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Powerboating: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Know Your Boat-Location
Learn these common boat terms used for location, position and direction aboard a boat.
Boat Rules 16 - Under 26 feet
The U.S. Coast Guard has different safety equipment requirements for recreational boats depending upon boat size. Find out the required equipment if your vessel is at least 16 feet but under 26 feet.
2009 J.D. Power Boat Rankings
J.D. Power and Associates, a highly respected independent market research firm, examines the experiences of new boat owners to determine owner satisfaction in seven different segments of boats including: ski/wakeboard; fiberglass bass boats; small runabouts; large runabouts; coastal fishing; pontoons; and express cruisers.
FederalLaws
The U.S. Coast Guard is the federal regulating agency for recreational boats. As such, the Coast Guard issues boating safety recommendations and ensures the proper compliance with federal boating safety laws and equipment requirements. Here is a guide to the federal boating laws enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Boat Prices
The boat list price is not the only price consideration when buying a boat. When you purchase a boat, consider these three important items when budgeting to buy a boat.
Parts of a Boat
Knowing how your boat is constructed and its various parts will increase your understanding of boats in general, and yours in particular.
Read a Chart - Part 1
Learning to navigate can seem like an insurmountable challenge, but when broken into manageable pieces, it becomes simpler. The first steps are to learn the basic components of a nautical chart, and how to interpret the information for safe navigation.
Boat Name Suggestions
Need inspiration for naming a boat? Andrew Canepari of Custom Boat Names has some suggestions.
Spring Boat Prep
De-winterize your boat using these simple spring boat prep tips, and you will be ready for spring commissioning in no time.
BoatingSafetyRulesbySize
The Coast Guard has different boating safety equipment requirements for recreational boats depending upon boat size. Find out the required boating safety equipment for your vessel.
RegistrationNumberPlacement
Where are the registration numbers on the boat placed? The Coast Guard has certain regulations regarding the placement of registration numbers. Find out here.
Safety Requirements Hub
The Coast Guard has different boating safety equipment requirements for recreational boats depending upon boat size. Find out the required equipment for your vessel.
Gelcoat Restoration
If your boat's gelcoat shows signs of oxidation, follow these tips to restore the gelcoat to it's original shine.
New to Powerboating
When you are new to boating, knowing these basics and committing to deepen your knowledge of safe boating practices will serve you well.
Plotting a Course
Plot a course on a nautical chart, and use time, speed, and distance calculations to run the course to your destination.
2009 Best Small Runabouts
J.D. Power, a highly respected independent market research firm, examines the experiences of new boat owners to determine owner satisfaction in the small runabout segment. Find out the best three 2009 small runabout boats.
Buying a Boat - Size
Besides considering the use and price of a boat, when you are buying a boat take into account the size of boat compatible with your needs.
Register and Number Your Boat
The U.S. Coast Guard requires all recreational boats to be registered in the state of their use. They also require the numbers be displayed correctly. Find out how to register and number your boat properly.
Marine Engine Overview
A boat can have one of many different marine drive systems. Learn more about marine engines and systems that put the power into powerboat.
2009 Best Large Runabouts
J.D. Power, a highly respected independent market research firm, examines the experiences of new boat owners to determine owner satisfaction in the large runabout segment. Find out the best three 2009 large runabout boats.
Types of Boats
There are many types of boats, each designed with a specific activity or activities in mind. Learn distinguishing characteristic that set different boats apart and which boating activities are recommended for each.
2008 J.D. Power Boat Rankings
J.D. Power, a highly respected independent market research firm, examines the experiences of new boat owners to determine owner satisfaction in seven different segments of boats including: ski/wakeboard; fiberglass bass boats; small runabouts; large runabouts; coastal fishing; pontoons; and express cruisers.
GelcoatMaintenance
Boat maintenance is as simple as maintaining your boat's gelcoat, which is essential to preventing oxidation and damage to the hull. Learn how by following this easy boat gelcoat maintenance plan.
2009 Best Express Cruisers
J.D. Power and Associates, a highly respected independent market research firm, examines the experiences of new boat owners to determine owner satisfaction in the express cruiser boat segment. Find out the best 2009 express cruiser boats.
Boat Rules Under 16ft
The Coast Guard has different safety equipment requirements for recreational boats depending upon boat size. Find out the required equipment for vessels under 16 feet.
HowToNavigate
Learn marine navigation - the art of navigating the world's waterways - using nautical charts, a compass, marine electronics and various marine publications.
