16March
Boating Shows in 2019
Are you looking to step onto the yacht of your dreams? Join the tens of thousands of people who purchase their new vessels every year at the best shows. Feel the thrilling excitement on opening day and check out the yachts which have essentially become luxury apartments on the water. As much as one may want to attend all the shows, below is a list of some of the top international boat shows for 2019.
Palm Beach International Boat Show
March 28-31, 2019
Head to gorgeous Palm Beach, Florida to see the luxury yachts and witness an unforgettable show. One of the top 5 boat shows in America, the Palm Beach show will have more than $1.2 Billion worth of yachts and accessories on display. Complete with an AquaZone to show off the latest and greatest in water toys!
https://www.pbboatshow.com/en/home.html
Newport Charter Yacht Show
June 17-20, 2019
Held in America’s sailing capital, Newport, Rhode Island, the Newport Charter Yacht show is celebrating 35 years in existence! What’s unique about this show is that it is only open to yacht charter professionals; agents, owners, brokers and captains. Here you will find professional chefs showing off their skills making specially prepared lunches for the brokers. This show offers a number of non-traditional activities, including a costume event!
http://www.newportchartershow.com/
Sydney International Boat Show
August 1-5, 2019
Celebrating 51 years, the Sydney International Boat show is the place to check out if you are into recreational boating. Participating partners are there to provide you with any info you may need to ensure the best possible boating experience. A big advantage to this show is that it is very family friendly with plenty of fun activities for the whole family.
Monaco Yacht Show
September 25-28, 2019
Beginning in 1991, yacht enthusiasts, builders, and buyers have gathered in Monaco for the annual Monaco Yacht Show held always in September. Every year, 120 extraordinary yachts are on display, 40 of which will be launching their worldwide debut. Last year 36,400 people attended the show, and rumor has it Prince Albert II of Monaco takes a (secured) tour of the event as well!
https://www.monacoyachtshow.com/en/
If bass fishing is your passion, a quality bass boat is a must-have piece of equipment. A great boat is just as important as a your fishing rod and a supply of flies. But unlike that fishing rod and bits of bait, a bass boat is no small purchase. Depending on the type of boat you have your eye on, you could be looking at an investment of thousands, or even tens of thousands of
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08February
Top 10 U.S. Boating Cities
Do you feel the desire to live near and be out on the water? If so, you’re not alone, with every 4 in 5 Americans saying they feel more at peace when they’re next to the water it’s no wonder why 87 million Americans go boating every year. Below we have compiled a list of the top 10 U.S boating cities. Start making your summer plans and get on the water and check out some of the best boating cities in the United States!
1. Long Island, New York
Close enough to the always exciting New York City, Long Island is completely surrounded by water, making it one of the best boating cities in America. While you’re out on the water make sure to check out the exclusive view of Lady Liberty and Yankee Stadium. Highly recommended is taking a trip over to ‘The Hamptons’ where you will find magnificent waterfront homes, many of which are owned by celebrities.
Fun Fact:
If you have ever wanted to visit a castle you’re in luck. Daily tours are open for locals and tourists wishing to explore the magnificent castles on the island.
2. Boston, Massachusetts
Although cold in the winter, Boston is the perfect boating location during the warmer summer months. There are 43 miles of pedestrian walk and bike paths along the Harborwalk, which is the public walkway that follows along the Boston Harbor. The walkway shows off the stunning shoreline, beaches, wharves, and piers.
Fun Fact:
There are 135,750 registered boats in Massachusetts. You will be sure to find other boating enthusiasts in this friendly state!
3. Seattle, Washington
Head over to the west coast to explore Elliott Bay, the city’s main harbor. The harbor serves as the send off point for those sailing to Alaska and the San Juan Islands. Seattle is truly the perfect place for those who love being by the water, here you will find plenty of waterfront homes and even house boats!
Fun Fact:
Since 1895, Seattle has held their traditional boating opening day with the Windermere Cup Opening Day Regatta and Boat Parade with hundreds of athletes competing for first place.
