Wintering your Boat Part 2

Posted on December 16, 2011 by Coach

Secure Storage

When you’re not using your boat, you need to store it somewhere safe. If you can take it home with your without too much inconvenience, that is a good option. But for many boat owners this is just not feasible. Boats have to be moored at a nearby marina, or even put into dry storage during periods when the boat will not be used for some time.

When you chose where your boat is going to be stored, try and check out what measures the facility takes to protect vessels stored there. Some facilities will have guards present throughout the day and night, and others may have security cameras covering the storage area to record any criminal activity taking place.

Avoid places where there has been a history of break-ins or an inadequate level of security. You should also check your boat insurance policy to check if there are any specific requirements for the level of security needed while your boat is in storage.

Marking all of your boating equipment

This might seem like an obvious one, but if parts of your boat are stolen then it’s a lot easier to recover them if they are marked. You can use traditional UV marking to label your equipment, and doing this will also give police a higher chance of catching the criminals. It is also worth taking photos of all the items that you do mark, so that you have a reference of exactly what is stored on your vessel.

There is a new, more advanced type of marking that is being used to mark marine equipment, and this has been developed by Selectamark. The new marking kit is called SelectaDNA, and it uses traditional UV marking combined with high-tech microdots that contain unique DNA. When using this kit, the result is a similar to giving your boat and its accompanying equipment a distinctive fingerprint that is completely invisible and near impossible to remove. The unique DNA signature can then be given to police to keep on record, so that if stolen property is recovered they know for certain that it belongs to you.

Preparing for the worst

Unfortunately, even though all of these things will make your boat less attractive to thieves, sometimes becoming a victim or crime will happen anyway. Criminals are constantly coming up with new ways to get hold of your possessions, and if they are determined enough it is likely they will get hold of it.

Boat insurance is a must if you want to have any chance of getting a replacement boat. Make sure you check all the exclusions in your policy documents, because sometimes if you don’t take the necessary security precautions insurance companies won’t pay out.

Having a boat is a great lifestyle choice and gives you the opportunity to enjoy all sorts of activities, like fishing and water-skiing. Taking a few steps to safeguard your boat and the equipment you use with it can mean that thieves look for an easier target.

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Wintering your Boat Part 1

Posted on November 16, 2011 by Coach

Wintering your Boat Securely

It doesn’t matter if your boat is a modest RIB or a lavish yacht, it needs protection. I don’t mean personally arranging round the clock CCTV surveillance or having your own security personnel guard it, although your boat would be a safer with them. There are plenty of ways you can safeguard your vessel and against unscrupulous criminals and opportunist thieves, and they don’t have to cost a lot of cash either.

Anti-theft devices

Outboard engines are one of the most popular items targeted by thieves, so make sure you purchase a decent anti-theft device for it. Some people recommend using a big, thick chain to attach your motor to the boat, but be aware that the chain must be fastened to something that cannot be removed. One example of thieves getting around this was by detaching the mounting pad with a battery powered wrench, and just taking everything, chain and all. If you use a chain and padlock, make sure you attached it to something solid on the boat.

Other options to protect your outboard motor are by picking one of the many specialized anti-theft devices available. The Stazo Smartlock, a stainless steel locking device that is attached at the transom of your boat, is a good choice. Ask other boaters what type of anti-theft device they use and how successful it has been to get some idea of what you should use.

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Speed Boat Care Guide

Posted on August 30, 2011 by Coach

Do you dream of buying your own speed boat?
Then take note of this maintenance guide!

Some Pros and Cons

Needless to say, boating has become a recreational activity for many people especially those who love the sun and the water. There are several water sports with which plenty of folks are hooked into. With the boats, water skiing has popularized and as it goes, there is a rider being pulled by the vessel. People from all walks of life derive enjoyment from this that they consider it as one of their pastimes. So if you are also one of them, then a fast going boat is all that you want to purchase.

It can’t be denied that there are simply people who consider boats as their precious toys. Even more, there are some who make some dramatic entrance since possessing these vessels spell a kind of a loud display. This therefore marks as a very appealing thing for the smugglers and thieves since boats are not easily detected via the use of radar. Yet on the other hand, having one for your own also promises you of a rewarding investment return. Yes, you can have it leased to those people who are fond of splurging into some trips and parties! Just imagine how useful it can get, so to speak.

Determining its Use

What prompts you to buy a fast going boat? For what purpose are you reserving it? Will you be designating it for your own personal use? Will you be venturing into some form of business? Perhaps you like to engage into weekend getaways, do water skiing, or island hopping. Or, it may be that you want to earn by means of letting other individuals rent your boat. This is the initial consideration that you must think about before you shell out money to pay for your purchase.

