BROWSE POWERBOATING ARTICLES

Group planning a powerboating route using a map, discussing navigation strategies indoors.

The Nautical Chart

October 17, 2024

Safely maneuvering a vessel while using positions derived from various coastal and near coastal sources is called coastal navigation.

Stone monument with explorers overlooking a deep blue river, perfect backdrop for a Lisbon powerboating adventure.

Navigation Introduction

October 16, 2024

The history of navigation is fascinating and dates back as many centuries as we can imagine.

Clove Hitch

October 16, 2024

The clove hitch is used to attach a fender rope to a post or railing or life line. It’s adjustable and can be quickly tied and untied.

Modern powerboat with sleek design, perfect for cruising. Features enclosed cabin and outboard motor. Ideal for boating enthusiasts.

Outboard engines have traditionally been associated with smaller boats, but advancements in technology have led to the development of high-horsepower outboard engines that are now commonly used on larger powerboats, including those over 26 feet.

Diagram illustrating sea breeze effect with cooler water and warmer land temperatures. Air flow shown with arrows.

Understanding Wind

October 15, 2024

Winds can be gentle, hardly felt, like zephyrs flitting about in a local area, or they can be vast movements of air moving swiftly across oceans and continents at low and high altitudes.

Couple enjoying a sunny day on a luxurious powerboat over clear turquoise waters.

Why Anchor?

October 14, 2024

There are many reasons for anchoring your boat: Emergencies.

Diagram illustrating boat maneuvering in strong wind, with labeled sections indicating direction and obstacles.

Designing the Spring Line Maneuver

October 14, 2024

Like a work of fine engineering, a spring maneuver requires a design. The key is to plan the maneuver by...

Diagram showing a powerboat maneuvering off a dock using a spring line technique, with wind direction indicated.

Introduction to Spring Lines

October 13, 2024

Essentially, spring lines are just long dock lines.

Sailboat anchored near rocky shoreline with two people on board, enjoying the serene coastal view.

Multiple Anchors

October 13, 2024

There are occasions when more than one anchor will add safety and comfort. One possibility is to use one or two anchors from the bow, one from the stern, or both.

Sailboat navigating serene waters near stunning rocky cliffs, perfect for marine adventures and scenic exploration.

Anchoring Introduction

October 11, 2024

Ensuring that your boat is in the same place you left it is a very important skill. There are also other factors to consider: depth under keel and surrounding area depth, tidal currents, low tide depth, other boats in proximity, wind speed and direction changes, type of bottom, and length of stay. All factors play into your anchoring decisions.

Diagram showing powerboat maneuvering techniques for Springing On docking, considering wind and current effects.

Springing On and In when Docking

October 10, 2024

Coming into a slip is usually not a problem and does not require a spring because you merely drive the boat using either forward or reverse.

Sound Signals

October 10, 2024

Sound signals are defined and prescribed in the Navigation Rules for International and Inland Waters. Sound has an advantage over light signals, in that it can be used when vision fails.

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