Boating Tips

 

Anyone who has pursued boating in their life can tell you that though rewarding, it can be very risky and dangerous. Exploring uncharted waters by default comes with a set of conditions that require anyone engaged in such activities to strictly maintain all related safety protocols.

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, however, the term “uncharted waters” ends up carrying a whole new meaning. Besides maintaining the standard safety protocols that come with boating, people need to make sure that they are adequately practicing social distancing norms and are being safe when it comes to preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus.

In such circumstances, boaters are bound to have a multitude of questions and concerns regarding safe boating. Here are some of the most common questions – and answers when it comes to maintaining COVID-19 protocols along with the standard ones.

1. Can boating be pursued as a Social Distancing Activity?

Simply put, yes. You can go boating and follow social distancing norms at the same time. That being said, there are a number of rules – and adhering to all of them is mandatory.

• First and foremost, you can only go with the family members with whom you share a home – any outsiders (i.e., those living outside your house) are not allowed.
• Going close or rafting with other boats is strictly prohibited, since it might bring the occupants in close proximity with each other.
• Boaters also need to make sure to maintain distance from outsiders while doing related activities such as fueling up the boat or docking at the marina.
• Boaters must make sure to disinfect themselves (either by washing their hands or by using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer) before and after using common surfaces such as fuel pumps and marina gate locks.
• Last but not the least, ensure that you have all needed supplies and gear in advance and that you do not need to go to stores to buy them.

2. Which boating ramps can I access in my area?

When it comes to seeing which boat ramps are available in your area – the answer, of course, differs from one place to another. This is because different states – and even municipalities within these states have different set of rules and regulations, depending on their situation. It is therefore essential for you to check your local resources for the legalities before embarking on a boating trip.

One of the best resources in this regard is the US Fish & Wildlife Service: State By State Closures (https://www.fws.gov/home/state-by-state-closures.html). This website lists all the wildlife and fish locations in the country along with access points and available spaces. All information is UpToDate and updated daily.

3. What if I have an emergency and need mechanical assistance?

Boating emergencies are definitely not an uncommon occurrence – and indeed, many of them happen due to mechanical malfunctions. To help boaters in case they do encounter such issues, major fleets such as Sea Tow and TowBoatUS stay active and to offer on-the-water towing assistance – should that be necessary.

Additionally, the US Coast Guard emergency rescue teams, as well as search and rescue (SAR) along with state agencies are generally vigilant and ready of offer assistance if needed.

With that said, the constantly changing nature of circumstances according to the spread of the virus can and does impact the ability of the above to disperse their duties and/or services. Hence, make sure to double check that the area you will be boating in is covered by them before you ever take your boat out.

4. Do I have to disinfect my boat?

Yes! It is mandatory to disinfect your boat to protect both yourself and others from the novel coronavirus. Solid surfaces that remain stationary and/or uncleaned for a while are known to house the COVID-19 virus – and your boat is no exception.

While technically, you should be safe if only you and your family (whom you share a roof with) have been in the boat – and are not ill – it helps to disinfect your boat – and give yourself and your surroundings an added layer of protection.

The CDC recommendations are the best guideline when it comes to knowing how to disinfect your boat. Always make sure to use EPA-approved disinfectants, but also keep in mind that some of these (especially acids or bleaches) may harm boat surfaces – like those made from vinyl or canvas – that are prone to discoloration or damage. After disinfecting, make sure to wash down the boat one last time to prevent any disinfectant residues from sticking to surfaces.

Boating is indeed a fun activity – and one of the few that can be pursued – even with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It is a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones and give yourself some much-needed relaxation. So long as you follow the necessary rules and maintain the safety protocols, you can enjoy your trip.

 

 

It’s the beginning of the new year, and with the new year comes new hopes, dreams, resolutions, and of course, vacation plans! With spring and summer seasons just around the corner, many are currently busy making plans on how they will be spending their time in the sunny outdoors. For many, of course, pontooning is the vacation of choice. Offering the right combination of shelter and exposure to the outdoors, pontooning is one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling recreational activities that can be enjoyed both alone and in groups (such as with family or with friends).

