Out of sight, out of mind, that’s the normal stasis when it comes to marine batteries. Turn the key, hear your engine awaken, and point the bow toward your destination. As long as there’s juice enough to get where you’re headed and back there’s not much to worry about. Tucked away in their generally dank and inconspicuous compartments, marine batteries simply go about performing their task of providing electrical power to your engine, dashboard, electronics package, accessories and more.

Until they don’t – and that’s the problem. Keeping your batteries well-charged, ensuring their connections remain corrosion free, and checking power levels before even cranking the engine saves a lot of headaches in the long run. All batteries eventually degrade making replacement necessary. Understanding how to pick a boat battery that will adequately fit your needs becomes the driving question. And its answer requires a little more thought than you might expect as there are several choices available these days. Here’s a simple break-down to help you begin unraveling the mystery of buying a marine boat battery.

Where Do You Start?

When it comes to buying a new marine boat battery the best way to get started is to crack open your boat owner’s manual. Here you can check your vessel’s recommended battery size, ratings and type. If your vessel has run well using the suggested batteries, simply replacing your current one with the same model may be a good idea.

There are, however, some conditions that may make it worthwhile to consider other options. Perhaps you’ve upgraded your electronics package and it now draws considerably more amperage. Maybe you’d like a battery that weighs less and is easier to remove from your vessel when necessary. Perhaps you need a unit that is more durable in a high-vibration environment. Or maybe you want a battery with a longer life expectancy. In each of these cases, a chat with a local marine mechanic is probably a good idea. Eventually, though, it’s going to be your call so the more you know the better you’ll feel when it comes time to lay your money down.

Types Of Marine Batteries

The first thing you’ll need to determine is whether you require a marine starting, deep cycle or dual-purpose battery.

Starting Batteries: Also known as boat cranking batteries, have a single purpose and that’s to fire-up the engine. They discharge high amperage current bursts for several seconds when you activate the ignition sequence and are then quickly recharged by the engine’s alternator. They are not used to run electronics, lights, electronics packages, etc.

Deep Cycle Batteries: These batteries keep the boat running throughout your trip, providing power to the lights, GPS, fish-finders, navigation tools, trolling motor and accessories. A deep cycle battery is designed to fully recover after longer discharges that would, in short order, draw down and eventually ruin a starting battery.

Dual Purpose Batteries: Dual-purpose marine batteries combine engine starting ability with the function of a deep cycle battery. While saving space, weight and money this single battery can do the task of two. This battery type is a good fit for many smaller vessel styles but be aware it drains quicker than deep cell batteries. Which may not have the capacity to produce enough juice to crank some powerhouses exceeding 200 hp.

Battery Chemistry

All of the above marine battery types are available with different internal chemistries including Flooded Lead Acid (FLA), Gel, Absorbed Glass Matt (AGM) and, Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries (LiFePO4).

Flooded lead acid batteries (FLA):

Internally, their main components are lead plates and an acid mixture of distilled water and acid. They are the least expensive of marine batteries and do a good job as long as you never drain them below 50-percent capacity. They require a little extra work, but given proper maintenance, they reliably get the job done.

However, these batteries are bulky, have a life expectancy of just two to three years, require off-season recharging and occasional topping-off of the fuel cells with distilled water. They are heavy (an average 100-Ah lead acid battery weighs between 60 and 80 pounds), more fragile than competing formats, and may not hold up well in a high-vibration environment. Lastly, they charge more slowly compared to other battery options.

Marine gel batteries and AGMs:

These are actually types of FLA batteries. Somewhat more expensive, they are fully sealed so there’s no need to top them off. They don’t leak, and they have a slower discharge rate than the original FLA format. Still, there’s that heavy weight and bulkiness issue, plus limited life span, to consider.

Lithium iron marine batteries (LiFePO4):

Although these are newer to the market, they address most FLA shortcomings. Exceptionally durable and fully sealed, they weigh half as much as flooded lead acid batteries and last 10 to 12 years. While FLA batteries risk damage if drawn down below 50-percent of full charge, a quality lithium marine battery will allow 100% DoD (Depth of Discharge). Significantly increasing run times, with no ill effects. Also, since they provide nearly double the capacity, you may only need half the number of batteries, which further reduces weight.