Either way, you might want to buy something that features a cabin, a cockpit, and a gallery. These areas provide a more organized accommodation space. Also, depending on your intended use, you must also consider the speed that it can execute.

Its Care and Maintenance

Prevention is always better than cure as they say. Hence, just like any other gadget or possession that you own, it is necessary for you to apply a good dose of maintenance to your boat. Following a weekly routine, you must do the following actions to your vessel.

  • Washing. Yes, it may be usually wet concerning the type of terrain that it hits but you must know that dust and birds also cause the mess. They need to be cleaned out before something alarming happens to your boat.
  • Drying. To keep rust or other stains from developing, it is important that you keep your boat dry after it has been washed.
  • Mooring. Always take time to inspect the fenders, the lines, and the knots. See if they need any repair or replacement.
  • Hull fitting. Ensure that there are no leaks and that the hulls perfectly fit.
  • Oil level maintenance. Despite the long hours of the engine’s capacity, you should regularly check the oil level.
  • Engine checking. Let it warm up from time to time especially during the season that it is not often taken out. Verify if the accessories, electronics, and lights are all functioning accordingly.

Speed boats are expensive. Therefore, you should exercise the proper care and maintenance to lengthen its life.

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Pond Weeds

Posted on August 27, 2011 by Coach

What Are Pond Weeds?

Pond weeds can quickly make a beautiful pond into a dreary place to sit and relax. These weeds spread quickly and kill other plants. Plants need carbon dioxide to survive. The weeds use up more carbon dioxide than is produced, causing other plants to die. Pond weeds can also kill fish and other life forms living in the water.

Weeds living on a pond’s surface can be harmful in many ways. Some of these weeds can get caught in boat motors causing them not to run. When this happens, the only way to fix the problem is to remove the weeds. But if a pond is covered with weeds, a clogged motor is bound to happen again. This makes fishing and other boating activities very difficult. Removing pond weeds can only be done by spraying an insecticide over the pond. This will destroy all surface weeds without harming life in the water. Unfortunately, pond weeds can return very quickly. The wind and rain bring seeds, which settle on top of the water. Seeds that are not eaten by fish, grow into weeds.

Ponds that are covered in weeds are not attractive places. People visit a pond because it’s supposed to be tranquil and quiet. Pond weeds when they begin to decompose, have an odor. They appear slimy and are unpleasant to be around. When fish in the pond die, they too, begin to give off an odor. This can make sitting by the pond unbearable. Many grounds keepers will skim a pond much like they are skimming a pool. If the pond if small enough, this procedure should clean the pond up a little bit and make it a nice place to sit by. Pond weeds are a constant nuisance for those who live in the pond and fro those who have to take care of it. Many ponds are left overrun with weeds and eventually dry up and disappear forever.

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Taking Proper Care of Your Boat Upholstery

Posted on August 23, 2011 by Coach

Boat Upholstery

For those who are lucky enough to have a small boat to enjoy, there is always the need to make sure the boat is kept in excellent condition. That need also extends to the boat upholstery. Here are a few easy tips to help you make sure your upholstery stays in great condition, and lasts you for many years.

As is true with just about any type of maintenance, cleaning is a big part of keeping your upholstery looking good. In order to extend the life of the boat upholstery, it is a good idea to follow recommendations by the manufacturer regarding the proper cleaning agents. There is no ideal cleaner for all types of upholstery, as it may be leather, plastic coated fabric, vinyl, or several other types of material. If you are in doubt, ask a professional for some tips on products that work well on your particular type of boat upholstery.

Another important consideration is protecting your boat upholstery from the elements. Many people do have storage facilities for their boats when they are not in use. If that is the case, then chances are your upholstery is getting adequate protection. Enhance that by placing a covering over the boat upholstery while your boat is in storage. Something as simple as a plastic drop cloth will do the trick. If your boat has to be stored outside, invest in some sort of a fitted cover that will envelope the section of the boat where the upholstery is located. While not as effective as using a boat house, it will be much better than leaving your upholstery to the mercy of the wind, rain, and sun.

Taking proper care of your boat upholstery is not a hard job.

By making sure you clean the upholstery regularly with the right agents, and providing adequate protection from the elements, you will extend the life of the upholstery by several years.

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What to Look For in Boat Storage

Posted on August 18, 2011 by Coach

Boat Accessories

Once you have acquired a boat, then you need to think in terms of boat storage. Here are some options that may help you decide which mode of boat storage will work best for you.