Boat Engine
Winterizing your boat's drive system properly can save you thousands and dollars in repairs and headaches in the spring. Learn how to properly winterize a boat engine.
besttimetobuyaboat
Thinking about buying a boat? Know the best time to buy a boat and mark your calendar.
Boat Rules 26 - Under 40 feet
The U.S. Coast Guard has different safety equipment requirements for recreational boats depending upon boat size. Find out the required equipment for a vessel at least 26 feet but under 40 feet.
Boat Gelcoat
Sometimes referred to as fiberglass, a boat's gelcoat is simply the outer skin of the hull. Find out how it protects your boat and why you should protect it.
Gelcoat Oxidation
If your boat's gelcoat is not properly cared for, it could oxidize. Find out if your boat has gelcoat oxidation and the severity.
Best Coastal Fishing Boats
J.D. Power and Associates, a highly respected independent market research firm, examines the experiences of new boat owners to determine owner satisfaction in the coastal fishing boat segment. Find out the best three 2009 coastal fishing boats.
2009 Best Pontoon Boats
J.D. Power, a highly respected independent market research firm, examines the experiences of new boat owners to determine owner satisfaction in the pontoon boat segment. Find out the best three 2009 pontoon boats.
2009 Best Bass Boats
J.D. Power, a highly respected independent market research firm, examines the experiences of new boat owners to determine owner satisfaction in the bass boat segment. Find out the best three 2009 bass boats.
Boat Cleaning Tips
Simplistic though it may seem, cleaning your boat after each use is the first step in boat maintenance. Follow these basic boat cleaning tips to maintain the look and value of your investment.
Operating at a Safe Speed
The Coast Guard Navigation Rules, also known as the Rules of the Road or Nav Rules, are a set of rules governing the safe navigation of your boat, which includes proceeding at a safe speed. Learn what it means to operate your boat at a safe speed according the Navigation Rules.
Boat Review: Triumph Boats
If you’re in the market for a fishing or sport boat, the Triumph line of boats are a must-see.
YourBoatsGelcoat
Your boat's gelcoat tells a story about your boat. If it has been well maintained, it will gleam like it did when you first bought it. If not, it may show signs of oxidation. In either case, a little TLC with keep your boat's gelcoat in top shape.
Boating While Impaired
Drinking while boating is a bad idea for operators and passengers. Avoid hefty fines, losing your operator's license, or jail time by not drinking and boating.
Boatlines
Rope, or line as it is called on a boat, is an essential boating accessory. Learn about line types, construction, size and uses aboard your boat.
Cuddy Cabin Boats
Cuddy cabins are fun boats and offer comfortable amenities such as sleeping berths, toilets and cooking facilities.
Bowriders
Ideal for day cruising, watersports and fishing, bowriders offer large seating capacity making it the most popular boat in the runabout category.
Life Jacket Fit
Learn how to fit a PFD, or life jacket, properly to maximize its effectiveness.
Best EPIRBs
Any type of EPIRB or PLB is better than nothing, but find out which one the Coast Guard recommends for all boaters.
2009 Best Ski/Wakeboard Boats
J.D. Power, a highly respected independent market research firm, examines the experiences of new boat owners to determine owner satisfaction in the ski/wakeboard segment. Find out the best 2009 ski/wakeboard boats.
Save Money Fueling Your Boat
Save money on boating gas by knowing your boat's design and economical speed.
Life Jackets Basic
Before choosing a life jacket, learn about the kinds and types of U.S. Coast Guard approved personal floatation devices, and the minimum requirements under federal regulations.
Fishing Boats
There are many types of saltwater and freshwater fishing boats. Find out which type of fishing boat might be best for you.
Sea Ray
Sea Ray is top-ranked in the Express Cruiser, Large Runabout and Small Runabout segments of the 2009 J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey.
epirborplb
EPIRBs and PLBs are similar, yet different in important ways. Use this as a guide to decide the best EPIRB and PLB for you.
BeaufortScale
The National Weather Service uses this scale when issuing local marine forecasts. Be familiar with this scale when reading the local marine forecast to determine safe boating conditions.
Top5boatingmagazines
Boating magazines are a fun way to get new information about boating, read the latest boat reviews, and pick up handy boating and boat maintenance tips. Subscribe to one of these top five boating magazines to stay in the boating know all year long.
Personalized Boating Gifts
Boating gift ideas with a practical yet personal touch.
Vinegar Tips
Vinegar is an effective and economical cleaning agent. Learn tips to use it aboard your boat for simple boat maintenance and cleaning, deodorizing and discouraging pests.