If you’re among the many looking to get into the activity for a while, or are looking for a new pontoon boat to replace your current one, here are some of the freshest models of 2020:

Bennington Bowrider

If you are looking for an all-round experience for a fun and sporty experience with family and/or friends, look no further than the Bennington Bowrider. Versatile enough for both sports and casual cruising, the Bowrider comes in a V-Hull performance package, enhanced sight lines for both captains and co-captains, and a low-profile bow with integrated view ports that enhance the level of visibility for passengers alike. The most striking feature of the boat, however, is the pioneering first step-down U-Lounge™ seating arrangement that allows for seating that tops in efficiency whilst bringing people closer together.

Starcraft SLS Series

If what you are after is an exciting ride on the water, and your priority is a boat that can offer such a level of mobility, then the all-new SLS series is ideal for you.  Boats in this series are known for their well-placed HMX tubes and stakes that offer a higher quality of speed and planning, an enhanced lift, a tight turning radius, and most importantly a lower level of surface drag. High on technicality, they offer all the three types of steering (i.e. wheel, tilt and hydraulic), voltmeter and speedometer, and 25” diameter tubes with 100% welded aluminum transom. Models are available in an assorted range of colors.

Starcraft EX Series

If you are among those who have space as their priority and are not shy to spend a little extra to get the best experience, EX series will be your best choice. Prioritizing comfort to the maximum, this series – which has both fishing and cruising models – has 5 very versatile layouts on spacious 8′ widths, making it suitable for even the largest of group travelers. Boats sport 25” diameter tubes with 100% welded aluminum transom, and marine-quality decking and carpeting. All boats are equipped with trim gauge technology that enables maximum smoothness along with maximum fuel saving. Models are available in an assorted range of colors.

Lowe Boats SS170

If you are looking for something that is simple and compact yet well-equipped, look no further than the all-new SS170. Known for packing in the features of larger pontoon boats on its smaller size, this boat packs in high-quality constructions in a remarkable SS styling. The boat’s most remarkable feature, however, remains to be its 25” diameter logs, each with separate and airtight chambers which together make for a very stable and reliable solution, especially if you are out pontooning with family. Further protection is added by the full-length keels that line each pontoon which add extra protection and allow for seamless tracking.

 

 

Boating is a fun, recreational activity enjoyed by thousands of people every year. What many miss, however, is the fact that over the past couple of years, it has also turned out to be one of the most environmentally hazardous activities. In fact, it is estimated that the volume of oil pollution and hydrocarbon entering the water every year is at least fifteen times more than the amount that was spilled in the Exxon Valdez incident alone.

Due to a large number of boaters operating either carelessly or without adequate knowledge of following safe boating rules, the waters they operate in gets severely affected with pollutants – which in turn endangers both plant and animal life that thrive in the water and harms the environment at large. The only way to prevent this from happening is to follow all safety rules and best practices.

Here are some ways in which boaters can enjoy their rest and recreation, while making sure that they do not end up harming the environment.

Avoid Oil and Fuel Spills

Not surprisingly, oil spills are one of the biggest environmental hazards that comes with boating. In fact, as much as 30% of oil used in two-stroke engines actually ends up being spit into the water.

Fortunately, this can be prevented. For starters, you must always fuel your boat at the dock and not in the water to prevent even the most minuscule of accidental spillages. You must also refrain from filling the gas tank to the brim – this often causes leakage as gasoline tends to expand and overflow with the application of engine heat. Additionally, make sure to conduct regular checks on your tank for any fissures or cracks that could potentially cause a leakage, and repair them well before you enter the water.

Last but not the least, if you do encounter any leakages or find any fuel leaked in the water (whatever its source may be), you must immediately report it – this will help reduce the damage caused to a great extent.

