While leaf peepers typically travel inland and north to witness the breathtaking fall extravaganza in mountainous areas, coastal boaters can just as easily point their bows toward marvelous views closer to home. The trees and bushes aligning back-bays, riverbanks, tidal creeks and local anchorages blossom in colors so rich you can practically taste them.

The northeast and mid-Atlantic states offer the most intense color shifts with vibrant yellow, red and orange foliage most prominent, but beautiful tones can be seen all the way down into the Carolinas  – and sunsets along the entire east and gulf coasts can be at their dramatic best this time of year, making for absolutely stunning photos.

Of course, there has to be a catch – but this one is small: fall colors at the water’s edge seem to come fast, and leave (pun intended) faster. It’s not exactly a “blink and you’ll miss it” scenario, but don’t dilly-dally. Get out on the water within a week or two after you notice the colors first starting to change. To help predict peak season in your home waters, or anywhere else in the U.S.A., check out the following interactive fall foliage peak season prediction maps.

• Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Map
• American Forests Fall Foliage Map

The entire east coast is blessed with many navigable rivers, ports and harbors offering idyllic fall viewing with plenty of water under your bow. Head up almost any primary drainage not located in a major population center and, within a few miles, you should find plenty of shoreline to scope out stunning fall foliage, plus an anchorage or two for catching an amazing sunset.

Here are seven cruising picks to delight your passengers and crew.

Penobscot Bay/River, ME

Maine’s Penobscot Bay offers miles of viewing options, especially as the bay grows more intimate above Camden Hills State Park. Continue up the Penobscot River or fork over to the Orland River and East Channel for spectacular and unbroken fall views.

Merrimack River, MA

The 117-mile-long Merrimack River in Massachusetts offers beautiful coastal scenery and easy cruising between the John Greenleaf Whittier and Rocks Village bridges right on up to Haverhill. Stay in the channel and you’ll have plenty of water to work with, but resist coming tight to the banks as there are shallow spots as you head further upriver. The stretch from Amesbury Point to Riverside Park is particularly impressive with bright reds, oranges and yellows aligning both riverbanks.

Connecticut River, CT

This river calls to boaters with easy access to eastern Long Island Sound from Connecticut, Rhode Island and New York. Deep draft vessels should enter on the flood because of shoaling at the river mouth, but water depths are fine within the main channel. Head upriver and the view for several miles between Brockway Island and Hurd State Park is hard to beat with all the fall colors of New England bursting forth along the river banks. Hamburg Cove, east of Brockway Island, is especially accommodating for visiting boaters with first-come first served moorings.

Hudson River, NY

You’ll have to push several miles up this awesome river to find suitable fall viewing, but not as far as you might think. The stretch between Hastings on the Hudson and South Nyack includes the impressive Palisades along the New Jersey side, and the scenery is absolutely spectacular along both banks between Bear Mountain and Hudson Highlands state parks. Pull into Half Moon Bay Marina and the powerful Croton Gorge Waterfall is just a two-mile hike or cab ride away.

Rappahannock River, VA

The longest free-flowing river in the eastern United States, the Rappahannock River offers stunning sites anytime of the year, but especially in the fall. Although much of the lower river is bordered by farmland, fall foliage viewing really fires-up once you pass Jones Creek Landing. Trailer boats can put in at Carter’s Wharf near Warsaw or Hoskin’s Creek in Tappahannock to shorten the trip and easily cruise upriver to view Fones Cliff. The bare spots there border maples, sycamores, black gums, and sweet gums that light up the river. Bald eagles are often seen drifting over the water and cliffs along this entire stretch.

Dismal Swamp Canal (ICW), VA/NC

The amber waters of Dismal Swamp Canal offer an enchanting cruise for boaters traversing the Southern Branch of Virginia’s Elizabeth River at mile 7.1 of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW), or approaching from the Pasquotank River via Albemarle Sound in North Carolina.