4. Naples, Florida
It’s no doubt Naples, Florida made the list with great weather almost year round and the amount of water surrounding the city, it is a boating lovers paradise! Residents and visitors of Naples have been lucky enough to spot incredible wildlife while on boating adventures. People have reported seeing families of dolphins and manatees. With the weather in Naples being so warm it’s no surprise the residents are also very into water sports. You can even join local competitions to show off your skills!
Fun Fact:
Currently there are over 13,000 waterfront property listings on the market in Naples, FL. If you are looking for you dream home with a view, be sure to check out the beautiful Naples.
4. Traverse City, Michigan
Let’s head north to Traverse City, home to Grand Traverse Bay on Lake Michigan. Now the boating season here may be short but residents and tourists don’t waste a minute when the weather is nice. After a day on the water many head into town to enjoy high quality cuisine, culture, and exceptional wine.
Fun Fact:
Residents measure the boating season from the first cherry blossoms until the berries are ready to be turned into wine.
5. Chattanooga, Tennessee
Let’s take a trip down south to the beautiful Chickamauga Lake in Tennessee. This is the city for those who wish to go boating on a calm and serene lake which is almost 60 miles long. Here you will find locals and visitors setting up camp sites along the lake as well.
Fun Fact:
If you get tired after a day on the river you can head to the Hunter Museum of Art, which is home to one of the largest collections of American art.
6. Orlando, Florida
With Florida having great year round weather it’s no surprise another Floria city made the list. With lakes everywhere, many who are looking to purchase waterfront homes gravitate toward Orlando. Many of the homes here come with a personal dock making your boating adventures as easy as possible.
Fun Fact:
For all 12 months of the year the average temperature in Orlando reaches a high of 60+ degrees fahrenheit.
7. Phoenix, Arizona
Even those who live in the desert can enjoy boating adventures in Phoenix. Home to many lakes which usually fill up quickly with boats on the weekends. Whether you are looking to have a relaxing weekend on the water filled with scenic views or get an adrenaline rush from participating in water sports, Phoenix is sure a place to consider.
Fun Fact:
Lake Pleasant, which is just 45 minutes from downtown hold 10,000 acres of water.
8. Edison, New Jersey
A city in New Jersey may be a surprise to show up on this list but the Raritan River is not to be overlooked. With homes overlooking the river for sale, many boat enthusiasts consider coming to Edison.
Fun Fact:
The Raritan River is said to be the perfect place for those who are into water sports. The river sees thousands of kayakers and canoers each year.
9. Columbia, South Carolina
Experience the charm of the south on Lake Murray in South Carolina. Many boaters gravitate toward the lake because of the plenty marinas, landings, and ramps. Here you will see a number of speedboats pulling wakeboarders and water skiers all summer long.
Fun Fact:
Lake Murray has a Birthday! It’s December 1st.
10. Hampton Roads, Virginia
Hampton Roads is not only the name of the city but also the name of the body of water where boaters go to enjoy and endless list of fun activities. Fishing is also a huge sport for the locals of Hampton Roads, and it’s common to even see divers exploring the water from underneath.
Fun Fact:
The body of water (Hampton Roads) is actually one of the world’s largest natural harbors.
17January
How to Choose the Best Marine Battery
If you’ve recently purchased a used boat or are preparing your boat for the upcoming season, you probably have a maintenance to-do list to take care of before you feel confident about heading out on the water. One of those items most likely involves checking or replacing your vessel’s battery.
Marine batteries have two tasks, starting and powering electrical loads. You can purchase a separate battery for each job or there may be an option for you to purchase one single battery to do both. The amperage required for your vessel will need to be determined, as well as what loads you will be placing on the battery. The size of the battery is also important as vessels require specific battery sizes to be installed per manufacturer directions. Basically, you want the most reserve capacity you can get but may be limited due the boat’s ability to accommodate a larger battery.
Batteries also come in three styles, flood lead acid, AGM and gel. Each performs a little differently, but the main differences are in the maintenance requirements for each.
