Essential Gear for a Boating Trip

Introduction by William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill

Part of planning a successful boating trip is to be sure you have the basic essentials onboard for safety, security and comfort before you leave the dock.  Here is a short narrative by Adriana Noton for both the experienced and inexperienced day tripper and weekender to serve as a reminder to the old hands and a guide to the lubbers of what to bring on a boating trip.

Article By Adriana Noton

Essential gear to bring on a boating trip is like beauty - it depends on the eye of the

beholder. You may not want to step off the dock without a double pack of light beer, while your wife would really like to take the kitchen sink. But probably there is a middle ground where we all can agree that some things are really necessary.

First of all, to be safe, every passenger should have true boating shoes. This term is not equivalent to sneakers, no matter how many cute little nautical flags are used for decoration. Boating shoes, in the modern, commercial sense, have grip pads or other carefully designed features on the soles to make them cling to wet, smooth surfaces. All boat decks are smooth, for maintenance reasons as well as for traditional ideas of beauty. All boat decks are very likely to get and/or stay wet.

Secondly, giving the nod to conventional medical wisdom, you should take sun screen. Hats may blow off, assuredly will interfere with letting the wind blow through your hair, and cannot help protect you from the glare off the surface of the water and the boat itself. You will probably be out for hours, so choose one with a high SPF factor. For those skeptical of the true protection of sun screens, take a spray bottle of dilute vitamin C, take extra CoQ10 for a few days before and a few after your excursion, and have some natural coconut oil along.

Clothes are up to you, depending of course on the season, but also on what you are doing. Rafting down a canyon river does not call for shorts and tank tops, because the water feels like ice all year. Wet suits come in all sizes for those active souls, but for the rear cabin of a yacht, shorts will be just fine.

However, foul weather gear should be somewhere in your immediate vicinity, so provide it if you are the boat owner or check on it beforehand if you are a guest. Open water comes with wind, and being out longer than you expect will make day wear inadequate after sundown. Squalls on the Bay and thunderstorms inland can drench you in a minute. This rainproof outer clothing comes in traditional bright yellow slick to fashionable color coordinates, and can be merely a shell or fully lined for cold weather protection.

For safety, you will want to have on hand a floating flashlight, a way to contact the shore or the folks that stayed on land, a first aid kit with band-aids (great for blisters, if for nothing more serious), lots of water for keeping hydrated, food because raw fish gets old fast, and polarized sunglasses. Sunlight is intensified on the water, so give your eyes the protection they need. Lip balm may also be very welcome after a while.

Of course, there are many other great ideas: gloves to keep the canoe paddle from wearing away the skin on your hands, a personal flotation device (no longer needs to be blaze orange and bulky, or always under your chin), a strap to keep your sunglasses or goggles firmly in place, a folding ladder to let you swim off the boat and get back in, and fishing gear to let you catch dinner. Towel, good books, radios for music and news, good friends - all of these can make things afloat easier and more pleasant.

Essential gear to bring on a boating trip is what personal taste and common sense tell you. You can also check out boating experts, from friends to the US Coast Guard or HM Coast Guard, for advice.

Unleash your inner Magellan. Hit the high seas. Summer is here.  Time to set sail.

Adriana Noton is an experienced boater and Ezine Articles Expert Author
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Adriana_Noton

William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill, webmaster of this site, is the author of the book Lubber's Log, published by Llumina Press; a boating journal and adventure story of the author's first time experiences in the preparation, maintenance and piloting of a new, unfamiliar boat. You can visit his website here. Lubber's Log

Modern Yacht Racing - J Class

Introduction by William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill

One of the most opulent and magnificent sailing class of  racing yachts of all time is the J-Class.  The vessels are unique in their combination of dimension and speed with 170 foot masts, 4 foot wide booms, 1,800 square foot spinnakers and 5,000 square foot main sails. This class of yachts was conceived in the 1930's when only 10 were designed, sparing no expense by the wealthy elites of yachtsmen such as Sir Thomas Lipton and Harold S. Vanderbilt vying to bring home the America's Cup in the yachts Shamrock V, Enterprise and Ranger. 

Most of the J-Class yachts were scrapped prior to World War II and left only a memory until the year 2000 with the birth of the J Class Association (JCA) that now makes it possible to race several replicas of the super yachts when the association organizes races for the them in Newport, USA and Falmouth and Cowes, UK.

The presentation below by Superyacht Media illustrates how spectacular these beautifully designed vessels are.  They are towering, elegant behemoths that represent a Golden Age of Cup racing.  Enjoy the video!

