Boating in Bad Weather

While out boating, weather changes can happen quickly around you. In the case that you are out on the water and it seems bad weather is rapidly approaching, you should try to get to shore if possible. However, it is not always possible to get to the shore in the case of bad weather. In that case, there are some things that you should remember if you are ever boating in bad weather. 

Preparedness: While heading out to see, you should check the weather forecasts for any chance of approaching bad weather. In the case of bad weather, it is best to not head out to sea at all. If forecasts show no or little chance of bad weather, it is still important to have all the supplies ready in case the weather quickly changes.

Body of Water: The body of water you are in will affect the waves around you. Deep waters will have slower, more rolling waves that should be easier to manage. However, in shallower water, the same wind can create bigger waves that become more dangerous.

Knowing boat: Be aware that no two boats will react in the same way to different weather conditions. Even two boats with the same design will react differently due to other factors besides the design, such as the load. Make sure you know how your boat reacts to bad weather.

Move at 45°angles: Moving at an angle of 45° will be much safer, whether you are moving parallel to the waves or away from the waves. This angle will allow you to lessen the strain put on the hull, avoid running in the trough of the waves (which can make your boat roll excessively), and avoid too high speeds when running ahead of the waves. If an angle of 45° will take you off course, then you can move in a zigzag pattern and will remain headed in the same direction.

Heaving to: Sometimes, conditions may be too severe to continue on course. In this case, you could heave to, a way of slowing the boat.

Boating is a fun activity for all to joy. However, one should always be mindful of the weather conditions. In the case that you are out boating, remember some of these facts. 

To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works. We have two locations in the Treasure Coast for your convenience:

STUART, FL location:  3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996.

FT. PIERCE, FL location: 2010 Harbor Town Drive,Suite K,              Ft. Pierce, FL 34946

Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com

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Tips on Cleaning Your Boat

Boating is a fun activity that anyone can enjoy. But, to get the most out of the experience, you want to make sure that you have a clean environment to enjoy it in. Here are some great tips to remember about keeping your boat clean:

Exterior:

• Keep all materials handy, including a brush with a long handle and bristles that won’t scratch finish, large bucket, sponge or washcloth, towels, and chamois cloth to dry boat

• Only brush and scrub boat when wet

• Rinse boat with fresh water

• Lather areas with sponge and soapy water, starting high then gradually moving downward to avoid getting suds on already cleaned areas

• Avoid allowing suds to dry by only cleaning one area at a time

• Use brush to scrub away dirt and grime then rinse

• Use chamois cloth to dry the boat so the water won’t form spots when it dries 

• Wax fiberglass boat’s to protect the shine of its finish.

Interior:

• Vacuum carpets to remove loose dirt

• Use stain removers for any stains found on the carpet

• If possible, steam clean starting from one area and moving back to avoid stepping on cleaned areas before they dry 

Otherwise, clean with a brush and soap still avoiding stepping on cleaned areas Use vinyl cleaners with protectants for upholstery to clean and protect against sun exposure

• Remove mildew stains and use mildew preventative sprays

Hopefully, these tips will help you out next time you clean your boat. Remember, a clean boat is your best boat!

To learn more about boats, boat sales, repairs, services & accessories, please contact Whiticar Boat Works. We have two locations in the Treasure Coast for your convenience:

STUART, FL location:  3636 SE Old St. Lucie Blvd, Stuart, Florida, 34996.

FT. PIERCE, FL location: 2010 Harbor Town Drive,Suite K,               Ft. Pierce, FL 34946

Give us a call at: (772) 287-2883 or email us anytime at: info@whiticar.com