Categories
Safety at Sea

What Is Required For the Safe Operation of an Airboat?

Rear of moored airboat

In order to efficiently operate an airboat a variety of safety and registration rules need to be abided by. Regulations are likely to vary from state to state, but in general the guidelines are in place to ensure an airboat is operated in an effective and safe manner. Safety equipment in place is likely to be a high requirement.

Airboat

Having the right safety gear and equipment for operating an airboat

A fun and versatile airboat is highly enjoyable to ride, but if not operated in a safe and efficient manner they are susceptible to sinking or capsizing; often as a result of lacking flotation and ease in which they are able to lose balance. In addition, the air boats aren’t designed to operate in reverse; as a consequence it can be more difficult to avoid a potential situation in the water.

It is also crucial for the air boat operator to be mindful of the debris, sand, or water which might pass through the propeller and in the direction of other motor-driven boats. A high level of boat safety is highly desirable for all boats, including the air boats, and might include:

Life Jackets — a first requirement to boat safety is likely to relate to wearing a lifejacket, which is mandatory in many states for the person under 18 years of age. Even if not a requirement by law to wear a lifejacket for the adults, it is often highly recommended that a lifejacket is worn by all on board to ensure the full safety and protection at all times. A lifejacket must be able to fit appropriately for the size of person.

Fire extinguisher — a fully functional manual or semi-automatic fire extinction system is highly desirable on all makes and models of water craft that are equipped with inboard or outboard machinery. In the event of an engine fire you want to have access to an extinguisher for putting out the flames as soon as possible.

Navigational lights — in order to operate in complete safety in low light conditions you want to make certain that the navigation lights are mounted on board the vessel. Beyond just having the ability to operate in a safe manner, navigational lights are also ideal to alert other boat owners of the presence of the air boat.

Flags — a further great safety aspect relates to having the right complement of flags on board the air boat. A key flag is likely to relate to the diver down flag, which is required in those situations where the diver is in the water for a variety of reasons. A flag needs to be at a height of 10-ft above the air boat, and sized in the region of 10″ x 12″.
Sound distress device — lastly, you might want to make certain you have access to a distress signal or sound device is highly desirable to have onboard the air boats in the event of an emergency situation. A sound device is highly effective at attracting the attention of other boats in the local area and the distress alert signal is needed to give an instant indication that help is required.

What registration requirements are needed for operating an airboat?

In order that a full operational airboat can be used in public bodies of water it is necessary to the registered with the local state authorities. If you are planning on using the air boats in private ponds or other bodies of water, registration isn’t likely to be mandatory. Also, the paddle powered vessels, such as the kayaks and canoes aren’t in need of registration.

A registration certificate is a requirement for those situations where you might be stopped by the local police or Coast Guard, and required to clearly indicate the right paperwork for operation and ownership. Registration costs are likely to relate to the state laws and size of water craft.

Is it easy to arrange insurance on an airboat?

If you are looking at the viability of arrange insurance on an airboat, many of the insurance companies are likely to be very restrictive in relation to offering this type of coverage since the airboats can be quite dangerous. It shouldn’t be difficult to arrange a liability only insurance policy, which will make sure you are protected against damage to a third party, person or property. In the states that have a large number of waterways that are used by air boat operators, it is likely to be easier to arrange insurance coverage beyond just the personal liability insurance.

Categories
General Boating

9 Boat Safety Tips to Protect the Sailing or Motor-Driven Boat from Theft

Thefts and burglaries are on the increase in marinas and ports across Europe and North America. While most boat owners will reply on the protection offered by an insurance policy, there are several different steps that can be taken to help secure a vessel.

Boat Marina
A boat by nature is left unattended for extended periods of time; in a marine or home-port, whilst on day trips touring or cruising, or for months throughout the winter lay-up period. These extensive breaks give the would-be thief a tempting target. In a lot of cases, a boat might well be easier prey than a top of the range motor vehicle.

High-end electronics

Thieves often aim for the easiest target and are attracted by high-end electronics and communication systems. They are quite easy to remove and as these items are manufactured in high numbers, it is often easy to sell them on without too much risk. Ask at a particular yacht club or harbor to evaluate the potential risks in the local area. You might also be able to get information from an insurance company as they often hold data on problem areas.

