Boating Accessories

When you are looking for boating accessories, you may become overwhelmed at the amount of products that are available. Are you wondering just what kinds of boating accessories you really need? The truth is that answer is really up to you.

To begin with, you need to make sure that your boating accessories include all of the required equipment as outlined by the United States Coast Guard. Those boating accessories include:

* Fire extinguishers

* Life jackets for each person on board

* A sound device like a foghorn, a whistle, or a bell

* Adequate lighting for night boating

You will also want to have some type of two-way radio for communication with those on shore in the event that you become stranded. While this is not a mandatory boating accessory, you really won’t want to be without this while in the middle of the water.

As far as other accessories for boating, the rest is your decision. How will you be using your boat? If you will be participating in water sports, look into a pair of water skis and a slalom ski as well as a strong tow rope. Inner tubing just requires a reliable tube with handles and that same tow rope.

Some people think that an essential boating accessory is an on-board stereo. If you will be entertaining on your boat, this can be a great addition. You don’t have to spend a lot of money on a boat stereo, but you may find that the extra investment is well worth your enjoyment!

Recreational boating accessories can run the gamut from fishing gear to nice sunglasses. If you think you will want to park in one of the proverbial “party coves” that exist on many bodies of water, you will want to have an anchor lest you drift away from the party!

If you will be traveling on large bodies of water, a boating accessory you may really need is a navigation system. Today, many GPS systems can be found relatively inexpensively and they can save your life should you become lost or mixed up while on the water.

If your boat has separate below-deck living quarters, you will want to outfit that with some cool boating accessories. Well, they’re not necessarily boating accessories specifically. What we’re talking about here is a coffee pot, a microwave, and maybe even a television with a DVD player. If you will be bringing your kids along, these devices could be life savers!

Boating accessories can be found in many places. Your best deals will be found online. Shop around and outfit your boat so it reflects you and how you want to use your boat. Then enjoy!

Boating Gear

What do you need to know when it comes to boating gear? What really is boating gear? We define boating gear as everything you need to outfit your boat to meet your specific personal needs. This can range from safety equipment to apparel. What is the essential boating gear every sailor should ideally have?

First, you need to have all the required safety equipment as outlined by the United States Coast Guard. That includes a fire extinguisher, life jackets for all people on board, a sound-making device like a horn or bell, and accurate lighting for boating at night. This boating gear is required by law and every boat must have them.

It’s a good idea to outfit your boat with a radio so you can communicate with the shore. At the very least, you should have some type of cell phone or two-way radio in case of emergency. You can also put a stereo in your boat for personal enjoyment while on the water.

For docking and anchoring, you’ll need an anchor, of course, as well as line to attach the anchor. You’ll also need docking line so you can tie up at the pier. You’ll also want some dock bumpers to avoid doing damage to your boat when mooring. These are like blow-up buoys that hang from the side of your boat.

When it comes to activities with your boat, the gear you need is probably a little bit obvious. If you will be water skiing, you’ll need the skis as well as a strong tow rope. For inner-tubing, get a good tube that can hold more than one person. It’s also a good idea to get a tube with handles. You need a tow rope to inner tube as well.

If you will be fishing, your boating gear will be a little different. Of course, you’ll need your fishing gear – rods, reels, bait, etc. But you will also need someplace to keep your catch like a water well or bucket. You should also have someplace to store your gear when it is on board.

A good navigation system is considered by some people an essential piece of boating gear. You can find a good GPS system for not too much money, and it can be a life saver should you find yourself lost on the water. At the very least, you need a good compass so you don’t lose your way.

There are literally hundreds and hundreds of items that people consider essential boating gear. You have to choose which you really need and that you have to have. Boating gear is available in sporting goods stores as well as online, and the variety that is available will get your boat outfitted in style!

Boating Schools

What is a boating school? Basically, it is what it says it – a school where you learn what you need to know about boating. The United States Coast Guard recommends that all boaters take an accredited course in boating at a certified boating school. They have proven that boaters who participate in boating school have a markedly better chance of avoiding a boating accident when they have taken these types of classes.

There are many places where you can find a certified boating school where you can learn about boating safely. Begin by looking online. You’ll be able to find a boating school near where you are just by doing a quick Google search. Take a look at the list you’ll see pop up and choose a school with a good reputation.

What makes a good boating school? Well, first and foremost, they should have the credentials and experience to be able to teach boating basics to the general public. See if they are accredited by the United States Coast Guard. What qualifications does the instructor have? What are some of the areas they will cover in school? Also, make sure that their price range is within your budget.

