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Thursday, January 29, 2009

Why I Like Boating

Agile Pontoon Fishing Craft Will Get You Rocking!

By Rika Susan

Fishing pontoons have had a good run since they became something of a phenomenon back in the 90's, and they're still going strong, with many excellent craft available for your still water fishing expeditions.

And they don't have to cost an arm and a leg either! Even brand new you can get an excellent 8-footer with many handy features and a comfortable seat for only a couple of hundred dollars.

So what's the big fuss about these agile-looking craft?

Well, for a start, they are very, er... agile little fishing craft! This is largely thanks to the the particular rocker-shape of the pontoons. Other than, say catarafts, pontoon boats have less of the tube in the water per foot of tube - and therefore less resistance.

Less resistance means it becomes possible to turn in very tight circles, always getting you in the best spot for the action going on below! This maneuverability also helps you to easily navigate the river runs you'll be making from hole to hole.

And of course, sitting comfortably in your high seat gives you an excellent view of your surroundings and where you're heading.

Where can you go in your fishing pontoon?

These craft are primarily aimed at still water, inland lake and slow-moving river use. You will definitely want to avoid whitewater situations! Even the larger, more stable 12 footers are not designed with the stability needed for fast-water rafting. For that you will need to look at catarafts and the like!

And when it comes to getting to the river and back, most of these craft can be loaded and transported with ease on your rooftop or in a pickup or SUV.

So if you're aiming for some quiet, sit-down fishing on your own or with a buddy - and you don't want to break the bank - a fishing pontoon is definitely an option to look into!

For more information visit Fishing-Things.com

About the author

Rika Susan of Article-Alert.com researches, writes, and publishes full-time on the Web. Copyright of this article: 2006 Rika Susan. This article may be reprinted if the resource box and hyperlinks are left intact.

Tips On used boat







Boating, Sailing And Marine Stories

Marine Products Corporation Reports 2008 Fourth Quarter and Annual Financial Results

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 14:02:22 GMT

Marine Products Corporation announced its unaudited results for the quarter ended December 31, 2008.



Regular Sailing Yacht Maintenance Tasks - What needs to be done and how often?

Sun, 29 Apr 2007 15:49:26 +0200
All this talk of sanding and varnishing leads me to the thought that there are plenty of other things that need to be checked over/maintained on a regular basis if we're to stay afloat safely and remain healthy on a sailing yacht.

Full discussion ....

Gripping account of Sailing Yacht Aquarelle while crossing to Australia from New Zealand.

Wed, 18 Apr 2007 20:23:54 +0200
"We are back in Nelson after departing for Australia and running into considerable trouble. Here's what happened. Ken, Graeme our crew, and I finished with New Zealand Customs at about 9:00 am on Thursday, April 12 and headed out toward Farewell Spit headed to Sydney, Australia in calm conditions. The predicted forecast was for a 15 knot winds building throughout the day until Friday afternoon when 30kts and 3 meter swells were expected to peak and then ease late that night with westerlies to15 kts on Saturday".

Full story .....

Advance Notice of Arrival (ANOA) for cruising yachts required in some countries.

Mon, 8 Oct 2007 21:35:44 +0200
Countries around the world are fast changing existing regulations or activating new regulations regarding Advance Notice of Arrival (ANOA) for yachts. These regulations are currently being applied with little notice so it is imperative that there be a central database that is constantly updated for cruisers to refer to.

Full details ....

Declaring Firearms Aboard a Cruising Yacht

Sun, 18 Jan 2009 16:03:01 +0200
If a USA flagged sailing yacht pulls into port in another country that is more restrictive in its firearms laws, the USA yacht is required to declare firearms and ammunition. I saw this in most countries in the CRUISING WIKI section. No problem, right? Some nations require that the firearms be impounded and given back upon departure. Have there been instances of firearms being "lost" by the authorities, or have authorities objected to certain firearms (.50cal, H&K UMP, suppressors, laser sights, frangible ammo) that are legal in the USA (for now), but are just too scary for some governments?