Surrounded by a vibrant autumn canopy of red, orange and yellow trees in a remote and tranquil setting, the banks here teem with flora and fauna. Keep your camera ready to record not only the beautiful fall foliage, but also sightings of black bear, white tailed deer, river otters and Pileated Woodpeckers.

Crews touring the 22-mile canal – is the oldest continually operating man-made canal in the United States – will find the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center – a perfect place to dock overnight and experience and incredible fall sunrise or sunset in a magical setting.

Croatan National Forest, NC

Fall boaters who navigate through the Croatan National Forest along the Neuse and  Trent Rivers of North Carolina are treated to a stunning display of nature’s beauty as the serene waterways create a mirror-like effect, reflecting the autumn colors. The banks are adorned with a deciduous mix of oaks and maples, which turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow that contrast with evergreen pines. The forest’s unique pocosins (raised swamps) and bogs are home to fascinating plants like the carnivorous Venus flytrap and pitcher plants, which can still be seen in the fall. You’ll see plenty of wildlife here, too, including migratory birds, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and an occasional black bear preparing for winter.

The post 7 Great Fall Foliage Picks for Boaters appeared first on Sea Tow.

How did The Qualified Captain come to life?

The Qualified Captain page started during the summer of 2016 while I was working at a local marina and seeing never-ending boating mishaps that could be avoided. Regardless of the help the crew and I tried to offer, most boaters would deny our assistance, and ultimately, end up as what has come to be known as a #qualifiedcaptain. Today, we are the largest social media page in the boating industry. We continue to entertain but in turn have created a platform to help promote boating safety.

What’s the number one mishap you see on the water?

I see a lot of people ripping through no wake zones. I also see first time boat owners buy way too big of a vessel with no knowledge of how to operate it. And I do believe that the number one cause to all the mishaps we see is from a lack of education.

What should every boater do before they leave the dock?

Every boat owner should create a check list based on the size boat they own. Double check to make sure you have all the Coast Guard regulated requirements onboard. Then, check your bilge for any water and smell for potential fuel leaks. Look at the transom to see if there are any oil sheens in the water that could potentially lead to a hydraulic steering leak or tilt/trim leak. Make sure you have enough fuel for the distance you plan to travel. Create a travel plan with a destination and keep a logbook after the end of each day… (TQC logbooks are in the works )

Name three things that every captain should have on board.

I always recommend a reliable tool kit, a stop the bleed kit, and an EPIRB. Bonus if you have a Sea Tow membership!

Best advice you could give to boaters?

EDUCATE YOURSELF! If you have any hesitations about being out on the water, take a hands-on training course. For the salty and experienced boaters, never underestimate the power of the water. Anything can happen to anyone at any time. Always be prepared and never get complacent.

MEMBER BENEFITS BEYOND 24/7 TOWING

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent, or bareboat charter. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Check the Weather Forecast

Before heading out, always check the weather forecast for the day. Summer weather can be unpredictable, so ensure you’re prepared for any changes in conditions. Avoid going out during storms or high winds, and plan accordingly based on the forecast.

Prepare Your Boat

Inspect your boat thoroughly before departure. Check the engine, fuel levels, and overall condition of the vessel. Ensure all safety equipment such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, and navigation lights are in good working order and readily accessible.

Pack Essential Supplies

Gather essential supplies for a comfortable day on the water. This includes sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, towels, snacks, and plenty of drinking water to stay hydrated under the sun. Bring appropriate clothing layers in case of temperature changes or unexpected weather.

Plan Your Itinerary

Decide on your route and destinations for the day. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or engaging in water sports, having a plan ensures you make the most of your time on the water. Familiarize yourself with the area’s navigational markers and potential hazards.

Review Safety Procedures

Ensure everyone on board understands basic safety procedures and knows the location of safety equipment. Teach passengers how to wear and use life jackets properly. Assign designated roles such as a lookout or spotter if engaging in water activities.

Follow Local Regulations

Familiarize yourself with local boating regulations, including speed limits, no-wake zones, and anchoring restrictions. Adhering to these rules ensures your safety. Check out U.S.C.G Boating to stay up to date on the boating regulations in your area.