Some companies offer boating schools online. They will allow you to take classes from the comfort of your own home. You’ll read through their provided materials and then take various tests to gauge your progress through the course. At the end, you’ll take a comprehensive exam covering all the material in the classes which you will need to pass to become certified. Online boating schools require concentration and dedication, so be sure you have the time and effort to devote to it.

Look to the local marina as well for a qualified boating school. Marinas have on staff boating professionals who conduct classes on a regular basis. The advantage to a real-life school is that you can have your questions answered right there and you will most likely get some hands-on experience in piloting a boat.

Finally, many boat dealerships will also conduct boating schools or at the very least, they will have information on upcoming schools in your area. Just contact them and inquire about what boating schools they know about.

You will become a much better boater when you take classes at a boating school. Even if you are an experienced boater, you can always use a refresher course to learn about new innovations and regulations in the boating industry. Look for a boating school that will meet your needs and then take it as seriously as you would “regular” school.

Boating Holidays

When we speak of boating holidays, we aren’t referring to a day set aside to celebrate everything boating – although many boating enthusiasts would probably like a holiday like that! In Europe and many other places, vacations are referred to as holidays, so a boating holiday is essentially a boating vacation in Europe.

There are many wonderful boating holiday destinations around Europe. England is a great place to enjoy a boating holiday. They have miles and miles of canals where you can take a narrowboat up and down the water enjoying the beautiful countryside along the way. Narrowboats are like cabin cruisers with sleeping quarters and spacious places on deck for sightseeing.

One great part of taking a boating holiday in England is the availability of water side pubs where you can pull up to, tie off at a dock, and enjoy some old-fashioned English delicacies as well as some fine ale. Just be sure you don’t overdo it lest you become a dangerous boat captain!

You may want to also look into an Irish boating holiday. Many say that cruising Ireland’s rivers and lakes is an experience never to be forgotten and often repeated. Not only is the Irish countryside some of the most beautiful in Europe, there are many shore side places ripe for exploring including woods and castles open to the public.

There are many towns and villages along the way, and the local people are well-known for extending hospitality to visitors. The local shops and pubs on the waterways where you can find some great local entertainment found nowhere else. The fishing in Ireland is also excellent with some prize-winning trout, perch, and salmon readily found along the way.

Boating holidays in the beautiful country of France also are among top choices for avid boaters. French waterways travel through some of the most varied countryside in Europe with each region steeped in its own particular culture, history, and architecture.

The real France is found on a leisurely cruise along the French rivers and canals. On a boating holiday in France, you can see vineyards, chateaus, and quaint villages far from the usual tourist haunts. You can sample gourmet delights in beautiful country inns or feast on board your boat in the open air with some of the finest wines in the world.

Boating holidays in Europe are easily planned as there are boat rental places everywhere along the European waterways. Europe is a beautiful place, and when you plan a boating holiday in this beautiful part of the world, you’re sure to have memories that you will want to share for lifetimes to come.

Boating Vacation

Taking a boating vacation is a refreshing way to get away from your hectic life and relax on the water while communing with nature. Boating enthusiasts say that a boating vacation is really the ultimate trip. You have a lot of options for your trip, and the possibilities really are endless.

Most people take a vacation to escape the stresses of everyday life. Some like to go hiking, others choose a tropical beach, and still others like the resort vacations. But a truly great way to find serenity and peace on your next vacation is to take a boating vacation.

The first step in planning your boating vacation is to pick a destination. Have you always wanted to motor boat along the Mississippi River? Think that traveling the Gulf of Mexico would be an ideal getaway? Maybe you’d just be happy on a mountain lake lolling the days away on the water. The choice is up to you, and you have many.

If you already own a boat, you’ll just need to plan out a route to your destination and haul it there. If you don’t have a boat, that’s alright. You can still have a memorable boating vacation with a boat rental. A lot of places where boating is popular have many places where you can rent a house boat, a cabin cruiser, even a speedboat. The rates are usually quite reasonable, and you’ll even get a quick boating lesson from the pros.

You have a lot of choices in activities during your boating vacation. Fishing is always a good choice for the angler in the family. You can seek out some secluded beaches and relax on the sand. Water sports like skiing, wake boarding, and tubing are always popular during boating vacations. Or, you can choose to simply relax on the deck and take in the sights along the way.

Boating vacations are fun for the whole family – even the kids. Remember, that togetherness is what’s important, so when you plan a boating vacation for your family, make sure everyone can agree on the destination as well as the activities you will be doing. Hopefully, there’s something to do that everyone will enjoy, and when you work together, your vacation will be a thrill!

Next time you’re feeling overwhelmed at work, plan a boating vacation. If you’re tired of worrying about all of the details of life, plan a boating vacation. Just sit back and imagine the cool, clear water, the sounds of nature, and the beauty of a sunset from the deck. Then your boating vacation will be as unique and relaxing as you need it to be.

