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Which Boat Should I Buy? | Our First Boat | Boating Courses | Boating License | Boating Equipment | Boating Accessories | Bayliner Discovery Freedom | Bayliner Discovery Journeys |Boating Basics | Boating Myths | Common Boating Questions | Discover Boating.ca | Boating Vacation | Boating Activities
Boating Basics, General Information and Myths:Are you new to boating? Did you just buy a new or used boat? Or, are you thinking about buying a new ski boat, fishing boat or power boat? Well, if you’re wondering what it’s all about, the do’s and the don’ts, here’s some information on boating you don’t want to miss.Boats Come In All Shapes And Sizes, But Which One Should I Buy?by: Mike FisherThat’s a great question, meaning you’re seriously thinking about getting your first boat.To answer that question, you’ll have to think about how you will use your boat and define your specific needs. So before you start searching the boat classified ads or go looking for a new boat for sale or used boat for sale, here’s some of the things to think about to help you define what type of boat and how large a boat you need.
Taking a step up you get into the 14-18 foot range which are considered small boats. They’re available with an open or closed bow and in many varieties – from deck boats, ski boats to powerboats and fishing boats. Fishing, ski and deck boats have unique features for those activities. Our first boat was a 14 foot Bayliner Bowrider, meaning it had an open bow and seating for two in the front. It also had 3 seats across in the rear. It was good for 2 – 3 persons comfortably. If I wanted to take my boys out cruising on a small inland lake, this would have been the perfect size. It was equipped with a 50HP Chrysler Force outboard and moved fairly well for a small boat. It was even capable of pulling a skier as long as the skier wasn’t too heavy and the boat wasn’t overloaded. We skied with it when we pretty thin and there was only 1 or 2 persons in the boat – more than that and it had a difficult time pulling a person out of the water. But it was fine for pulling tubes or other water accessories. We once had it out on a larger inland lake when the water was pretty choppy with 2 to 3 foot waves. That was pretty rough. The boat was bouncing around to the point where we had to get it out. If you’re going to take a smaller boat out on larger waters, for example 14-16 footer, it’s only enjoyable and safe when the water is fairly calm. If you’re target is general or recreational boating, then a powerboat or deck boat provides the ability to do a number of activities. But if you have a specific focus, like fishing or waters skiing, you’ll want to take a closer look at boats in those categories. Advantages: low to mid cost depending on whether you buy new or used, easy to trailer, launch and store, perfect for dad and kids in small to midsize lakes Disadvantages: minimal seating capacity, smaller engines means limited ability for recreation and sports. If you’re planning on larger parties and pulling adult skiers, you’ll want to move up to the 18-24’ range. These boats generally come with larger motors, outboards or inboards and hold 4 or more passengers comfortably. They’re great on both small and larger lakes and because their depth or draft is relatively low, they’re also good on shallow lakes. Many of these boats come with large outboard motors or 4cyl., 6cyl. or even 8 cyl. engines. Reliability is generally high and gas mileage is pretty good. You can also find 6 or 8 cylinder I/O’s for added speed and power. Advantages: mid-cost range, fairly easy to trailer, launch and store, good for families and larger parties of 4-6 Disadvantages: generally without sleeping amenities, head or shower If boating and sleeping over night is in your blood, you may need to consider 26 to 30’ footer with a cuddy cabin. These boats offer usually offer sleeping for 4 or more, toilet, shower, and some include kitchen amenities. This size of boat is getting fairly large and you’ll need a good size truck to pull it. These boats are perfect for the larger inland lakes and waterways. You can also get them out in the inlet waters off the coast or in bay areas in calm waters. In this size of boat you’ll have the ability to cruise to different locations or hot spots for fishing, swimming, overnight camping and the like. They’re fitted with larger gas tanks, around 100 gal and also hold 15-30 gallons of water. They provide large storage areas and amenities to keep every member of the family satisfied. Advantages: ability to do a variety of boating recreational activities- from skiing, tubing, fishing and more Disadvantages: more expensive than mid-size, requires a larger truck and trailer, more expensive to operate, store and maintain. Lastly, if you want to spend even more time on the water, either traveling or overnight trips, you may be interested in 30-36’ boat. Now you’re in the large size boat range or small size yacht range. These guys are not towed frequently. They are usually kept at a marina, stored and maintained there. They generally have twin or triple inboard motors and outdrives and are well detailed inside and out. You can easily sleep for 4 or more and you’ll usually find a stove, refrigerator, TV, shower