Perhaps the easiest option for boat storage is your own property. If you have room, you may want to pull your boat and trailer into the back yard and park it when not in use. A good quality boat cover can be used to protect your boat from the elements, while still allowing you to have easy access to the boat any time you like. If resources allow, you may also consider building a boathouse on your property, where you not only have excellent storage, but also room for cleaning supplies and to perform minor repairs that may be needed from time to time.

Should room on your own property be limited, there is always the option of renting space at a boat marina for your storage needs. Typically, you can pay for the entire season at once, although in some locations you can pay a monthly fee for the storage. This may be a good option if the marina is located on or near a body of water that you frequent anyway.

When evaluating boat storage for your needs, look to your own resources first and see what you can do in order to meet those needs. There is nothing wrong with building a structure on property you already own to accommodate your storage, unless local zoning laws make this idea unlikely. Should you choose to go with boat storage at a marina, you want to be clear on a few points. Make sure you understand how the boat will be stored, when and how you can get to the boat, whether the interior of the boat storage facility is climate controlled, and exactly what the terms are for leasing the space.

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Canvas Carport, Your Waterproof Solution

Posted on August 17, 2011 by Coach

Carport

If you need to find something to cover your car, recreational vehicle, truck or boat or motorcycle you may find a canvas carport an option worth considering. Often people find that their one garage, usually attached to the side of their home, is not enough space to take care of all their needs.

Although referred to as a canvas carport they are usually made out of other heavy-duty materials like polyester or polyethylene. This material is a type of plastic that has been chemically treated, is waterproof and has a natural protection factor against the suns rays. The canvas carport cover is usually waterproofed. These are very durable and offered to the buyer in a large variety of colors and sizes. These are usually available in kits and can easily be put together by the buyer. They are far lighter to assemble then the steel ones and can frequently be installed in a single day. The frame is constructed of coated steel piping consisting of six legs. Sometimes for the bigger ones there are eight legs.

Price wise these are an incredible saving over most of the other carports coasting just a fraction of the price. A metal carport can cost anywhere from two thousands dollars plus while the canvas carport is usually under five hundred dollars. This in itself can be a deciding factor on which type of carport to purchase.

Another advantage of the canvas carport is they are easy to locate anywhere on your property because of the fact that they are fairly lightweight. Most companies that sell these will even custom size them for you so if you want to put two cars side by side or your pickup attached to the boat trailer you won’t have a problem. The length and width of your canvas carport is completely up to you and based only on what will fit your needs.

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When it Comes to Finding the Perfect Aluminum Fishing Boat, the Possibilities are Endless

Posted on August 13, 2011 by Coach

 

With hundreds of different fishing boats on the market, it can be a tough job to find the one that completely suits your needs. From aluminum to fiberglass to wood, there is a boat available for any type of person with any type of income. However, if you are looking for the ultimate in low prices and low maintenance, then an aluminum fishing boat is totally the way to go. Prices for such aluminum fishing boats are as low as their weight, making them ideal for the weekend fisherman and the skilled angler alike. Furthermore, fishing boats are constructed to the most exacting of criteria, guaranteeing you a great product that will not fall to pieces after your first trip to the lake. 

If bargain is what you are after, then a fishing boat by Grumman Canoes is where to start your hunt. Available in sizes ranging from fifteen nineteen feet and in normal or extra wide models, you should have no trouble finding the perfect boat for just the right price. With an aluminum canoe, you can either choose to paddle it or mount a small outboard motor to help you speed to your favorite fishing spot. 

For something a little more upper class, check out an aluminum fishing boat manufactured by the pros as Waco. Specializing in jon boats, you can find a great selection with sizes ten to sixteen feet. An aluminum fishing boat manufactured by Waco guarantees you a great product at a great price, meaning you have more money left over to spend on fish finders, lures and rods.

Finally, you can purchase a classy looking fishing boat from Legend Utility boats. Manufactured in Canada, these boats are built to last and are perfect for any season you want to fish. Available in utility, single configuration or with a full windshield, these boats are perfect for a day long trip to your favorite fishing hole. With tons of products to choose from, an aluminum fishing boat from Legend can be completely customized to look however you want it to.

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Buying Speed Boat Insurance

Posted on August 9, 2011 by Coach

Buying auto and home insurance are straightforward. Buying speed boat insurance is a bit complicated since types greatly vary from seller to seller. The key when shopping is to get informed. Here are the things that will help make an educated decision:

Ask around

No one can actually tell if an insurance company lives up to the expectations until something goes wrong. Ask people and friends who have applied for claim and know how it went. A good indication of a dedicated insurance company is quick action during claim and giving the policyholders what they really deserve.