Boating Instruction

When you decide to take up boating as a hobby, it’s important to get boating instruction from a competent professional who can teach you all about this great sport. Boating instruction entails much more than just showing you how to operate a boat. It also encompasses boating safety along with boat and engine maintenance.

When you receive boating instruction, you’ll be learning about boating as a sport, but it will do so much more for you. It can make boating much more enjoyable, make you more skilled as a captain, and can even save you money! Getting boating instruction through certified classes could provide you with a discount on your boating insurance!

There are many places where you can find reputable boating instruction. Start with a local marina. Like a golf pro shop, the marina will have a “boat pro” on staff that will be happy to help you with your boating education. Many marinas have classes you can take on site that will teach you everything you need to know.

We live in an Internet world. It just goes to say, then, that there is boating instruction available online. This is a great way to be able to study all aspects of boating from the comfort of your own home. However, keep in mind that you won’t have the benefit of a live person to ask questions of.

What should you look for in choose a boating instruction class? Here are a few of the components that the class should include:

* Certified instructors with proper qualifications

* Boat operation

* Boat mechanics and maintenance

* Boating safety

* Navigation rules

* Coast Guard requirements for safe boats

* Proper seamanship

Another great advantage to taking a boating instruction course is that it will help to qualify you for your boating license. Like getting a driver’s license, you will have to take a test to obtain your boat license. Having the advantage of a class that can teach you what you need to know will prepare you in the best way possible.

Boating instruction will also tell you how to register your boat, best ways to store your boat, and how to ramp your boat – all things that the responsible skipper should know well. You can also get the best information on proper boat maintenance as well as basic engine repair.

When you decide to captain your own vessel, boating instruction is a big part of becoming a responsible skipper. Get as much as you can as often as you can – even if you are an experienced boater. It never hurts to have a refresher course along the way. Boating instruction is your way of telling everyone “I know what I’m doing, and you can trust me!”

Boating

Boating is a very popular activity all around the world and it has been growing in popularity throughout the years. In a world where stress abounds in everyday life, there’s no better way to escape for a little bit than on the deck of a boat. Boating has many advantages that can help enhance your life.

Recreational boating improves your quality of life. From the moment you start to move forward in a boat, you’ll see how easy it becomes to leave your worries behind. Boating is a constructive outlet for entertainment that reduces stress and provides enriching opportunities for self-discovery.

Boating is actually quite an affordable recreational activity. A boat is a great investment and you can find a boat for less than what you think. Boats can often be financed for less than $200 a month. Used boats are also easy to find for just a small amount of money. Once you own a boat, you can take off any time you want and enjoy boating for what it is – a fun way to spend a day.

There’s no better way to bond with family and friends than through boating. A study done by the National Marine Association shows that nearly 50 percent of all people surveyed say that their number one most favorite activity to participate in with family and friends is boating. Boating allows you to get out of the house, away from the TV, and spend quality time together.

You can actually get a lot of exercise while boating as well. Water skiing is a great physical activity that can improve your agility and your balance. You won’t believe the muscles you work when you are water skiing, so it’s a great way to get some exercise while boating.

Recreational boating is easy to learn. Even if you have no experience piloting a boat, you can learn quickly by taking a quick boating course offered by many marinas and boat dealers. If you’ve always wanted to learn how to sail or are just looking for a great way to relax and spend time with loved ones, when you take a boating course, you’ll be out on the water in no time.

Boating offers many opportunities for personal growth. Whether you’re instilling your child with confidence as they learn how to properly secure a line or you’re enjoying the taste of fresh fish that you caught yourself, boating provides many different rewards for all ages.

You will find many, many rewards when you take up boating. It’s a great sport that anyone can participate in and gives you a great way to escape stress – even if it’s just for a little while. Enjoy boating for peace of mind, an escape from life, and to have a great way to connect with your family and friends.

Boating Equipment

Boating equipment can be a wide and diverse subject. When you take up the sport of boating, the amount of equipment you need is as complicated or as simple as you want to make it. But the basic boating equipment that everyone needs includes a boat and a trailer.

The boat, obviously, is a no-brainer. You have to have a boat in order to participate in the sport of boating. But your most important piece of equipment is your boat trailer. It’s essential that you match your boat trailer to your boat. This will depend on the size of your boat mainly, but there are other considerations to be thought about as well.

What is the size of the vehicle you will be using to tow your boat on the trailer? There are some lighter weight trailer models that can accommodate vehicles with less horsepower. Ideally, you’ll want a four-wheel drive truck that can handle both the boat and the trailer easily. But if you just have a small truck, look into a lightweight aluminum trailer that is easily towed by a smaller truck.

