News — safe boating habits

Pontoon Boat Brands to Avoid – Read This Before You Buy

By: PontoonPedia

A question I’ve been asked a few times over the last year is if there are any pontoon boat brands to avoid. It’s understandable, as even a used pontoon boat is going to cost you a fair whack, so you don’t want to end up making a mistake.
But here’s the thing; I personally would not avoid any of the current pontoon boat brands.

Virtually anything that has been manufactured in the last couple of decades will have been engineered to the highest standards and passed the relevant safety ratings.

Where pontoon boats will truly tend to differ will be the quality of the fixtures and fittings plus how they have been constructed overall.

It’s very easy to get distracted by all the shiny functionality you see on the deck. When looking at a pontoon boat, don’t just take in the seating, carpets, accessories, tech, and gear that gets thrown in.

You need to do your own due diligence by looking under the console and deck to see what the workmanship is like.

As an example, some pontoon boats will have rails and decks that have been screwed in. Other will be bolted through. Through bolting will give you a much better boat that’s going to last a lot longer, possibly with a reduction in overall maintenance costs.

Another thing to look at is the brackets on the pontoon tubes. The M shaped brackets are much better. But don’t stop there, also look at how the welding has been done, and on used boats, look for signs of damage and patching.

These are just a couple of tips; there’s a lot more to it.

You will need to do a lot of research before deciding whether a certain pontoon boat brand and model is one that you avoid or choose to go with. That includes talking to other pontoon boat owners.

To help you with your decision-making process, I’d like to refer you to some of the more in-depth content on Pontoonopedia that I encourage you to read in full before you pull the trigger on a purchase.

Must-read buyers guide for buying a new pontoon boat
If you are looking to buy new, and don’t know what pontoon boat brands to avoid, then this buyer’s guide won’t tell you that, as all brands make great models. What it will do is give you some insight into:

• What to avoid when buying new.
• Size and capacity considerations.
• Pros and cons to buying a new pontoon versus used.
• How you know if it’s a good pontoon boat or not.
• Which factory options you should choose for you.

I suggest reading the entire buyer’s guide in full before you start your search this year.

What to look for when buying a used pontoon boat
I’ve put together a checklist of questions and things to avoid when buying in the used market. This includes aspects such as:

• What will you be using the boat for?
• How much deck space will you need?
• How to search for great deals and prices.
• What elements on the pontoon boat you need to check out.
• What state the engine is in and how many hours it’s done.
• What the fixtures and fittings are like.
• What additional features will you need.
• How to compare prices and get better price.
• Whether a manufacturer warranty is important or not.
• How to ensure you get a log of receipts and work done.
• Taking a used pontoon boat for a test drive.
• Asking for proof of ownership and the seller’s reputation.
• What you need from a survey and insurance.

To read the guide in full so you know what pontoon boats to avoid when buying used, read the full used buyer’s guide.

Some pontoon boat basics
If you’re still undecided on whether to take the plunge, you might want to get to grips with some pontoon boat basics. I have listed advice on:

• Passenger capacity.
• Launching and driving.
• Beaching and anchoring.
• Parking in slips and marinas.
• Safety basics and tips.
• Trailer and towing basics.
• Fishing set-ups and layouts.

For more detailed information on each point, go check out my pontoon boat basics 101.

Making your final selection on a pontoon boat
There’s also a lot more information you need to get to grips with on how to make your final selection. This selection guide includes advice on:

• How to choose the right pontoon boat for your needs.
• What size you need depending on your plans.
• Whether you will need a fishing set-up, or just leisure, or both.
• How much your ideal pontoon boat should cost.
• What makes a good quality pontoon boat design.
• Question to ask the boat dealers before you buy.

Selecting the right pontoon boat for a family

And finally, if you are family-focussed, and looking for something to suit your and your brood, I’ve put together a guide specifically for this market. Tips include:

• Why plenty of seating is of paramount importance.
• How a pop-up changing room will be needed.
• The protection a decent Bimini will offer.
• How storage space should be a huge consideration.
• Why vinyl flooring might be better than carpeting.
• How watersports might change which boat you buy.
• The types of inflatables you can buy.
• What safety gear you will need for your family.
• Why a boarding ladder will be essential for kids.