“They are a better mouse trap,” explains, James Holst, chief marketing officer at Norsk Lithium, a leading manufacturer of lithium batteries. “This battery type eliminates all the headaches of FLA models. Plus most manufacturers provide apps that allow owners to check cell voltage and discharge rates so you always know exactly how your batteries are performing.”

FLA vs. LeFePO4

The big drawback here is that although lithium batteries can last four times as long as FLA models, they cost three times as much. You’ll certainly see significant cost savings over time but you’ll need to cough-up more money up front. Then again, you may only need half as many batteries to run your craft compared to using FLAs, which could reduce your sticker shock. Lithium batteries are drop-in replacements in many instances, meaning they’re designed to fit like an FLA in your boat’s battery compartment. Also note that, in some areas lithium batteries may be hard to recycle.

Marine Battery Sizes

“What size battery do I need for my boat?” Good question. Deep cycle marine batteries come in several sizes, known as groups, with sizes 24, 27, and 31 most common to boating applications. Note that group size has nothing to do with that battery’s storage capacity, it simply relates to the physical dimensions. On most vessels, the battery compartment will fit one of these specific sizes. Generally, you’ll want to select the largest size that fits in your battery compartment.

Cardinal Rules

“No matter it’s size or type, happiness for any marine battery is a full recharge after every use,” says Holst. “That’s a best practice you need to follow. Never allow an FLA battery to discharge below 50-percent. And never leave full discharged lithium-ion batteries discharged for an extended time – doing so is one of the few ways to kill them.

You’ll want to add a battery monitor or manufacturer’s app to protect your investment. Norsk Lithium, offers a free app for Android and IOS that allows owners to monitor all critical battery parameters including State of Charge (SOC), Amps In/Out, Estimated Runtime @ Current Draw, Charge Cycles, Cell temps, etc. It may also be necessary to upgrade your inverter and battery charger to maximize performance.

Should you find yourself on the water with a belligerent battery, Sea Tow is ready to help, 24/7. For some simple steps that can quickly get you back up and running, check out our blog: Dead Battery? Here’s What To Do. If you still need additional help, we’re just a phone call away.

UNMATCHED MEMBER BENEFITS

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Tucked behind both Northport and Huntington bays, you’ll pass the hillsides of Lloyds Point and Eaton’s Neck on approach to this destination. It’s along this stretch of Long Island Sound coastline and further to the west that the rich and famous built their mansions in the late 1890’s through the years of opulence immediately preceding the Great Depression. Indeed, the western stretch of Long Island Sound real estate from Great Neck east to Huntington, known as “The Gold Coast,” inspired the 1925 novel, “The Great Gatsby.” The Huntington area in particular was also home to the poet, Walt Whitman.

The rich and famous still live and play on the waterfront slopes here, of course, but dig a little deeper on your visit and you’ll find the moored fleets of sailboats, berthed yachts, runabouts and fishing vessels.

Still, it’s the variety of opportunities that seals the deal for most visiting boaters here, whether cruising, on the hook or checking out the dining, shopping and entertainment in Huntington Village.

“Huntington Harbor has a lot to offer any boater,”

says Captain Gaige Simon of Sea Tow, Huntington, which runs three boats in the area. “In addition to the great scenery, dining, shopping and fishing action, you’ve got yacht clubs and restaurants, marinas with gas docks, pump-out boats and mooring access. Transient dockage can be tight at peak season, so it’s a smart idea to call ahead and reserve a slip in advance.”

Simon suggests poking around both inside and outside Huntington Harbor proper. “If you head outside the harbor just past Huntington Harbor Lighthouse, you can point your bow west and cruise up into nearby Lloyd Harbor where you’ll find protected water and designated areas for wake boarding, tubing, etc. Head northeast, and you’ll come to Sand City tucked behind Eatons Neck. Here you can drop the hook, tie to a mooring or even beach your bow. Sand City is perfect for rafting-up or spending time along the beach with family as long as the wind isn’t blowing stiffly from the east. To catch a great sunset, push right out into Huntington Bay or Long Island Sound and anchor a little to east or west. The sun will be setting straight across on the Connecticut side.”

As for local fishing opportunities

Huntington is a perennial hot spot, reveals Simon. “You’ll find big stripers here from late April though early June. Porgies, fluke, sea bass and blues highlight the summer action, and the stripers, along with monster blues, put on a fall spectacular from September through October. In both the spring and fall, stripers bass in the 30-pound-plus class are not uncommon.