Control Potential Pollutants

Oil and fuels are not the only category of liquid pollutants – human (and sometimes animal) waste, cosmetics, and paints also cause considerable pollution when exposed to the water.

This too can be easily prevented – for starters, you must have a suitable solution (like a Marine Sanitation Device) for disposing sewage. Make sure to take any paints and other maintenance-related chemicals off of the boat before you enter the water, and in case you are going swimming, make sure to rinse off any sunscreens, repellents and/or any other cosmetics as much as is possible.

Be Wary of Garbage

Besides oil and liquid spills, garbage is the biggest pollutant that threatens marine life. It is not at all uncommon for animals to accidentally ingest garbage, which almost always turns out to be fatal.

Garbage from boats constitutes a wide range of things, from trash (such as papers and wrappers), to boating-related items (like fishing hooks and lines) to toys used by children. As a boater, you must make sure to follow the golden rule of never dumping any trash into the water – every item you bring on board must go back with you to the dock. Keep bins to store garbage, bags for fishing gear, and boxes for toys. Ensure that nothing is left in the open that can be blown away into the water. Also make sure to collect toys when they are not in use.

Keep Your Eyes Open

When it comes to boating (and especially so if you are the one operating the boat), staying vigilant at all times is a must. While it is common practice to be aware of swimmers, surfers and other boaters, there are other things one must take care of as well. As a boater, you should be aware of the animals in the area they are sailing in and must make it a point to take note of specific areas where fragile habitats thrive. This is not too difficult, as these areas – generally called “no wake” zones, are always marked.

Additionally, avoid shallow water and sea grass wherever it is possible. Not only can boating in such areas cause your boat to get stuck, it has the potential to destroy the plant habitat. Also make sure to adjust your propeller as and when necessary in order to avoid stirring up any sediment that can potentially disrupt the water’s mineral composition.

Last but not the least, you must refrain from boating at night, especially if you don’t fulfill the adequate requirements or are new to the activity. Also keep off of any and all alcohol when on the water – alcohol consumption causes impairment in awareness and judgement, which will only make you more prone to accidents.

 

 

For many people, boating and sailing are fulfilling and enjoyable summertime leisure activities. Barely surprising, as spending time on the water (and in a boat) under the warm sun is one of the most relaxing things that one can engage in, especially during hot summer months.

That being said, there are a few caveats when it comes to boating, one of them being protection from the sun. While relaxing in sunny weather is invigorating, not taking adequate precautions before doing so can have the opposite effect. Skin damage, eyes damage and sunburn are only some of the many adverse effects boaters can suffer if they are not careful.

Here are some sun protection tips to help you make sure you are taking the right protection when going out in the sun:

Make sure to use sunscreen

First and foremost, you must never step out in the sun without putting on your sunscreen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor of at least 30) with water-resistant properties (as you will also be out in the water). Make sure to have a sunscreen that suits your particular requirements and ensure that you apply it everywhere you are exposed to the sun, including the back of the neck and the rim of the ears.

Always cover up

There was a very valid reasons for pirates to dress up the way they did – to keep themselves protected from the harmful effects of being overexposed to the sun! While you no longer need to dress like a pirate (unless that’s your deliberate plan), you must make sure to wear the right stuff to beat the heat. Clothing containing Ultraviolet Protective Factor (UPF), which are comfortable, good-looking and available in several shapes and sizes are the best bet – they are even available as swimwear.

Bust out your hat

One of the best ways to beat the sun and the heat (and look fashionable while you’re at it) is to wear wide-brimmed hat, which will keep you cool while protecting your face and neck as well as your shoulders.

Always keep sunglasses

Besides damaging skin and the possibility of heat-stroke, Ultra Violet Rays have the capacity to do credible damage to your eyesight as well. The simple act of wearing sunglasses filters out the glare of the sun’s rays and allows for better (not to mention damage-protected) sight. Bonus points if you have polar sunglasses, which further help by reducing the reflection of the sun’s rays by the water.

