Seamanship
The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Skills and boating manners need to be in top form for the Fourth of July holiday weekend in order to keep yourself and your passengers safe
Are You Prepared for a Man-Overboard?
You need to have a plan and then you must practice, again and again and again
Heading Off, Holding On
Before casting off for the first fishing trip of the season, get these things in order
Don’t Overlook That Can. Or Is It a Nun?
Safe boating is about more than following a line on your GPS. It also requires situational awareness
High and Dry
A soft grounding may be embarrassing, but it’s not the end of the world if you respond correctly
Big Apple Boating
Freighters, ferries and tugs, oh my! Recreational boating in a bustling port can be a challenging undertaking, but highly rewarding, too
Play by the Rules
They are not light reading, but an occasional review of the Rules of the Road will keep you proficient
Second Summer
September and October offer some of the year’s best boating, with fewer crowds and seasonable weather
When lt Blows
To be a better mariner, it helps to know how wind is generated. Here’s a primer, plus tips on how to forecast wind conditions.
Look Out for Number One
For safety’s sake, it’s critical to keep a lookout and stay keenly aware of the situation around your boat.
Call of Duty
Any boater worth his salt should know how to make a distress call and what to do when he hears one
Forecast for Success
Time at the helm taught this pilot boat captain that if there’s weather at sea, careful planning builds confidence
Are You on Autopilot?
This navigational tool has benefits, but never forget it’s the helmsman’s job to stay in the driver’s seat
Heavy Salt and Soaked Charts
A wild ride reminds this captain how critical it is to be prepared for changing sea conditions
Tie One On
Master the right knot-tying habits, not for your own pride, but to improve teamwork onboard and ensure the safety of the crew
Let There Be Light
Nav lights can ensure the safety of your crew. Know how to use and care for those on your boat
The Art of Navigation
Even if your boat is equipped with a suite of electronics, know how to use ranges
Tools for Forecasting
Confused by all of the weather apps on the horizon? Here’s how to select and customize the app that‘s right for you.
To Each His Own
Boat owners will always argue the value of paper charts versus electronic versions. Pat Mundus discusses the pros and cons of both.
Storm Strategy
It’s high-season for hurricanes and fall Nor’easters. Is your boat ready for heavy winds and storms?
Play It Smart
No amount of horsepower or gadgetry can compensate for seamanship skills, so it pays to get yours in order.