Author: Arran James

Categories
Boat & Yacht Market

What Is the Right Fish & Ski Boat for Your Needs?

A hybrid boat style like the fish and ski boat is certain to combine the elements that are appreciated by both the angler and water sports enthusiast.

Fish & Ski BoatA preferred fish and ski boat comes down to the primary use and a preference for an aluminum or fiberglass model.

Basic features

Essential features that match the wishes of the angler include a well-positioned pedestal seat (stowable when not in use) and wide casting platform. Other must-haves include a recent sized baitwell or livewell. Plus, space to store the fishing rods and related supplies should also be available. A fish and ski boat with outboard machinery must come complete with a tow eye at an elevated level that avoids interference with the power unit. Also, a boat with built-in locker to store water sports gear, life jackets, kneeboards, etc. will be appreciated.

Layout

A fish and ski boat with a wraparound, full windshield is usually a standard part of this type and class of vessel. Plus, a tilting steering wheel, adjustable seats, and flip-up seats are practical features to expect. Because this type of boat is practical for both cruising and entertaining it makes sense to invest in the model that includes versatile seating, built-in cooler, cup holders, etc. to make the complete multi-purpose boat.

Styling & Storage

The styling of the fish and ski boat should really lead to the most prominent usage of the vessel. A ski boat can include the mono-colored design for the hull which is complimented with accent styling and color. A boat more predominately used for fishing can include themed graphics and high-gloss paint. Storability options for the fish and ski boat should closely match the planned use. Certain storage options include water-sealed boxes to stow the electronics, built-in areas to place the tackle, wide and easy to pass access doors, and hatches that are easy to open.

Performance

A fish and ski boat needs the higher performance levels when used often for water sports activities. These boats can benefit with an upgrade to the engine – a 150 HP outboard or more are usually appreciated. A performance boat should be well-balanced and avoid giving a lot of bowrise which isn’t desirable when attempting to pull the skier or wakeboard. A high-quality fish and ski boat should have the ability to run at speeds in the region of 45-50 miles per hour. Most of the fish and ski boats have the appearance of a Bowrider, although there are certain models that can resemble a bass boat. A preferred choice for water sports is the ability to track well and turn smoothly.

Warranties

A warranty is certain to be an essential part of buying a new to relatively new boat. Search about the market to ensure the dealership can provide the type of protection required. Any reputable boat manufacturer will include a solid warranty which they will stand behind in the event of things going wrong.

Dealer reputation

Make sure to identify the reputable dealerships before making plans to buy a new or pre-owned boat. Look online to see which dealerships or sales offices get the good and positive reviews.

Categories
Boating & Marine Accessories

What are the Six Types of Buoyancy Aids?

A life jacket should be selected to match the specific boating practice. A buoyancy limit of 7-12 pounds is practical for most adults.

Inflatable Life Jacket

Here are six of the most effective buoyancy aids in the market:

Offshore

An offshore life jacket is a reliable option for keeping the boater safe in open and rough waters. This style of life jacket is designed to automatically turn the wearer so their face is up while also providing a good 18-22 pounds of buoyancy. A heavy-duty safety aid of this nature is the preferred option for those sailing in remote locations that might need more time to wait for the rescue services.

Near shore

A near shore buoyancy vest is similar to the classic style of the life jacket and is a practical choice for those sailing in inland or calm waters. Plus, these adult or child size life jackets are more effective when fast rescue is likely. This is a much more cost-effective alternative of the offshore version and certain brands still have the ability to turn the person face-up if knocked unconscious.

Buoyancy aid

A versatile buoyancy aid is the most comfortable option and a practical choice for a variety of water sports and activities. This life jacket comes in several sizes and styles and best in situations that permit a fast rescue service. Also, the basic buoyancy aid isn’t able to help with turning the unconscious person.

Throwable

A throwable device (horseshoe buoys, ring buoys, and boat cushions) is made and designed to be easy to throw into the water to help a person that has fallen overboard. This type of device isn’t intended to be worn. Several of these throwable devices should be kept on board in the event of an emergency – but they aren’t a practical choice for the unconscious person, non-swimmers, or small children.