Full discussion ....


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Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Boating Updates



Hints On sea ray jet boat



Ebay Jet Boats



A unique feature incorporated into many rigid-hull inflatables is the removable collar. The collar is securely attached to the fiberglass hull using a tongue-and-grove method and can be easily slid off whenever necessary. This system allows for convenient storage, maintenance and repairs.


Strictly speaking, Jet Ski is the trademarked name of a personal water craft (PWC) produced by the Kawasaki Motor Company, but the term "jet ski" has become a generic name for all types of personal watercraft. While Kawasaki first marketed a Jet Ski in 1973, a smaller company called Bombadier actually created a workable personal watercraft in the late 1960s. Years after the Kawasaki Jet Ski became a household name, Bombadier came back with the Sea Doo and managed to make a dent in the personal water craft marketplace. Another popular PWC model is called a WaveRunner.
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More Boating, Sailing And Marine Info

Choosing An RYA Sailing School

Fri, 9 Jan 2009 16:38:57 +0200
Having looked at a number of forums I think it would help if I gave a few pointers about how to select a sailing school. There are a number of points worth looking at.

Full details ....

Round Britain Race shaken by rough seas

Results table given a shaking too.



Cruising the Indian Ocean - Yacht Seerose.

Wed, 17 Jan 2007 15:34:14 +0200
A narrative about Yacht Seerose sailing in the Indian Ocean - from Durban, South Africa to SE Asia.

Narrative ......

Are cockroaches sailing aboard your yacht?

Wed, 25 Oct 2006 13:34:36 +0200
The well known and trusted 'Keel Over' pads are now available from Cruising Connections, and can be posted/shipped to any destination around the world.

Details.....


Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Why I Like Boating

Latest Boating Article

Buying A Good Boat Cover

By David Evermon


You have finally made another dream come true. A new boat shines at the end of your dock. Finally, your plans of sailing to the open sea will no longer be an idea but a reality you can share with your love ones and friends. Owning a boat gives you a wonderful feeling of fulfillment. It gives you a sense of pride and joy. It also provides you a perfect place to make great memories with people who are special to you. But owning a boat also entails some responsibilities. You need to properly and regularly maintain it to ensure that your dream helps you in fulfilling your other dreams. This is where a good boat cover becomes an invaluable investment.

A boat cover is primarily used to protect a boat from the conditions brought by weather and pollution. Over time, if the boat is left without any protection, it will quickly deteriorate. The once shiny token of your success has eventually lost its pride because of too much exposure to dust and other pollutants, the sun and rain. The longevity of a boat with boat cover is about fifty per cent greater than boats that are left bare.

You can find a huge number of boat cover manufacturers selling different boat covers in various materials. It may seem tough to find what is best suited to your vessel. But what to look for, it will be easy.

When looking for a boat cover, you must first consider the type of boat that you have. From there, assess its needs. How much of the boat do you need to cover. Determine which part of the boat needs to be protected. Are there other protective measures besides a boat cover that you have to install on your boat?

Determine how much time will it be left unattended. How many times will you be using your boat in a year? Will it be sitting on the dock most of the time? If yes then, choose a good boat cover material that can withstand any environmental condition to protect your boat while you are gone.

Consider the type of weather your boat will generally be exposed to. Are you in the coast of Florida where the air is humid and the hurricanes pour torrential rains? Will your boat be docked in Michigan Lake and be exposed to the icy winds? Then choose an appropriate boat cover material well suited for that kind of weather.

It is best to find a boat cover that allows you to cover the whole boat. Thus, sometimes, the cover has to be cut to accommodate other parts of the boat like the railings, panels, etc. For this reason, most boat owners prefer to have their boat covers customized so that it will also surely cover other accessories present on the boat.

