The Boat Ramp

Buying A Cruising Yacht

Everyone out there likes the idea of a shiny new boat.  While buying a new yacht is an accomplishment in itself, you shouldn't spend over your budget then
be unable to take it anywhere.  When you buy a yacht, always look at what comes with the boat and decide if it's everything you want.

Types of construction

GRP
Almost all cruising yachts out there today are made of GRP construction.  GRP material is long lasting,strong, and easy to repair.  Osmosis is the only
real problem here, as the blisters it leaves can be sometimes costly to repair.

Steel
Steel is always a great a idea, as it is by far the strongest material.  There have been steel boats ran into reefs and banks and received just a few mere
scratches.  Even though steel has many advantages, rust is the true enemy here.  You must keep all surfaces thoroughly painted, primed, and ready to avoid all types of rust.

Aluminum
Although rare in the normal cruising market, aluminum is very popular with the construction of top quality custom built yachts.  If you are looking
for an aluminum constructed yacht, always make sure that it wasn't constructed by an amateur yacht builder - as this can cause major problems later on down the road.

Wood
Even though it's the most traditional building material, wood still has a lot to offer.  If you get the right kind of wood, it can last just as long as any other type of material.  The maintenence costs are very high with wood, especially if you do your own painting.

Ferro-cement
Concrete type boats have been around for a long time.  A cheap method of hull construction, it was very popular in the 70's.  If done properly, it can be a very strong method of yacht construction.

Rigs
The most popular choices of yacht rigs include sloop,cutter, and ketch - in that particular order.  Sloop has the virtue of simplicity, while ketch and cutter
rigs will split the sail plan into more easily managed areas.  A ketch rig can sail under mizzen and headsail alone, while cutter rigs can offer a simple twin headsail with downwind option.

Essentials versus desirable Before you begin looking for a yacht, make a list
of what you must have then make a list of what would be nice to have.  There are many additions and add ons you can get for yachts, although they can get very expensive in a hurry.

When you shop for a yacht, always plan out your budget before you even start looking.  A nice yacht can cost a lot of money, which is something you may need to save up for.  Yachts are great to sail on, especially for those who have a lot of oney
to spare.

Fishing Tips and Fishing Tales

Time: ending soonest----------------------Price: highest first Price: lowest first Time: ending soonest Time: newly listed

Finding the ideal boat is an undertaking for an seasoned boater. For the first boater, it can be a very difficult task to carry out. To help you with your quest,search for the ideal boat, there are a few things you should know. Deciding what's important determining the correct boat is all about knowing what's really important to you. You need to determine whether you'll be using the boat for your own private use, fishing, or cruising. You should also consider your families feelings, as buying a boat for your own personal needs without consulting your family will probably lead to disappointing experiences or less time spent on the water. Types of boats Typically, boats will fall into five categories fishing boats, power boats, sailboats, personal watercraft, and self powered boats. To help you find the perfect boat, we'll take a look at what each one offers. Fishing boats The designs for fishing boats will vary quite a bit, as are the places you can use them. The boats that are meant for shallow waters of inland lakes and rivers aren't the same boats meant for deep seas and great lakes. There are many different designs, even boats that serve no other purpose besides fishing. These types of boats normally have stowage and holders for bait, fishing poles, tackle, and even special tanks to hold live fish. Other types of fishing only boats feature an open platform where anglers can fight fish from all sides of the boat. Power boats are the most popular boats sold. The designs with power boats are as varied as their uses. Boats with seating in the front are called bowriders, which are mainly used for towing skiers or rafts. Most boats can also be used for fishing as well. If you want to do both, there are ski and fish combinations available. Sailboats When you first learn to pilot a sailboat, it can be very challenging, although very rewarding as well. A sailboat requires more skill and knowledge to operate than boats, although they are considered more rewarding once mastered. With all available sailboats, the single masted sloop is the most popular design. For those who only boat on occasion, catboats, daysailers, and dinghys are small and easily trailerable. When you finally decide on the perfect boat for you, look at what each one offers and how you plan to use it. The perfect boat for you is out there, all you have do is find the one that best matches your needs.