Specific use

A specific use device consists of the hybrid life jackets, inflatable life jacket w/ ORC/ISAF harness, work vests, pullover vests, deck suits, and boardsailing vests. Most of these wearable life jackets or vests are only practical for certain situations.

Inflatable

An inflatable life jacket comes with an inflatable chamber that is built to give the desired level of assistance once inflated. Prior to inflating the life jacket, it is significantly smaller in size compared to the more traditional life saving devices. This type of life jacket can provide a variety of functions. It can vary in relation to the inflation mechanism, in-water performance, and amount of buoyancy. By determining the details of the specific life jacket it is possible to determine the specific use of the device. Plus, for extra safety most of the inflatable life jackets come with a built-in back up system.

Each buoyancy device comes with an owners manual or jacket label which will clearly outline the specific use of the intended device.

In summary

A approve life jacket (at the appropriate size) is needed on board for each person to comply with current rules and regulations. Plus, a throwable devise should be included on boats at 16-ft or more.

Categories
Boat & Yacht Market

Boat Sales: 8 Useful Tips to Help Sell Your Boat

With such a competitive boat sales market it is critical to put in the time and effort to ensure a sail or motor-driven boat is well presented.

Boat Sales

Here are eight tips to help market the boat the right way:

Advertise

Market the boat heavily initially in the local daily newspapers and boating press. Plus, for the more high-end models which will attract a lot of attention, make sure to take it further and market the vessel in the national and regional venues. Use a lot of pictures to help draw-in attention. Use the internet to your advantage and publish the listing on the dedicated boat sales and classified ad sites.

Maintain the engine

Start the engine up at regular intervals to ensure it is ready and fully operational each time a potential new owner comes to inspect the boat in person. A slow starting engine or completely flat battery is certain to discourage a would-be buyer.

Spruce up the boat

Give the boat a quick spruce up before showing to a potential prospect. Use a quick and easy spray-on wax to help give the boat an instant shine. While this method can give the boats fixtures and fittings an instant gleam, it isn’t likely to last much longer than 24-hours. So, make sure to repeat this step about 60 minutes before each caller comes to visit.

Remove clutter

Give the boat a more spacious feel by clearing the stowage areas of supplies and equipment that has been left to gather over the years. This is certain to give the impression that the boat has the potential to accept a lot more while also appearing significantly tidier.

Touch points

The boat sales market is highly competitive, so it makes sense to ensure the boat is in pristine condition when listed for sale. Look for signs of glaring blemishes that are easily noticeable. A professional detail job can include cleaning the bilge, de-greasing the engine, re-taping the shredded boot stripe, and removing rust stains. Plus, the cabin or other internal areas can be made more pleasant by using air fresheners.

Clear windows

If the vessel is fitted with a clear curtain that are clouded or scratched due to age, make sure to have them removed or replaced when conducting the internal viewing.

Hull appearance

A wooden boat with a painted hull can benefit from a fresh coat of paint to give a like-new appearance. Also, it can help to improve the appearance of the stern drive skegs or similar areas that have experienced issues with worn paint over the years.

Sea trail

Make sure the boat is in the most favorable condition prior to going out on a river or sea trail. While it is necessary to have the safety gear on board, other equipment can be left ashore, while water and fuel can be kept light. This should ensure the boat is easier to handle, quicker to get on plane, and able to achieve its top speed without difficulty. Also, try to limit the number of passengers on board for the sea trials to ensure the boat is kept light and able to give its best performance.

Categories
Boat & Yacht Market

Should I Buy a New or Pre-Owned Boat?

Whether it benefits to buy new or pre-owned comes down to the personal preference and available finances.

New Or Pre-Owned Boat

A cleverly bought bargain might well be possible with a slightly second-hand vessel (less than 2-3 years old), while others might prefer the mint condition of a brand new craft that is sitting on the dealer’s forecourt.

