Collect and Organize Information of Your Boat

The world of boats isn’t like the world of automobiles. Boat engines are generic in the sense that many different models can be—and often are—installed in any given model of boat. A 2002 Corvette engine probably won’t fit anything but another Corvette of about the same age, but a 17-foot Whaler could have an engine ranging from 25 to 200 horsepower or so, of any year, from any engine manufacturer. Likewise with accessories and fittings—hardly any of these are made by the boatbuilder, and hardly any can be considered “standard.” To further complicate matters, boatbuilders and parts suppliers go out of business much more frequently than auto makers.

Marine Communication Device

The most important electronic device to carry aboard is some sort of communications device. It’s a handy way to find where the fish are biting or which beach the sundown rendezvous is planned for. It’s also useful when you want to talk with the harbormaster in a new port to learn which slip he wants you in, and even to call the waterfront restaurant and reserve a corner table. And if things ever go really bad—sinking boat, life-threatening injury, heart attack—you need dependable contact with the world ashore, in the crack.

Marine Sanitation System

A decent marine sanitation system will make life aboard much more comfortable for all concerned. Many guys complain that their significant others don’t enjoy the boating life. Although a woman may not say it, the proper amenities may go a long way toward encouraging her aboard. In addition, a marine sanitation system is helpful to the environment and also a condition for qualifying your boat as a second home and obtaining the resulting income tax deductions for loan interest.