Here are nine tips to safeguard the boat:

  1. Start by checking the insurance documents to establish the degree of coverage for theft of equipment onboard whilst laid up. If enough coverage isn’t in place, contact the insurance company to see what can be done. Read the policy carefully to understand what needs to be done to guarantee coverage is in place. If the insurance requirements aren’t met, the policy could effectively be worthless.
  2. Maintain a record of the serial numbers or identification codes to help identify a specific piece of equipment if unfortunate to suffer a loss. This record keeping applies mostly to the electronic equipment, outboard motor, and hull identification number (HIN).
  3. Along with the recorded serial numbers, it is also best to hold on to receipts for the items of equipment purchased and left on-board. These receipts might well be required by an insurance company if planning to make a theft claim.
  4. Use invisible pens to mark the expensive or portable items of equipment – these pens are great to put a specific mark or name and address on high-cost pieces of equipment. The writing would be invisible to the naked eye, but will show up under a UV light. Maintain a record of what’s marked and where. Marker pens of this nature can be found through police departments, security stores or insurance companies.
  5. A simple precaution to take is to ensure valuable items are kept out-of-sight from anyone outside the vessel. Make sure a boat is kept locked, use a padlock and chain if necessary.
  6. If possible remove the high-value or portable items of equipment from the vessel if left unattended for a period of time – for instance throughout the winter lay-up period. Hire a locker inside the club house or marina.
  7. Take photographs of the boat, parts, and equipment, such as the hull, interiors, rigging, deck, and valuable or easily removable pieces. All this information helps in the event of a loss.
  8. Install a high-quality alarm system, especially for the high-value vessel. Cameras, alarm systems, and lights can be great deterrents to thieves. Use stickers to indicate the presence of a security system. Fake cameras can be used as a cost-effective alternative to the real thing.
  9. If equipment is discovered to have gone missing, a first step should be to contact the police and then to contact the insurance company with all relevant details, including serial numbers and photo’s where applicable.
Categories
Building Portal

Boat Dock Blueprints & Plans (Stationary & Floating Docks)

Constructing a dock (floating or stationary) requires a boat enthusiast to locate a high-quality set of dock plans or blueprints to assist in the construction project.

Private Float Boat Dock Plans (with Lift)

DIY dock systems are offered in multiple construction techniques (stationary or floating), a variety of frame structures (wooden, steel, or aluminum), and selection of deck materials (concrete, wood or aluminum). Locating the ideal set of boat dock designs makes it possible to build a dock on a seafront, calm river or lake.

In the process of sourcing the dock blueprints it will greatly benefit if you’re able to establish whether you are likely to be constructing a freestanding or floating dock. Establish early on how large you will require the dock and its shape (straight, T-shaped or L-shaped). Size and length of the dock and landing area often relates to the depth of water. A dock located in shallow water is likely to require a longer length dock strip since you want to have a sufficient depth of water to safely moor up the vessel.

Skill levels to install a dock system often depend on the type of material used in the build process. A wooden built dock for instance is the ideal self-build project for those with a basic to moderate skill levels in woodworking, while the aluminum docks are often delivered in multiple sections that just need attaching together – and perfect for most.

Floating Docks for Lakes, Rivers, or Sea Fronts

Boat docks for sale are located at-

  • Great Northern Docks: Great Northern Docks offer a high-quality selection of dock designs, hardware and accessories to assist the DIY enthusiast in constructing their own wooden or aluminum docks – with either a turn-key or pre-built system.
  • Tiger Boat Docks: Tiger Boat Docks design and manufacture a series of stationary or floating docks, lifts, and accessories. Founded in 1995, Tiger Docks offers a varied selection of steel, wood or roof-based self-build plans and blueprints to complement a particular residential set-up. Easy-to-assemble and install, dock kits are equipped with steel hardware, float drums, detailed construction instructions and lumber list, and technical assistance.

Layout and mooring needs

Solid built dock hardware (bolts, hinges, brackets, ladders, etc.) is vital to the long-term durability and performance of self-build pier structure, and is manufactured to hold up to the toughest of marine environments.

Points to determine the design and method of construction consist of such factors as:

  • Size and layout of the dock structure
  • Exposed or protected site (open water, quiet cove, calm river, etc.)
  • Water depth (normal and high water levels)
  • Size of the water body
  • Water fluctuation and weather conditions throughout a given season

Boat dock blueprints are designed mainly related to the layout and mooring needs. If limited with space, you might wish to look at the straight dock layout which is fully satisfactory for most situations. A T-shaped dock is ideal if you’re likely to be swimming from or fishing off, with sufficient space left for mooring up a river boat. An L-shaped dock is perfect for the more compact sized vessel, or where it is likely to be built into an alcove. A pontoon dock is a further option and gives the chance of creating a walkway on each side of the moored up vessel.

Dock Accessories and Supplies

Brighten up the appearance of the pier, broad-walk, shore dock or T-shaped dock system with a high-quality selection of related accessories – Supplies to enhance the look and appearance consist of a picnic table or bench seat for relaxing at, dock boxes or lockers to place supplies. Dock fenders or bumpers to soften impact, and a decent length dock cleat to tie up a recreational watercraft.