Consider On-Water Assistance Services

For added Peace of Mind on the Water, make sure you have a Sea Tow membership. Benefits include a full suite of on-water assistance services from fuel deliveries, jump starts, oil/part deliveries, covered ungroundings, offshore coverage, and more.  

Consider these steps, take the necessary precautions, and you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy a memorable day on the water.

The post How to Prepare for a Day on the Water appeared first on Sea Tow.

Here are four of the most common mishaps boaters face and how you can avoid following in their wake.

Mishap #1: Running Out of Fuel

Know your average fuel burn per hour and track the hours of use in between fill-ups. Understand that there are several things that can affect your fuel efficiency, like how much you bring on board and the water conditions alone. Be sure to refuel safely before you leave the dock and always follow the rule of thirds… 1/3 of your fuel to your destination, 1/3 back home, and 1/3 in reserve.

Mishap #2: Dead Battery

If you find yourself with a dead battery, there are a few things to check first. Is the engine cutoff switch attached? It often gets disconnected when at anchor, especially with multiple passengers aboard. How are the battery connections? Make sure the ground wire and all connections are tight with no corrosion to get the engine to crank over. Some boats have backup batteries; make the switch if one battery does not work. If all else fails, time for a jump.

Mishap #3: Uncharted Waters

Navigational errors happen. Choppy waters can push you far from course and the weather can turn and put a damper on your day. Always check the forecast before pushing off the dock. Read up on and familiarize yourself with your destination, especially if you’re heading to a new area. Heading out at night? There’s even more to consider. Bottom line, plan ahead so you don’t find yourself in a situation where you feel uncomfortable.

Mishap #4: What Backup Plan?

No one ever plans on getting stuck out on the water. That’s where Sea Tow comes in. In addition to a boat insurance policy, boaters should have an on-water assistance membership. It’s peace of mind knowing that there is a local Captain ready to assist 24/7 with no claims to file for the service you receive. Unlimited boat towing within your home area, jump starts, ungroundings, and more, Sea Tow is one card with all kinds of help.

Keep these mishaps in the back of your mind next time you head out, it could be the difference maker in your day.

MEMBER BENEFITS BEYOND 24/7 TOWING

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent or bareboat charter. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

The post 4 Most Preventable Boating Mishaps appeared first on Sea Tow.

Out of sight, out of mind, that’s the normal stasis when it comes to marine batteries. Turn the key, hear your engine awaken, and point the bow toward your destination. As long as there’s juice enough to get where you’re headed and back there’s not much to worry about. Tucked away in their generally dank and inconspicuous compartments, marine batteries simply go about performing their task of providing electrical power to your engine, dashboard, electronics package, accessories and more.

Until they don’t – and that’s the problem. Keeping your batteries well-charged, ensuring their connections remain corrosion free, and checking power levels before even cranking the engine saves a lot of headaches in the long run. All batteries eventually degrade making replacement necessary. Understanding how to pick a boat battery that will adequately fit your needs becomes the driving question. And its answer requires a little more thought than you might expect as there are several choices available these days. Here’s a simple break-down to help you begin unraveling the mystery of buying a marine boat battery.

Where Do You Start?

When it comes to buying a new marine boat battery the best way to get started is to crack open your boat owner’s manual. Here you can check your vessel’s recommended battery size, ratings and type. If your vessel has run well using the suggested batteries, simply replacing your current one with the same model may be a good idea.

There are, however, some conditions that may make it worthwhile to consider other options. Perhaps you’ve upgraded your electronics package and it now draws considerably more amperage. Maybe you’d like a battery that weighs less and is easier to remove from your vessel when necessary. Perhaps you need a unit that is more durable in a high-vibration environment. Or maybe you want a battery with a longer life expectancy. In each of these cases, a chat with a local marine mechanic is probably a good idea. Eventually, though, it’s going to be your call so the more you know the better you’ll feel when it comes time to lay your money down.

Types Of Marine Batteries

The first thing you’ll need to determine is whether you require a marine starting, deep cycle or dual-purpose battery.