and toilet. Advantages: ability to travel, stay overnight and enjoy all the comfort features of home Disadvantages: cost is generally high to purchase, operate and maintain, also harder to trailer and store, usually done professionally There are many boat manufacturers of all types and you have quite a large choice depending on where you’re at and what your local dealers offer. Here’s a few to get you going. Check these boat manufacturers out. Utility /Small Boats: BRIG , Whitehall Fishing Boats: Sea Swirl, NITRO, TRACKER, SYLVAN, LUND, SMOKER CRAFT, TROPHEY Ski Boats: EPICPontoon Boats: Sun Tracker, Manitou, TRACKER, Sunchaser, Premier, Gillgetter, Northwood Power Boats: Bayliner, Sea Ray, MAXUM, Rinker, Four Winns, Wellcraft Race /Cruisers: Formula, Fountain Yachts: TIARA Well, that should give you some things to think about. Look around, shop around and also talk to your friends that already own a boat. They’ll be able to offer some great advice. But it’s more important to really figure out what you want to do and where you want to do it. If you do that before you go out and start searching your local boat classified ads or start looking at new boats for sale or used boats for sale, you’ll be well on your way to deciding what type of boat and how big a boat you really need to buy. And remember, it’s not the size that counts, it’s just being on the water! Our First BoatIt’s not the size that counts…My brother and I purchased our first boat back in 1987 or 1988. We were in our early 20’s and we were anxious to get back on the water. When we we’re younger, our parents would take us to Houghton Lake where our Aunt had a cottage. We’d spend a few weeks every summer hanging around, fishing by a nearby dam. It was basically boring except when we went boating. Our uncle had a 20’Yarcraft ski boat with a 115hp Mercruiser outboard. That boat flew. We we’re a little small to ski behind it but our older cousin skied almost everyday, early morning or at dusk. That was something and I’ve been hooked ever since. Our Aunt and Uncle had another boat, a pontoon boat that our Grandfather bought as a gift for the family. It was carpeted throughout, seating in front, captains chair and console and rear wrap around seating with a center table. It was a nice boat. We enjoyed many summer afternoons boating, swimming and a little fishing. What was special about it though was that my grandfather had the boat fitted with a 75hp Chrysler outboard. They’re usually equipped with a 35HP or a 50HP motor as an upgrade. However, my grandfather new his grandsons would want to get it moving so, he asked for the largest motor it could handle . They had to reinforce the rear support framing and engine mount brackets to support the larger motor. It wasn’t as fast as the ski boat but it went fast enough. We tubed and skied behind it and we even got two skiers up a few times. We we’re a lot younger and thinner back then. It seemed funny skiing behind a pontoon boat but it worked. In truth we got a lot of strange looks behind that pontoon boat, but honestly we really didn’t care what kind of a boat we were in. We were just glad to be on the water.In 1987 my brother and I we’re out of high school and working part time jobs. We saved up enough money for a boat. We didn’t have a lot but it was enough to get us on the water. We purchased a 1983 Bayliner 14’ bowrider. It was small, fairly cheap and only a few years old so it was it was in pretty good shape. Three seats across and seating in the front meant it could hold 3 adults comfortably, 4 if we pushed it. Equipped with a 50HP Chrysler Force, it moved OK for a small boat. We even got each other up on skis a few times, but we had to work at it. That meant the extra passenger or passengers had to sit at the very front of the bow to get the boat to plane out. The really nice thing about that boat was it so small and light, you could easily launch it yourself and if it was a bit off center on the trailer when you pulled it out, you could push right into place. We used to take it out on small inland lakes fishing at night. We’d fish for bass or whatever, but most of the time we just sat and relaxed, sharing stories, dreams and the struggles that we faced. It was so peaceful and serene you couldn’t help but to feel a sense of freedom on the water. I don’t know exactly what it is when you leave shore and get out on the water but the fresh air, warmth of the sun or the beauty of the night sky just gives such a sense of peace. It’s a temporary escape from the day to day monotony that give you a sense of freedom. Whether I was skiing, fishing or just sitting and relaxing, boating has providing some of my most memorable times. So, if your thinking about buying a new or used boat and if you pick the right one according to your needs and budget, you’ll be very glad you did. And you’ll realize it’s really not the size of the boat that matters, it’s just being on the water that counts. Preparing For The Water With A Boating CourseBy: Michelle BeryAs more and more people take up the hobby of boating, our waterways surge with the enthusiasm of new captains. While it’s understandable that people are drawn to boating, it is important for them to understand that taking to the water means doing so responsibly, as the lives of those