Tagged: safety

Fall Boating Demands Attention

Fall boating can be a great experience in New England. When the sun is out, and the breezes are light, it can be a fun and comfortable adventure. However, boating after Columbus Day requires paying attention at a slightly higher level than in the summer months. Shifting sandbars can cause accidental groundings when navigational buoys drift from their original locations; and prop-snarling lobster pot buoys can become temporarily invisible under the larger fall swells. Emergency engine overheating issues can arise from barnacle-laden cooling hoses, or hose jackets chafed through from a summer of cruising. And, that’s just tip of the [...]

October 12th, 2017|

Educate the Crew

It doesn’t matter if you’re an old salt, or just have a few voyages under your keel, you probably figured out, early on, that things can go south on a boat very quickly. A friend recounted a recent incident. He was out behind one of the Gloucester beaches tied to a mooring ball. As the tide started to go out and the boat began to swing uncomfortably close to the beach, he decided to take up another spot. He started the engine and climbed to the front deck to pull the line from the mooring ball. Everything was going smoothly [...]

August 29th, 2016|

Smart Boating 166 – Antifouling Paint

The antifouling paint show illuminates how to select and apply paint to ensure safety and performance. Boaters will learn about the different paint "families", safety equipment, tools, and useful application tips.

May 1st, 2016|

Fall Boating – Ups & Downs

This past Sunday was warm and sunny, a great day for North shore boating and  the experience brought back a few points. First, Fall boating is characterized by fresh breezes, clear water and little boating traffic - all good things. Two, post-summer boating is also recognizable by heavy swells and a sun which sets each day at an astoundingly rapid rate - both not so good things. So, how do you enjoy the good and deal with the "bad"? Basically, be prepared. Before going down to the boat, make sure you've got the right clothing to keep warm and dry; [...]

October 13th, 2015|