Starting Batteries: Also known as boat cranking batteries, have a single purpose and that’s to fire-up the engine. They discharge high amperage current bursts for several seconds when you activate the ignition sequence and are then quickly recharged by the engine’s alternator. They are not used to run electronics, lights, electronics packages, etc.

Deep Cycle Batteries: These batteries keep the boat running throughout your trip, providing power to the lights, GPS, fish-finders, navigation tools, trolling motor and accessories. A deep cycle battery is designed to fully recover after longer discharges that would, in short order, draw down and eventually ruin a starting battery.

Dual Purpose Batteries: Dual-purpose marine batteries combine engine starting ability with the function of a deep cycle battery. While saving space, weight and money this single battery can do the task of two. This battery type is a good fit for many smaller vessel styles but be aware it drains quicker than deep cell batteries. Which may not have the capacity to produce enough juice to crank some powerhouses exceeding 200 hp.

Battery Chemistry

All of the above marine battery types are available with different internal chemistries including Flooded Lead Acid (FLA), Gel, Absorbed Glass Matt (AGM) and, Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries (LiFePO4).

Flooded lead acid batteries (FLA):

Internally, their main components are lead plates and an acid mixture of distilled water and acid. They are the least expensive of marine batteries and do a good job as long as you never drain them below 50-percent capacity. They require a little extra work, but given proper maintenance, they reliably get the job done.

However, these batteries are bulky, have a life expectancy of just two to three years, require off-season recharging and occasional topping-off of the fuel cells with distilled water. They are heavy (an average 100-Ah lead acid battery weighs between 60 and 80 pounds), more fragile than competing formats, and may not hold up well in a high-vibration environment. Lastly, they charge more slowly compared to other battery options.

Marine gel batteries and AGMs:

These are actually types of FLA batteries. Somewhat more expensive, they are fully sealed so there’s no need to top them off. They don’t leak, and they have a slower discharge rate than the original FLA format. Still, there’s that heavy weight and bulkiness issue, plus limited life span, to consider.

Lithium iron marine batteries (LiFePO4):

Although these are newer to the market, they address most FLA shortcomings. Exceptionally durable and fully sealed, they weigh half as much as flooded lead acid batteries and last 10 to 12 years. While FLA batteries risk damage if drawn down below 50-percent of full charge, a quality lithium marine battery will allow 100% DoD (Depth of Discharge). Significantly increasing run times, with no ill effects. Also, since they provide nearly double the capacity, you may only need half the number of batteries, which further reduces weight.

“They are a better mouse trap,” explains, James Holst, chief marketing officer at Norsk Lithium, a leading manufacturer of lithium batteries. “This battery type eliminates all the headaches of FLA models. Plus most manufacturers provide apps that allow owners to check cell voltage and discharge rates so you always know exactly how your batteries are performing.”

FLA vs. LeFePO4

The big drawback here is that although lithium batteries can last four times as long as FLA models, they cost three times as much. You’ll certainly see significant cost savings over time but you’ll need to cough-up more money up front. Then again, you may only need half as many batteries to run your craft compared to using FLAs, which could reduce your sticker shock. Lithium batteries are drop-in replacements in many instances, meaning they’re designed to fit like an FLA in your boat’s battery compartment. Also note that, in some areas lithium batteries may be hard to recycle.

Marine Battery Sizes

“What size battery do I need for my boat?” Good question. Deep cycle marine batteries come in several sizes, known as groups, with sizes 24, 27, and 31 most common to boating applications. Note that group size has nothing to do with that battery’s storage capacity, it simply relates to the physical dimensions. On most vessels, the battery compartment will fit one of these specific sizes. Generally, you’ll want to select the largest size that fits in your battery compartment.

Cardinal Rules

“No matter it’s size or type, happiness for any marine battery is a full recharge after every use,” says Holst. “That’s a best practice you need to follow. Never allow an FLA battery to discharge below 50-percent. And never leave full discharged lithium-ion batteries discharged for an extended time – doing so is one of the few ways to kill them.