You can find a cover for almost any types of boats, a wide selections of materials and shapes can help you keep your boat in the best condition for a long time, remember to find a cover that can provide protection for all the boat, and try to find one that will provide you the best value for your money .

About the author

The importance of A Good Boat Cover can help you protect your boat for long time, learn more at http://boatcover.zupatips.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=David_Evermon

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All The Latest News From The Boating, Sailing And Marine World

Sailing Crew For Thailand To Eastern Med: End Feb 08

Thu, 3 Jan 2008 12:44:39 +0200
Sailing Crew - First mate wanted for approximately 8 week sailing trip from Phuket to Cyprus. Must have blue water sailing experience and speak fluent English. I'm looking for a really solid individual who I can trust enough to be able to sleep when I'm not on watch! Non smoker, no drugs, no booze at sea. Prefer somebody who likes fishing and diving. Absolutely no contribution. I pay all travel costs to get to Thailand and back home from the Med. Would consider paying a modest salary to the right person.

Details ....

Are cockroaches sailing aboard your yacht?

Wed, 25 Oct 2006 13:34:36 +0200
The well known and trusted 'Keel Over' pads are now available from Cruising Connections, and can be posted/shipped to any destination around the world.

Details.....

Sailing crew wanted for English Channel to Gibraltar.

Wed, 23 May 2007 14:19:28 +0200
I am set to go sailing the English Channel to Gibraltar in June and July 2007. If you have an interest and time contact me.

Details ....

Sailing Crew Needed, Brisbane - Chile, Sail Sept/Oct 2007

Sun, 29 Apr 2007 15:52:58 +0200
I need to sail a newly purchased 50' sailboat from Brisbane to Chile in Sept/Oct/Nov 2007 time. My experience is limited and some time ago, so am looking for an experienced offshore sailor who can essentially Captain the boat.

Details ....


Monday, January 26, 2009

More Information On Boating

Latest Article On Boating

Jet Ski Engine Maintenance Tips

By Low Jeremy


Jet skis are personal watercrafts that will sure leave you hurling for more in open waters. However, to be able to make the most out from them (besides their tag prices are so high that you must really get the deal from your precious vehicle), you have to know what keeps it in good working condition.

Other jet ski parts aside, jet ski engines are probably the most important part of the whole machine. It drives the watercraft, it gives the power. Depending on the condition, they provide the performance and create the envying waves. Well, in fact jet ski engines are the ones that will keep the machine running.

In fact, when your buying for a jet ski especially those that are sold second hand, the looks wont say it all. It is always the engine that would spell the difference. In fact, the more the scratches while the engine is working on its optimum power, the better the deal. The engine therefore, gives the life for the vehicle.

The whole PWC is useless when it's not working right? Well, maintenance for your jet ski engine does not entail demanding routines. As a sample, it would be good to note that the engine, for it to work properly must always be supplied with enough oil. (that isn't hard right?)

Oil provides the lubrication. This is vital since once the jet ski engine lacks oil, fusing of parts would be possible.

Another thing, flush water from your engine regularly. Lake water may do but algae and dirt normally cause buildup in the engine parts which may eventually cause the decline in performance of the machine. If you are using your jet ski in salt water however, you have to assure to it that salt water is flushed before storing it.

Salt, once it builds up can actually cause you serious problems. These are quite hard to remove and you have no other option but to painstakingly remove them by means other than using hot water (one of the most effective medium for removing salt deposits. After all, you can never use hot water in cleaning a cooling system.

You need also to have a close watch on the impeller. Minerals, dirt, weeds and algae can all get deposited in the impeller which in the end, will drop down the performing capacity of your jet ski. Remember to clear these once you get out from water.

Other than these jet ski engine tips, please check for the specific engine maintenance as stipulated in your PWC manual.