Typical Dimension of the J-Class yacht:
LOA: 120 feet (37 meters)
LWL: 80 feet  (25 meters)
Beam: 20 feet  (6 meters)
Sail Area:  7500 square feet  (2286 square meters)
Maximum Draft:  15 feet  (4.5 meters)





Double click on the video for a full screen presentation.



William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill, webmaster of this site, is the author of the book Lubber's log, published by Llumina Press; a boating journal and adventure story of the author's first time experiences in the preparation, maintenance and piloting of a new, unfamiliar boat. You can visit his website here. Lubber's Log

Who Needs Trim Tabs?

Introduction by William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill

If you don't have trim tabs on a planing hull or if you do have them and they aren't working properly your boat's performance, efficiency and safety may be seriously compromised.  Trim tabs are designed to get a boat on plane quickly and correct for uneven weight distribution. With the proper attitude relative to the pitch and roll of the boat given variable wave conditions on any given day you will likely experience increased fuel efficiency, less squatting, a reduction in pounding/porpoising, improved visibility and overall increase in speed.

John Greviskis, one of the most popular figures in boating today is in his 13th broadcast season of his brainchild,  Ship Shape TV. In the video below the illustrations, John and Fair Hyams of Bennett Marine, leader in trim tab innovations, explains the benefits of trim tabs and how they work.

                                   Illustration of How Trim Tabs Work

                 Illustration by Paul Mirto, longtime boater and digital illustrator

        Trim Tabs Overview as seen on Ship Shape TV



William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill, webmaster of this site, is the author of the book Lubber's Log, published by Llumina Press; a boating journal and adventure story of the author's first time experiences in the preparation, maintenance and piloting of a new, unfamiliar boat. You can visit his website here. Lubber's Log

Top Ten Boat Naming Tips

Introduction by William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill

Here are some really simple, useful tips to consider when naming your boat.  Your boat's name is more important than it may seem; it becomes your identity on the water, reflects who you are, your values and your character.  Choose wisely and seriously take into account the Top Ten Boat Naming Tips listed below before permanently affixing your new moniker to your stern.

If you are considering renaming your boat, solemnly heed tip #10.  Forgetting to do a proper christening could bring on all sorts of unpleasant, unexpected happenings with a vengeance.  If you feel you need the facts on renaming your boat and the surprising consequences of failing to observe the mandatory ceremonial liturgies go to:  Renaming Your Boat - Ceremony Required?   You'll be glad you did!

Top Ten Boat Naming Tips 

Article from FirstBoat*

1. Less is More 

The shorter the better, especially in an emergency, as every second counts when you are calling for help. In addition, many in the sailing community feel you should try to limit a boat name to one word.

2. Tempting

You don’t want to tempt the gods of the sea one way or the other. Names like “On the Rocks” or “Bottoms Up” may turn out to be more appropriate than you ever intended. By the same token, if you name your boat “Titanic”, or anything else that implies un-sinkability, are just asking for it.

3. Women and Children

Guys: yes, your boat is a “she”. But before you name her after your wife, think about this: What if, even after that grand gesture, she still doesn’t appreciate the boat? Or, if she shares your love of boating, what if she is simply uncomfortable with the idea of sharing her name?

4. NSFW 

NSFW is a term born on the Internet to describe content that is inappropriate, as in “Not suitable/safe for work”. Is your boat name appropriate for kids to see? Will your boss or clients be on the boat, or will they be put off if they get wind of the name? Will friends and family be embarrassed or offended by the name you choose?

5. Honor Thy Neighbor

You don't have to be totally original, but avoid names already used in your harbor, or at least in your marina. There are no rules currently in the US about re-using boat names, but having the same name as the boat next to you is just silly.

6. The VHF Test 

Imagine repeating your boat name several times over the VHF radio in a call to the Coast Guard or dockmaster, and all other boats within listening range. How do you sound? Now, add static and other background noise. Repeat.

7. Turn a Sail into a Sale

That’s so clever, we’ll say it again. A boat name related to your business can help you turn a sail into a sale ™.If you own a business or work for one that you’re proud of, name your boat something related to the company name and you’ll have a billboard on the water, or at least a conversation starter about what you do for a living.

8. Dot Calm

Is the dot-come domain name available to match your boat name? This could be of interest if you are a cruiser, live-aboard, race your boat, share it with other fractional owners, or if you simply want a blog about your boating adventures.

9. The Aqua-Holics

Your boat name will be YOUR name. People you meet may not remember your name, they will remember you by your boat name. This is exaggerated for cruisers and live-aboards. The owners of the Mary-Jane become known as “the Mary-Janes”, the owners of the Jenny become “the Jenny’s”. You get the picture. Do you really want to be known as the Aqua-Holics?