You’ll want to add a battery monitor or manufacturer’s app to protect your investment. Norsk Lithium, offers a free app for Android and IOS that allows owners to monitor all critical battery parameters including State of Charge (SOC), Amps In/Out, Estimated Runtime @ Current Draw, Charge Cycles, Cell temps, etc. It may also be necessary to upgrade your inverter and battery charger to maximize performance.

Should you find yourself on the water with a belligerent battery, Sea Tow is ready to help, 24/7. For some simple steps that can quickly get you back up and running, check out our blog: Dead Battery? Here’s What To Do. If you still need additional help, we’re just a phone call away.

UNMATCHED MEMBER BENEFITS

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

The post Choosing a Marine Battery appeared first on Sea Tow.

Tucked behind both Northport and Huntington bays, you’ll pass the hillsides of Lloyds Point and Eaton’s Neck on approach to this destination. It’s along this stretch of Long Island Sound coastline and further to the west that the rich and famous built their mansions in the late 1890’s through the years of opulence immediately preceding the Great Depression. Indeed, the western stretch of Long Island Sound real estate from Great Neck east to Huntington, known as “The Gold Coast,” inspired the 1925 novel, “The Great Gatsby.” The Huntington area in particular was also home to the poet, Walt Whitman.

The rich and famous still live and play on the waterfront slopes here, of course, but dig a little deeper on your visit and you’ll find the moored fleets of sailboats, berthed yachts, runabouts and fishing vessels.

Still, it’s the variety of opportunities that seals the deal for most visiting boaters here, whether cruising, on the hook or checking out the dining, shopping and entertainment in Huntington Village.

“Huntington Harbor has a lot to offer any boater,”

says Captain Gaige Simon of Sea Tow, Huntington, which runs three boats in the area. “In addition to the great scenery, dining, shopping and fishing action, you’ve got yacht clubs and restaurants, marinas with gas docks, pump-out boats and mooring access. Transient dockage can be tight at peak season, so it’s a smart idea to call ahead and reserve a slip in advance.”

Simon suggests poking around both inside and outside Huntington Harbor proper. “If you head outside the harbor just past Huntington Harbor Lighthouse, you can point your bow west and cruise up into nearby Lloyd Harbor where you’ll find protected water and designated areas for wake boarding, tubing, etc. Head northeast, and you’ll come to Sand City tucked behind Eatons Neck. Here you can drop the hook, tie to a mooring or even beach your bow. Sand City is perfect for rafting-up or spending time along the beach with family as long as the wind isn’t blowing stiffly from the east. To catch a great sunset, push right out into Huntington Bay or Long Island Sound and anchor a little to east or west. The sun will be setting straight across on the Connecticut side.”

As for local fishing opportunities

Huntington is a perennial hot spot, reveals Simon. “You’ll find big stripers here from late April though early June. Porgies, fluke, sea bass and blues highlight the summer action, and the stripers, along with monster blues, put on a fall spectacular from September through October. In both the spring and fall, stripers bass in the 30-pound-plus class are not uncommon.

Those looking to dock and dine will find plenty of choices both near the harbor and in Huntington Village.

Perhaps the most popular stop for a waterfront lunch or dinner is Prime, known for its great steaks, seafood, bar choices and waterfront location. You’ll need a reservation here and, if coming by boat, you must pay to tie up at the restaurant dock. For a great sandwich try Gold Coast Surfside Deli, right next to the Mill Dam launch ramp. If pizza is your deal, DiRaimo Pizzeria is a five-minute cab ride from local marinas and can’t be beat. As you head up into Huntington Village, the choices for dining and shopping are many and varied. Both the Huntington Chamber of Commerce  and the Huntington Historical Society can turn you on to current events which seemingly run nonstop through boating season.

In terms of navigation, the same basic rules apply to Huntington Harbor as anywhere else that bustles during the summer.