The type of boat you choose is also dependent on your vehicle. Most people choose their vehicle first and then their boat. If all you have is a smaller truck with little horsepower, you won’t want a 30 foot power boat traveling behind you. Handling will be difficult, and you run the risk of harming others on the roadway if you don’t pay attention to this big detail.

So, you’ve got your boat and you’ve got your trailer, what other type of equipment will you need in your boating adventures? Your boat must be outfitted with a life jacket for every person aboard, fire extinguishers, some type of sound emitting device (your mother-in-law doesn’t count), and adequate lighting for night boating.

Two other essential pieces of boating equipment would include a two-way radio as well as some type of navigation device like a GPS system. When you are on the water, you don’t want to risk becoming stranded and not having any way of communicating with the outside world or being able to find your way back to shore.

If you will be participating in water sports, the boating equipment will differ from pleasure cruising. For water sports, you’ll need a tow rope and some skis or an inner tube for tubing.

What type of boating equipment you need will really depend on how you’re going to be using your boat. Decide for yourself what’s important to you and then go buy your boating equipment, but be sure you have the basics as outlined above!

Boating Charter

If you don’t own a boat, but are yearning to experience a boating vacation, a boating charter is the way for you to go. You can charter a boat either with or without a captain depending on your experience level and what type of getaway you want.

A bareboat boating charter is when you simply rent a boat and will captain it yourself. Most places who specialize in bareboat charters will give you a quick boating course so you know how to operate the vehicle and know the rules of the road when it comes to navigating the waterways. As a general rule, it’s not a good idea to get a bareboat charter with no boating experience at all.

The advantage to a bareboat boating charter is that if you do have some boating experience, you will be able to captain a boat that you wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford to own. That means a cabin cruiser or even a yacht. If you’ve always wanted to go yachting, a bareboat boating charter may very well be the way for you to go.

When you do a basic boating charter, you are hiring the boat as well as a captain to operate the boat. The movie “Captain Ron” comes to mind for this author! The best part about a basic boating charter is that you can sit back and enjoy the boating experience without having to worry about – literally – anything else. Well, except for the folks in that movie!

When you book a boating charter, be sure it’s with a reputable company who has adequate insurance as well as enough experience to insure you of a safe and satisfying getaway. Choose a boat that’s within your budget, but don’t be afraid to splurge a little. After all, this is a boating getaway for you; why not enjoy it to the fullest!

Have you always dreamed of getting away to an exotic location but want to incorporate your love of boating with that trip? Charter a boat once you arrive. Then you can really have the vacation experience of a lifetime. There are very few places you can go where you won’t find a boating charter company ready to book you on a cruise along the water.

Your trip can be a simple day trip up and down a river or it can be a week-long excursion where you can whale watch, swim with the dolphins, or just sit on deck and enjoy the scenery.

Boating charters are easy to come by and an amazing way for you to have a boating vacation that will be a memorable experience for years to come. Check out boating charters online before you book and then enjoy your trip!

Boating Forums

Why should you join a boating forum? There are many, many reasons why a boating forum is a great place to join. There are tons and tons of websites devoted to the sport of boating. Members of these sites are more than happy to share their love of everything boating as well as things they’ve learned that might help you.

Boating forums can be found everywhere on the Internet. Membership is almost always free, and the things you can learn from boating forums can be invaluable. You may want to consider joining a boating forum that concentrates on a specific area of interest such as a geographical location. Or, you could just join a forum that caters to the type of boating you are interested in.

Just as with other Internet forums, boating forums are filled with all sorts of people who love boating just as much as you do. These people are often happy to share information with fellow members including the best places to travel to, boat care tips, fishing information, and much, much more.

There are many people who report that they have met lifelong friends in these forums. It can be fun to virtually meet people and then make plans to meet in a group at a specific boating destination. Of course, you should never make plans to meet someone alone, but if there is a group trip planned, you could find that you are opening yourself up to a whole new world of camaraderie and fun.

When you become a member of a boating forum, you’ll first need to sign up with a user name. To protect your anonymity, make the name something that has nothing to do with your real name. If you choose to, later, you can reveal your real name to members. Create a password that is unique and that no one will be able to easily deduce.

When you are new to a boating forum, resist sharing any personal information. While many of these forums are safe and easily navigable, you just never know who is online behind that posting! Practice common sense when posting and when answering posts. When you are completely comfortable, you can consider revealing your “true identity”, but use caution in doing so.

Boating forums are excellent places to learn new things and make new friends. You can also share what you’ve learned so other people can take in your tips. Boating forums are great places, just be sure you are staying safe just as in any online forum. Then enjoy what you will learn and put that information to use on your next boating adventure!

