re not on the water, you should store flotation devices in a cool dry area with adequate ventilation. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight, as UV rays could prove harmful to them. Hang them up whenever possible rather than placing them on a shelf or the bottom of a locker. If hanging them up isn’t possible, make sure heavy objects are not placed on top of them, as this can also cause damage.

Personal flotation devices play an important part in keeping you safe on the water. Although it might seem trivial, properly cleaning, inspecting, and storing your PFD’s will go a long way to make absolutely sure that they are functional and in good working order for when you need them.