onboard – and around them – are at stake. A boating course that teaches the fundamentals of boating is absolutely essential for anyone interested in boating.The love of water may be innate, but boating is a learned skill. It requires a working knowledge of the water, an understanding of the complexity of the boat, and the ability to use all the boating equipment effectively and responsibly. A reputable boating course will ensure that you are fully prepared for operating a large or small vessel on water. First and foremost, it is crucial that you work with a reputable school through which you take your boating course. A boating course found in such a location will offer comprehensive classroom instruction and, in some cases, instruction on water. You will initially be taught the fundamentals of boat operation. A boating course will show you how to operate the boat and properly use navigational devices. Of course a boating course will also lay the groundwork for boating safety – teaching the essentials of first aid and water rescue, as well as how to handle any onboard crisis that could arise. You can also find a boating course online where you can learn the fundamentals of boating from the comfort of your own home. If you are someone who needs hands-on instruction, however, this may not be the boating course that’s best for you. Also, keep in mind that a reputable boating course can often save you money in the long run, as insurance companies will offer lower rates to those who have successfully completed a boating course. A boating course is the responsible way to begin a boating hobby. It is only with preparedness that boating can be its most enjoyable. The Importance Of A Boating LicenseBy: Michelle BeryJust as certain things are required for driving a car, such as it is for driving a boat. What many who are interested in boating fail to realize is that captaining a boat of any capacity is a skill and privilege. In order to boat responsibly it is essential that you educate yourself thoroughly and subsequently receive a government regulated boating license.Boating can be incredibly exciting but also dangerous if you are not adequately prepared to handle the boat or the circumstances that could arise on the water. In order to obtain a boating license you begin by attending a boating school. A reputable boating school will teach you the fundamentals of boating including boat operation, navigation, and emergency preparedness. The culmination of a boating course will be a final test that you must pass to get your boating license. However, keep in mind that you must be at least sixteen years old to be a licensed boater. You can contact your local marina or hit the Internet to find a reputable boating course in your area. Keep in mind that obtaining a boating license is dependent upon you being educated in the operation of your particular boat; so the more complex your boat, the longer your boating instruction could possibly take. While the opportunity does exist to obtain a boating license online it is never a good idea to go this route. First and foremost, a boating license – because of its level of importance – should not be obtained by cutting corners. It is essential that you receive hands-on instruction that will make you the most responsible boater possible. It is not possible to get the level of experience you need by hustling through a course online. It is imperative that you carry your boating license with you at all times; and be sure to check into particular state regulations before boating over state lines. A boating license can prepare you for your adventures on the water and ensure a safe and exciting ride. The Abc's Of Boating EquipmentBy: J. LloydBoating is a great sport that can be enjoyed all year round in most parts of the country. Taking the boat out on the lake, a river or into the ocean is one of America's favorite pastimes, full of fun and adventure. However, boating is serious business and any boater will tell you that you need adequate boating equipment to make sure that your outings are as safe as possible, for you and your passengers.Everyone knows that there are a few essentials of boating equipment, like life preservers and other personal flotation devices. But did you know that there's so much more that should be stowed on every boat? Let's start with the basics. The law requires that any passenger under the age of 12 must wear a personal flotation device while on an open boat deck of any kind. When it comes to purchasing personal flotation devices of any kind for your boat, there are several things to consider. First, everyone on board must have a flotation device, child or adult, and those devices must be within easy reach. These flotation devices must be approved by the Coast Guard and bear their seal of approval. Lastly, these flotation devices must be in good condition. Other kinds of essential boating equipment consist of a throw-able flotation device such as a floating donut or some buoyant item that can be used to keep a person afloat for an unlimited amount of time. Every boat longer than sixteen feet in length must have one of these on board or face fines. Ski belts don't count. Some flotation devices are designed to turn an unconscious person around in the water so that they are face up