PWC Docks

Dry dock a Sea-Doo, Waverunner or Jet Ski branded personal watercraft (PWC) with one of the easiest solutions for mooring a PWC. Configured for 1, 2 or 3-seater machines, the drive-on / drive-off dock system offers a high-level of protection for these valuable waterborne vehicles, and comes in multiple sizes, shapes, and flotation limitations.

If planning on installing a private pier or similar structure, it might also be worthwhile looking at the existing boat insurance coverage to see whether this might need amending due to a change in mooring location.

Whether it is for constructed a floating or stationary dock system for a 1-seater kayak or a 28-ft deck boat, it is vital to locate a high-quality set of boat dock plans to assist in each step of the build project.

Categories
Insure My Boat

How Is The Claim Handled When The Boat Is “Written Off” By The Insurance Company?

If it is deemed by an insurance company that a vessel is in such a state that it should be written off, the amount payable in the event of making a claim is likely to be dependent on the type of policy you purchased. An insurance company is likely to pay out on an actual cash value or agreed value policy.

Bavaria Sport

In the process of implementing the insurance coverage, you are arranging for the ideal level of coverage to protect against a wide range of listed perils. If you take out a full coverage (also known as all-risks or comprehensive) policy, this will pay out in a wide range of situations, unless of course a restriction is written into the policy terms and conditions.

Loss cover provided in the event of physical damage

The types of losses for physical damage might well involve incidents relating to a collision with a floating object, a dock, or another boat. Acts of theft and vandalism are incorporated into a regular policy, as would damage to the vessel in the event of lightning, wind, and hail or wave action.

In the initial stages of arranging the insurance you really want to make certain that the right level of coverage is implemented to give the type of protection most required. You might require an all-risks policy that is able to provide protection while the boat is laid-up ashore in store, or when being tailored on the highway. A boat owner is required to take on the basic maintenance responsibilities; general wear and tear isn’t likely to be included under a standard marine insurance plan.

Comparison shop the marine insurance market

Prior to choosing which one of the specialized marine insurance companies to use for insuring your motor-driven yacht, PWC, or sailboat, you should really put in the effort to get multiple quotes from the different insurance providers. Since you’ll likely find that the pricing for the insurance protection can vary between the different insurance companies, it is beneficial to shop around in order to attract the most competitive deals.

One area that needs great thought and consideration would be the agreed amount paid out by the insurance company in the event of a total loss.

Agreed value insurance policies

If you take out an agreed value insurance policy, you would be able to claim the total sum insured for the hull and equipment that is listed on your insurance schedule in the event of a total loss. In situations of a partial loss, a claim will be determined by the extent of damage and settled on the replacement value of the damaged part or sustained damage.

An insurance company would cover the expense of purchasing a replacement part that was similar in relation to make and model to the item that was damaged beyond repair. Price depreciation as a consequence of age and wear isn’t factored into the claim pay outs for the agreed value policies — although you still might need to pay the deductible amount stated on the insurance policy.

The agreed value insurance aspect of the insurance is most likely to reflect the value of the hull and machinery, since you will likely find that items of equipment like in the outboard motor, trailer, canvas covers, and sails include a depreciation clause due to wear, tear, and age.

Many of the insurance policies vary in relation to the compensation offered in the event of a total loss, for this reason you should make certain to ask the insurance agent when
obtaining an insurance quotation.

Actual cash insurance policies

If you enact an insurance policy that states the actual cash value of the vessel will be paid in the event of a claim, you will receive a compensation amount that is in line with the market value of the vessel at the time of the incident. In calculating the amount to pay out, the insurance company will take into consideration depreciation due to age and condition when any payout figures are being established.

Beyond the amount deducted for depreciation, the insurance company will also deduct the policy deductible from any potential claim payout.
In the event of a partial loss to the vessel or equipment, the insurance company is likely to request full details of the loss or damage incurred in order that the insurance adjuster is able to calculate a fair settlement based on the value of equipment in the condition at the time of the incident.

An actual cash value insurance policy is in the more cost effective option, but it is important to be mindful that you’re paying a premium on an insurance plan that is gradually depreciating in relation to the insured value. Since the market value of the vessel is likely to gradually depreciate year-on-year, you will continue to play in same level of insurance premium, while the insured value that is payable in the event of the total loss continues to decline.

Categories
Small Boats & Paddle Crafts

Kayak Hoist: Canoe & Kayak Ceiling Hoists

Easy-to-use, safe, and reliable the kayak hoist systems are designed with a thick, reliable rope, solid engineering, and safety-catch to support paddling machines up to 150-pounds.

Versatile in use, the kayak ceiling hoist is available in multiple configurations, with models designed to hold a 1-person kayak, raft or canoe up to a maximum weight limit of 50-pound, to those designed to hold 2-person or multiple canoes, and accepting a maximum weight limit in the region of 300-pounds.