Check your charts before heading out, watch your wake in the busy zones, and stay in the channels as much as possible. Note, however, that you’ll need to use a little extra caution in the harbor proper because of all the sailboat moorings. Be aware, too, that there are rocks immediately to the west of the Huntington Harbor Lighthouse, so stay to the east of that structure at all times. This lighthouse, by the way, is the oldest reinforced concreate lighthouse on the East Coast. Established in 1857, the current tower was lit in 1912. The light was automated in 1949 and is still operational.

“Of course, if you need some help on the water, you can always give Sea Tow a shout,” says Gaige. “If possible, note your latitude and longitude when you contact us (you can get this from your Sea Tow App). Drop anchor, too, if possible, so you’ll be easy for us to find. We monitor channel 16, which is the best channel here to communicate with other boaters in the area. In general, primary boating channels are well marked here so stay between the greens and the reds and you should have no problems.”

UNMATCHED MEMBER BENEFITS

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

The post Best Boating in the Northeast appeared first on Sea Tow.

Boat Show DO’S AND DONT’S:

• The golden rule – ask permission prior to boarding a boat that you’d like to tour.
• You must remove your shoes before boarding a boat (this is generally common practice for any boat not just at a show). Wear a comfortable pair that are easy to slip on and off.
• Do not request to use the head (bathroom) on board, find one ashore at the show.
• Many boat shows are full sun and can be very hot. Be prepared with sunscreen, sunglasses and/or a hat. Avoid dark colors and heavy materials, it can make for a very uncomfortable afternoon.
• Most shows don’t allow strollers on floating docks. Plan accordingly.
• If you are walking the docks with little ones, be safe and make sure they are wearing a life jacket. Visit a Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Station at the show and pick one up to borrow for the day.

Carve out some time to stop by the Sea Tow booth! It’s a great opportunity to meet your local captain and ask any membership related questions.

With so many vendors, products, and delicious food you are sure to have a fun-filled day exploring all that a show has to offer. Enjoy!

member benefits beyond 24/7 towing

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent lease or bareboat charter. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

The post Boat Show Etiquette appeared first on Sea Tow.

When you check on your boat after a hurricane, be sure to bring:

• Your phone to take photos and videos of any damage
• Extra lines to replace any that may have been damaged or lost in the storm
• Cleaning supplies to get that piece of the recovery project underway

Remove as much salt, mud, and moisture as you can. Check that there is no debris in the bilge and pumps. Check the water level in the bilge for potential damage, and look over the engine and fuel systems for damage. If you left any personal items and/or equipment aboard, take it home so it’s not stolen.

If your boat has sunk or is displaced after a hurricane, it is critical to only work with local, licensed, and insured salvage and recovery teams. Sea Tow maintains specialized equipment to handle salvage and recovery work. Check with your provider to ensure salvage work is covered by your boat insurance policy.

Take the time to follow these tips to avoid any further post-storm difficulties.

How Sea Tow Can Help

Sea Tow has established relationships with most marine insurers and the experience to safely recover your property while preventing any further damage. If you have an insurance claim reported, we will do our best to work directly with your marine insurance provider. Our boats and equipment are top-of-the-line and built to respond. Learn more here or contact our 24/7 Customer Care Team for assistance.

The post What to Do With Your Boat After a Hurricane appeared first on Sea Tow.

1. Navigation Lights Required: Before departure, ensure all navigation lights are functioning. These alert other skippers of your position and course.
2. Slow, Steady, Stop: Always start out slowly, build to a steady, safe rate of speed, and immediately stop to review any situation that provokes second thoughts or suggests the possibility of danger ahead.
3. The Eyes Have It: The more eyes you have watching the water, the better. When possible, post a crew member on the bow (wearing a PFD) to help keep an eye out for other boats, floating debris, channel markers, buoys, etc.
4. Stay Focused: Skippers need to stay focused and on the lookout at ALL times when boating at night. Be aware that what may appear to be navigational or background lights could actually be another vessel. Delegate any task outside of operating the helm to other crew members or passengers.
5. Don’t Be Stubborn: It’s very easy to veer off course or even run aground after dark. If you can’t be certain you’re on track to your destination, stop and call for assistance. Sea Tow Captains are your local resource and are standing by 24/7 to help.