instead of face down, and are also effective for all types of water. Some flotation devices protect the wearer from hypothermia, while others are meant for sporting activities like skiing, sailing and fishing. Another valuable piece of boating equipment is a fire extinguisher. While many don't think such would be necessary, with so much water around, engine fires require a certain type of extinguisher while cushions or interior cabin materials might require another. Boats more than twenty-six feet long are required to have at least one fire extinguisher on board. There are additional requirements for the installation of fire extinguishers on board, so check with state boating regulations to determine what those are before taking your boat out on the water. Another boating equipment must for boats with inboard mounted gasoline engines is a flame arrester that is fitted onto the carburetor for backfire flame control. Again, check your state boating laws to determine whether your boat needs such an adjustment if it doesn't already come with one. Also keep in mind that boats with gasoline engine compartments must also be properly ventilated. A sound device is also a necessary piece of boating equipment, most especially for boats that are over thirty-nine feet in length. Some sort of distress signal flare gun is also a good piece of boating equipment to have on hand, as is a first aid box and extra bedding and blankets in case of emergency. Boating is great fun, but can be dangerous if you don't plan properly and carry the right kind of boating equipment that ensures the safety of both yourself and your crew or passengers. The Best Of Boating AccessoriesBy: Michelle BeryWith every hobby comes a host of accompaniments available to make your experience that much better. And when it comes to boating there’s no difference. Boating accessories abound, designed to enhance the boater’s experience and add a level of convenience and luxury to otherwise ordinary endeavors. Boating accessories can supplement the many features of a boat and add to the comfort level onboard; they can also take luxury to a new level.Of course, there are required boating accessories such as those safety items that remain onboard at all times including life jackets, fire extinguishers, distress signals such as flares, a throwable ring or cushion to reach someone who has fallen overboard, a first aid kit, several flashlights with extra batteries, and working lights on the boat. It is also important to have a compass – or GPS – on board for navigational purposes, as well as a radio for open communication. Some states also require a bilge pump on board that will handle any water the boat has taken on in an emergency. There are other non-required – but highly recommended - safety boating accessories such as a life boat. For longer trips especially it makes the most sense to carry as much as you can in order to be as prepared as possible. There are also highly entertaining boating accessories that making boating the fun activity that so many people enjoy. The inclusion of sporting equipment – such as water skiing equipment, jet skis, and fishing poles makes boating about more than just the boat itself – but rather the activities that can happen around it. Onboard living has become the greatest in luxury; more and more boat owners are detailing their boats with the latest boating accessories designed to enhance the onboard experience. Boating accessories such as convenience appliances – microwaves, blenders, etc. - and entertainment equipment – specially designed DVD players, boat specific speaker systems - have made staying on a boat the ultimate in comfort and luxury. Boating accessories make boating more than just a weekend activity; they make your boat another home where you and your family can be as comfortable – if not more comfortable – than you would be on land. Bayliner Discovery Gives Boat Owners the Freedom to Roam and ExploreSubmitted by itmgeditorIf you love boating, and the feel of the sun in your face and the smell of the water, an adventure awaits you.Nothing matches the feel of pulling into the open water, cutting a break at just the right angle or the sight of your buddy nodding back his confidence that there is some fun to be had out there. Bayliner Discovery - a new line of runabouts, cuddys and cruisers - transforms boating trips into journeys and gives you the freedom to roam and explore. Take a look for yourself at Bayliner's new journey-based website, www.iamdiscovery.com. This is the place to go to fall in love with boating all over again...or for the first time. Bayliner Discovery doesn't shove boats and specs at you; it lures you into an affair with nature. Log on and join Motor Boating Magazine's Managing Editor John Wooldridge and his buddy Ken Nicholson as they challenge a new Bayliner Discovery 246 Cruiser in the Pacific chop from San Diego to Catalina Island and on through Channel Islands National Park to Santa Barbara. Along the way, these two embark on a dusty buffalo safari, kayak near sea caves on island shores and meet some of the local characters. "We traveled on our own terms and experienced everything from the colorful culture of Catalina Island to the breathtaking beauty of Channel Islands National Park," says Wooldridge. "The Bayliner