Hoist Features

Ceiling mounted, the garage hoist system, with its adjustable straps (guarantees a raft, canoe or kayak is kept in position), safety release latch (puts a stop to accidental release), and rubber-coated hooks (protects from abrasions or scuffs) is built to hold a Old Town, Ocean, Perception, or Native Watercraft at a height of approx 12-foot above floor level.

  • Supports a 50, 100, 125 or 150-lbs weight limit
  • Protects kayaks from scratches via the rubber coated hooks
  • Smooth operating pulley and latch system
  • Avoids un-wanted release with reliable safety mechanism
  • Thick rope for long-term use
  • Accepts all-types of paddling machines (canoe, kayaks, dinghies and rafts)

Easy for a single person to control, the kayak hoist system is constructed with a smooth rope or pulley system to lift or lower a raft in a solid, flat position via use of its two ropes; one attached to each end of the machine, and safely positions a kayak at ceiling height in minutes.

Perfect to mount on either open rafters or finished ceiling, the kayak storage systems are supplied with all assembly hardware (lift, pulleys, screws, rope, etc) for ease in positioning in an unobstructed space.

Push-button Hoists and Motorized Pulleys

Raise or lower a kayak, canoe or raft with a simple-to-operate electric hoist system – lifting a much higher load limit, often in the region of 225 – 250-pounds. Push-button control, the electric hoists operate via a 110-volt outlet, flex-corded hand control, and reliable ¾-HP motor – An efficient solution to eliminate a lot of the clutter that builds up in a garage space – and a great choice if wishing to avoid the strain of man-handling a paddling machine into position.

Other Well-Situated Systems

Racor, Harken Hoister, BAC Industries, and ProSource design and manufacture a series of kayak hoist pulley system to lift a raft – up to 17-ft 9” – to a safe, and secure ceiling height.

1- Storage Rack

A free-standing, super portable, and lightweight solution for organizing multiple canoes, kayaks, surfboards, or similar sports equipment – A floor-based rack is designed to hold paddling machines up to 30-inch in width, up to 20-foot in length, and up to 75-pound in weight.

2 – Wall Cradle

Load almost all kayak models – up to a 100-pounds in weight and 15-inch in depth – onto a steel constructed wall cradle for a safe, reliable hold. Cradles are foam padded to guarantee scratch-free protection of a paddling machine.

3 – Boat Hanger

A versatile solution to hang up to 3 kayaks in a safe, horizontal position – easily adaptable, the boat hangers come with multiple webbing loops which attach to the ceiling for a safe anchoring position.

Versatile in use, the multi-use kayak hoists offer the benefit of lifting or lowering a wide variety of garden or household objects often confined to a workshop or garage, such as deck furniture, adult-size bicycles, sports apparatus, ladders, dock boxes, garden tools, etc.

Also, in order to arrange sufficient boat insurance coverage it is often a requirement to store or secure a small craft against theft or vandalism – or at least remove all equipment if left out in the open – kayak storage systems of this nature will help to comply with these requirements.

All in all, a simple-to-use kayak hoist offers a space-saving solution to lift or lower kayaking equipment – up to 150-lbs – or similar other garage clutter to get back a lot more lost floor space.

 

Categories
Trailers & Parts

Boat Dolly: Quick Lift Boat Dollies

A light, adjustable boat dolly is built to easily maneuver small boats (sailboats and dinghies) or canoes across land for ease in accessing a favorite fishing hole or hunting ground.

Boat Launching DollySmall dinghies are difficult to maneuver single-handed. If a vessel is too heavy or too big to transport, its use is often limited – but with the help of a lightweight boat dolly, the effort required to transport is greatly reduced.

If a vessel is stored in close proximity to a water source at a marina, boat yard, or dock structure, than boat dollies – pushed or pulled by hand – need some thought.

Paved or challenging terrain

If stored on concrete or paved-surfaces, a cart equipped with standard foam-filled wheels is often enough.

On the other hand, if a boat is transported over challenging terrain (sand, loose peddles, rocky surfaces, etc) normal tires will not be much help. A low-level platform, equipped with soft, low-pressure balloon-type wheels is a must, and these are the only wheel-types able to move a boat across soft sand with ease. Low-pressured tires, inflating to 2-3 PSI, offer enough performance to flatten soft sand, rather that slicing out a ditch as a boat travels through.