Unmatched Member Benefits

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

The post Boating at Night appeared first on Sea Tow.

It’s best to have a few ground rules to prevent unintentional bumps, scratches, misunderstandings, and the like. Here are 9 tips to make sure it all goes smoothly.

Location: Rafting up out of the wind, out of the current, and away from any place that may have serious boat wakes is best. Ideally, look for a place that is buffered by the shore with access to shallow water or a beach where kids can wade, swim or dinghy to shore.

Slow Down: When approaching or joining another raft, slow down to avoid any potentially damaging collisions or injuries.

Permission: When tying up alongside another boat in an existing raft always ask for permission first. If you don’t know the skipper, approach slowly and ask to join the raft from a safe distance.

Anchoring: Start with the biggest boats in the middle and smaller boats on the outside edges for balance. The largest and heaviest boat should anchor first and set one off the bow and one off the stern for added security.

Fenders: You’ll need several, at least two or three per side, depending on boat size. Bring the biggest ones you have (a minimum of 10 inches) and secure them along the side of your boat before you approach the raft to tie up.

Boat Alignment: To avoid climbing over gunwales, it’s best to align swim platforms to move from boat to boat. Tie off at the bow and stern and use spring lines amidships to fine-tune positioning.

Etiquette: Don’t run your engine or generator, don’t play the music too loud, and use appropriate language – especially if kids are in ear shot.

Cleats: Use the cleats when securing to one another, not rail stations, handrails, or the like.

Tight Lines: Make sure that all lines stay tight throughout the day to reduce motion.

Practice safe boating, follow all local and state laws and regulations, and follow these tips the next time you raft up.

UNMATCHED MEMBER BENEFITS

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent, or bareboat charter. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

The post Rafting Up Right appeared first on Sea Tow.

Practice before heading out! Just like how you learned to back up a car, learning to back up your boat effectively and safely is important. Use cones as markers to simulate entering tricky or tight boat ramps.

Adjust your mirrors. Be sure your side mirrors are adjusted so that you can see the side of the trailer on the inner third or half of the mirror. The outer half/third of your mirror will show you any potential hazards.

Take it slow. Slow and steady wins the race – it also gives you a better chance to correct a misstep. A line of boats waiting behind you might make you anxious, but take your time and get it right.

Don’t oversteer. It’s better to understeer and give yourself the opportunity to correct than oversteer. If you go too far, you may have to pull forward and start over.

Remember – the trailer turns in the opposite direction your vehicle turns. If you are turning your vehicle clockwise, your vehicle will go to the right – as expected. However, the back of your trailer will turn to the left. Knowing this will help you envision where your trailer and boat will end up. To put it simply:

Place the palm of your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel.

If you want the trailer to go to the left, move your hand to the left (clockwise).

If you want the trailer to go to the right, move your hand to the right (counterclockwise).

Have a friend help. Bring an experienced boater with you to help be your guide. An extra set of eyes never hurts, especially if you’re new to navigating the ramps!

If you’d like to read more trailering tips, click here.

UNMATCHED MEMBER BENEFITS

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services as well as exclusive on-road assistance with Trailer Care. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Center at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Tip #1: First and foremost, understand the capacity of your boat, and don’t push it. It’s a safety issue.

Tip #2: Make sure your guests are clear on the rules of your boat.

Tip #3: Ensure you have enough life jackets for each guest on board. If you don’t, locate a Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Station and borrow what you need.

Tip #4: Coordinate with your guests on who will bring snacks, water, sunscreen, and other essentials. Before you push off, make sure you have everything on board.

Tip #5: Know how to correctly raft up with the other boats in your fleet to avoid unnecessary damage.

HOW SEA TOW CAN HELP

These tips are sure to help you when boating with a big group – but what happens if you run into engine trouble or out of fuel while out on the water? Sea Tow is standing by 24/7 to help get you back to boating or home safely.

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent, bareboat charter, lease or borrow. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Center at 800-4-SEATOW.

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