Saltwater Fishing Boats
Used to pursue game fish inshore and offshore, there are many types of saltwater fishing boats. Find out which type of saltwater fishing boat might be best for you.
Better Boat Handling Skills
When it comes to being an expert boat handler, practice is the name of the game. Follow these tips while you are boating, and you’ll master your craft in no time.
Use a Life Jacket
New life jacket designs remove common excuses boaters give for not wearing a life jacket while boating. Choose the right style for your activity and be comfortable - and safe - while you boat.
whatisanepirb?
EPIRBs and PLBs are designed to save your life. Find out what they are, how they work and why every boater needs one.
Regal Boats
Regal ranked at the top in the 2009 J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey in the Express Cruiser, Large Runabout and Small Runabout segments.
Before You Buy a Boat
Buying a boat is big decision. Before you buy a boat, get five tips that will make choosing a boat that is right for you easier.
Cobalt Boats
Cobalt boats ranked at the top in the 2009 J.D. Power and Associate and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey Large Runabout segment for the eight year running.
Boat Rules 40 - Under 65 feet
The U.S. Coast Guard has different safety equipment requirements for recreational boats depending upon boat size. Find out the required equipment for a vessel at least 40 feet but under 65 feet.
Runabouts
Sporty, fun and roomy, there are three types of runabouts for the casual boater.
Bennington Pontoon Boats
Bennington won the 2009 J.D. Power and Associate and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey in the Pontoon Boat segment.
WinterBoatStorage
Before winter arrives, choose which method of winter boat storage that best suits your wallet and your lifestyle.
Heading
What is a heading in marine navigation? Find out the meaning or definition of the boating term heading.
boatshowbuying
Which is better: buying a boat at a boat show or buying from a dealer? Find out why even dealers say buying a buying a boat at a boat show may not be the best option.
Maintain a Proper Lookout
The Coast Guard Navigation Rules, also known as the Rules of the Road or Nav Rules, are a set of rules governing the safe navigation of your boat, which includes maintaining a proper lookout. Learn how to maintain a proper lookout while boating for the sake of safety.
Foundation of Seamanship
Seamanship is more than boat handling. Knowing your boat is the first step to mastering the art of small boat seamanship.
LawEnforcement
Learn about federal boating safety requirements and the authority of the Coast Guard to board your vessel, issue citations, terminate your voyage, and charge you with negligence, gross negligence or boating while intoxicated
Boating Best Practices
Boating safely takes discipline and awareness. Follow these boating safety best practices and you will be well on your way to safer boating.
Wear a Life Jacket
Having life jackets aboard your boat is good, but since accidents can happen too fast to put it on, wearing a life jacket is best.
VHF-FM Marine Radio
Calling for help on VHF Channel 16 should be your primary means of making a maritime distress call. If you don't own a VHF-FM marine radio, find out compelling reasons why you should.
Grady-White Boats
Grady-White is winner of the J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction award eight years running.
EPIRBs
EPIRBs and PLBs are designed to save your life. Find out what they are, how they work and why every boater needs one.
What is an EPIRB?
What is an EPIRB or Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon? Definition of EPIRB.
Boatshowtips
Whether you are in the market for a new boat or not, boat shows are fun. If you plan to buy a boat, boat shows can help you make the best boat buying decision possible.
registeranepirb
If you purchased an EPIRB or PLB, it must be registered with NOAA. Here's how to do it.
Boating Gifts
Looking for a gift for the boater in your life? Look no further than this extensive list of boating gift ideas.
File a Float Plan
Filing a float plan with friends or family before you leave the dock is an important aspect of boating safety. If things take a turn for the worse, they can relay important information to rescuers.
Deck Boats
Deck boats are in the runabout category of boats and are known for their seating capacity.
Sea Ray 175 Sport
The Sea Ray 175 Sport is one of the J.D. Power and Associates Best Boats in the Small Runabout category.
Bass Cat
Bass Cat is winner of the J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction award four years running.
Monterey Boats
Monterey boats rank third in the Small Runabout segment of the 2009 J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey.
Regal 1900 Bowrider Photo Gallery
J.D. Power and Associates chose the Regal 1900 Bowrider as the 2008 Best Boat in the small runabout category of its 2008 Boat Competitive study.
Boating Gadget Gifts
Great gadgets boating gifts for the tech-minded boater in your life.
Hurricane Prep Moored Boat
If a hurricane watch has been issued, follow these steps to prepare your boat to weather the storm in it's moorings.