Don’t fish during peak sun period

If your goal for boating is to fish, the best times to do that are in the early morning and towards the evenings. They are, after all, recommended for a reason – and that is that while there is more than enough light to seamlessly do fishing, there are no glaring sun rays that will cause sunburns.

Take lots of fluids (especially water!)

While this one may sound like a no-brainer, it is often one of the primary reasons of people getting sick while boating. Always make sure to keep yourself hydrated – and make sure to have as much water as possible. Not only does that help replenish your skin cells and keeps you from suffering massive sunburns, it keeps your immunity level up from other heat-induced illnesses, like sunstroke.

Use a boat that has covers for the cockpit and bow

Being in the water means being several miles away from any kind of shade. Having a boat that has customized covers for the bows and cockpits will help you stay comfortable anytime you want to take a break from the sun (if you get too tired or if it gets too hot, for example) and help you prevent yourself to being overexposed and sustain any kind of skin damage or sickness.

 

 

Boating is a fun activity to do – not only can one experience the outdoors, one can do so without too much strenuous activity, which is welcome thing, especially during the hot summer months. And there are the stats to prove it too – what with over 11 million recreational boats and vessels registered.

However, boating has also proven to be hazardous activity – for those who have not been careful about the rules and regulations, and/or have been callous with their behavior when on the water. In 2017 alone, there were around five thousand boating deaths that contained 658 death cases and thousands of injury cases, not to mention property damage worth millions. Needless to say, such outcomes are bad for anyone and everyone concerned.

That’s not to say that one must not boat – all you need to do is follow some safety regulations, keep your eyes and ears open and there is no reason to be in trouble – or at least stay in trouble long enough for any kind of long-lasting harm. Here are a few tips that can help you get started:

Free Vessel Safety Checks (VSC): Well, given that they help you understand and assess the physical condition of your boat (and literally cost nothing), you must always get one before you go out on the waters, which is especially true if you have not boated for a while. The U.S. Power Squadrons and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary both offer safety checks to verify that vessels are indeed compliant to state and federal set regulations. There are two paths to get a VSC – you can either get a virtual VSC (which is available online), or you can request an examiner to conduct one.

Always have an assistant skipper on board: Having a secondary individual who is well-aware of all aspects of operating the boat is a must. This is especially helpful in cases when the primary operator becomes incapacitated and someone is needed to help reach the shore. Make sure that your assistant skipper knows everything there is to know about the boat (both inside and out) and the way it operates. He or she must also have thorough know-how of the rules of navigation and safety and must be able to capably handle actual operation of the vessel should any need arise to do so.

Make a float plan: Making a float plan in advance of your trip and sharing the same with a trusted person (this can be a family member, a friend) and the staff at your local marina will keep others informed of your whereabouts, which can help them get an idea of where you would be at the given time. It would also help them, and the relevant authorities locate you should the need arise to do so. Your float plan must contain the following information:

• Name
• Address
• Phone number of passengers and the leader
• Type and registration information of the boat
• Trip itinerary
• An inventory of all signal and communication equipment present onboard

Always have life jackets onboard: Regardless of your vessel type and the distance and type of water you will be on, life jackets are something you must never forget to bring onboard. When any disaster strikes, the first thing to protect people would be these. According to the National Safe Boating Council’s recommendations for safe boating, anyone on board must wear a safety jacket at all times. While this seldom happens in reality, one must surely keep life jackets close, except for operators and children (especially those below the age of 7, who are required by law to not step onboard unless they are wearing a life jacket).

Stay up to date on the weather conditions: Before heading out, make sure to check local weather forecasts and check out the water and weather local, route and destination weather and water conditions before departure and ensure that it really is safe to go out.

Avoid alcohol (or at least have a sober skipper onboard): Much like drinking and driving, operating a boat while consuming alcohol is prohibited by law, and if broken, has severe legal and personal consequences. The math is simple – alcohol and boating can never mix – not if one wishes to have a nice, safe, accident-free trip. Consuming alcohol, couple with being on the water (as opposed to dry land) will cause Boater’s Fatigue, which is bound to lead to wrong decisions. If you must consume some adults-only beverage with your near and dear ones, make sure to have at least one skipper on board who remains sober and will operate the boat when you should not.