Boating Store

When you begin to take up the sport of boating, you’ll want to find a good boating store where you can outfit your boat and yourself. A boating store is more than just a sporting goods store. It’s a store devoted strictly to the needs of boating and those who love it.

Often, a boat dealership will have a store inside where you can find all sorts of boating gear. They will carry authorized boating products and usually will have a wide variety of products for you to choose from. The advantage to shopping in a boating store like this is that you will have the advice of professionals who know what they’re talking about to guide you in the right direction when it comes to choosing your boating products.

Like many other businesses, you can find a variety of products online in an online boating store. You will often find lower prices in these boating stores and many specials you can choose from to help you save money on your boating gear. Here are some of the top picks when it comes to an online boating store:

* www.boatingstore.com – When you visit this web site you can almost, quite literally find everything you need in the way of boating gear. They have a full line of supplies for all aspects of boating and even have their own line of products that are available in regular brick and mortar stores.

* www.binnacle.com – This online boating store has hundreds and hundreds of products that range from clocks and barometers to safety equipment and books on boating. You will find everything you need right here!

* www.westmarine.com – Besides offering a complete stock of everything a boating store would need, you’ll find helpful articles on this great web site. Plus, they have a clearance section where you can save big on boating gear!

* www.basspro.com – Bass Pro Shops is probably considered THE boating store as well as THE fishing and hunting store. They have locations all over the United States and offer boating, fishing, and hunting equipment for the sportsman.

* www.boatstoreonline.com – This online boating store claims to have “everything boating”. They mostly carry engine parts and equipment, but if you’re looking for that special part, they’ll probably have it!

It’s not difficult to find equipment that you need in a boating store. Whether that store is online or just down the road, you can easily get everything you need to enjoy your boating experience.

Boating in England

When considering a boating vacation, many people think of tropical locations. However, the truth is you can have a great time boating in England. There actually are many bodies of water where you can have a great time boating in England.

Many barges and canals are places where you can enjoy the English countryside from the beauty of a “narrowboat”. Lots of companies offer guided excursions down the water allowing you to enjoy jolly old England from the comfort of these luxury vessels.

Boating in England is really a lot like boating in the States. It’s a relaxing, fun vacation taken at a slow pace. There are actually over two thousand miles of waterways from wide canals to narrow ones and even some pretty good sized rivers you can enjoy.

Your best bet for boating in England is to hire a boating company who will give you a guided tour. They will be able to point out interesting tourist attractions and give you information about their beautiful country.

You can also rent your own narrowboat and commandeer it down the waterways. People who have done this type of vacation report that it’s one of the most satisfying boating trips they’ve ever been on.

One of the advantages to boating in England is you can experience complete freedom. There are many, many places you can stop along the canal and visit a neighborhood pub or a five star restaurant. You can moor your boat and explore the countryside on foot. Life on the water can be quite idyllic.

You may also want to explore boating on England’s River Thames. This river is mostly non-tidal and runs through some beautiful places. The Thames does have locks to go through, and you must be patient when traveling through the locks. They can take quite awhile to get through, but just sit back and enjoy the scenery while you wait!

If you want to travel the River Thames, you should be aware that this is one of the most popular waterways in England, so the boat traffic could be heavy at times. Also, all boats that want to travel this water must be registered. Not registering your boat could cause problems with the water constable.

Boating in England is a great chance to experience one of the most beautiful places in the world. Consider taking the time in the spring when the greenery is bursting into life and the hillside is green and lush. We think you will find that boating in England is an experience second to none!

Boating Course

When you decide to take up boating as a hobby, there’s nothing better you can do for yourself than taking a boating course to learn everything you need to know about before you get on the water. A good boating course will teach you more than just how to steer a boat, it will teach you everything you need to know about safe and responsible boating.

A good boating course will, of course, begin with a lesson on operating your boat. It should show you all of the major parts of your boat, your boat’s engine, and your trailer. The boating course should take you through how to haul your boat and safe ramping procedures.

Rules of the water are essential in all boating courses. Just like on the roadways, you need to practice safe procedures when you go to pass a slower boat and be able to signal appropriately. You should know how to boat at a safe speed and how to dock as well.

Boating safety is the most important part of an effective boating course. Most boating accidents are caused because captains have not taken a boating course. These boating courses will show you all aspects of boating safety and how to practice this at all times for the good of yourself as well as your passengers and others on the water.

You can find certified boating courses in many places – often nearby. Check with your local marina and ask about what type of boating courses they offer. Their boating professionals will often conduct boating courses at many times throughout the season. It can be the most responsible thing you do as a boater when you take one of these courses.