Configurations

Boat dollies are available in several different configurations:

Option 1 Straps to a boat (pulled by hand over short distances) or Option 2 Similar to a mini-trailer

  1. Straps – A small boat dolly constructed in a heavy-duty anodized aluminum with struts in polypropylene and bunks in non-skid santoprene (a thermoplastic rubber able to improve the adhesion to a vessel – both wet and dry) – bunk supports are fully-adjustable to fit hull configurations of different boats. Pneumatic tires offer ease in allowing a single-person roll a heavy boat over rough or rocky surfaces, soft sand, pebbles, or similar challenging terrain. Weight capacities are in the region of 200-pounds on hard surfaces, and 100-pounds on soft surfaces. In addition, a lifting pin or rod holds the dolly in a vertical position to facilitate ease in single-person loading.
  2. Mini Trailer – Similar to a miniature trailer, a trailer-type dolly, constructed in 100% stainless-steel, is designed to rest the weight of a boat over the wheels and the main support rail – making it possible to man-handle a boat down to a slipway with complete ease. An all-purpose trailer is perfect for a variety of situations – such as those that relate to repair facilities, private boat owners, or boat dealerships, and its supporting pads accept a weight capacity in the region of 150 to 250-pounds.

Electric Boat Dollies

Easily maneuver large boat trailers in or out of a warehouse, garage, or dealership floor with a compact-sized, variable speed, and effortless electric boat dolly – perfect for maneuvering in confined areas, as well as being a more cost-effective solution to move recreational vehicles, when compared to relying on a tow vehicle. Also, an electric or motorized boat dolly eliminates a lot of the risk that comes from boat yard staff attempting to manually move trailers or boats.

DIY Plans

Elsewhere, a DIY boat dolly, using an authentic set of plans offers an alternative solution to pushing or pulling a portable watercraft from place of storage to launch site. Plans are available at several different destinations across the net to help in each step of the building process.

All in all, a versatile boat dolly offers a perfect opportunity to transport a small-sized boat, kayak or canoe across concrete or soft sand for complete ease in getting as close to a water destination as possible.

Categories
Insure My Boat

What Affects Boat Insurance Rates

Basically, the average cost of marine insurance in the United States is in the region of $325-$500 annually — although premiums can reach in excess of $1000 for the more high-performance and high value vessels. In order that an underwriter is able to quote an annual premium, a range of factors are taken into consideration.

Flisvos Marina

If you’re in the planning stages of purchasing a vessel, you should look at obtaining quotations from several different insurance companies in order to establish a ball point mark for the annual cost. If you are able to do this at an early stage it will help with planning the overall budget and you will be more mindful of the type of vessel that you are able to insure.

In many of the US states there aren’t any specific laws which govern the requirement of boat insurance. Yet, it is still highly beneficial for anyone that is likely to own a boat to have a basic appreciation of how it works, and implement the right coverage for your own peace of mind. If you are able to use a motor-driven vessel on a body of water that doesn’t require insurance coverage in place this is often quite a risky move; because if you are found to be at fault in an accident, you are likely to be held responsible for the resulting damages. Elsewhere, if a passenger on board is injured for a variety of reasons, you might well be held responsible and have to cover the related expenses for medical treatment.

What factors influences the boat insurance rates

A wide range of factors come into play when it concerns calculating the annual insurance premium for a luxurious yacht to fish-ready flats boats. In many cases the national average indicated for insurance premiums at $300-$500 per 12-months is likely to be the situation when able to add the vessel to an existing insurance plan, such as the one relating to the house or automobile. In situations where it is likely to be more beneficial to insure on an entirely separate insurance plan; there might be a significant increase in the annual cost — although you will get more wide-ranging coverage in the process.

If you are hoping to include a vessel on an existing insurance plan, you might want to be aware of some of the more standard limitations:

  • The length of the craft is limited to 26 feet
  • Items such as personal effects are likely to be excluded from the coverage
  • Includes protection for issues that might occur on the various bodies of water, such as those relating to a gas spillage

When you are searching the viability of the most cost-effective insurance package for a vessel, then the option of including on a pre-existing policy might well be the best course of action. If you are requiring a more all risks package, you’ll need to search for a specialized marine insurance company that is able to offer the wide-ranging risks that are needed to make sure a vessel is protected at all times, whether onshore or out at sea.

All risks policy or named peril policy

A further influencing factor in the insurance coverage is likely to relate to the type of policy chosen, which might well relate to the all risk policies or the named peril policies. An insurance policy that includes the extra named peril protection is designed to provide that extra level of coverage for the named incidences, such as a full-scale hurricane that has received a given the name. If you are able to limit the insurable features and benefits, this is likely to make sure an insurance policy is kept at a more cost-effective rate.

What is included in a typical boat insurance plan?

A full coverage (also referred to as all risks and comprehensive) insurance plan is able to incorporate wide-ranging coverage, which pretty much includes everything imaginable. All policies will include certain limitations, exclusions and restrictions, but these are likely to be specific to the individual insurance companies. For example excluding coverage for lightning strikes is likely to be a very common exclusion. Basically, an all-risks insurance plan will incorporate such protection as:

  1. Total loss of the boat
  2. Damage to the hull
  3. Loss or damage to the equipment
  4. Personal injuries

A full coverage insurance policy is quoted at a higher annual premium then the alternative of the liability only coverage and the policies that are written to provide protection in the event of a named peril.