Read my family-friendly guide to choosing a pontoon boat if you have kids.

The last word…

So there you have it. If you’ve read through all those guides you will now be in a far better position to choosing the best boat and brand to suit your needs. As mentioned, currently I wouldn’t say there were any pontoon boat brands to avoid. It all comes down to suitability, budget, and your individual needs.

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Which Safety Precaution Should be Taken First in Stormy Weather?

By: PontoonPedia

It goes without saying that boating in stormy weather can be a frightening experience for boaters who are just starting out. That’s why it’s so important that you get this question right when taking a Boat Ed exam and quizlet. Here’s the short answer, followed by some more details on how you can boat safely.

Which safety precaution should be taken first by a boat operator when boating in stormy weather? The boat operator should first make sure that all passengers on board the boat are wearing US Coast Guard approved life jackets or PFDs (personal flotation devices) when boating in stormy weather.

That’s the short answer.

It’s your responsibility as the boat captain or operator to make sure all people on the boat have the correct PFDs on which not only fit but have been approved by the US Coast Guard. This is even more important during bad weather conditions.

But there are some exceptions to this rule.

For example, with children younger than 13 years old, they should always be wearing a US Coast Guard approved PFD at all times as soon as the boat is in motion.

For more clarity on the law around how old kids are allowed to go on boats, and what measures need to be taken, please read the following guides:

• When can a baby go on a boat in Canada?
• Can you take a baby on a boat when in Florida?

However, there is a still a caveat with children younger than 13 when on a boat. If they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin, they don’t have to be wearing a PFD when the boat is underway – unless it’s very stormy weather of course.

But, here’s the thing.

As a pontoon boat owner, I would never, ever not have my kids wearing life jackets or PFDs when our boat is moving. It doesn’t matter if we’re anchored down in a calm spot or not. They have to wear adequate protection at all times.

It’s a good rule to have yourself.

In fact, my wife and I actually put together a list of rules for safety which we made our own kids learn back to front and off by heart. You can read those kid safety rules here, and there will be some aspects in there you might not have considered before.

But what are the best types of PFDs for kids?

It will be one that fits, it fit for purpose, and is US Coast Guard approved. You can see a checklist of what to look for in the graphic I made below.

You might also have heard about kids wearing something called a puddle jumper. You can buy ones that are US Coast Guard approved, and I’ve compiled a little guide you can read through here: what to look for in a puddle jumper to make sure it’s safe and approved.

Tips for boating in stormy weather

Back to the initial question though on which safety precaution should be taken first by a boat operator when boating in stormy weather.

Stormy weather can be really frightening, even for the most experienced of boaters. You only have to read reports of how duck boats have been involved in accidents and the fatalities involved due to a lack of life jacket to see that.

Here are my top tips for boating in stormy weather once you’ve made sure that everyone has their PFDs on.

1. Check the weather reports before you set off on a boat trip.
2. Make sure you have enough fuel to cover all eventualities in stormy weather.
3. Don’t start to panic as this can lead to poor decision making.
4. Always wear a PFD or life jacket as soon as the weather starts to turn.
5. Slow down and pay careful attention to how the waves are behaving.
6. Secure down any loose items on deck and in the cabins below.
7. Approach waves and wakes at an angle, taking no risks.

The last word…

If you are new to boating or are taking an exam and test, please don’t cheat.

Whilst I’ve given you the correct answer to the question on “which safety precaution should be taken first by a boat operator when boating in stormy weather”, don’t just tick the right multiple choice response and leave it there.

Continual refreshing on boat safety is essential, even for the most experienced of boat captains and operators.

You can find a wealth of boat safety information on Pontoonopedia, so please use the search functionality for more tips on how to make fun and safe memories on the water this year.