Many boat dealers will have the “inside track” into boating courses that are offered in your area. They’ll be happy to share this information with you. All you have to do is ask!

Look online for some boating courses that you can do from the comfort of your own home. Most of these boating courses will have you study different modules that have to do with all aspects of boating. At the end of each section, there will usually be a quiz. At the end of the course, you will have to pass a comprehensive exam on all material at which time you will be deemed a certified boat operator.

Taking a boating course will make it easier for you to obtain your boat license. You probably wouldn’t go and take a driver’s license test without studying a little bit first. The same holds true of getting a boating license. Take a boating course, and the test will be a piece of cake!

Boating courses are valuable troves of information that will help make you a better boater. Seek one out and reap the benefits.

Boating Knots

Rope, knots, and boating go hand in hand. Whether tying an anchor to a line or tying up a boat to a dock, the wrong knot will lead to trouble and the right knot, when properly tied, will hold under extremely heavy loads. We’ll give you a few of the most common knots used in boating and do our best to tell you how to tie them.

The two half hitch knot is a very reliable knot and used most often in mooring. Pass the end of a rope around a post or other object. Wrap the short end of the rope under and over the long part of the rope pushing the end down through the loop. This is a half hitch. Repeat on the long rope below the first half hitch and draw tight.

The anchor bend knot is used in boating to tie the rope to the anchor. Start by passing two loops through a ring and then placing the free end around a standing line. Pass the free end through the loops on the ring. Complete by making a half hitch.

The figure eight knot is ideal for keeping the end of a rope from running out of a tackle or pulley. Make an underhand loop bringing the end around and over the standing part. Pass the rope end under and then up through the loop. Draw tight.

A clove hitch knot is a general utility hitch when boating for when you need a quick and simple method of fastening a rope around a post, spar, or stake. Begin by making a turn with the rope around the object and over itself. Take a second turn with the rope around the object. Pull the end up under the second turn so it is between the rope and the object. Tighten by pulling on both ends.

When tied properly, the bowline knot won’t slip or jam. This is a good tight boating knot. First, make an overhand loop with the end held toward you. Pass the end through the loop. Pass the end up behind the standing part and then down through the loop again. Draw tight.

A sheet bend knot is used in boating to tie two ropes together. It is easy to tie, strong, secure, and works well with ropes of differing sizes. Make a loop in the end of one rope. If one line is heavier than the other, make the loop in it. Pass the end of the other rope through and around the loop. The working end should exit the knot on the same side as the loop’s short ended side.

Boating knots are important to learn for your safety on the water. When you know how to tie the basic boating knots, you will be safe and secure.

Boating Accidents

Every year, the United States Coast Guard compiles information regarding boating accidents in the United States. These studies are very comprehensive and are based on accident reports filed by boaters who have been involved in boating accidents.

There are certain regulations that the USCG has set forth regarding the reporting of a boating accident. You must report the accident under the following conditions:

* A person dies

* A person is injured and requires medical treatment other than first aid

* The damage to a vessel is more than $2,000 or there is a total loss of a vessel

* A person disappears from a vessel and circumstances indicated there may be a death or an injury

It’s a good idea to report the boating accident within the first forty-eight hours. Regulations differ as to the required time frame, but a responsible boater will take care of the situation as soon as possible.

In the year 2005, there were 267 fatalities directly attributed to boating accidents. Of those fatalities, seventy percent of them were due to drowning, and eight-seven of those who drowned did so because they were not wearing their life jackets.

The most reported boating accidents were the result of collisions with another vessel. However, capsizing and falls overboard were also among those most reported and contributed also to the drowning fatalities overall.

Overall, carelessness, reckless driving, operator inattention, excessive speed, and operator inexperience were the most prevalent contributing factors to boating accidents. That is why the Coast Guard highly recommends all boaters take a certified boating safety class as well as qualified boating instruction classes.

The most common types of boats involved in boating accidents were open watercraft, personal watercrafts (Jet Skis), and cabin motorboats. There was a marked increase also in sailing accidents, houseboats, and fishing boats.

Alcohol was also shown to be a huge contributing factor in boating accidents. Impaired captains were shown to have a larger incidence of the possibility of accidents because of lack of judgment, inattention, and reckless behavior. In fact, one-fourth of all boating accidents could be directly linked to the consumption of alcohol by the driver.

Boating accidents can be prevented rather easily if more people would take boating safety classes and receive proper boating instruction. Because of the various factors that are involved in boating, it can be dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. If you want to be a responsible boater, they way to prevent boating accidents is to stop them before they start. Get educated and then put that information to use – all the time!