Those looking to dock and dine will find plenty of choices both near the harbor and in Huntington Village.

Perhaps the most popular stop for a waterfront lunch or dinner is Prime, known for its great steaks, seafood, bar choices and waterfront location. You’ll need a reservation here and, if coming by boat, you must pay to tie up at the restaurant dock. For a great sandwich try Gold Coast Surfside Deli, right next to the Mill Dam launch ramp. If pizza is your deal, DiRaimo Pizzeria is a five-minute cab ride from local marinas and can’t be beat. As you head up into Huntington Village, the choices for dining and shopping are many and varied. Both the Huntington Chamber of Commerce  and the Huntington Historical Society can turn you on to current events which seemingly run nonstop through boating season.

In terms of navigation, the same basic rules apply to Huntington Harbor as anywhere else that bustles during the summer.

Check your charts before heading out, watch your wake in the busy zones, and stay in the channels as much as possible. Note, however, that you’ll need to use a little extra caution in the harbor proper because of all the sailboat moorings. Be aware, too, that there are rocks immediately to the west of the Huntington Harbor Lighthouse, so stay to the east of that structure at all times. This lighthouse, by the way, is the oldest reinforced concreate lighthouse on the East Coast. Established in 1857, the current tower was lit in 1912. The light was automated in 1949 and is still operational.

“Of course, if you need some help on the water, you can always give Sea Tow a shout,” says Gaige. “If possible, note your latitude and longitude when you contact us (you can get this from your Sea Tow App). Drop anchor, too, if possible, so you’ll be easy for us to find. We monitor channel 16, which is the best channel here to communicate with other boaters in the area. In general, primary boating channels are well marked here so stay between the greens and the reds and you should have no problems.”

UNMATCHED MEMBER BENEFITS

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Boat Show DO’S AND DONT’S:

• The golden rule – ask permission prior to boarding a boat that you’d like to tour.
• You must remove your shoes before boarding a boat (this is generally common practice for any boat not just at a show). Wear a comfortable pair that are easy to slip on and off.
• Do not request to use the head (bathroom) on board, find one ashore at the show.
• Many boat shows are full sun and can be very hot. Be prepared with sunscreen, sunglasses and/or a hat. Avoid dark colors and heavy materials, it can make for a very uncomfortable afternoon.
• Most shows don’t allow strollers on floating docks. Plan accordingly.
• If you are walking the docks with little ones, be safe and make sure they are wearing a life jacket. Visit a Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Station at the show and pick one up to borrow for the day.

Carve out some time to stop by the Sea Tow booth! It’s a great opportunity to meet your local captain and ask any membership related questions.

With so many vendors, products, and delicious food you are sure to have a fun-filled day exploring all that a show has to offer. Enjoy!

member benefits beyond 24/7 towing

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent lease or bareboat charter. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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When you check on your boat after a hurricane, be sure to bring:

• Your phone to take photos and videos of any damage
• Extra lines to replace any that may have been damaged or lost in the storm
• Cleaning supplies to get that piece of the recovery project underway

Remove as much salt, mud, and moisture as you can. Check that there is no debris in the bilge and pumps. Check the water level in the bilge for potential damage, and look over the engine and fuel systems for damage. If you left any personal items and/or equipment aboard, take it home so it’s not stolen.

If your boat has sunk or is displaced after a hurricane, it is critical to only work with local, licensed, and insured salvage and recovery teams. Sea Tow maintains specialized equipment to handle salvage and recovery work. Check with your provider to ensure salvage work is covered by your boat insurance policy.

Take the time to follow these tips to avoid any further post-storm difficulties.

How Sea Tow Can Help

Sea Tow has established relationships with most marine insurers and the experience to safely recover your property while preventing any further damage. If you have an insurance claim reported, we will do our best to work directly with your marine insurance provider. Our boats and equipment are top-of-the-line and built to respond. Learn more here or contact our 24/7 Customer Care Team for assistance.