Below are several points to consider in the process of deciding on new or pre-owned:

New

  • A brand new vessel with no previous mileage means no need to be concerned about pass use, winterization practices, or commissioning. There is no negative history from the past that could impact the performance of the vessel.
  • Buying new usually means more choice and not limited to what is currently available in the second-hand market. Plus, the latest model boats will come complete with the most high-tech instruments and technology, which is certain to be appreciated by those that love the latest gadgets.
  • A new buy comes complete with the manufacturer’s warranty which gives the desired protection should things go wrong within a short time of making the initial purchase. A warranty issued by the local dealership can last in the region of 1/5 years based on the type of vessel sold.
  • There are more options to rig the vessel as preferred with the most modern gear and equipment. Plus, it makes it easier to buy a boat and outboard engine combination that matches the specific needs.
  • Also, there is no need to be concerned about the prior use of the vessel and reason for the sale.

Second-hand

  • A pre-owned boat is certain to be more cost-effective in relation to the initial outlay. Plus, the original owner would have been the person to experience the 25-30% depreciation that is noticed as soon as the boat is removed from the boat dealer’s forecourt. It is possible to invest on a much larger or powerful vessel for a lot less dollars, which means the yearly cost of ownership is more attractive. Plus, there isn’t such an issue if you later decide to change to a different type or size of craft in the future.
  • The vessel is already run in and there is less need to be concerned with causing the first ding or scratch.
  • Early signs of problems with the boat or engine have already been detected, so not such an issue for the second or third owner. For any vessel that is aged 10 years plus it can benefit to invest in an out of the water survey and valuation report carried out by a qualified marine surveyor to confirm the boat is in a sound and seaworthy condition. A full survey will clearly illustrate the condition of the craft and make it possible to offer the lowest price for defects detected or walk away from the more worrying issues.
  • A pre-owned boat means the technologies and systems on board have already been tested over time. Read up on reviews to see how this specific model of craft has been able to perform since release on the market. Any poorly received boats or motors can be avoided by using the internet to conduct the necessary research.

Categories
Boat & Yacht Market

What Costs Are Associated With Buying a Boat?

There are a variety of costs associated with buying a high-end motor-driven or sailing boat.

Sailing Boat

Here are six of the points to consider before deciding to invest in a preferred type of boat:

Insurance

The cost of boat insurance can vary drastically in relation to the type and class of vessel, total insured value, and type of cover required. Contact an insurance broker or agent to get an idea of the likely costs. Also, read the terms and condition related to the home insurance policy as it is possible to include a small boat within this coverage. Plus, there are several steps that can be taken to help get the more attractive premiums from underwriters, such as completing a boating safety course, using specific types of locks, limiting the use, and building up a no claims bonus.

Maintenance

Maintenance costs are easily kept at bay with a new or previously well-maintained second-hand vessel. Boats used in salt or freshwater can benefit with a good wash down after each use. Regular upkeep of the boat can vary with the rates charged in different areas. Certain work like winterizing and oil changes can be more involved and therefore these services are more expensive to have completed.

A pre-owned vessel that hasn’t received the best routine maintenance in the past is likely to need more attention and care in the future. A regular wash of the boat is certain to help with minimizing the exposure and long-term impact of the saltwater environment as well general wear and tear.

A proper schedule of boat maintenance will ensure the entire boat is kept fully serviced at all times. Plus, on lay-up, make sure the mooring lines are properly secure and show no signs of rubbing or sun damage.

A bilge pump should be in full working order and built-in with a battery that has enough performance to operate the system for a sufficient period of time.

Mooring fees

Mooring fees relate largely to the type and location of docking, services required (sanitation, electricity, etc.), and length of boat. A popular mooring at a marine berth in a prime location can be extremely expensive and much in demand, while the buoy or offshore mooring can be more cost-effective and widely available.

Oil and gas

A motor-driven boat with inboard or outboard engine can cost quite a lot and put a dent in the finances. Search for the more fuel-efficient rated vessels. For instance, filling a 75-gallon tank on a single engine motor boat can cost in the region of $350-$400. But, for a less fuel-efficient, high-performance powerboat the costs can increase to about $1500-$1850 for a 300-gallon tank. Plus, there are the costs associated with oil changes.

Winter Storage

Winter storage is essential to maintain the condition of the craft, machinery, and accessories. Storage fees also include the hauling, transporting, and conducting the necessary winterization process. A proper winterize process is needed to protect the boat’s cooling and heating systems. Plus, extra services might be completed at the time of storage or de-winterizing, such as giving the boat a power washing session.

