What Channel to Use for a VHF Emergency? A Boater’s Guide

Knowing which VHF channel to use in an emergency can save valuable time. When a boat is taking on water, someone is injured, a person has gone overboard, or you…

Knowing which VHF channel to use in an emergency can save valuable time. When a boat is taking on water, someone is injured, a person has gone overboard, or you…

Keeping a boat cabin comfortable during hot weather can be challenging. A small interior can heat up quickly, and sunlight through windows, limited ventilation, humidity, and warm engine compartments can…

A solar panel can help keep your boat battery charged while reducing dependence on shore power, generators, and engine charging. Whether you want to maintain a starting battery, support a…

A boat GPS tracker can help you monitor your vessel’s location, receive movement alerts, track battery voltage, and improve the chances of recovery after theft. It can also provide useful…

A boat is a major investment, and leaving it unattended can create security concerns. Boats stored at marinas, in boatyards, on trailers, or at private docks may be vulnerable to…

Boat seats are exposed to some of the harshest conditions in the marine environment. Saltwater, sunscreen, fish slime, dirt, mildew, rain, UV rays, and spilled drinks can quickly leave upholstery…

Figure 1. An EPIRB locates the vessel; a PLB locates the person. When you are boating far from shore, reliable emergency communication can make a critical difference. Cell service may…

A reliable power bank can be essential on the water. Phones, GPS devices, cameras, satellite messengers, VHF accessories, and other electronics can lose power at the worst possible time. But…

A reliable extension cord can be useful on a boat, whether you are connecting shore power at the dock, running maintenance equipment, or powering accessories during a weekend on the…

Reliable internet can make life aboard a boat more convenient. Whether you need to check the weather, stream entertainment, work remotely, update navigation software, or stay in contact with family,…

A dead starting battery can quickly turn a good day on the water into an emergency. Whether the battery was drained by a bilge pump, lights, electronics, or simple age,…

Moisture is one of the biggest threats to a boat during storage. Humid air can lead to mold, mildew, musty odors, corrosion, damaged upholstery, fogged electronics, and deteriorating woodwork. A…

A reliable boat battery charger is essential for keeping your marine batteries ready for the next trip. The right charger can extend battery life, prevent unexpected starting problems, and safely…

A boat depth sounder seems simple: it displays a number, and that number tells you how much water is below the boat. But many boaters misunderstand what the reading actually…

Knowing how to tie the right knot is an important boating skill. A properly tied knot can help secure a boat to a dock, attach a fender, join two lines,…