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1. Navigation Lights Required: Before departure, ensure all navigation lights are functioning. These alert other skippers of your position and course.
2. Slow, Steady, Stop: Always start out slowly, build to a steady, safe rate of speed, and immediately stop to review any situation that provokes second thoughts or suggests the possibility of danger ahead.
3. The Eyes Have It: The more eyes you have watching the water, the better. When possible, post a crew member on the bow (wearing a PFD) to help keep an eye out for other boats, floating debris, channel markers, buoys, etc.
4. Stay Focused: Skippers need to stay focused and on the lookout at ALL times when boating at night. Be aware that what may appear to be navigational or background lights could actually be another vessel. Delegate any task outside of operating the helm to other crew members or passengers.
5. Don’t Be Stubborn: It’s very easy to veer off course or even run aground after dark. If you can’t be certain you’re on track to your destination, stop and call for assistance. Sea Tow Captains are your local resource and are standing by 24/7 to help.

Unmatched Member Benefits

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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It’s best to have a few ground rules to prevent unintentional bumps, scratches, misunderstandings, and the like. Here are 5 tips to make sure it all goes smoothly.

Location: Rafting up out of the wind, out of the current, and away from any place that may have serious boat wakes is best. Ideally, look for a place that is buffered by the shore with access to shallow water or a beach where kids can wade, swim or dinghy to shore.

Anchoring: Start with the biggest boats in the middle and smaller boats on the outside edges for balance. The largest boat should anchor first and set one off the bow and one off the stern for added security.

Permission: When tying up alongside another boat in an existing raft always ask for permission first. If you don’t know the skipper, approach slowly and ask to join the raft from a safe distance.

Fenders: You’ll need several, at least two or three per side, depending on boat size. Bring the biggest ones you have (a minimum of 10 inches) and secure them along the side of your boat before you approach the raft to tie up.

Boat Alignment: To avoid climbing over gunwales, it’s best to align swim platforms to move from boat to boat. Tie off at the bow and stern and use spring lines amidships to fine-tune positioning.

Practice safe boating, be courteous of your neighbors and follow these tips the next time you raft up. If you end up cranking the tunes and enjoying yourselves so much that your batteries go dead, you know who to call.

UNMATCHED MEMBER BENEFITS

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Practice before heading out! Just like how you learned to back up a car, learning to back up your boat effectively and safely is important. Use cones as markers to simulate entering tricky or tight boat ramps.

Adjust your mirrors. Be sure your side mirrors are adjusted so that you can see the side of the trailer on the inner third or half of the mirror. The outer half/third of your mirror will show you any potential hazards.

Take it slow. Slow and steady wins the race – it also gives you a better chance to correct a misstep. A line of boats waiting behind you might make you anxious, but take your time and get it right.

Don’t oversteer. It’s better to understeer and give yourself the opportunity to correct than oversteer. If you go too far, you may have to pull forward and start over.

Remember – the trailer turns in the opposite direction your vehicle turns. If you are turning your vehicle clockwise, your vehicle will go to the right – as expected. However, the back of your trailer will turn to the left. Knowing this will help you envision where your trailer and boat will end up. To put it simply:

Place the palm of your hand at the bottom of the steering wheel.

If you want the trailer to go to the left, move your hand to the left (clockwise).

If you want the trailer to go to the right, move your hand to the right (counterclockwise).

Have a friend help. Bring an experienced boater with you to help be your guide. An extra set of eyes never hurts, especially if you’re new to navigating the ramps!

If you’d like to read more trailering tips, click here.

UNMATCHED MEMBER BENEFITS

Sea Tow has been the premier leader in on-water boating assistance since 1983. With Sea Tow, you pay one annual rate and receive the most comprehensive member benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services as well as exclusive on-road assistance with Trailer Care. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Center at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Tip #1: First and foremost, understand the capacity of your boat, and don’t push it. It’s a safety issue.

Tip #2: Make sure your guests are clear on the rules of your boat.

Tip #3: Ensure you have enough life jackets for each guest on board. If you don’t, locate a Sea Tow Foundation Life Jacket Loaner Station and borrow what you need.

Tip #4: Coordinate with your guests on who will bring snacks, water, sunscreen, and other essentials. Before you push off, make sure you have everything on board.

Tip #5: Know how to correctly raft up with the other boats in your fleet to avoid unnecessary damage.

HOW SEA TOW CAN HELP

These tips are sure to help you when boating with a big group – but what happens if you run into engine trouble or out of fuel while out on the water? Sea Tow is standing by 24/7 to help get you back to boating or home safely.

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own, rent, bareboat charter, lease or borrow. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Center at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Navigating Busy Waterways

Because many waterways will be more crowded, it’s important to consider the time of day to launch and cruise.