Agreed value or actual cash value policies

In the process of arranging the insurance coverage, you also want to look at the main types of policies offered which relates to the agreed value and actual cash value policies. An actual cash value policy is the more cost-effective of the two options since the pay out in the event of a claim is based on the current market value of the vessel at the time of experiencing the loss. Whereas, the agreed value policy is where the total sum insured of the vessel and equipment is established at the time of taking out insurance policy, and this would be the value that would be claimable in the event of a total loss.

How does the speed of the vessel impact the insurance rates?

A further key area where the insurance rates are impacted relates to the speed and performance capabilities of a vessel. Many insurance companies have a limit on the maximum speed that they will be prepared to insure a vessel; a speed limit of 50 mph is likely to be a good guideline in this regard. If you require a high-powered and performance vessel insured, you will often need to look for a specialized insurance company. Engine placement is also likely to have an influence on the insurance rates quoted by the underwriters. A vessel equipped with an outboard engine is likely to result in a more cost-effective annual premium, mostly due to the fact that it would be easier to extinguish a fire due to its open and accessible nature, whereas it might be more difficult to put a fire out with the inboard machinery.

What is the intended craft use?

How a vessel is used is also likely to have a significant influence on calculating the annual rates for the marine insurance. A flats boat fisherman on inshore bodies of water will pay significantly less than the charter fishing boat that carries paying guests on board.

What steps to take to save on the boat insurance premium?

If you are looking to attract the most competitive insurance rates for your boat and related equipment, you might find that the following have the potential to help:

  • Taking and completing a boat safety course
  • Having a good credit score and driving record
  • Storing the vessel (small trailable boats) in locked and secure premises when left unattended, such as a dedicated boathouse or garage
  • Having a full-out of the water survey and valuation report carried out by a marine surveyor
  • Having the right level of safety devices on board, like lifeboats, lifejackets, emergency distress items, etc

Comparison shop the insurance market

Lastly, if you are able to put in the time to get quotes from 3 or 4 specialized marine insurance companies, it is likely to be the best way to making certain you are able to attract the most competitive insurance rates in the market. Since there is such a wide array of quality insurance companies, there is no reason why you shouldn’t take the time to get multiple quotes for your boating activities.

Categories
Building Portal

DIY Houseboat Plans – Building Your Own Houseboat

BH20 Houseboat Plans

DIY houseboat plans are widely available across the internet. Many authentic and high-quality plans are highly affordable, yet if you’re searching for a cost-effective introduction to self-constructing a houseboat, you might wish to search for the free plans. Self assembly plans are perfect to get started in building your own house boat.

BH20 Houseboat Plans

If accepting the responsibility of constructing a do-it-yourself houseboat, it should be seen as a fun and enjoyable pastime. A well-created set of plans for the houseboats includes in-depth and illustrated step-by-step guidelines to make the entire work process as straightforward and painless as possible.

A variety of DIY houseboat construction plans are published, from the 20-ft Gypsy V bottom to the 18-ft Shanty flat bottom. By establishing early on the type of houseboat to construct, it will make it easier to search for the authentic plans a far-sight easier. The easiest and likely the most effective way to search for the do-it-yourself and authentic plans is the established sites like Bateau, Glen-L, BoatPlans, Berkeley-Engineering and Specmar. For instance, Bateau.com makes it possible to purchase entry-level blueprints for constructing Houseboats at 16, 18, and 20 feet in length.

Authentic plans

A wide-range of choices area available with the self build houseboat construction plans and to establish which might be most appropriate it can be quite difficult to learn what works for a specific situation. An authentic plan in stitch and glue or plywood should offer the quality and design you are hoping to achieve. A set of plans require full details, illustrations, and measurements to help provide a step-by-step guide for a easier building process.

Having in situ the right trade tools is crucial to make sure a build process goes as smooth as possible. In most cases, a high-quality set of DIY houseboat construction plans include a detailed list of tools which will be required in the build stages, from the basic hull to full outfitting stage. A quality set of plans should be 100% stress-free and simple to follow.

Customized design

A significant reason for a boating enthusiast to commence a self-build project is to have the option of being able to customize the design and layout. Being in the position of customizing the houseboat ensures you’re able to personify it to match a specific need or use. DIY houseboat plans give the liberty to adapt the design to create unique design and use.

Modifying a houseboat to give a particular floor plan is for some the best part of the building process. Customizing a set of DIY plans is great for those with the know-how, although for most others, following the plans as detailed will still result in a high-quality vessel at the end. Customizable plans include this extra step to aid in making a vessel a unique, one of a kind floating machine.

Plans in the market

DIY houseboat construction plans are reliable and easy to follow. A plus point is that there are literally hundreds of authentic plans, offering a trailerable or pontoon designed vessels to match every boater’s requirements. If you’re searching the first-time build plans, you might want to invest in the stitch and glue designs, which offer a fool-proof and step-by-step construction option.