Boating Clubs

No matter where you are located, you will most likely have a boating club nearby. There are literally thousands of different boating clubs that you can join. A quick Internet search brings up over 100,000 boating clubs throughout the world!

To begin with, boating clubs are great places to meet people who share the same interest in boating that you do. People often join boating clubs for this specific purpose. Boating is an almost obsessive sport. When you know others who share that same passion, you’ll fuel that fire in ways you never knew possible.

Boating clubs will also sponsor social events like boat shows that you can participate in. Social gatherings are great places to exchange information with other boaters and share your own knowledge. You can really learn so much about this sport just by talking with other people!

It doesn’t matter what kind of boating you do, a boating club really is for you. Compare boats with other people. You may learn about a different style or brand of boat that you want to check out and even buy. Maybe you’ve got a 16 foot power boat and have always wanted to try a cabin cruiser. Find a fellow member who has the cabin cruiser and see what he or she has to say about that particular boat.

Many boating clubs offer members discounts on boating equipment and even on boating trips. They say that membership has its advantages. When you’re an avid boater, that’s certainly true with a boating club!

You can get boating lessons too in some clubs. Like golf clubs, there is usually a pro around to answer questions and teach techniques. If you want to learn about boating or brush up on some of the things you’ve gotten rusty at, just ask the pro!

Many boating clubs have their own “clubhouse” usually located on a body of water. They’ll let members ramp for free and take advantage of the water with no additional charges. The cost is usually included in membership dues. The club house may even have a gourmet restaurant for members to enjoy.

The benefits of joining a boating club are far-reaching. You will meet new friends, learn about boating more in-depth than ever before, and find new, exciting ways to make your boating experiences even more fulfilling than they already are. We’re willing to bet there’s a boating club near you. Find it and join today – it’s well worth the price!

Boating Safety

The most important part about responsible boating is to always practice good boating safety. The United States Coast Guard says that almost all boating accidents could have been prevented if the captain of the ship had taken a boating safety course prior to getting on the water. Boating safety is tantamount to responsible boating and it shouldn’t be taken lightly.

There’s no way we can cover all aspects of boating safety in this short article. What we can do, however, is to give you some basics to go from in your quest to become a responsible boater. There’s nothing that can replace a good, certified boating safety course taught by a qualified individual, but everyone has to start somewhere!

* Always know the safest distance to keep away from other boats. If someone is going slower than you are and you want to pass them, know how to do so safely and with the proper signaling. Boats don’t have turn signals, but you should know how to alert the other boater you will be passing them.

* When you are putting your boat in the water, be sure you know how to do this quickly as well as safely. Boating safety has to be present even before you get your vessel on the water. Knowing how to do this the right way can make the difference between friendly and unfriendly boating.

* If alcohol is part of your boating trip, be sure you are very conscious of what alcohol can do to your body when you are operating a fast-moving vehicle on top of a body of water. Alcohol use by the captain should occur in moderation above everything else. Most of the boating accidents that occur today can be directly attributed to alcohol as a contributing factor. Be smart when it comes to alcohol consumption on the water.

* Make sure that all people on board your boat have access to a life vest. Never let a child be in your boat without wearing a life vest at all times. The number one cause of death on the water is due to drowning. That is caused by people falling overboard without a life vest. This is the number one boating safety rule stressed by all instructors.

* Boating safety depends on everyone following general rules of etiquette when you are out on the water. While you can’t control what the other boaters do, you sure can control what you do. Always be polite on the water and know that you are doing your part to keep the waters safe.

Like we said previously, every boater should really take a certified boating safety course. Besides making it easier for you to get your boating license, you will be a much better boater after you take a boating safety course.

Boating Life

There’s so much to be said for living the boating life. Boaters have their own lifestyles. They live on boats, take their families boating, attend boating events, give boating gifts, have a unique code of etiquette and love to laugh about boating and the boating life. It’s a wonderful way to look at the world from the deck of a boat.

Boating Life magazine embraces this lifestyle and is perfect for anyone who loves the wind in their faces as they skim across the water. Like many other boating magazines, this one offers its subscribers a plethora of information about the sport of boating.

Its sections include:

* Boat test drives

* Safety tips

* Boat maintenance

* Water sports

* Fun stuff

* And more!

There is a separate section for classified ads so you can look to buy products and even a new boat. If you have some extra equipment you want to get rid of, list it in the classified section. Want to upgrade to a bigger boat? Boating Life’s classified section, again, is the perfect place.

Are you looking for some tips on the best places to travel by boat? Boating Life magazine has got tons of suggestions. They’ve already been there and can offer up tips and advice for you to take to heart.