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World of Watersports - Shop - Towable Tubes Big Bubba HI-VIS 2P

By: Wowwatersports.com

The Bubba couch style towables are some of the most popular tubes on the market.  They make for a perfect starter tube for the family just getting into towables but also they are a tube that just about anybody can have fun on.  The Bubbas come with a flat base for a smooth ride over the water and minimal drag on the boat.  The SECURE DECK SEATING on the Bubbas come with a super high backrest with sidewalls which is great for keeping young kids safe and for giving them a secure feeling if they are just getting started on towables.  But don’t get us wrong, these aren’t just for little kids.  The high backrest just means it’s more difficult to fly off on the more wild rides.  The smooth, flat base will get this baby going fast on the water if that’s what you’re in to.  The Bubbas also come with front and back tow points so you can ride sitting, laying down, or kneeling chariot style.  And after your ride is over the Bubbas make a perfect floating couch on the water.  Great for relaxing with your friends at your favorite body of water.

•  1-2 Rider Towable 340lbs or 154kg maximum capacity
• SECURE DECK SEATING comes with extra high backrest and sidewalls. Great for helping young kids feel secure on the water
• The extra high backrest keeps the ride going on the extra fast and bouncy rides
• Reinforced front and back tow points with 1 EZ tow connector on front tow point for fast connection
• Ride sitting, laying down, or kneeling chariot style
• EVA foam seat and knee pads
• 8 double webbing foam handles & 4 flat handles
• Great floating couch for relaxing after your ride
• Heavy-duty PVC bladder and nylon cover
• Speed valve for fast inflation and deflation
• Zippered valve cover
• Backed by 1 year warranty
• Deflated dimensions: 66 in x 60 in x 42 in

The Best Outboard Motor Security Tips to Keep Pontoon Thieves at Bay

By: Better Boat

A new crime wave is sweeping docks and marinas across the country.

Boat thefts.

We’re not just talking about the actual vessels being stolen—we’re talking about valuable items being swiped from the vessels. And there’s one valuable item in particular worth worrying about if you’re a pontoon owner: Your outboard motor.

This is the type of the motor that graces every tooner’s vessel (except for the odd tooner with a sterndrive motor).

Still, outboard motor security is an important precaution that’s being somewhat overlooked by unsuspecting pontoon boat owners.

When the boating season draws to a close, pontoon owners will generally swap water for dry land. As boat owners change their environment, so do preying criminals.

Think about it—you’re moving indoors and your prized possession (the pontoon) remains outdoors, whether this is at a local dock, in your driveway or in your yard. Since you won’t be focusing your attention on the vessel when it’s out of the water, this presents thieves with a prime opportunity to swoop in and take what isn’t theirs!

The Best Outboard Motor Security Tips to Keep Pontoon Thieves at Bay

Things to Know About Outboard Motor Theft

Sure, the boat itself might seem like an easy steal, what with it being easily portable on wheels, but unmanned outboard motors are becoming just as desirable for thieves.

Regardless of their weight, outboard motors are highly valuable and the main appeal for thieves is that they’re much less traceable than an actual pontoon boat.

Outboard motors are detachable and can be unmounted from outboard racks swiftly, allowing a thief to make a speedy escape before you’re even aware of their presence.

Before I divulge some valuable seasonal outboard motor security tips with you, let me answer some common questions that every pontoon boat owner ought to know the answer to:

• What are the main targets for thieves? — You have to remember that thieves are smart in their ways. Many will be on the prowl for days, weeks or even months before they make a move. A few things will entice them, such as unlocked gates, unguarded premises and, of course, an unmanned boat. Aim to keep your boat’s location as obscure as possible in an attempt to keep thieves at bay.

• What’s the most likely time for a thief to strike? — Late at night or early in the morning are the times when a thief might attack your outboard motor security. For this reason, your grounds should be well-lit and preferably monitored by some kind of surveillance system, such as a closed-circuit television system (CCTV). When a CCTV system is connected to an alarm system, the relevant authorities will be alerted, and action can be taken. One excellent option for your pontoon is the AquaAlarm wireless boat alarm system (check price on Amazon).

• Why do thieves steal outboard motors? — Not only is a pontoon outboard motor a very valuable piece of equipment but it’s also very hard to trace. What’s more, it can be detached in a few minutes, making the outboard motor a tempting option for a quick getaway. If you own a motor that churns out a lot of horsepower, you can bet that your motor will be sought after in the world of boat thieves. However, the higher the horsepower the heavier the motor, which means that a thief would require a great deal of skill to pull off the task.