Keep navigation lights in check: This is especially applicable if you’re going for nighttime boating or boating in poor weather – during this time, it is imperative for other boaters to see you with clarity. Make sure to check navigation lights prior to leaving for boating.

Be aware of the rules of the (nautical) road: Much like driving on land, being able to operate a boat with success and safety requires a thorough knowledge and know-how of nautical rules. This includes buoys as well as navigational aids, which are there to make sure that boaters remain safe.

Use common sense: This may certainly sound like a no-brainer, but in reality, hundreds (if not more) accidents are credited to a lack of simple common sense. Here are a few common sense tips to remember:

• Always operate at a safe speed and never go beyond what you can personally handle
• Keep a first aid kit onboard
• In case you notice a sudden (unprecedented) change in the weather, return to port immediately. Being stuck on a boat in bad weather is always the worst idea.
• Dress properly and appropriately, and keep an extra set onboard

 

 

Let’s face it – boating isn’t the easiest thing to do – and especially not in the dark, when seeing things clearly is virtually impossible. One can never truly know what they can hit, nor can one understand why they veered off of their intended direction in the middle of the dark! That said, boating at night is not illegal and is definitely attempted by many who get captivated by the allure of the night sky.

If you are indeed among the many who intend to do the same, here are a few things you must keep in check. Here are some tips that will help you get up to date on staying safe while boating out at night:

Gear up!

Having all of your gear onboard completely well and updated is a must, even if you do not plan to stay on after dark. (This is because sometimes boaters tend to lose track of time and stay on – even when they have planned to return in daylight hours). Examples of must-have gear include glow-in-the-dark sticks (useful to locate things in the dark and for signaling), an emergency flashlight, night-vision glasses and cameras, a GPS device (to keep track of directions), a chart plotter (to locate and make reference to fixed objects like markers and buoys), and a radar. Bonus points if you also keep some old-fashioned gear, like a compass.

Stick to your limits

Boating is not a competition and there is no need for an excess amount of speed, just because its too late to be out. Not only does it increase the chances of getting lost, it also makes operators disrupt – if not lose – their mental focus. Furthermore, chances of hitting someone or something increased manifold when speeding in the dark. Always make sure to operate within the speed limit prescribed by the local state or county regulations, and stick to the limit you are most comfortable in.

Manage your lighting

Lighting is an especially sensitive matter in the dark – while the right actions will help you keep things safe, the wrong ones will only put both yourself and other boaters in harm’s way. First and foremost, dim all ambient lights to a minimum – this includes everything from your courtesy lights to the light coming from the chart plotter. This will allow your eyes to adjust to lower light and help see beyond the bow. Next, turn off the spotlight and headlights. While they may allow you to see a few good feet ahead, they are an annoyance and a hazard to others on the water, who are bound to get irritated eyes from all the extra lighting. Plus, the chances of seeing anything outside of the light will reduce dramatically as your eyes adjust to the brightest light.

In addition to these, make sure to not look at other boat’s spotlights or dock lights or taking your boat close to them. This is a sure shot way to get misguided. Chances are that these are inexperienced boaters who are not aware of the dangers they are posing to others (not to mention themselves).

Have someone else on board

One of the most dangerous things you can do (besides boating at night) is to boat alone. Having an extra pair of eyes will not only alleviate the quietness, it will also help verify your navigational decisions, and keep things in check. Ensure that your boating companion has at least the minimum knowledge of nautical rules and boat operation and can operate the boat should you for any reason become incapacitated or otherwise unable to operate the boat.

Pay attention to your surroundings

When the vision is limited, the best thing you can do is rely on your next strongest sense – which in this case is hearing. Listening to your natural surroundings in the middle of the dark is the most essential thing to do – so turn off any unnecessary source of sounds (like the radio or stereo), and refrain from using headphones.