You can also check state insurance regulatory agencies and some websites that offer a list of insurance companies and their ratings.

Types of insurance

Boat insurance can be bought as an additional coverage on your homeowner’s insurance but consider buying it as separated policy. While there is nothing wrong with adding it to your homeowner’s insurance, the coverage is quite limited. A separate policy on the other hand allows you to purchase different types of coverage that are very handy when need arise. A separate policy must be the preferred choice no matter how much and how small your boat is.

Actual cash value vs. agreed value

Actual cash value policy costs lesser upfront and only pays for the market value of the boat at the time of loss. In other words, no matter how much is the original cost of your boat, you will only get the amount equal to the boat’s depreciated value.

Agreed value policy costs more upfront but it pays the amount, which you and the insurer agreed upon, regardless of the actual cash value of the boat at the time of loss.

Another policy you should take note of is the total loss replacement which replaces your boat with the newest unit of the same make and model if declared lost regardless of who’s at fault. The total loss replacement policy is available for new boats up to one year old.

Liability

Comprehensive boat insurance includes liability section that serves different importance to boat owners. Such include clean up in case of oil spill caused by the policyholder’s boat and removal or disposal of the wreck. Additionally, your liability coverage may extend to other boats in case you decide to borrow somebody’s boat. This coverage is often referred to as non-owned boat liability coverage.

Types of Coverage

Towing and assistance coverage reimburses the amount spent when you take emergency assistance for your boat if you and your boat are not in immediate danger. Such coverage may include delivery of parts, fuel or oil; towing to a location where the boat can be repaired; and emergency labor. Usually, deductibles are charged when availing a claim for any of these services, so check with the insurance company.

Personal property coverage pays for personal items such as sports and fishing equipment, personal effects and clothing that are aboard your boat. Insurers’ exclusions vary differently so compare different companies.

Medical payment coverage pays the cost of hospital, ambulance, first aid and other cost as a result of injury while onboard the boat.

Do your research so that when you begin calling different sellers, you are properly informed and at least have some basic information about the insurance you need. Try not to worry about the cost of the insurance. What’s important is that you, your boat and your family are totally insured. Take the best coverage you can afford.

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Speed Boats – Choosing the Best Speed Boat

Posted on August 7, 2011 by Coach

Speed Boats

Just about the time when cars were being made, motorized boats were also being born. Today the motorized boat has evolved into what many people dream of having but choices are so varied, price range wide and functions differ. It will really take an informed decision before investing in one.

The first important question to ask the self is how should the speed boat be used and in what kind of conditions. Because no two speedboats are alike, decisions really are started in knowing what and how the purchase is expected to perform. Speed boats are expensive investments in relation to the number of hours it would be used in a year and so a critical evaluation of requirements must be done first.

There are just a few speed boat manufactures with their boats zipping through the water. Owning a boat is a very personal issue and so finding one that will suit the personality of the boat owner will always rest on individual preferences. When buying a boat, the best thing to do is to go through as many manufacturers as possible before even buying one.

Going to dealerships both on site and online is an excellent idea to gather as much information as possible regarding latest developments, comparative performances, technologies applied and pricing. Manufacturers are also good sources for comparative analysis and study. Expect however for claims that the current manufacturer you are talking with are the best in the market. Most of them are depending on the niche that they are serving but the one that suits your needs may be a few more steps farther out.

Whether you want to just cruise, fish, dive or beat yourself senseless with high performance sailing with enough technology and engine power to rough you up, the popular choices that you might also want looking into are:

Baja – If you prefer boats equipped with plenty of the latest state of the art technology, you might want to look at Baja made boats. Baja boats are not only equipped with advanced technology, they also come with great and luxurious amenities.

Donzi – a very popular boat maker, Donzi boats will amaze you with their boats refinement and price. Many boat owners just trust the name and would not settle for less. It will be a good idea for first time boat buyers to include Donzi on the list and make comparison with other offers.

Cigarette Racing – is actually a brand name that offers the fastest speed boats in the market. The boats are truly the “peak” when it comes to sporting events and competitions. Cigarette racing are the choice of those who want to really race yet these boats are also fun with wake boarding and skiing. The price though is a little on the up side. But if you want a speed boat to live by its name, cigarette racing it is.

There are a number other great boats out in the market , each built for more or less a specific purpose with brand names that are just as well respected. Boats that you should consider buying should inspire you to spend your time more on water. If the boat just doesn’t inspire you, it probably won’t. Move on to the next. The one that makes your heart race may very well be it.

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