Categories
General Boating

Tips for Navigating Boats in Shallow Water

Even though it is imperative to be mindful of the local surroundings when sailing, it is even more important to be alert when it comes to navigating the shallow bodies of water.

Shallow Water Boats

If skinny water isn’t given the caution it deserves, a sailing boat could soon be left stuck, grounded, or holed. Nevertheless, by being more careful and using common sense in situations like this, you are much more able to navigate the shallow waters with confidence.

Here are some tips for navigating a boat in shallow bodies of water:

Soundings

In order to get a full appreciation of the conditions in shallow water situations it benefits to rely on some of the latest boat electronics which are starting to be priced within reach of most boaters finances. A high-quality electronic device like the depth finder is certain to be a highly dependable tool when it comes to gauging the depth of any particular body of water. It also helps to check on paper or electronic charts prior to departing port to checking for any areas on a planned route that might suddenly get shallow, which will give a clear idea of the areas that should be avoided on the sailing adventure.

Limits

If planning on hiring a boat where there is a chance that you will be navigating shallow waters, an appreciation of the boat’s draft is certain to be highly beneficial. The draft essentially relates to the area of the boat that is below water, and is measured in inches from the waterline to the lowest area of the boat.

Tides

If able to check the tides on a daily basis, you are more certain to have a successful sailing trip when exploring the coastal areas. Since tides can change by several feet on a daily basis, you really want to make certain that you are always able to have an up-to-date guideline of the low tide conditions to make certain that you aren’t left stranded with the moving tides.

Speed

If you are able to use the sailing or motor-driven at lower speeds when cruising the shallow waters there is a greater chance that you will be able to navigate the waters without incident. Plus, the type of hull can impact the use in the water. A boat with a planing hull is more effective at speed and will travel with ease over the surface of the water. But, once the speed is reduced and the throttle pulled back this can result in the hull going off plane and drops further into shallow water — in certain situations this could leave the boat at risk and a ground.

Read the Water

When sailing in the shallow waters there is a chance of seeing a varied range of water colors which can help to indicate the depth of the water. An area of water that appears dark is usually regarded as deep. Blue water is seen as safe and possible to sail through while white and brown could be an indication of increased difficulty.

Categories
Safety at Sea

Safety On Board a Sailing Boat

Safety on board a sailing charter needs to be a high priority. It is beneficial to incorporate safety into every action that is likely to take place on board.

Safety On Board a Sailing Boat

To remain safe, you really need to understand and include: preparation, planning, anticipation, and situational awareness, practice, and seamanship skills.

It doesn’t matter if you are borrowing, hiring, or own a sailing or motor-driven boat prior to leaving port it is highly advisable to inspect the vessel to ensure it is properly equipped and in a full working order. A boating vacation should be hassle-free, safe and fun. If able to cut the possibility of being left a victim of a stranded boat, there is a much higher chance that the trip will be that much more enjoyable. An inspection can start with looking over the hull for signs or cracks or similar damage. If the vessel is equipped with an inboard or outboard motor, check that the steering and throttle is able to operate smoothly. Also, make certain that the fuel and oil levels are at a sufficient volume to last the planned trip.

Beyond giving the vessel a visual inspection, a pre-departure checklist is also likely to be helpful for avoiding any potential dangers or inconveniences whilst out on the open waters.

A standard checklist is likely to include the following:

  • What is the expected weather forecast for the duration of the trip?
  • Are you likely to experience any local boating restrictions or hazards?
  • Do you have access to local charts and maps?
  • Is there a sufficient supply of lifejackets for those on board?
  • Does the safety equipment appear to be in full operational condition?
  • Are the electronic devices like the depth sounder and VHF radio working satisfactorily?
  • Is the vessel equipped with a well-packed first aid kit?

Also, when planning on going on a sailing charter trip, you really want to make certain that you are able to let someone know the planned itinerary for the trip, which is highly beneficial should you experience difficulties at sea and unable to return in line with the sail plan.