“Be alert and make sure you’re using your best boating techniques,” said Captain Ramsey Chason of Sea Tow Cape and Islands. “Be sure to watch your wake and leave plenty of room for other boats. More space means more time to react.” In addition, Capt. Ramsey added that it’s important to adjust your boating for changing conditions. “If the water is rough or visibility is poor, slow down. If you plan on being out at night, make sure you have working navigation lights before you head out for the day.”

Dropping Anchor in Crowded Areas

Watching fireworks from your boat is the best! Be aware though that extra traffic and inexperienced boaters will also be out for the summer show. It’s important to know the right way to anchor up to ensure your boat and crew enjoy the show safely. “Coves and other locations fill up quickly on busy boating days, so utilizing the correct anchoring technique can be crucial,” said Captain Jared Stubbs of Sea Tow San Diego. “Leave enough space so that your boat has some room to move around and make sure you let out enough line for the anchor to hold securely. Remember that an anchor line in a prop can lead to a locked-up motor and an inoperable boat. Be aware of your surroundings at all times.”

Rafting Up with Friends and Family

Rafting up with other boats is fun!  You can relax with friends and family, all tied up in a floating neighborhood.

It may seem like something as simple as tying a few boats together, but rafting up is easier said than done, Sea Tow Fort Lauderdale GM, Michele Kerrigan.

“It’s important to have a plan BEFORE you start tying boats together,” she said. “The largest and heaviest boat should drop anchor first. From there, other boats should approach slowly and use plenty of fenders so that other boats aren’t damaged. If you’re having trouble, approach at a 45-degree angle, toss out your bowline, and allow your boat to settle in beside the host boat.”

Bottom line – keep an eye on your surroundings and keep having summer fun.

MEMBER BENEFITS BEYOND 24/7 TOWING

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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1. Engine or equipment breakdown.

“The biggest reason why we tow people is because of mechanical failure,” says Capt. Mike DeGenaro of Sea Tow Charlotte Harbor. “It all comes down to proper maintenance. That means having the boat looked over by a professional mechanic on a regular basis… and don’t forget to change your water impeller.”

2. Fuel-related issues.

“We always suggest a pre-season, spring inspection, and regular maintenance on the fuel system. This means changing all fuel filters and inspecting the fuel lines and fuel bulbs,” says Capt. Chris Ward of Sea Tow South Mississippi. “We also recommend that you put 100 percent ethanol-free gasoline in your gas-powered boat’s tank. If you must use ethanol fuel, we suggest using a fuel additive, and using all ethanol-resistant fuel components.”

3. Out of gas.

“Don’t trust your boat’s fuel gauge. They’re all different. Know your average fuel burn per hour and track the hours of use in-between fill-ups. Be sure to also take the weather into account,” says Capt. Mike. He’s made fuel drops to scores of boaters who thought they had more fuel in the tank than they did. “Go by the “Rule of Thirds” – one-third of the tank going out, one-third to get back, and one-third in reserve.”

4. Dead battery.

“Battery issues are our second largest call in the springtime, even on newer boats,” said Capt. Chris. “I suggest having a marine trickle charger plugged in during winter months and installing a new battery every three to five years. Most of the newer four-stroke engines require much more amperage for cranking and for the electronics. We also suggest that checking all connections on batteries are clean and tight. Remove the wing nuts that come on some marine batteries and replace them with lock nuts to ensure there’s a solid connection.”

5. Ran aground.

“Boaters unfamiliar with the area will call Sea Tow and ask for help with local navigation,” said Capt. Mike. “It’s great and we’re happy to help. It’s also our advice to skip shortcuts and unmarked passages until you’re familiar with local waters. By staying in a marked channel, you generally don’t have to worry about shoaling or shifting sandbars.”

MEMBER BENEFITS BEYOND 24/7 TOWING

As the premier leader in on-water boating assistance, Sea Tow members receive the most comprehensive benefits available. Membership includes a full suite of on-water assistance services for every boat you own or rent. Learn more about our membership options today. To find the Sea Tow closest to you, use our service locator or call our Customer Care Team at 800-4-SEATOW.

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Properly stow away fishing gear.

