Positive Boating

[Silentsam]

I just bough a 2000 13-footer with 25-HP engine.

Give me advice so that my boating experience will be positive.

[jimh]

I have been operating outboard-engine powered small boats since I was eight-years-old. I am now 71-years-old. I learn something new every time I go boating.

Take a course with the U. S. Power Squadron.

[Phil T]

Admit to what you do not know.

Be safe, be smart.

Take a class.

Go boating with a buddy who is a veteran boater who can show you how to operate your boat safely. Practice manuvering, landing, launching.

Leave the family at home till you get some time on the water.

[jimh]

SAM--are you going to be towing the boat on a trailer to a launching ramp in order to use the boat each time you go boating?

If yes, then you need to maintain all the following in good working order if you want to have a positive experience:

1. towing vehicle
2. boat trailer
3. boat hull
4. boat engine

Any problem with any of the above will tend to have a negative influence on positive boating.

[dtmackey]

In no particular order:

- Learn launching ramp etiquette
- Take a boating course
- Practice backing a trailer somewhere other than the launching ramp, until you are good at it
- Go with a friend to pick up pointers from their boating

I'm sure there's more that will come to mind later.

D-

[macfam]

NEVER approach another boat or dock any faster than you’re willing to hit it!!