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.
Welcome to our annual boating action and adventure issue! Let’s start by defining some terms. Our readership mostly comprises experienced boaters. Survey data tells us that most of you are on your third boat and the average-size boat you own is 27 feet in length overall. This data is supported by anecdotal evidence such as emails, social media comments and actual reader mail. (Yes, we still get stamped mail in an envelope from some of you!) Of course, many of you own larger boats, many of you own smaller boats and, increasingly, a growing percentage of you just purchased their first boat. The definitions of “action” and “adventure” will vary with boating experience and by boat type. For example, firing up the engines in this month’s cover boat, the Pursuit…
How long have you been riding a stand-up PWC? My dad has always been a stand-up rider, and when I was about 11, he asked me if I wanted to try his 650 Jet Ski. I got the hang of it right away, I think in part because I’d been in gymnastics for a few years. I have pretty good body control, which really helps on the stand-up. How did you get interested in racing? Our family spends a lot of time at Lake Havasu with our 36 Skater powerboat, and one day we went over to the PWC training course at Body Beach to watch the racers. I met world champion Stevie Bascom, and she really encouraged me to try racing. Then, in 2016, we went to watch the…
1. You’ve decided on a route and are making your boat ready for the big trip. You just had it out last weekend at the lake, and it ran fine. This trip will be a four-day river cruise with overnight stays at motels along the way, and you’re planned departure is just three weeks away. What are some things you should consider doing to prepare your boat before you leave? A. Make an appointment with your dealer to have your rig thoroughly checked over and serviced. Even though you just had it out and all was fine, this extra insurance is well worth it. B. No need to have it checked out; it’s just more expense. After all, it ran fine last time out. C. Go through the trailer with…
Helicopters, photographers, cruisers, ‘toons and chase boats: every issue of Boating is a major production, and Icom helps the team communicate during the controlled chaos of a big shoot. Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the magazine, and tips on how to optimize your Icom marine radio like the Boating team does. SCAN ME Scan the QR code below to gain access to each new episode that includes advice/tips from our editors on maximizing use of your marine communication.…
RECREATIONAL MUSTANG MIT 100 AUTOMATIC INFLATABLE PFD WHY GET: A minimalist suspender design and lightweight, pliable air bladder combine for one of the most comfortable, unobtrusive PFDs on the market. Adjust the waist buckle to accommodate additional layers (or that beer belly). Verify the CO2 cartridge is armed via a clear inspection window. Automatic inflation upon water immersion guarantees the jacket will activate, even if the wearer is freaked out or unconscious. Buoyancy is 28 pounds. ALL WET: Unlike foam-filled PFDs, the jacket must be rearmed with a fresh CO2 cylinder before next use once inflated. PRICE: $169.99; mustangsurvival.com PWC/WATERSPORTS MUSTANG LIVERY FOAM VEST WHY GET: With a flexible foam core and durable 300D polyester shell, the Livery provides flotation and impact protection for activities like PWC riding, wakeboarding and…
Engineering students at the University of Pittsburgh are on a mission to build the fastest electric boat. It started two years ago, when then-junior Nick Genco saw an opportunity for a club dedicated to racing electric boats in the Promoting Electric Propulsion for Small Craft competition held by the American Society of Naval Engineers. Pittsburgh Electric Propulsion (pittelectricpropulsion.com) is the university-sponsored student design team, which now includes over 40 undergraduates studying 10 different disciplines of engineering as well as finance, economics, marketing, computer science and business information systems. The Pitt students found funding from companies such as Zodiac Milpro International and United States Marine Inc., as well as high-voltage switching manufacturer Rincon Power and the American Society of Naval Engineers. They first built an electric motor into a 1968 Mercury…
