Find Stories About Living the Boating Lifestyle

Shopping Smart

How to choose gear that will satisfy a gift recipient or serve you well on your own boat

When scanning the horizon for 'the right' boating gear, prudent buyers will incorporate several factors into their purchase decisions. With the holidays approaching and the winter layup period under way, there’s a heightened interest in boating equipment, for gifts or for personal use next season.

Is it durable? Practical? Fairly priced?

In the marine environment, a product must wear well, meet your particular needs and not break your budget

Back in 2003, I had the bottom of my boat painted with two antifouling coatings — Interlux Micron 66 and Pettit Trinidad — one on the port bow and starboard stern and the other on the starboard bow and port stern.

Value is measured in product longevity

In boating equipment, you DO get what you pay for, so look for marine-use products from reputable makers

Don't let the volume of choices in the aisles overwhelm you. Do your research and take your time. The first thing I bought for a boat was an official-looking “Navy” anchor. I was 9, and I’d been admiring it for months in the window of the local hardware store. It was for my first boat, a 12-foot navy-gray wooden skiff. I wanted this anchor because I wanted to grow up and be in the Navy (still do).

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Internet research vs. hands-on trial

Each has its merits, so take advantage of both, and limit your search to companies with solid reputations

A trip to the local marine retail store - or to a boat show - can turn any boater into the proverbial kid in a candy store. I’m always curious when I see things other people have added to their boats. What does it do? Is it an addition? Does it replace an item that has failed or worn out? Does it work better than the one it replaces? Who is the manufacturer?

The Case for the Simple Life

In the new reality, people are finding that fun on the water isn’t measured in boat size or amenities

A boat should provide a platform for fun and relaxation - mission accomplished aboard this Eastport 32. Recently we had two couples, all avid cruising sailors, to our home for dinner. The conversation predictably focused on our respective boats and where we had cruised during the summer. By early evening, I was struck by the dissimilar experiences our friends had had.

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