Multiple advantages are possible with a high-quality set of DIY houseboat plans. Starting a self-build project will save on construction and contractors fees. Rather than handing over a sizable sum to a professional contractor to manufacture the floating platform, it is possible to save thousands of dollars in the build costs by self-constructing using the detailed step-by-step instructions.

A fully customizable houseboat is only likely to be achieved with DIY construction which relies on a set of blueprints able to provide the ideal layout, modern conveniences, livable space, as well as detailed drawings and illustrations. Self build plans and blueprints include:

16-ft Houseboats
HB16 [Stitch & Glue construction – Trailerable – Plywood Construction]
Aqua Casa 16 [Trailerable – Plywood Construction]

18-ft Houseboats
HB18 [Stitch & Glue construction – Plywood Construction]

20ft-Houseboats
HB20 [Stitch & Glue construction – Plywood Construction]
20’ Gypsy [Trailerable – Plywood Construction]
20’ Water Lodge [Plywood Construction]
Aqua Casa 20 [Trailerable – Plywood Construction]
Cape Codder 20 [Plywood Construction]

23-ft Houseboats
23’ Quest [Trailerable – Plywood Construction]

24-ft Houseboats
24’ Water Lodge [Plywood Construction]
Cape Codder 24 [Plywood Construction]

25-ft Houseboats
25’ Delta Q [Trailerable – Plywood Construction]

28-ft Houseboats
28’ Mark Twain Pontoons [Plywood Construction – Pontoon]

29-ft Houseboats
29’ Jubilee [Plywood Construction]

32-ft Houseboats
32’ Mark Twain Pontoons [Plywood Construction – Pontoon]

33-ft Houseboats
33’ Delta King [Plywood Construction]

36-ft Houseboats
36-ft Mark Twain Pontoon [Plywood Construction – Pontoon]

40-ft Houseboats
40’ Mark Twain Pontoon [Plywood Construction – Pontoon]

Building a vessel from ‘scratch’ is a laborious and patience is required. Even though building a houseboat is made to go as smooth as possible, it still requires a good deal of time. Be certain to free-up time to dedicate yourself for the length of a build project. Larger build projects will take months to complete. Although if wishing to start out or ‘practice’ with a complete entry-level construction, take a look at the basic 12 to 14-ft dinghies or similar.

Whether it is designing a houseboat from ‘scratch’, acquiring DIY houseboat plans and having it built, or purchasing one outright, the overall result is a floating home on the water that is able to cruise a variety of places at a relaxing pace.

Categories
Boating & Marine Accessories

PWC Covers: Ultimate Protection for the Exposed PWC

PWC covers are manufactured to protect a Jet Ski – Sea-Doo – Waverunner personal watercraft from direct sunlight, dirt, and scratch-marks in use or while winterized. Without a brand-specific or universal cover, the body, graphics and paint work of a PWC will start to appear weathered in no time.

PWC Cover and Trailer

Bright sunlight is one of the worst enemies of the PWC – If a high-performance Honda, Polaris, Sea-Doo or Yamaha personal watercraft is kept laid-up outside in an exposed area, make sure to utilize one of the high-quality PWC covers.

Specifics:

  1. Made in a water-repellent and high-strength fabric coated to resist UV-rays and mildew
  2. Protects against rainfall, dirt, dust, bird-dropping, sunlight, or similar pollutants
  3. Tight fitting with elasticized cords and hems
  4. Air vents to stop potential moisture build-up and wind lofting
  5. Zippered access panels for the fuel tank (ideal for trailerable covers)
  6. In-built storage bag – great for storing when not in use
  7. Backed with a 1, 3 or 5-year warranty

Brand-specific or universal PWC covers are what is needed to avoid sun-bleaching to the fiberglass or gel coat, as well as to protect against salt air, rodents, bird droppings, general dirt, pollution, etc. In addition, a high-degree of protection, it is a necessary step to prevent rust, dust build-up or water vapor damage during the period of winterization.

Materials

Synthetic materials, such as the marine-tested Sunbrella®, Glen-Tuf™, and Polyguard offer a great choice in a marine environment. Either option has an ability to stand-up to salt water, UV-rays, and on-set of mildew. Solid fabrics resist stretching, tearing, and shrinking to give a much longer life expectancy – in the region of three to five years of typical use. A water-resistant cover ought to be one of the first PWC accessories to purchase to keep the machine in great condition.

Multiple sizes

Offered in multiple sizes – choose from a Jet Ski cover for a one or two-seater machine or a cover for a three seater machine. Covers also come in several different structure designs, including the custom-made covers, rain-proof covers, budget dust sheets, and dual purpose storage / towable cover.