Flood acid batteries require vigilance and are susceptible to leaks. They must be checked and filled with distilled water as necessary and should be checked with a hydrometer to measure the amount of sulfuric acid in the electrolytes. This is important to determine the charging efficiency of the battery. This is a great, long lasting battery and a good economical choice.
AGM and gel cell batteries are considered maintenance free. They can be installed on their sides if necessary as there is no danger of fluid leaking from the battery. These batteries do not require regular filling with water, they are self-contained. Gel batteries are not used as much anymore and are usually replaced with an AGM style.
Maintenance free does not mean the battery does not need to be inspected and cared for, you will still need to keep it charged in times when the boat is not in use and check terminals and ventilation on a regular basis.
Battery life is determined by the number of cycles it goes through and how good the unit is at withstanding frequent discharges. How much the battery is discharged, percentage-wise, with each use will also impact how long it lasts. Discharging a battery completely down to zero will render it incapable of being recharged and worthless.
Starting Batteries Defined
Starting or cranking batteries have only one job, to start the engine of the boat. They are designed to give off short, high bursts of power. These batteries have a lot of lead plates and they are thinner than they would be in other types of batteries to ensure a quick recharge time. Your boat’s engine specs will dictate how many CCAs (cold cranking amps) you will need. Starting batteries are not useful in putting out deep discharges and will not last very long if that is the case.
Cold cranking amps are the number of amps a battery can put out at 0°F for 30 seconds. If the battery lists MCAs, marine cold cranking amps, this is the same measurement except tested at 32°F.
These batteries are good choices for outboards and smaller vessels.
Deep Cycle Batteries Defined
Deep cycle batteries are made to handle the electrical load of the accessories on your vessel. Lights, fish finders, radios, etc. are all powered by the deep cycle. This battery type is characterized by thick lead plates that are optimum for storing or banking power for later use. The deep cycle will run accessories on its own power even if not being charged by the alternator or another power source. Cruiser vessels will require one or more powerful batteries like this to provide for the electrical equipment on board.
The battery is rechargeable and once discharged and power is full again, it is ready to go once more.
Dual Purpose Batteries Defined
The dual purpose battery is just what it sounds like – it is capable of handling both starting duties and powering accessories. The dual purpose does not have as much storing capacity as the deep cycle, however, so this may be a factor for you when deciding which type of battery works for you. These are a good option if you do not discharge your battery below 50%. If you do tend to do that regularly, then a deep cycle is the better choice. A dual purpose would be good for sailboats with identical interchangeable batteries.
Which One Do You Need?
When determining which battery is the best fit for your boat, look at the variety of issues mentioned in the above paragraphs. Check your manufacturer’s specs to be certain you choose a battery that meets at least the minimum requirements. Cold cranking amp ratings are going to be a factor for your starter battery. The amount of room you have to install the battery will limit how big a battery you can fit in the battery compartment. Do a run through of all the accessories on the boat, and if you have a lot of electrical options and add-ons, then be sure to purchase a battery with enough storage capacity to run all those electrical gadgets.
One thing to check for is the rating of the deep cycle batteries. You will see 20hr capacity ratings noted on the battery. This is a standard unit of measurement for battery storage capacity. All deep cycles are noted with this and it indicates how long it took to fully discharge the battery over a 20 hour period. This ensures that a universal measurement system is being used so that when you are considering batteries, you are comparing “apples to apples”, so to speak. (ex. A rating of 100AH @ 20HR means the battery is totally discharged in 20 hours running a 5 amp load.)
PURCHASING AND INSTALLATION TIPS
While looking for a new battery, do not fall into the temptation to purchase an automotive battery for your boat. Though they may look similar, the internal design and components of these batteries are very different and using a car battery is bound to leave you stranded pretty quickly.
Installation is important. You want to protect your investment. Make sure you have a sturdy plastic box for mounting the battery to protect it. The battery needs to be well ventilated to prevent the build-up of gasses. Nothing should be laid on top of the battery and connections should be secure and checked frequently. Be careful and do not assume that all sealed batteries can be laid on their sides for mounting, some still have a danger of leaking. Check with each manufacturer regarding the mounting capabilities of your battery.
