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”...
Although rare, Red Tide can transform beautiful beaches into places to avoid. Fish kills, coughing, and nasty water often results. If you’re looking to avoid Red Tide, here’s how to do it.
WHAT IS RED TIDE?
Red Tide is a naturally occurring phenomenon that normally occurs in the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a harmful algal bloom consisting primarily of an organism called “Karenia brevis”. It is thought that harmful nutrients from drainage runoff, septic systems, Lake Okeechobee water releases, and man-made spills contribute to Red Tide and/or make it worse.
HOW TO TRACK IT
Mote Marine in...
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...
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...
Today, new center console boats are more expensive than ever. Part of this is due to COVID and the other is simply because people realize the numerous benefits of boating. This post details the top 10 center console boats that won’t break the bank.
The boats listed are based on the respective manufacturer websites, specifically the “build your boat” pages. All the boats shown had to have real pricing under $60,000 and MSRP pricing below $75,000.
BOSTON WHALER MONTAUK 170
Of all the boats on this list, the Boston Whaler Montauk 170 is probably the highest quality and certainly is the most...
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...
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....
Tampa Bay has some amazing Super Bowl beaches that are definitely worth visiting. In fact, the Tampa Bay region is loaded with some of the best beaches in all of Florida. In my opinion, these are the best ones to visit during the Super Bowl.
FT DESOTO COUNTY PARK
Ft. DeSoto Park is probably the most convenient beach in the Tampa Bay area. This county park is absolutely beautiful and loaded with amenities. Here, you can relax on a world-class beach, camp, launch a boat, kayak, stand-up paddle board, cruise one of the bike trails, or simply enjoy its beauty and history. In addition, Ft. DeSoto...
The Coast Guard Auxiliary is one of the best organizations available for those who love boating. I should know, I’ve been a member for over 20 years! In my opinion, these are the reasons this voluntary branch of the U.S. Coast Guard is so special.
HIGHLY REWARDING
For starters, the Auxiliary is extremely rewarding. I love sharing my boating knowledge and skills as well as helping others who are in need. Whether through a BOATING SAFETY CLASS, vessel safety exam, or an active search and rescue operation, this organization is hard to beat. Also, the Coast Guard Auxiliary is an official...
As someone who’s done this for over two years, the benefits of blogging over age 50 have been surprising and inspiring. Should you consider it? Read below to find out.
WITH AGE COMES WISDOM
One of the primary benefits of blogging over age 50 is you have a lot of knowledge to share. That knowledge, is likely, a big benefit to your readers and is the primary reason they’ll continue to listen to you over others. There’s no substitute for knowledge and experience.
FULFILLING
Sadly, many people are stuck in unfulfilling jobs and never tap their passion. Blogging over age 50 gives...