About the author

This content is provided by Low Jeremy and may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more info on jet ski, please visit http://jetski.articlekeep.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Low_Jeremy

More Info On laguna sailboat

Inflatable tenders are much easier to store than conventional dinghies. When deflated and folded into its carry bag a typical 8 foot inflatable measures about 3 feet x 2 feet and weighs about 80 lbs. At this size, you can see that an inflatable tender is easily stowed in a locker on board, below decks or in a closet or shed at home. They're also very convenient to take on picnics or on vacation, even in a small car.


Sailing equipment is an important part of the purchase of a new or second-hand boat. It is one of those things where you can spend as much money as you wish on equipment for your new cruiser or sailing yacht, so you must give yourself a budget. Obviously, there is a set of essential equipment that all water goers must have, but then there are different sets of equipment required, dependent on whether you will be messing around locally or being more adventurous with long off-shore trips.
Buy a catalina 30 sailboat at our store.

Traditional sailboats are monohulls, but multi-hull catamarans and trimarans are gaining popularity. Monohull boats generally rely on ballast for stability, and generally are known as displacement hulls. This stabilizing ballast can be on the order of multiple tons of lead, for a 12m (39 Ft.) boat. However, it creates two problems; one, that this gives the monohull a tremendous inertia, making it less maneuverable and reducing its acceleration. Secondly, if the boat ever fills with water, it will sink immediately, without question.
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More Boating, Sailing And Marine Information

IWA�s WATERWAY RECOVERY GROUP LAUNCHES ITS 2009 RESTORATION PROGRAMME



Water treatment for water tanks on boats.

Thu, 23 Aug 2007 22:36:24 +0200
A water purification product for water tanks on boats (in fact any "fresh" water) that is totally effective, odourless, tasteless AND beneficial for your well-being. Aqua Salveo water disinfectant was first and foremostly designed to disinfect contaminated and polluted human drinking water. Therefore, two issues were pertinent. Firstly, Aqua Salveo is needed to demonstrate a killing efficiency with regards to bactaria, fungi and possibly viruses and secondly, as the product is intended for people, it needed to be safe, even when used on a regular basis. Aqua Salveo contains no chlorine or bleaches. AQUA SALVEO IS SPECIFICALLY MADE FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION AND IS SAFE TO USE AS DIRECTED.

Full details ....

South African crew wanted for Clipper 07-08

Sun, 29 Apr 2007 14:52:59 +0200
South African crew wanted for Clipper 07-08 to defend national pride! Durban Clipper will be competing again in the Clipper 07-08 Round the World Yacht Race when it sets off from Liverpool, UK, on 16 September this year. This will be the second time Durban Clipper has taken part in the race – having finished on the podium in a very creditable second place in Clipper 05-06. With the exception of the skippers, none of the crews are professional sailors and many of those taking part have never sailed before beginning their comprehensive race training. It is not too late for people from South Africa to sign up to take part in this 35,000-mile ocean race. Durban Clipper was narrowly beaten to second place on her first outing by westernaustralia.com Clipper, so there is a great deal of Southern Hemisphere pride to play for!

Details ....

Community feels impact of closed businesses, layoffs

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 05:20:35 GMT

The January cold and the closing the week before of the ImagePoint sign company combined to help make for a more sparsely traveled sidewalk on Union Avenue near Market Square downtown during lunchtime Tuesday.



2 Minute Times

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 03:33:13 GMT

Local stock: RBC Bank rises 95 cents, or 3.05percent, closing at $32.09. Wolverine slumps Huntsville-based copper fittings maker Wolverine Tube Inc.




watercraft
sea doo jet boat

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Sunday, January 25, 2009

Boating Resources

Marine Article Of The Month

3 Essential Boat Dock Accessories

By Charlie Johnson


When you buy a power boat, it's possible that you'll also rent dock space at
the nearest marina. And that means boat dock accessories. This isn't
something a lot of people think of when they purchase a boat but you'd
be surprised at what's available for boat dock accessories. So how do
you choose?

One boat dock accessory that's crucial to your boat is dock bumpers.
Dock bumpers are designed to keep your boat from banding against the
sides of the dock in heavy winds and storms.