Their website also has a lot of great information on the boating life. Have a question about boating and need an expert’s advice? Ask it online. Curious about upcoming boating events? There’s a section for that too! The website is located at www.boatinglife.com.

You can get a free newsletter sent directly to your e-mailbox. This publication is a great way to stay up-to-date on all the new trends in boating and all you have to do is check your e-mail!

If you want to subscribe to Boating Life, you won’t believe the offer they have on their website. To begin with, you can get your first issue FOR FREE! If you like it, do nothing and they will bill you for a two year subscription at just $9.97! If you don’t want to subscribe, just write “cancel” on the invoice and send it back to them. But with a rate of less than $5 a year, why not keep it!

The boating life is a great way to live. If you want to embrace it fully, check out Boating Life magazine!

Boating While Intoxicated

Few issues are as controversial as boating while intoxicated. Many people feel like it’s not as difficult or dangerous to operate a boat while drinking as it is a vehicle. Nothing could be further than the truth. Boating while intoxicated is a serious issue and one that shouldn’t be ignored.

A lot of people liken a day on the boat with tossing back some beers or drinks. After all, what tastes best on a hot summer day but a cold, cold drink? One or two beers is probably fine, but ideally, you shouldn’t be drinking at all while you are driving a boat.

Boating drunk is a crime on many waterways. Just like DUI laws, regulations vary from state to state and from place to place. But in many places, the law taking boating while intoxicated as a serious offense.

Why is drinking and boating so dangerous? Well, besides the fact that alcohol impairs your judgment, a lot has to do with the vehicle you are driving. A boat can go much, much faster than most cars plus boats don’t come with safety restraints. If you should happen to hit something, the possibility of being ejected into the water is nearly 100 percent.

There are no marked lanes on waterways, so you have a lot of leeway in steering. It’s easy to become distracted when you are drunk and it’s even easier to misjudge distances and where other boats are located.

Boats are controlled by both people and water. The waves can throw off even the most experienced captain. When you have a drunk captain, it’s easy to lose control of the water craft with dire circumstances.

Alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body. Add the hot sun to an alcohol mixture and you get a very tired captain. You run the risk of falling asleep at the helm or being drowsy and inattentive.

Waterways do have police officers as well. They monitor the waters just as a traffic cop would monitor the roads. If you are boating while intoxicated, you can be “pulled over” and administered a field sobriety test. The water cop will assess your physical condition and decide whether or not you should receive a boating while intoxicated citation. If so, you risk losing both your boat and your license.

Boating while intoxicated is a big no-no in the boating world. It really is possible to have fun without alcoholic beverages. If you feel you just can’t be on your boat without a drink, practice moderation and keep everyone safe!

Boating Marinas

A boating marina is a port within a sheltered harbor where boats are kept in the water. Boating marinas also offer services that meet the needs of the recreational boater. These services include offering gas, snacks, boating supplies, and more.

The boating marina is where you will find the boating ramp to get your boat on the water. Some marinas will offer out of water boat storage for the off-season. Boating marinas will also have extensive parking facilities for boaters and slips where boats can tie up while the boaters take care of their personal business.

Most boating marinas are privately operated often by clubs like yachting clubs or organizations. They usually charge a fee for ramping your boat and may also have membership fees to belong to the marina. But when you are a member, you will be able to take advantage of many opportunities marinas offer like boating classes, safety courses, and much more.

Almost all boating marinas will offer boat rentals for people who don’t own boats. This is a great service for people who don’t have the resources to own their own boats – yet. The rental prices are usually quite reasonable and provide for a fun day on the water for almost everyone.

All bodies of water will have a boating marina – in fact, many will have multiple marinas to serve many locations along the way. In some places, the marina business can be quite a competitive one as each tries to look for their share of business from eager boaters. However, because the marinas really have a captive audience so to speak from people on the water, don’t expect to find any great bargains on gas or ramping fees.

Boat etiquette when in a marina is very important to know about. When you are ramping your boat, you should do so as quickly as you possibly can and then vacate the ramp area so others who are waiting to either drop or pick up their boat can do so. If there is a line, do not “cut” into it. Wait your turn no matter how impatient you might be. You’ll get your share of dirty looks and perhaps cross words if you breach this unwritten rule.

When you are tied up at the boating marina, be sure you are in a slip away from traffic and not just floating out in the middle of the water hampering others abilities to get to a vacant slip. Be respectful of others in the marina and practice safe boating when backing out and getting back on the water. Many accidents happen in the marina, so pay special attention to the traffic around you as you’re backing out or coming in.

Boating marinas are great oases where you can stock up on supplies, take advantage of services, and gas up your boat for more water fun. Use your local boating marina as what it’s meant to be – a service to you and everyone else out on the water!