The typical fishing gear you may have lying around poses many threats. Swinging lures, fishing rods, and all hooks could come in contact with your curious pup and cause a lot of harm. Also, if you want to preserve your bait, remember to hide it or it may become the dog’s next snack!

Allow your dog to get acclimated to the boat, dock area, and water.

Before embarking on your trip, let them sniff all the new odors beforehand to adjust themselves to the environment. As they become more comfortable with the surroundings and get their “sea legs,” more positive feelings will be associated with boating and being on the water.

Prioritize safety with life jackets and leashes.

Doggie vests and other floatation devices are critical to keeping yourself and other passengers safe. Larger dogs can drown humans if they lack the proper life jacket and are forced to tread water in a panic.  A leash and harness are also handy supplies to have on the boat in case of unexpected lunges to jump overboard—be sure you don’t tether your dog on deck when underway in case of unexpected wakes, turns or sudden stops.

Prepare extra supplies for longer boat rides.

As the sun beats down, continue to rehydrate your dog by bringing a non-skid bowl and clean drinking water. But as you know, the more they drink, the more they will have to go to the bathroom. Depending on the length of your trip, you may want to consider an on-board bathroom area for your dog to prevent accidents. Synthetic grass or a spot for newspapers are easy ways to ensure your dog won’t have to make bathroom breaks.

Prevent your boat from turning into a slippery slope.

Anticipate that your dog will get wet at some point and the resulting full-body shake to dry off. Packing a towel or two is always a good idea to prevent a slippery wet deck. In order for animals to get back onto the boat, you may also consider investing in a boat ladder or ramp to help facilitate boarding.

Lastly, a few extra toys and accessories can help keep your dog calm and comfortable.

Don’t forget to pack a few extra treats to reward good behavior when out on the water, dog sunscreen if they have sensitive skin, or even this cute doggie visor if your dog is trying to fit in with the rest of the crew.

Whether it be a quick joy ride or a long journey, ensure you take the necessary steps to make your boat safe and dog-friendly. Your pup will appreciate it and you’ll be happy to have him along.

The post Boating with Your Dog appeared first on Sea Tow.

Shifter in Neutral?

Sea Tow Captains ask the operator of a stalled boat a very simple question – “Is the boat’s engine in neutral when you try to start it?”

“It can be something as simple as the boat being in gear or the engine cut-off switch not being connected,” explained Capt. Ryan Bayley, owner of Sea Tow Great South Bay. “With kids running around and people going back and forth on board, the shifter and the ECOS are most often the cause of a boat not starting.”

Out of Fuel?

Boaters don’t always top off their fuel tanks—and that can lead to confusion over how much gas or diesel actually is in the tank. “The gas gauge is notoriously unreliable on a boat,” said Capt. Gary O’Reilly, owner of Sea Tow Northern Chesapeake. “The gauge says half-full and before they know it, they are out of fuel.”

Keeping a fuel log will help you keep tabs on your boat’s fuel level. By knowing the capacity of your fuel tank, how many hours the engine has been run and the average number of gallons you burn per hour, you can get a rough idea of how much fuel is left or how many hours you may continue to run until empty. Remember the golden fuel rule: 1/3 of your fuel for your trip out, 1/3 for your trip in, and 1/3 in reserve for the unknown.

Be Weather-Wise

Knowing the current weather conditions and forecast for your boating area can help you avoid problems. When bad weather is looming, alter your float plan, bring along extra gear, or postpone your outing. “It might be warm and calm at your port but blowing hard where you are going,” said Capt. Bayley. “Once you get everyone down to the boat, it’s harder to call off the trip. Make sure you’ve done the research on the weather so you can make a smart decision in advance.”

Battery Switch Savvy

“Knowing how your battery charger works, and whether to have the switch on 1, 2 or “All” (or “Both”) is a big deal,” said Capt. O’Reilly. “A lot of people think “All” is the place to be. Then they run down their batteries and can’t start the boat.” Boaters should start off with two fully charged batteries, then choose one of the two available battery switch positions for running, either 1 or 2. Only use the “All” or “Both” position if it is an emergency when both batteries are discharged to the point that neither of them alone will crank the engine over but two can do it together. How do you know which battery switch setting to use? One way is by alternating their use, using 1 for odd-numbered days and 2 for even-numbered days.

The best peace of mind for any boating mistakes? Making sure your Sea Tow membership is current. Never been a member before? Learn more about our membership options here.

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