While most bumps would
only cause superficial problems like paint scratches (annoying enough
in itself) you could end up with some serious damage if the storm is
bad enough to really slam your boat into the sides of the dock.

Dock wheels could be something you might want to consider as well.
This is especially true if your dock spot is narrow and you have
trouble steering your boat all the way in. Dock wheels allow you
to navigate your boat to the beginning of your slot, and then they
catch your boat and bring it all the way in.

And lastly, you may want to consider a dock ladder. A dock ladder will
allow you to check out various exterior parts of your boat up close. It
also comes in handy if your can't reach your boat from the dock and choose
to swim to it.

Buying your boat is just the beginning. There are many other things you
need to take care of that new boat owners don't necessarily think of when
purchasing a boat.

About the author

For more information on boating accessories, check out Charlie Johnson's site http://www.theboatingexpert.com for tons of free articles and information on boating, including a free report, 'Tips, Tricks & Resources for Financing the Boat of Your Dreams!

Hints About boat for sale

The cutter is similar to a sloop with a single mast and mainsail, but generally carries the mast further aft to allow for the use of two headsails attached to two forestays, the head stay and the inner stay, which carry the jib and staysail respectively. This is rarely considered a racing configuration; however, it gives versatility to cruising boats, especially in high wind conditions, when a small jib can be flown from the inner stay.
Buy great power watercraft at our store.

In a jetboat, the waterjet draws water from beneath the hull where it passes through a series of impellers and stators - known as stages - which increase the velocity of the waterflow. Most modern jets are single stage while older waterjets may have as many as three stages. The tail section of the waterjet unit extends out through the transom of the hull above the waterline. This jetstream exits the unit through a small nozzle at high velocity to push the boat forward. Steering is accomplished by moving this nozzle to either side, or less commonly, by small gates on either side that direct the jetstream. Because the jet boat relies on the flow of water through the nozzle for control, it is not possible to steer a conventional jet boat without the throttle open.
Buy a Bayliner jet boat at our store.

All The Latest News From The Boating, Sailing And Marine World

MBY's Derek impressed with Botnia Targa

But the race is taking its toll on him, he admits.



Solar Panel Life-span On Sailing Yachts?

Sun, 25 Nov 2007 11:41:35 +0200
Just wondering how long some of you have had your solar panels? If you have noticed any degeneration in efficiency, and what brand you have? Also, if anyone can recommend a good book on solar power - drycell battery systems and energy consumption calculations (i.e. how many and what size panels are needed to power specific systems) it would be greatly appreciated.

Full discussion ....

Sailing from South Africa to Seychelles

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 12:13:14 +0200
Can anyone out there give me some advice on sailing a motorised cat from Durban to Seychelles? We are almost but not quite complete landlubbers and we will need advice on training, licensing and anything else of importance.

Full discussion ....

Navigation software - what is good for use on a sailing yacht?

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 19:45:17 +0200
Hi, just a quick question - I've been looking for navigation software and found there is lots of it for sailing yachts. I came across a program called Software on Board that runs C Maps. So, I was just wondering if anyone has this and can tell me what it's like. Can anyone tell me what type of GPS antenna would be best (an internal or an external)? My boat is aluminium and I'm not sure how the signal would go through aluminium, and, is the accuracy of these units as good as each other?

Full discussion ....

Water Treatment For Tanks On Yachts and Boats in general.

Sat, 18 Aug 2007 14:04:16 +0200
Tony Herrick from Cruising Connections asked whether this product was worth considering for the boating industry. The product is made in S Africa and is approved by the SA Burough of Standards and in use by the local Military amongst many other govt. and semi-govt. organizations and private groups. The retail cost for the water treatment would be in the region of about US$20 per 1,000 liters of water. The best for me is that this treatment is odourless and tasteless (Chlorine and bleach free). Please give your comments.

Full discussion ...

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