Discovery 246 was our little magic carpet." The hardtop cockpit on the Bayliner Discovery 246, the largest towable boat in the Bayliner Discovery line, protected Wooldridge and Nicholson from the spray of the choppy Pacific, while its other features made their journey a dream. "We managed to smooth out the worst parts with the boat's trip tab system, and the dual prop gave us an increased grip on the water," says Wooldridge. "The MerCruiser 350 MAG let us plow through everything the ocean threw at us without using the full engine potential." On www.iamdiscovery.com, the surprisingly cool navigation of the site transports you to webisodes of Wooldridge's voyage, trip journals, planning links and, yes, Bayliner Discovery boats (but in very thoughtful and complete way). The folks at Bayliner Discovery promise three more video journeys with top-notch travelers and journalists in the months ahead. National Geographic writer and world-class kayaker Jon Bowermaster is said to be next in line later this fall, using a Bayliner Discovery 288 Cruiser - a best-in-class, two-level mini-yacht - to navigate the stunning inlets and craggy coastline of the Maine Island Trail. Check it out and become part of the adventures at www.iamdiscovery.com. Bayliner Discovery Journeys Take Visitors on Virtual AdventuresSubmitted by itmgeditorWhen you're on a boat, nothing matches the feel of pulling into the open water, cutting a break at just the right angle or the sight of your buddy nodding back his confidence that there is some fun to be had out there.Bayliner Discovery - a new line of runabouts, cuddys and cruisers - transforms boating trips into journeys and gives you the freedom to roam and explore. Take a look for yourself at Bayliner's new journey-based website, www.iamdiscovery.com. This is the place to go to fall in love with boating all over again...or for the first time. Bayliner Discovery doesn't shove boats and specs at you; it lures you into an affair with nature. Log on and join Motor Boating Magazine's Managing Editor John Wooldridge and his buddy Ken Nicholson as they challenge a new Bayliner Discovery 246 Cruiser in the Pacific chop from San Diego to Catalina Island and on through Channel Islands National Park to Santa Barbara. Along the way, these two embark on a dusty buffalo safari, kayak near sea caves on island shores and meet some of the local characters. "We traveled on our own terms and experienced everything from the colorful culture of Catalina Island to the breathtaking beauty of Channel Islands National Park," says Wooldridge. "The Bayliner Discovery 246 was our little magic carpet." The hardtop cockpit on the Bayliner Discovery 246, the largest towable boat in the Bayliner Discovery line, protected Wooldridge and Nicholson from the spray of the choppy Pacific, while its other features made their journey a dream. "We managed to smooth out the worst parts with the boat's trip tab system, and the dual prop gave us an increased grip on the water," says Wooldridge. "The MerCruiser 350 MAG let us plow through everything the ocean threw at us without using the full engine potential." On www.iamdiscovery.com, the surprisingly cool navigation of the site transports you to webisodes of Wooldridge's voyage, trip journals, planning links and, yes, Bayliner Discovery boats (but in very thoughtful and complete way). The folks at Bayliner Discovery promise three more video journeys with top-notch travelers and journalists in the months ahead. National Geographic writer and world-class kayaker Jon Bowermaster is said to be next in line later this fall, using a Bayliner Discovery 288 Cruiser - a best-in-class, two-level mini-yacht - to navigate the stunning inlets and craggy coastline of the Maine Island Trail. Check it out and become part of the adventures at www.iamdiscovery.com. Boating Basics: Books to Read Before You Set Foot in a Boatby: Aldene FredenburgNo one is suggesting that a novice boating enthusiast can learn everything there is to know about boating by reading a book, but the fact is that picking up a volume from an expert with years of boating experience can potentially save newbies a lot of false starts and, potentially, some dangerous situations.Boating 101: Essential Lessons for Boaters, by Roger Siminoff (International Marine / Ragged Mountain Press, 1999) covers basic knowledge needed for every kind of boating, recreational and otherwise. From boating etiquette on the water to using navigational charts, from docking to anchoring, and even warnings about adverse weather conditions, this handy book answers a lot of questions that beginners may not even have the background to know they should ask. A great book for a beginning boater, it also has wisdom to offer those who’ve been boating for years. The book Sailing Fundamentals, by Gary Jobson (Touchstone, Revised Edition, 1998), is billed by the publisher as the “fastest, easiest, most systematic way to learn basic sailing and basic coastal cruising.” Approved by the American Sailing Association (ASA) and The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, this is the perfect book for beginning sailors. Author Dobson was part of the winning 1977 America’s Cup crew and lends an enormous amount of expertise to all the basics of learning to sail. This book is a