Boat U.S. is a great organization that offers a lot of benefits to boaters nationwide. From education to representation, and insurance to assistance, this organization is absolutely essential. That being said, is it worth it?
MEMBERSHIP
Joining Boat U.S. can take a few forms and the costs vary depending on which level you join. The basic membership only costs $25/yr but only offers up to $50 towards on the water towing. Upgraded towing plans include “Unlimited Gold” and “Unlimited” with each offering 100% payment for offshore and restricted dock towing but the “Gold”...
Scalloping in Crystal River is the perfect family getaway because it’s easy, everyone can do it, and the area offers so much.
IT’S EASY
One thing I love about scalloping in Crystal River is that it’s very easy. You don’t need dive gear, certifications or fancy equipment. You also don’t need to be able to hold your breath forever or dive deep depths. All you need is snorkeling gear and a mesh bag to place the scallops in. Literally, it’s like a scavenger hunt or Easter egg hunt. You simply scan the sea grass beds looking for scallops.
THE BEST FLORIDA...
Boating without owning is easier than you think. Thanks to some new options created recently, it’s never been better to enjoy all the benefits of owning a boat without the hassles. Here’s how to do it.
RENT A BOAT
The most obvious way to enjoy boating without owning is to simply rent a boat. Nowadays, there are boat rental companies located almost everywhere. Renting a boat is the quickest and least costly way to spend the day on the water. All that’s required is food, drinks, and maybe some water floats and you’re set.
HERE’S A GREAT PLACE TO ENJOY A BOAT RENTAL
UTILIZE...
As of May 1st, The Bahamas will loosen travel restrictions for visitors. Here are the highlights.
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE NEW RULES
As of May 1, those traveling to The Bahamas from outside The Bahamas will be exempt from taking a COVID 19 test once they are vaccinated and have passed the 2-week immunity period.
All travelers and residents must still adhere to the social distancing and mask wearing protocols, but once fully vaccinated, they can resume indoor dining.
Those within The Bahamas that have been fully vaccinated will be immediately exempt from COVID 19 test requirements when traveling...
With so many new boaters expected on the water this summer, many of them must understand the basics of trailering and launching a boat. This post details everything you need to know.
STEP 1: TRAILER PREP
Trailering a boat has many advantages and being successful at trailering and launching a boat begins with proper trailer preparation. When trailering it’s important to make sure the hitch connection is secure, the safety chains are attached and crossed, and the proper size ball and receiver are used. Also, the receiver must be locked down so the trailer doesn’t pop off the hitch.
Other important...
With school soon to be out, many parents will wonder what are the best Florida summer activities for kids? Take it from me, these will not disappoint.
BRING A CAST NET TO THE BEACH
One of the best things I ever did for my kids when they were young was brought a cast net to the beach. I can’t overemphasize how beneficial this was for them. The endless fun they had catching fish, learning about the ocean, and socializing with other kids was priceless. Also, as they got older it became a wonderful way for my wife and me to catch up on some relaxation without having to pay a babysitter.
THE...
Driving a boat is one of the most liberating and enjoyable things to do. However, learning how to drive a boat isn’t so easy for the new boater. The following are ways to go from zero to hero in your quest to become a better and more confident boat driver.
BUY THE RIGHT BOAT
One of the most overlooked things is simply buying the right boat. All too often, new boaters buy boats that are way too big or sophisticated or have restricted visibility and maneuverability. The last thing a new boater needs is more things to worry about. For most people, buying a simple, single outboard, center console...
Planning to visit the 35th annual Palm Beach International Boat Show by Boat? Then why not turn your trip into a full-blown nautical vacation? We’re going to share with you the best places for dining, docking and just plain fun in Palm Beach.
LOCATION
The boat show is taking place along the waterfront and Flagler Drive in Downtown West Palm Beach. This year it will be packed with more than $1.2 billion (with a “B”!) worth of the newest yachts and accessories. Attendees get to check out the latest and coolest of everything from 8-foot inflatables to 200-foot super yachts. It will be...
Boating has become even more popular during the past year. Given it’s appeal, here are the top YouTube boating channels that I follow and you should consider too.
BOAT US (Boater Education)
Boat US is one of the oldest and most respected organizations that represents boaters. This YouTube channel is great because it features lots of meaningful content, specifically, content relating to education, safety, boat types, boat handling techniques and so much more. This is a great foundational channel to subscribe to. In addition, Boat US is an organization you should consider joining....
Florida boaters will soon face two laws requiring the use of emergency kill switches while underway. The first law passed by the Federal Government will take effect on April 1st of this year. The other is a proposed Florida law that takes effect on July 1st (if passed). Here are all the specifics.
WHAT IS A KILL SWITCH?
An emergency kill switch, also know as an emergency cut off switch, is a lanyard that the operator of a boat wears or attaches to himself/herself so the motor will shut off if they are thrown overboard. They can also be wireless. Kill switches are very common on most...