• Where is this happening? According to statistics gathered by the BoatUS Marine Insurance Claims Files, Florida sees the highest number of boat thefts, with 47% of claims being made in the Sunshine State. This may just be due to the sheer number of boats around or the fact that many locals know the value of an outboard motor. Either way, if you’re in Florida or another year-round boating locale, outboard motor security isn’t something to skimp on.

Outboard Motor Security Solutions to Deter Thieves

The level of outboard motor security you maintain for your pontoon depends on what you’re willing to do in order to protect your vessel.

A broad spectrum of security devices can be purchased, from the low-cost options to the more expensive, high-tech systems.

Although you can expect to make an initial investment, you can’t really put a price on boat security.

I’ve got a few solutions to combat motor theft:

• Steering Lock — A steering lock, like the TH Marin Steer Stop Hydraulic Steering Lock, can be fixed onto your outboard motor’s hydraulic steering cylinder rods with ease.

Aside from protecting your pontoon’s outboard motor, it will also protect the boat steering system.

• Outboard Lock with Transom Bolts — A tamper-resistant lock is a necessity for anyone who wants to increase their pontoon outboard motor security. 

When bolted through the transom, a bolt lock will act as a deterrent against thieves. Strong metal, such as stainless steel, will be resistant to corrosion and tampering.

For added security, combine the outboard lock with a clamp lock. Unauthorized removal can be prevented with the Marinetech 75-8000 Marine Outboard Motor Lock.

• Security Identification System — One of the most advanced types of technology for outboard motors is an electronic security identification system. As the owner of an outboard motor, you can create a unique identity that the police can establish. 

Unlike typical tagging systems, the Datatag Pro Stealth Security ID System is equipped with scanners. It enables you to give the motor a special fingerprint which can’t be interfered with by a criminal. 

How to Reduce the Risk of Outboard Motor Theft

In addition to taking a proactive approach to improving outboard motor security, you should also think about minimizing the overall risks of a theft occurring in the first place.

Preventative measures can make the world of difference and make your boat less of a target for pesky pontoon criminals.

Consider doing at least one (if not all) of the following things to reduce risks and ease your mind when the boat is ashore:

• Start a “Marina Watch” organization — A strategic approach to reducing the risks of outboard motor theft is to organize a “Marina Watch” organization involving members of your community. By connecting with members of your local community, safety can be improved, and new measures put into place for the prevention of boat-related crimes.

• Install security cameras — In most cases, intruders will avoid areas that are monitored by cameras. As previously mentioned, a boat CCTV system won’t set you back a lot and, when installed properly, you can keep track of what’s happening around your property by setting it up to deliver real-time images to an internet-enabled device.

• Install proper lighting — When a thief feels as though they’re at risk of being caught, they’re less likely to commit the crime. Ensure the area around your boat is illuminated at all hours and the chances of a theft occurring in the off-season will reduce.

• Mark the engine — Making visual markings on your outboard motor, such as a zip code or club marks, is a wise anti-theft tip. You’ll likely get an insurance discount if you do this, should the worst happen. Furthermore, it will give your pontoon a unique identity that can be added to an international database.

Back Up Your Outboard Motor Security with Insurance

In the unfortunate event of your outboard motor being stolen, you can soften the blow by taking out boat insurance coverage.

I can’t stress the importance of getting insurance for your pontoon boat enough, not only during the busy boating season but also during the off-season.

With the right kind of coverage in place, an insurance company can cover the costs (how much depends on the plan you select), should you find yourself in a spot of bother.

But which plans cover theft, you ask? Well, only the comprehensive boat insurance plans will protect you in the worst-case scenario, whereas more basic plans will only cover personal injury, underwater machinery damage.

Make sure you read the terms and conditions of any such plan thoroughly and be prepared to pay for add-ons if you want extra coverage for valuables, such as fishing equipment.

Don’t let yourself become the one out of 100 boat owners who fall victim to boat theft.

Think about stowing your craft in a manned location or in an area that’s in clear view of your property and whereabouts.

With an abundance of outboard motor security options being introduced to the market all of the time, there really is no reason why your motor should be stolen during the off-season—or any season, for that matter!

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