All boats handle differently and inexperienced operators need hands-on practice with a capable teacher to become proficient in handling their boat. A motorboat is most easily maneuvered going against the current or wind. When moving with the current, the boat must be going faster than the speed of the current in order to maintain control […]
Prepare for launch: Prepare the boat away from the launch so you will not block any boaters who are waiting to launch or retrieve their boat. Preparation may involve removing all tie-downs except the winch line, loading additional supplies and equipment into the boat, inserting the drain plug if not already done, disconnecting trailer brake […]
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) can save lives, especially when worn. Therefore, the U.S. Coast Guard requires PFDs on board all vessels. When choosing a PFD, please ensure that it can support your size and weight and is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
It is important to check short-term and long-term local weather forecasts on radio, TV or the Internet before any boating trip. You should always take the weather forecast into consideration when preparing your trip plan. Avoid boating in heavy fog. Be particularly mindful of hurricane warnings-never venture out on the water during a hurricane warning.
No two boating trips are the same; every experience is different. It is important not to take any boating trip lightly. In addition, not every boater has the same comfort level or experience on the water. Accidents occur when proper precautions are overlooked. You should use a pre-departure checklist before each trip, regardless of its […]
Boat operators are required to ensure their vessel is equipped with the proper navigation lights when away from the dock between sunset and sunrise, and during periods of reduced visibility due to fog or rain. Navigation light requirements differ according to the type and size of boat. These are navigation light configurations and requirements for […]
Be aware of the small-vessel regulations pertaining to engine power and load capacity. Federal law mandates that boats of less than 20 feet in length must have a capacity plate in the steering or helm area. As a boat owner or operator, you should know the recommended gross load capacity that can be safely carried […]
OUTBOARDOutboard engines are mounted on the transom of the boat. The steering of outboards can be controlled by a hand tiller or a steering wheel, which moves the entire engine when steering is adjusted. In the past, outboards were typically two-stroke engines, but manufacturers have since switched to four-stroke engines. Two-stroke engines require oil to […]
Here are some additional terms that boaters should be familiar with before operating a boat: AFT – near or at the stern of the boat.BEAM – the width of a boat, also the direction at right angles to the centerline of a vessel.BILGE – the lowest point of a boat’s interior hull.DRAFT – the vertical […]
Specific terms are used to describe the various parts of a boat. Each end and side of the boat, its length and width, and its accessories have specific terms. Every boater should be familiar with the following terms before operating a boat.
Our Frequent Flyer program is our Customer Rewards Program.
Every time you make a purchase at our dealership you will instantly receive Loyalty Rewards Points which can be used to purchase store Gift Certificates!Our Loyalty Rewards program is completely automated and does not require you to carry a Loyalty Card or fill-out any application forms. Once you make a purchase at our dealership, you will instantly receive an e-mail informing you of all the points you earned and how to redeem those points for a store Gift Certificate.