A multi-purpose storage / towable cover offer a perfect opportunity to shield a personal watercraft (PWC) from damage en-route to a lake or seafront – as well as protecting the vehicle whilst laid up at home. Elastic skirts, fuel tank access panels, fastening clips, and integrated straps help to provide a tight and reliable fit.

Jet Ski accessories of this nature also offer the benefit of stopping dust, dirt or water entering the electrical components or engine structure. Quality PWC covers might set someone back an extra $185, although compared to the cost of repairing a damage engine; it is a small amount to pay out for the extra peace of mind.

Extras

Other features, a mesh vent or panel at the side or front often appears to permit the right amount of air circulation under a fabric sheet – breathable PWC covers are perfect to allow air to move and thus avoid the on-set of mold, mildew, and moisture build up. In addition, these air vents are great at eliminating the ‘ballooning effect’ that comes with high winds getting caught up beneath a tight-fitting cover.

In summary

A chemically-treated PWC cover is designed to protect a high-performance Jet Ski, Waverunner, or Jet Ski from sunlight, high wind, sleet, rain, and snow at all times – whether at home or on the road.

Categories
Building Portal

Airboat Plans: How to Build an Airboat

Building an air boat form ‘scratch’ requires a quality set of air boat plans: consisting of complete step by step directions, materials list, full-sized patterns and hand or powered-tools required. Air boat plans designed for the first-timer builder come complete with easy-to-follow instructions to help get a self-build project started as soon as possible.

Airboat in Action

Highly maneuverable in use, the shallow bottomed boat, with its airplane-style engine and propeller, is put to use for multiple applications. This includes its use for general water enthusiasts, tourist trips, search and rescue, fishing, etc., and operates in saltwater or freshwater. Designed to skim shallow waters or marshlands, a one or two-seat air boat is constructed with a high center of gravity to offer a solid, stable performance at speed.

Perfect for maneuvering through stump-filled swamps, vegetation-filled lakes (or similar inaccessible trails), or even deep waters, the mini air boat offers one of the finest modes of transport for skimming-across shallow waters, at a depth of 2 or 3 inches.

Most of the parts needed to self-construct an air boat are often available at a local DIY store – although, if purchasing a complete do it yourself air boat kit all parts come prepackaged for complete ease in getting started.

Authentic Mini Plans and Kits

AirBoatFun, Canadian Airboats, and Glen-L offer a great selection of reliable mini air boat building plans designed to aid in the construction of 1 or 2-seater air or swamp boat. Featuring a straight-forward construction process, these plans assist in each step of the build process, including such works as the frame, deck, engine mount, propeller cage, etc, as well as installing the electronics and controls.

Mini air boat kits often complete with all items related to the fiberglass (containing resin, strips of tape, roller, squeegee, and brush) and standard fastenings (all screws and nails required).

Self-build plans are often customized to target a particular use, such as those aimed at fishing or hunting activities, often come designed with a wide variety of extras – rod holders, dome lights, a full walk-around, swivel seats on bow, Bimini top, intercom system – for instance.

Airboat Fundamentals

Steered and operated via acceleration, the use of a swamp boat calls on navigating skills that are not seen with similar on-water recreational vehicles. An air boat needs to be up on plane to function at full capacity, achieving this is possible by opening the throttle to ½ to ¾ of maximum speed – once up on plane, lift off the accelerator, and continue to control the vehicle on plane.

No brakes, just a gas pedal / throttle control – a standard air boat isn’t configured to go in reverse – on the water, the forward-momentum of a air boat slows as soon as the accelerator is lifted, dropping of plane, and the friction of the water. Operational control – relating to maneuvers and stops – is learned through experience.

Homemade air boat plans are often designed with the configuration of a single seat at the front for the operator, and 1 or 2 seats at the rear for passengers, although specifications are also available with a single seat design for sole use of the operator. Besides the fun aspects to the swamp boat – these machines also function for a variety of professional functions, such as those aimed at general pleasure, search and rescue, sports activities (fishing or hunting), eco-tourism, law enforcement, and military use.

Professional vs. Home Built

Self-construction air boat plans offer great-savings compared to the costs of purchasing a manufactured, ready-to-fish machine available at a local boat dealership. A 2009 model, 11-ft x 7-ft full deck swamp boat for instance, costs in the region of $4,995 in the preowned market, although this will come with a 150Hp engine, stainless-steel exhaust and rigging, electronic instruments, and 4-blade propeller.

Savings can also be found in a refurbishment project, such projects include those vessels requiring a complete refit, the salvaged or hurricane damaged – as well as the seized, confiscated, or repossessed boats available at boat auctions.

The potential to self build a DIY air boat, sailing boat, kayak, or glass-bottom boat at a fraction of the cost is there – provided that a high-quality set of small air boat plans are to hand.