Boat Advice

How-to, tips. General boating advice.

Cover Frames for the DIY Boater

Frames don't have to be pretty.  This one being installed on my current project boat is an adaptation from a much bigger boat's frame and a fancy Faircloth cover.  Notice the generous space over the cockpit

If you follow my blogs, you’ll have read that I’m a big believer in covering your boat during the off-season (see "5 Winter Lay-up Tips for Your Boat". … [Read more...]

Fixing a Used Boat

SSCN0624

I've owned more boats than I have fingers and all of them have been used. In fact, I've never owned a brand new boat. Oh, I commissioned dozens of new … [Read more...]

Top 10 Boating States in the U.S.

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From sea to shining sea, Americans love boating. With oceans, lakes, rivers and bays, boating is a popular recreational activity in nearly every state … [Read more...]

5 Winter Lay-up Tips for Your Boat

Battery maintainers such as YUASA's SmartShot 900 cost around $30 and will help you get longer life out of vehicles, like boats, that are stored and inactive for long periods of time.

In many parts of the country, this is transition season, time to haul and winterize your boat.  Fall haul-out nearly matches the urgency level of spring … [Read more...]

Engine Starter Woes or Click, Click, Nothing!

Small deisel engines like this Yanmar are often found in cramped quarters on sailboats, making access often the biggest draw back to maintenance and repair

It is the middle of the night, and we’ve been sailboat racing offshore for 14 hours so the batteries are draining down. We decide to start the engine … [Read more...]

How to Paint the Bottom of Your Boat

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In order to maintain the durability and appearance of your boat, occasionally the bottom of your boat will require a new paint job.  While the prospect … [Read more...]

Diesel or Outboard Engine Maintenance

I was aboard a friend’s boat the other day when suddenly his small inboard diesel starting sending up plumes of white exhaust. We looked over the side … [Read more...]

Top 10 Boat Manufacturers

Do you have a tried-and-true boat manufacturer that you always tend to gravitate towards when you’re searching for your next boat? Want to know what … [Read more...]

Boat Maintenance Essentials

Boat maintenance is essential to keep your boat running

Think about the freedom and enjoyment you derive from boating, spending care-free time on the water with friends and family for just a moment.  Now take … [Read more...]

Top 10 Tips to Buying a Boat

Buying a Boat

Whether you’re new to boating or have already owned a dozen boats over the years, the challenge of buying a boat can be one of the most daunting and … [Read more...]