great assist for sailors who want to qualify for ASA certification. There’s probably not a sailing enthusiast alive who doesn’t eventually want to own his or her own boat; the book Your First Sailboat: How to Find and Sail the Right Boat for You, by Daniel Spurr (International Marine / Ragged Mountain Press, 2004), will set you on the right path. The book covers the various types of sailboats available, discusses the differences between them and the ways they handle, and gives the reader lots of information designed to decide what sailboat design meets the needs of the individual sailing fan. While the books mentioned above certainly don’t take the place of actually getting out on the water and gaining hands-on, practical experience, the information contained in them certainly takes some of the mystery out of the sailing experience and saves the beginning boater a lot of time, and perhaps even steers them away from some deadly errors. Boating Myths - Part Iby: News Canada(NC)-Everyone knows boating is fun, but some people who are interested in taking it up hold back because of myths they've heard about boating. In fact, boating is easy, flexible and affordable, so I'm going to discuss a few of those myths and separate fact from fiction.MYTH: Boating is expensive. It's not. In fact, it probably costs less to buy and operate a boat than you think. Following are a few examples: $10,000 to $18,000 is the average price for a 17- to 19-foot outboard-powered family runabout. $6,000 to $9,500 for the average aluminum fishing boat with outboard motor or cottage sailboat. Most boats with a selling price above $5,000 can be financed. Many banks, financial institutions and credit unions provide financing for boats. Local boat retailers also provide customized boat loan programs through arrangements with boat manufacturers or local banks. Finally, check boating magazines for financiers' advertisements. Interest rates have continued to be affordable. MYTH: Boating takes up time I can't afford. It's true. Like never before, everyone is so . . . busy. But boating is totally flexible - your family can use a boat as much or as little as you wish. Your boat is ready to go whenever you are. That means you can mesh your boating fun with your busy schedule. Try that with a ball game, soccer league or tee-off time at a golf club. Spending time with your family on a boat really is quality time. Activities on the water can include fishing, water-skiing, tubing and much more. Sharing the fun with friends makes it even better! MYTH: There's too much involved in maintaining a boat. With today's technology, there is very little maintenance required. All it takes is filling it up with gas - just as you do with a car - and some preventative maintenance your dealer will do at a minimal cost. Before a boat is stored for the winter it requires an oil change and cleaning - that's it! Boating: One Of Life’s Great Pleasuresby: Robert VassosThere is a lot to be said about getting out on the water for some well deserved recreation. The interesting thing about boating is there is some ancient gene that we all carry that dates back to a time when folks thought the earth was flat. And just like Columbus exploring the boundaries of the known world people today are still drawn to the water by some magical unexplained pull. And why not - in this fast paced world of office towers and pavement there is certainly something soothing about stepping on to a gently rocking boat at the dock and firing it up to venture out on the open waters.The other great thing about boating is that this form of recreation offers so much versatility. Think about it. You can fish, water ski, tube, tour around, swim off the boat, sunbath, entertain friends, visit friends on the lake – not mention that boats can be utilized for work type activities as well, and they are a valid form of general waterway transportation for many. The other interesting thing is that boating isn’t as expensive as you might think. As a first step you might consider renting before you purchase and many marinas offer reasonably priced boat rental packages right from their docks. Recently a recreation cost comparison was done by www.discoverboating.ca and you might be surprised at how inexpensive boating can be in when you compare costs against theme parks, hockey games, live concerts, golf or even an evening at the theatre. The bottom line is there is a boat for every family budget and a selection of boat types and models that is even more far ranging than cars. Generally speaking, the bigger the boat, the larger the horsepower and the more options that you choose will determine the overall cost and the best value match for the individual or family. Some boats are built for versatility and some boats are built primarily for one use e.g. fishing or wake boarding. The point is, if you look around you can find the right boat at the right price to suit your needs. Many boat manufacturers offer financing terms that are attractive and financial institutions are certainly willing to spread payments over 5 years with the longer terms translating to lower monthly payments. But some would say there are more important considerations than the cost aspect of owning and operating at boat. It can be summed up in one word “lifestyle”. If