10. Re-Naming a Boat

It is not bad luck to re-name a boat… as long as you christen the boat properly. In fact, whether you buy a new boat or a used boat, always christen her with the new boat name. There are various boat naming ceremonies available on the Internet, but all you really have to do is pop open a bottle of champagne, splash some on the hull, and toast the new boat’s name with at least one witness. Oh, and make sure you say something nice and respectful about Poseidon and/or Neptune.

*For over ten years, FirstBoat has been providing both new and experienced boaters with information about the basics of boating. Whether you are researching new yachts, trying to come up with a boat name, or looking for the latest boating news, check FirstBoat first to find answers fast. 

William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill, webmaster of this site, is the author of the book Lubber's Log, published by Llumina Press; a boating journal and adventure story of the author's first time experiences in the preparation, maintenance and piloting of a new, unfamiliar boat. You can visit his website here. Lubber's Log

Freedive to Freedom

Introduction by William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill

Spring is a season most of us water enthusiasts long for in the winter doldrums; it heralds that boating time of year. To begin the warm up process for the run through the season, many seek relaxation and adventure on far away tropical islands like Honaunau Bay, Hawaii. This couple did.

Here's a video set to reggae island music that is as relaxing and spellbinding as it is rejuvenating. It should hold your attention for at least its 3 1/2 minutes duration, probably more. Don your virtual snorkel, mask and fins for a freedive with the sea turtles, dolphins and tropical fish.

If you need more time recharging this Spring you can Chill Out on a Tropical Island Paradise or Take a Trip to Eden. Enjoy the break!

Double click on the video for full immersion.


William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill, webmaster of this site, is the author of the book Lubber's Log, published by Llumina Press; a boating journal and adventure story of the author's first time experiences in the preparation, maintenance and piloting of a new, unfamiliar boat. You can visit his website here. Lubber's Log

Top Boating Photos of 2013

Introduction by William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill

Last year BoatU.S.Magazine* sponsored a photo contest in August, 2012 where entrants could earn prizes for the best "on-the-water photographs". In the February/March 2013 issue the finalists and winners were revealed along with their entries.  Here is just a sampling of some of the most artistic, lifestyle and scenic photos of the lot.  More can be found in February/March issue. Enjoy.

                     Left click on the photos once for a black background and improved contrast!                 

Winner of Artistic

         "White on Black Water", by Tom McCandless of Georgetown, ME

Winner of Lifestyle

"The Next Chapter", by Christian Suchecki of Drexel Hill, PA

Winner of Scenic

"Sunset in Key Largo", by Elvisay Vazquez, Key Largo, FL

*BoatU.S.Magazine is a bimonthy publication of the Boat Owners Association of the United States.  It's an award winning magazine that keeps you up-to-date on the issues that affect every boater. 

William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill, webmaster of this site, is the author of the book Lubber's Log, published by Llumina Press; a boating journal and adventure story of the author's first time experiences in the preparation, maintenance and piloting of a new, unfamiliar boat. You can visit his website here. Lubber's Log

Preview To Offshore Powerboat Racing

Introduction by William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill

Most everyone who spends time on the water has seen them at one time or another, those ear splitting, brightly colored powerboats that skip across the water at break neck speeds.  They can be the most dangerous and powerful racing machines known to man in large part due to the speeds they can attain, the highly volatile fuel needed to power the craft and the unique design and balance of the hulls built to withstand ever changing elements of wind  and water. A finely tuned balance needs to be maintained to max out speed to the point of possible wipeout.

Offshore powerboat racing has been around since 1904 when the first race took place from the southeast coast of England to Calais, France.  Today, it's as popular as ever with classes of boats ranging from single, twin and four piston engine V-bottom boats and catamarans to turbines in various hull configurations.  The races have become more spectator friendly lately, but endurance offshore races are what give the sport it's name.

In this video, Marc Granet, driver of the powerboat Miss Geico, describes his passion for powerboat racing; his desire to build the fastest boat with a greatest team that knows how to compete and win.  Miss Geico is a 40 ft turbine powered monster. Grant describes the boat this way, "This boat is beyond extreme.  We hit 210 mph (338 km/h) in seconds," he adds, "There is nothing like it on the water."

Double click on the video for a HiDef full video presentation.



William L. Gills aka Bos'n Bill, webmaster of this site, is the author of the book Lubber's Log, published by Llumina Press; a boating journal and adventure story of the author's first time experiences in the preparation, maintenance and piloting of a new, unfamiliar boat. You can visit his website here. Lubber's Log