Navigation skills

Safety on board a sailboat is certain to relate to the navigation skills and experience of the skipper. Use a Chartplotter or similar instrument to help mark the precise course to help with minimizing potential dangers. A well-experienced skipper is more likely to be in a position of being safe while sailing compared to a complete novice. An ability to navigate on the open waters can also be improved with books, attending boat courses, or even using the wide-ranging apps that are now available on the market.

Before setting out

Before setting out on a voyage make sure to fully appreciate the limitations of the skipper/crew on board the sailing boat. Make sure the boat is equipped to complete the intended trip and has the proper supplies and safety equipment. Plot the course before leaving port to minimizing potential hazards on the way. Also, have a means of navigating safety in the event of the GPS malfunctioning.

Categories
Boat & PWC Rental

When Is The Best Time To Charter A Sailboat?

Any time is great to hire a boat for cruising, snorkeling, fishing, whale watching, diving, etc.

Charter A Sailing Boat

But it is likely to be best if you are able to choose a time that is in-season and offers the right weather for the activity you are planning.

Boat Season

A typical boat season is likely to run from April to October each year in many countries, such as those bordering the Mediterranean and in the United States and likely to experience a significant amount of bright sunlight throughout this period. A sailing vacation is likely to be more enjoyable if you are able to avoid the busiest time of the year when many of the locals are taking their holidays, so you might want to avoid July and August.

Best time to charter

In reality, a sailing adventure is likely to be best enjoyed at the start of the season (mid-May to mid-July) or at the end of the season (early-September to mid-October) when the crowds are much more manageable and sea water is still warm. A further benefit is that the prices quoted by the rental companies are certain to be that much more affordable if you are to stay outside of the busiest parts of the season.

Plan early

If you are looking for more flexibility in the available dates for the sailing holiday and selection of yachts, you might want to look at making the arrangements early and booking the holiday well ahead of time. For a high season charter (July & August), an early booking is likely to be highly desirable. Although, if you are looking to charter a yacht throughout the mid to low-season, more flexibility is likely to be available and even possible to book the last minute charters.

Obviously there is a far-sight more sunlight throughout the main boating season, but if you would like a bit more tranquility and peace, a winter cruise might be highly desirable.

Charting in the Bahamas

Before planning to charter a yacht it benefits so look at the likely temperatures and conditions related to the preferred destination. A charter in the Bahamas for instance is most favored throughout the summer months with the temperature kept at a constant 80-90 degrees with cooling wind and sunny skies. Plus, it is possible to experience these pristine waters throughout the winter (December to February) with temperature falling to about 60-65 degrees. While this is a lot cooler it is still more pleasant than certain areas of the United States.

Certain times

Certain times of the year are significantly more popular than others for charting a yacht in the Caribbean or similar popular destinations. Christmas and New Year will need advanced booking to ensure a yacht is available for the preferred dates. Plus, in regions of the Mediterranean the availability of ports or marinas can be limited, so planning ahead is needed to make sure a preferred dockage is reserved for the time of the voyage.

Categories
Go Boating

How to Prepare For a Sailing Trip the Right Way

Preparing for a sailing trip is likely to be a difficult process, especially if this is the first time you have experienced this type of adventure.

Sailing Destination

Making contact with the hire company is likely to provide a reliable checklist of the items that will be required, but in general travel items should include:

If packing for a sail charter, please remember that space is likely to be very restricted. You want to avoid the hard sided bags and suitcases since these aren’t practical choices on board a yacht. Rather a large-size duffel bag or backpack is ideal. A reason for using the duffel bags is that they are much easier to transport and can be folded and stored out of sight once the clothing and related supplies are packed away.

Visas, passports, boarding passes and similar such travel documents are vital to remember when it comes to preparing for the sailing holiday. If any of these documents are forgotten or mislaid, a sailing trip is certain to be compromised. And for any crucial items, like the travel documents, you might want to store them in a watertight and safe bag for extra protection.