Optional Safety Equipment
A list of the top five optional – but highly recommended – safety equipment you should consider for your boat. The Coast Guard safety rules require recreational boaters to have basic safety equipment on board at all times. While the boat supplies listed below are not required, I highly recommend them as added aids in your arsenal of boating safety equipment.
SailorBags
SailorBags are the perfect boating accessories. Made of durable sail cloth, SailorBags are a stylish way to tote all of your boating supplies and gear, and they make great gifts for the boater in your life!
howepirbswork
EPIRBs and PLBs are designed to save your life by transmitting a distress signal to international search and rescue satellites. Find out how they work and why every boater needs one.
Sea Ray 185 Sport
The Sea Ray 185 Sport is one of the J.D. Power and Associates Best Boats in the Small Runabout category.
Marine Radio or Cell Phone?
When it comes to relaying a distress call to the Coast Guard, a cell phone call to 911 works in a pinch, but the Coast Guard prefers mariners use Channel 16 on a VHF-FM marine radio.
Boston Whaler
Boston Whaler ranks second in the Coastal Fishing segment of the 2009 J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction award.
Wellcraft Coastal 340
Boats like the 2009 Wellcraft Coastal 340 are a treasure in a sea full of boats. The Wellcraft Coastal 340 offers a match made in heaven for serious fishing, cruising, and entertaining boating. The multi-tasking boater will love this boat that does it all.
Evintude
Profile of the 100 year old giant marine outboard manufacturer.
Boating Courses
Statistics show taking a boating safety course reduces the amount of boat accidents and fatalities. Take a boating safety course with one of these organizations that offer boater education classes.
Before Buying a Boat - Time
Boat ownership is not only a financial investment, but an investment of your time. Before you buy a boat, determine how much time you have to devote to boating and caring for your boat.
Before Buying a Boat - Use
When you are buying a boat, there isn't a single boat that fits all water activities. Use these guidelines to narrow your choice of boats to the type that will suit your needs the best.
SPOTsatellitemessenger
EPIRBs and PLBs can save your life. The SPOT Satellite Messenger has many unique features, including alerting rescue agencies if you are in distress.
Regal 2250 Cuddy - Grill
Regal boats ranked second behind Sea Ray in J.D. Powers and Associates 2009 Boat Competitive Information study. The Regal 2250 Cuddy is one of the 2009 Best Boats in the large runabout category.
What is COSPAS-SARSAT?
What is the COSPAS-SARSAT Satellite System? Definition of COSPAS-SARSAT Satellite System.
Renaming a boat
Ever wondered if it is bad to rename a boat? Find the answer here.
Marine Weather Forecast
Your local weather report may predict sunny skies and blissful temperatures, but you need to know the marine weather forecast before you decide whether or not to take the boat out.
Boat Names Hub
Boat names are a fun way to personalize your boating experience. Learn how to name your boat and get boat name ideas.
Century
Century ranks third in the Coastal Fishing segment of the 2009 J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey.
Sea Ray 210 Select
The Sea Ray 210 Select is one of the J.D. Power and Associates Best Boats in the Large Runabout category.
Ranger Boats
Ranger Boats is a world-renowned manufacturer of quality freshwater boats and saltwater fishing boats. Ranger boats was selected as the runner up to Bass Cat in the 2009 J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction award.
Sea Ray 270 Sundancer Master Berth
The Sea Ray 270 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
Nautique Ski/Wakeboard Boats
Nautique won the 2009 J.D. Power and Associate and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey in the Ski/Wakeboard Boat segment.
Sea Ray 270 Sundancer Galley
The Sea Ray 270 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
WinterizeInterior
Winterizing your boat is not just about preparing the drive system to weather the cold. It's also about properly caring for the hull and interior, which together with winterizing the drive components of your boat, can save you thousands and dollars in repairs and headaches in the spring.
Bearing
What is a bearing in marine navigation? Find out the meaning or definition of the boating term bearing.
Sea Ray 330 Sundancer
The Sea Ray 330 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
ACR ResQFix
The ACR ResQFix 406 GPS Personal Locator Beacon has an integrated GPS to transmit your location faster and pinpoint your location better.
Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Berth
The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
Sea Ray 310 Sundancer V-Berth
The Sea Ray 310 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
WinterizeChecklist
Winterizing your boat is easy when you use this checklist when you prepare to winterize your boat.
Powerboating For Dummies
One of the clearest, most informative books on Powerboating you can read, Powerboating for Dummies is a perfect book for people interested in boating or for novice boaters.
