BoatUS shares their annual list of the most popular boat names chosen by boaters – compare top boat names from 2016, 2015 and 2014 So you just bought a boat and now you have the big decision of what to name it (and you thought shopping for the ideal boat size and model was a...
Top Boating Products for 2016
Boating Industry Magazine selects products as best new innovations introduced in boating throughout 2015 Each year, Boating Industry magazine (the trade magazine for businesses in boating) releases a list of the top new products in the boating industry as part of their annual quest for new products and innovations. Selected by Boating Industry magazine editors, the...
How to Get Your Captain’s License –A Step-by-Step Guide
From Captain requirements to the Coast Guard application process – how to navigate the process of becoming an official boat Captain Like all other areas of professional endeavor, getting a Captain’s license is an essential and non-trivial process. Despite the years between my earliest thoughts on having one and actually applying…or perhaps because of that...
Spring Boat Commissioning: 8 Mistakes for Boaters to Avoid
Commissioning your boat at the start of boating season requires a lot more than removing your boat cover and slapping on some bottom paint. In fact, proper spring boat commissioning can make a big difference in the safety and longevity of your boat. From minor nuisance mistakes that can cause you a lot of aggravation, to...
Enjoy the Water AND Get Paid to Boat: 5 Jobs for Captains
Boating, yachting, and sailing are a lot of fun. The salubrious benefits of on-water recreation are many. I, probably not unlike many of you, like to go to my boat and just be there… resting, relaxing, or puttering with her systems. And it is always a good time when one invites family and friends aboard...
3 Checklists You Should Create for Your Boat
In my last article on boat checklists, I identified reasons why one might want to use various checklists and how to create and use good checklists for your boat. I also pointed out that creating a checklist can be as helpful as referring to one. A few types of lists were mentioned, but generally better...
Tips for Buying a Used Boat Trailer
If you are buying a smaller boat, then you are likely looking at buying a trailer as well. Used boat trailers can be a good deal if they are in good shape. Many used boats are also for sale with the trailer included. But how do you know if that used trailer is actually a...
How to Create and Use Good Checklists for Your Boat
As a person of a certain age, I have come to appreciate the value of lists. However, the attraction is not new. When I began my flight training in the early 1980’s, there were checklists for pre-flight activities, pre-departure, entering a Terminal Control Area, landing, securing the aircraft, and on and on and on. When...
Couples Cruising: Tips for Better Communication and Boat Handling Skills
I am proud of my boat handling skills. However, what is more meaningful to me is having taught my crew what to do in ALL the roles on board. On a number of occasions when my first mate/galley steward Theresa and I have returned from a charter, people on the dock or adjacent boats comment...
Planning Your Next Sailing Adventure: Enjoy the Experience Before, During & After
It has been said that if you love what you do, you will never have to work. I do enjoy my engineering work and that makes it easier for me to get up at 5AM five days a week to go to work. But anyone who knows me well knows that the true passion burns...
Healthy Energy Bars Packed with Sun Defense Antioxidants Ideal for Boating
All natural, delicious and rich in antioxidants – Waxhead sun defense foods help boaters “thrive in the sun” SPONSORED POST We received free samples from Waxhead Sun Defense Foods in exchange for a review on MyBoatLife.com, however opinions expressed in this article are based on real experiences with the product as a boater. There is no doubt that boaters...
Holiday Gift Guides & Ideas for Boaters
Boat Gift Guide - Boating & Nautical Gifts for Boaters Each year we try to put together a collection of the best boating gift ideas to help with your holiday shopping. To help you select the perfect boating or nautical gift you can browse our hand-picked gift selections in the Boat Gift Guide using easy to shop gift-giving...
Winterizing Boats and Motorcycles with Ethanol Blended Gas
Winterization tips for your boat or motorcycle to avoid ethanol blended fuel issues If you trailer your boat then you most likely fill it up with fuel at gas stations on the road. Let’s face it – it is often cheaper and more convenient than fueling up at the gas dock in the water. The problem for...
Geared Up For Boat Show Season
Some of the biggest and best boat shows happen over fall and winter. People flock to large shows in Fort Lauderdale and Annapolis, and take in the latest vessels in smaller shows in places like Seattle and Vancouver. How can you make the best of your boat show experience? Here are a few things that will help you...