Checklist: What to take on a sailing trip:

  • Flight Tickets
  • Insurance documents
  • Passports
  • Certification / qualifications (original copies)
  • Money (local currency) and debit cards/credit cards
  • Cell phone and charger (keep in contact and get regular updates on weather forecasts or similar important news)
  • Swimwear
  • Beach towels
  • Shoes for use on board (deck shoes and/or soft soled shoes)
  • Clothing (light fleece, jumper, waterproof jacket, sunglasses, hat, casual tops, T-shirts, casual trousers, shorts, etc.)
  • Toiletries
  • Sun cream
  • Cream, spray, or gel-based insect repellent
  • Prescription medication and anti-histamine tablets or ointment
  • Camcorder or camera
  • CD’s or MP3 player or similar electrical equipment
  • Magazines or books to read
  • Basic snorkeling gear (flippers, mask, etc)

Space on a hire yacht is certain to be restricted, so make certain to pack the appropriate clothing to match the itinerary of the trip. If you are aware of the expected weather and any details of shore-based stop off points, it will be possible to plan ahead and only pack what is most likely to be required.

For the passenger that requires certain non-prescription and prescription medications, make certain to include a sufficient amount to last the entire duration of the sailing adventure. Sourcing medication is likely to be extremely difficult at foreign ports if forgotten or mislaid.

If sailing in one of the more tropical destinations with intense sunlight throughout the day, a high-strength sun block is certain to be a highly beneficial addition, to ensure that you are able to relax on the deck of the sailing yacht.

Food

Most food tastes are easily catered to when exploring the open waters on a yacht charter and this food can be packed on the boat. But, for those with food allergies (wheat gluten, milk, peanuts, etc.) it can be more difficult to source the food needed to cover the length of the planned voyage. For this reason it is more practical to take along the safe substitutes that have been sourced from home.

Categories
Boat & PWC Rental

What to Bring On a Yacht Charter Voyage

Good organization and preparation is critical to a successful sailing holiday. A well-prepared checklist is certain to help those that are planning a day or longer on the open waters.

Yacht Charter

And the necessities might include:

Items of equipment to pack:

  • Boat papers or charter agreement
  • Passport and relevant visas for the countries visiting
  • Sun block and sun cream
  • Nonprescription and prescription medication (remedies for seasickness might also be ideal)
  • Guidebooks
  • Binoculars
  • Camera (secured in a water repellent bag)
  • Hats
  • Glasses
  • Wallet (with sufficient traveler’s checks or cash for paying deposits, tips, provisions, etc)
  • Sunglasses

If you are likely to be bareboat sailing and taking on the responsibility of the navigation, you might want to include:

  • Sailing or motor competence certificates (check with the boat company to see which papers are required to meet the boat hire agreement)
  • Other relevant boating course certificates or training documentation
  • Proof of prior boating experience (contracts from previous hire companies)
  • VHF radio certificate

Technology items of use

Kindle, iPad or iPhone. Tech items offer a wide range of uses when on a yacht. A particularly useful aspect to the iPad or iPhone is the ability to download a range of apps which help in the process of navigation, safety, weather reports, and much more. If you believe that you might have difficulty charting a course, download the relevant app and rely on that to guide you across the open waters.

In the process of preparing for the sailing adventure, there are those items that shouldn’t be packed, including:

  • Nonessential valuables, like jewelry and watches (especially those that aren’t waterproof)
  • Any item which, if lost, could cause undue distress and inconvenience

Remember that a sailing yacht is certain to be very limited in relation to storage space and therefore you want to be as conservative as possible when it comes to packing for this adventure.

Leaving the yacht after the charter

Make sure to leave the yacht clean and in a similar state that was witnessed when first boarding. Check the responsibilities that are noted in accordance with the charter agreement that has been signed.

  • Ensure all items of a personal nature are packed up and taken when leaving the yacht.
  • Remove all items of food that were taken on board.
  • Also, make sure to take photographic evidence of any damage or things in need of fixing and have them reported. Plus, make notes if any complaints are likely to be made.

What is likely to be include on a yacht charter

  • Bedding is included
  • Navigational aids (instruments, charts, pilot books, etc.)
  • Blankets, towels, and similar essentials

Reminders

The faster the supplies are put together the easier it will be to set-off and get out onto the open waters. It is critical to get the right supplies packed to enjoy a safe and pleasant voyage

  • Buy a wide-ranging travel insurance plan when booking the yacht charter
  • Give the credit card provider notification of the intend use
  • Always check with the charter company to see what forms part of the package