Regal 2450 Cuddy Photo Gallery
Regal boats ranked second behind Cobalt in J.D. Powers and Associates 2008 Boat Competitive Information study. The Regal 2450 Cuddy is one of the 2008 Best Boats in the large runabout category.
Hurricane Boat Preparation
Nobody can promise your boat will make it through a hurricane unscathed, but by following these guidelines, your boat will have a greater chance of surviving a storm.
What is a Category II EPIRB?
What is a Category II EPIRB? Definition of a Category II EPIRB.
Sea Ray 290 Sun Sport
The Sea Ray 290 Sun Sport is one of the J.D. Power and Associates Best Boats in the Large Runabout category.
Buying A Boat - Use
When you are buying a boat, there isn't a single boat that fits all water activities. Use these guidelines to narrow your choice of boats to the type that will suit your needs the best.
Regal 1900 Mooring Cover
J.D. Power and Associates chose the Regal 1900 Bowrider as the 2008 Best Boat in the small runabout category of its 2008 Boat Competitive study.
Sea Ray 270 Sundancer
The Sea Ray 270 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
Sea Ray 280 Sundancer
The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
What is a Gale Warning?
What is a gale warning? Find out the meaning or definition of a gale warning in marine weather.
Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Lounge
The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
Regal 2565 Express Cruiser
The Regal 2565 was chosen as one of the best boats in the J.D. Power and Associates Boat Competitive Study in the Express Cruiser category.
Manitou Pontoon Boats
Manitou ranked second in the 2009 J.D. Power and Associate and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey in the Pontoon Boat segment.
Sea Ray 270 Sundancer Helm
The Sea Ray 270 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
Regal 2250 Cuddy - Berth
Regal boats ranked second behind Sea Ray in J.D. Powers and Associates 2009 Boat Competitive Information study. The Regal 2250 Cuddy is one of the 2009 Best Boats in the large runabout category.
Lifejackets
PFDs, or life jackets, are an essential piece of boating safety equipment. Learn how to choose the best PFD for your boating activity, buy one that fits properly and why wearing a life jacket while boating is important.
Regal 2250 Cuddy - Transom Door
Regal boats ranked second behind Sea Ray in J.D. Powers and Associates 2009 Boat Competitive Information study. The Regal 2250 Cuddy is one of the 2009 Best Boats in the large runabout category.
Slow Down at Night
In this Live & Learn article learn from a real-life experience why operating your boat at a safe speed at night can save lives and ways to implement this smart boating safety practice.
Stratos Boats
Stratos boats are built for fishing. They offer a classic line of tournament bass boats and their Excursion series fishing boats for the whole family. Stratos boats were voted third in customer satisfaction in the 2009 J.D. Power Boat Competitive Study.
Regal 1900 Dash
J.D. Power and Associates chose the Regal 1900 Bowrider as the 2008 Best Boat in the small runabout category of its 2008 Boat Competitive study.
Regal 1900 Bolster Helm Seat
J.D. Power and Associates chose the Regal 1900 Bowrider as the 2008 Best Boat in the small runabout category of its 2008 Boat Competitive study.
Gelcoat
What is gelcoat? Definition of boat gelcoat.
Boat Name Questions
Got questions about naming your boat? This article answers the question of whether it is bad to rename a boat, whether you can name your second boat the same as the first, and how do you get the name on the back of the boat.
Sea Ray 270 Sundancer Grill
The Sea Ray 270 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
ColdWeatherGear
If you plan to go boating in cold weather or in perpetually cold waters, stock up on essential cold weather boating gear.
Namingasecondboat
Wondering if you can name your second boat the same as the first? Find the answer here.
NavRulesReview
The official Coast Guard Navigation Rules, Inland and International. Keep this book aboard your boat as a handy reference for the sailing and steering rules, lights and shapes and sound signals essential for safely navigating the waterways.
Regal 1900 Drip-mold Graphic
J.D. Power and Associates chose the Regal 1900 Bowrider as the 2008 Best Boat in the small runabout category of its 2008 Boat Competitive study.
Boating Safety-Waterspouts
An important part of boating safety is being aware of the dangers of severe marine weather. Find out what to do when you are boating and spot a waterspout.
Premier Pontoon Boats
Premier ranked third in 2009 J.D. Power and Associate and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey in the Pontoon Boat segment.
Regal 2200 Bowrider - Wake Tower
Regal boats ranked second behind Cobalt in J.D. Powers and Associates 2008 Boat Competitive Information study. The Regal 2200 Bowrider is one of the 2008 Best Boats in the large runabout category.
Sea Ray 310 Sundancer Running
The Sea Ray 310 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.

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