Boating is the world's foremost magazine for boating enthusiasts. Written by experts for those who love the sport, the editorial covers the waterfront -- from runabouts to sportfish convertibles to luxury showpieces, and everything in between.
When Volvo Penta first introduced the Forward Drive to the world, it presented boaters with a total game changer. Boaters who wanted to try the rising sport of wakesurfing without giving up the versatility of their beloved runabouts and deck boats suddenly didn’t have to choose. The Forward Drive provides the advantages of a Volvo Penta sterndrive engine while safely tucking the Duoprop under the boat and out of harm’s way so that boaters can ride the wave right behind the transom without fear of injury. That’s why the Forward Drive still stands as technology that is truly forward-thinking.…
The level of excellence, variety and innovation found in recreational boats and engines at this moment exceeds that of any time in the 30 years I’ve been writing and speaking about them. One only needs to look at the boats our Tech Team tested for this year’s Boat Buyers Guide to see what I mean. There’s a pontoon powered by a 600 hp outboard; sterndrive boats that allow wake-surfing while offering trimmable, steerable propulsion; fishing boats ranging from dual consoles intended for multiuse dayboating to high-speed bass boats; a bowrider that pushes 60 mph and sleeps four; dedicated watersports boats evincing tournament-level performance and oodles of technology; and more. Engines deserve a shoutout too. Whether you prefer inboard, sterndrive or outboard, today’s marine propulsion is quiet, rocksolid reliable, and more…
Known for showing the rest of us how it’s done on Instagram and YouTube, Nicole Spenc also owns and single-handedly operates Nicole’s Fishing Bed and Breakfast (nicolespenc.com), offering a range of lodging including houseboats, plus charter and guide bookings, in Venice, Louisiana. She’s a spokesperson for Bubba Blade and Salt Life. We caught up to Nicole, appropriately, in the Florida Keys, fresh from boating her third swordfish in two days. We can see you on Instagram and YouTube, but how would you describe yourself? I’m a social media influencer who inspires more women to get outdoors. I also own a bed and breakfast. What are some of the challenges that you face on a daily basis? It’s a man’s world, but I like to fish, hunt, go mudding…everything outdoors. What…
Trailering is something most boaters have to do, if you’re not fortunate enough to live on the water or keep your boat at a marina. So, it’s necessary to have a safe trailer—one that fits your boat well, and is maintained and ready to tow—and that includes your tow vehicle, which is easily half the equation. How well do you know trailering safety and good towing practices? 1. What is the function of hydraulic surge trailer brakes? A. To help your rig stop when trailering by providing braking to the trailer wheels. B. To add complexity and maintenance to the boat trailer. C. To cause other boaters’ jealousy and angst. D. To meet state towing regulations where trailer brakes are required. E. A and D F. None of the above…
For boaters, the name Chapman is synonymous with seamanship, as countless mariners have referred to its book for guidance on navigation, boat handling and the rules of the sea. Last fall, Hearst Books published the 69th edition of the reference affectionately known as Chapman’s but formally titled Chapman Piloting & Seamanship. The latest updated version includes 1,500 color photos, charts and illustrations, tackling subjects such as day- and night-time navigation, trailering, radio communication, line handling, understanding weather, and more. Even in this electronic age, a hard copy of Chapman’s is a must-have for any serious boater. Kindle ($19.99) and hardcover ($65) versions are available for preorder on amazon.com.…
The ramp. The boat launch. The put-in. Heck, much of the info I’ll be sharing here applies even to the Travelift slip or dock for those who store their boats high and dry. There’s an etiquette and a bunch of best practices for using these facilities that experienced boaters know and usually abide by without thinking too much about them. For those who count themselves as members of this group, this article serves as a review. For those of you who are new to trailer boating—according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association, as many as 500,000 of you have joined the ranks during the last year—consider the following three things as essential rules that will help all involved have a better day. LOADING Arrive at the ramp loaded and ready…