you seek freedom and relaxation there is nothing like a day on the water that comes close. It means leaving a lot of the daily stress that we all experience behind at the dock. In a 2003 Impulse Research study, nearly 2/3rds of boat owners made their boat purchase and found it brought their family closer together. Another portion claimed it allowed them to lead a more romantic personal life. That has to be reason enough to want to own a boat right? There are almost, 3 million watercraft in Canada and one in six households owns at least one boat. Boating contributes over $7 billion into the Canadian economy every year. You might expect this in Canada. After all - we are surrounded by oceans and Great Lakes and most of our provinces are dotted with lakes and rivers throughout the interior. Robert and Colleen Vassos own a waterfront marina called Wedgewood Marine & Recreation (www.wedgewoodmarina.com) in the Haliburton Highlands of Ontario about two hours north of Toronto. They sell a wide variety of boats including the full line up of Starcraft boats (bowriders, pontoons, deck boats and fishing boats), Svfara performance ski boats, Legend, Thundercraft and Doral boats as well as Yamaha PWC’s. They also rent Yamaha Waverunners and various other boats ranging from runabouts and ski boats to pontoons and fishing boats right from their waterfront facility on Twelve Mile Lake. “We are seeing a big move to deck boats” says Colleen Vassos. “Families are looking for the versatility so they have both the entertainment space of a pontoon boat and the ability of a sport boat to plane so that water skiing, fishing or just hanging out can be accomplished in one watercraft” adds Colleen. “We often rent boats to customers before they buy” says Robert Vassos. If you are new to boating, renting is a wise option. It gives the newbee boater an opportunity to ensure that they get the right fit and the right product to suit their individual or family needs. Seems like an ideal lifestyle to be selling and renting boats from a waterfront facility but those visions were shattered when Colleen & Robert mentioned that they are so busy putting clients in boats that they rarely have time to do what they would really like to be doing – going out for a boat ride! Common Boating Questions – Part 1by: News CanadaWhich type of boat is right for me?For most buyers, general purpose craft which serve as fish, ski and picnic boats are ideal; for others needing something specialized, a wide selection is offered in most markets.How big a boat will I need? What about power needs?Size is a function of who will be on board and where it will be used. Options range from 12-ft. dinghies to power and sail yachts. If it is a question of two to four-feet in size, buy more if your budget allows. This will keep you in the boat longer.What will it cost?Most newcomers are surprised that, with financing, boats can be paid for in monthly installments and often cost less than they think. Pre-owned boats often cost one-half of similar new models.What is the best time of year to buy?The best time of year to buy is when you are ready. Boat shows provide great opportunities to find "show specials." However, specials only work if you have done some homework and identified the right type of boat for your needs. There are good deals on boats throughout the year.Discover Boating.ca Website Answers Your Boating Questionsby: News Canada(NC)-lt's spring! Every year at this time, a lot of people think boating might be a great family activity for them, but don't know where to start. Now there's a website that answers your questions about boating and might be just your ticket to getting out on the water. The "DiscoverBoating.ca" website helps you through the decision-making process to determine whether you should buy a boat. The questions they ask are probably things you've wondered about yourself - what's involved in buying a boat? What will it cost and how expensive is it to maintain? What kind of financing alternatives are available? How do I learn to drive a boat? What do we need to know about water safety? "DiscoverBoating.ca" goes over every issue related to boat buying and ownership.Research conducted by the Canadian Marine Manufacturers Association (CMMA), representing Canada's boat, motor and accessory companies, has found that thousands of Canadians are interested in boating, but do not know where to learn about it. A survey conducted by a national polling firm on behalf of the CMMA found that 19% of Canadians describe themselves as potential boat owners. To meet this need, the CMMA, in conjunction with several regional boating associations, has created a website called "DiscoverBoating.ca" for consumers who have never owned a boat. Buying a boat is a fantastic investment in family recreation and it's more affordable than you may think. Surveys indicate most people who don't own boats believe prices are 30% or higher than they actually are. In fact, it costs less to buy and operate a boat than most people would think. Great Reasons To Start Boating This Spring!by: News Canada(NC)-Thinking about pursuing a new, exciting family activity this year? Consider boating - it has so much to offer.
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Latest News, Reviews and Information on Boating
