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Powerboating: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
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.
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.
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.
WinterizeChecklist
Winterizing your boat is easy when you use this checklist when you prepare to winterize your boat.
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.
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.
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.
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.
2009 Boat Shows and Events
boat shows boats boating powerboating power boating powerboats power boats boating events boat show calendar boating events
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 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.
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.
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.
Gelcoat Restoration
If your boat's gelcoat shows signs of oxidation, follow these tips to restore the gelcoat to it's original shine.
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.
Plotting a Course
Plot a course on a nautical chart, and use time, speed, and distance calculations to run the course to your destination.
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.
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.
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.
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.
2010 Boat Shows and Events
boat shows boats boating powerboating power boating powerboats power boats boating events boat show calendar boating events
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.
WinterizePlan
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.
WinterBoatStorage
Before winter arrives, choose which method of winter boat storage that best suits your wallet and your lifestyle.
Know Your Boat-Location
Learn these common boat terms used for location, position and direction aboard a boat.
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.
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.
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.
Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Dinette
The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
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.
Grady-White Boats
Grady-White is winner of the J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction award eight years running.
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.
Foundation of Seamanship
Seamanship is more than boat handling. Knowing your boat is the first step to mastering the art of small boat seamanship.
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.
November09BoatShow
November 2009 boat shows and boating events.
Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Galley
The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
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.
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.
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.
Bass Cat
Bass Cat is winner of the J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction award four years running.
Regal 1900 Dedicated Cooler Storage
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.
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.
Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Head
The Sea Ray 280 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
Sea Ray 280 Sundancer Running
The Sea Ray 280 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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Galley
The Sea Ray 240 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Save Money Fueling Your Boat
Save money on boating gas by knowing your boat's design and economical speed.
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.
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.
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.
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.
FebruaryBoatShows
Find a boating event or boat show near you.
JanuaryBoatShows
Find a boating event or boat show near you.
Bennington Pontoon Boats
Bennington won the 2009 J.D. Power and Associate and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey in the Pontoon Boat segment.
Regal 1900 Ski Locker
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 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.
December09BoatShows
December 2009 boat shows and boating events.
Manitou Pontoon Boats
Manitou ranked second in the 2009 J.D. Power and Associate and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey in the Pontoon Boat segment.
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.
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.
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.
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer
The Sea Ray 450 Sundancer is Sea Ray's newest boat. Unveiled for the 2010 model year, the Sea Ray 450 Sundancer is a combination of sleek design and smart technology.
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.
Best EPIRBs
Any type of EPIRB or PLB is better than nothing, but find out which one the Coast Guard recommends for all boaters.
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.
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 290 Amberjack V-Berth
The Sea Ray 290 Amberjack is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
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.
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.
What is a Gale Warning?
What is a gale warning? Find out the meaning or definition of a gale warning in marine weather.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Media
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer 450
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.
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Galley
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Galley
besttimetobuyaboat
Thinking about buying a boat? Know the best time to buy a boat and mark your calendar.
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Cockpit
The Sea Ray 450 Sundancer is Sea Ray's newest boat. Unveiled for the 2010 model year, the Sea Ray 450 Sundancer is a combination of sleek design and smart technology.
Monterey Boats
Monterey boats rank third in the Small Runabout segment of the 2009 J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey.
Sea Ray 330 Sundancer Head
The Sea Ray 330 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.
Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Seating
The Sea Ray 240 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats.
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.
Sea Ray 195 Sport
The Sea Ray 195 Sport is one of the J.D. Power and Associates Best Boats in the Small Runabout category.
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.
ColdWeatherGear
If you plan to go boating in cold weather or in perpetually cold waters, stock up on essential cold weather boating gear.
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.
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Head
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Head
Sea Ray 240 Sundeck
The Sea Ray 240 Sundeck is one of the J.D. Power and Associates Best Boats in the Large Runabout category.
Regal 2450 Cuddy - Cabin
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.
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer V Berth
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer V Berth
Sea Ray 310 Sundancer Aft Seat
The Sea Ray 310 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
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.
Regal 2250 Cuddy - Table
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.
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.
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Helm
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Helm
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Aft
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Aft
Regal 2450 Cuddy - Refreshment Center
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.
MarchBoatShows
March 2009 boat shows and boating events.
MasterCraft Ski/Wakeboard Boat
MasterCraft ranked second in the 2009 J.D. Power and Associate and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey in the Ski/Wakeboard Boat segment.
Century
Century ranks third in the Coastal Fishing segment of the 2009 J.D. Power and Associates Customer Satisfaction survey.
Regal 2450 Cuddy - Dash
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.
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.
Saffir-Simpson Scale
Learn how hurricanes are rated on the Saffir-Simpson scale and what that means practically speaking when the weatherman tells you a hurricane is predicted to make landfall on your area of the coast.
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Aft Cabin
Sea Ray 450 Sundancer Aft Cabin
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.
Life Jacket Fit
Learn how to fit a PFD, or life jacket, properly to maximize its effectiveness.
Chicago Scene
Described as a "floating Mardi Gras," the Chicago Scene Boat Party is one wet and wild boat party.
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.
Gelcoat
What is a boat's gelcoat? Definition of boat gelcoat.
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 - Helm and Dash
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.
Regal 2200 Bowrider - Backrest Storage
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.
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.
Regal 2250 Cuddy Photo Gallery
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.
EPIRBs
EPIRBs and PLBs are designed to save your life. Find out what they are, how they work and why every boater needs one.
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.
Sea Ray 240 Sundancer Helm
The Sea Ray 240 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats.
Regal 2750 Cuddy Screen Door
Regal boats ranked second behind Cobalt in J.D. Powers and Associates 2008 Boat Competitive Information study. The Regal 2750 Cuddy is one of the 2008 Best Boats in the large runabout category.
Regal 2200 Bowrider - J.D. Powers & Associates 2008 Best Boats
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 270 Sundancer Grill
The Sea Ray 270 Sundancer is one of the J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats in the Express Cruiser category.
Regal 2400 Bowrider - Head
Regal boats ranked second behind Cobalt in J.D. Powers and Associates 2008 Boat Competitive Information study. The Regal 2400 Bowrider is one of the 2008 Best Boats in the large runabout category.
Sea Ray 250 Sundancer Berth
The Sea Ray 250 Sundancer is one of J.D. Powers and Associates Best Boats.
whatisanepirb?
EPIRBs and PLBs are designed to save your life. Find out what they are, how they work and why every boater needs one.
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.
NovemberBoatShows
Find a boating event or boat show near you.
Regal 2450 Cuddy - Walk Thru
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.
Regal 2200 Bowrider - Transom Cushion
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 220 Pachanga Helm
The Sea Ray 220 Pachanga is one of the J.D. Power and Associates Best Boats in the Large Runabout category.
Book Review
Keep this little book by your blender for when friends down the dock pay a visit.
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.
Evintude
Profile of the 100 year old giant marine outboard manufacturer.
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.
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