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Boating Safety Items Checklist

Boating Safety Items Checklist

Basic safety items, gear, and equipment is a must, regardless of the size of your boat. From life jackets to items that offer assistance in rescue efforts or fire prevention, these safety items should always be on board your vessel (or on you). 

While there is a bare minimum of required safety gear to have onboard your boat, there are also some highly recommended items that you’ll be glad you remembered to bring. Don’t get caught up in an emergency without having any of these safety items on-hand. 

Life Jackets (PFDs)

Life Jackets (PFDs) 

Life jackets, also known as personal flotation devices (PFDs) are required to be on all boats within U.S. waters, and all boats over 16 feet are required to have a throwable flotation device  

Regardless of the size of the boat, the number of people on board, or your destination, it’s always a good idea to wear a life jacket and have extra PFDs onboard. Life jackets are a key part of responsible boating and marine safety when you are out on the water.  

According to the United States Coast (USCG) Guard’s 2018 annual report of recreational boating accident statistics, where the cause of death was known, 77% of fatal boating accident victims drowned. Of those drowning victims with reported life jacket usage, 84% were not wearing a life jacket.  

The PDF you wear depends on the size of your boat, size and age of the user, and activity that is being performed. 

  • Type I PDFs are considered offshore life jackets. 
  • Type II refers to nearshore life vests. 
  • Type III are flotation aids (most commonly worn). 
  • Type IV are throwable devices (such as a ring). 
  • Type V are special-use devices (inflatable). 

There are a variety of different types and categories of life jackets, ranging from wearable to throwable. According to the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), there should be an allotted Type I, II, III, or V PDF or life vest for each passenger on board. Type V inflatable life vests can be worn by individuals over the age of 16 and must be worn on board at all times in order to be considered a PDF.  

Life vests should be in good condition, accessible, USCG approved, and fit the individual they are intended for. 

Each U.S. state has its own regulations for children’s life jackets. If the vessel is 16 feet or longer (except for kayaks and canoes), it must also carry an additional throwable flotation device (Type IV) onboard, such as a ring. 

If you need a life jacket for your boat, check out our great selection of personal flotation devices and watersport life vests in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles. 

Fire Extinguisher

Fire Extinguisher 

While it’s always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher handy, there are also minimum USCG fire extinguisher requirements for vessels that have enclosed living spaces, enclosed engine compartments, permanent fuel tanks, or have any flammable and highly combustible materials. 

 Here are the required extinguisher types for each vessel size: 

  • Marine vessels less than 26’: one B-I type hand portable fire extinguisher 
  • Marine vessels 26’ to 40’: two B-I or one B-II 
  • Marine vessels 40’ to 65’: three B-I or one B-II and one B-I 
  • Marine vessels over 65”: 1-8 (depending on the weight of the vessel) B-II, plus a fixed system in the machinery space 

Fire extinguishers must be mounted in their brackets, be in good physical condition with no rust or dents, have operating gauges (if any), and have seals and tamper indicators in place.  

It’s a good idea to test out your fire extinguisher or even practice using it before you are faced with an emergency fire situation. There are plenty of fire safety courses and instructional videos online that can help you gain familiarity with using a fire extinguisher. 

First Aid Supplies

First Aid Supplies 

A good first aid kit should be present in every area you regularly spend time, including your boat. Get an all-encompassing boating first aid kit to help patch up all kinds of injuries–from light scrapes to serious wounds. These kits are preassembled with waterproof supplies and medical equipment to cover any time on onboard injury or accident. 

Whether a younger boater cuts their finger, someone onboards gets motion sickness, or there is a true emergency, you’ll be glad to have a kit to help you handle the worst of it. 

If you like to assemble your own supplies, you can put together a few medical aid items such as bandages, gauze, tape, and other things to create your own customized kit. Otherwise, purchase one of the many boating first aid kits that are fully stocked for any possible injury out on the water. 

Sunscreen

Sunscreen 

One of the most easily forgotten safety items isn’t directly for your boat, but for yourself and others on board. Prevent a serious, harmful sunburn or even sunstroke by applying sunscreen before you venture out on your boat. Re-apply sunscreen after you swear or get in the water to ensure skin coverage from harmful sun damage and potential skin cancers. If it’s particularly sunny or hot outside, you may also want to consider outfitting your boat with some kind of boat awning to stay shaded. 

There are many kinds of sunscreen and sun protectants available, but to get the most protection and prevent damage to organisms in the water you may swim or rinse off in, we suggest purchasing a reef-safe sunscreen.  

As far as sunscreen rating goes, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests applying sunscreen that has an SPF of at least 30 since it blocks 97% of the sun’s UVB rays. If you are more fair-skinned or plan to be out on the water for a long time, you may want to apply a slightly higher SPF sunscreen. 

Drinking Water

Drinking Water 

Like applying sunscreen or having a first aid kit handy, many people don’t realize how important staying hydrated is while out on the water. Bring a cooler full of water bottles, or a gallon of water to drink in order to prevent dehydration, fainting, and keep yourself and others cool. 

However much water you may think you need, bring twice that amount. The standard for drinking water per person is about one gallon per day. 

We offer a variety of coolers and water containers to store your drinks and keep items and snacks cool on those hot days. Make sure to keep any trash or empty plastic bottles in the cooler and dispose of them once you are back on land. 

Flashlights

Flashlights 

In addition to enhancing visibility, having a flashlight handy 

It is a good idea to have a flashlight or other means of seeing in the dark or in dark spaces onboard your boat. There are so many different types of flashlights, torches, and even glow lights to help brighten your boat in the dark so that your eyes can see further. 

A pocket flashlight makes it easy to see small, dark spaces or illuminate small workspaces. A larger flashlight or beam can provide a useful visual aid when looking outside and around your boat as well. 

Backfire Flame Arrestor 

Prevent an emergency before it occurs with proper safety equipment for your boat. 

A boat backfires flame arrestor is a device used to stop flames, which can result from an engine backfiring or from flames encountering fuel and starting a fire onboard your boat. Motorboats and motor vessels, apart from outboard motors, must be equipped with an acceptable means of backfire flame control.  

  • Marine vessels must have one USCG approved or AE-J-1928 or UL 1111 standard compliant backfire flame arrestor for each carburetor on all gas-powered vessels.  
  • The backfire flame arrestor must be secured to the air intake with a flame-tight connection. 
  • Other acceptable forms of backfire flame control include air and fuel induction systems (usually found on personal watercraft), velocity stacks (attachments to carburetors), and reed-type (found in outboard motors). 
Visual Distress Signal

Visual Distress Signal 

All Recreational boats over 16 feet must be equipped with USCG approved visual distress signals (VSD), in order to signal to other boats, lighthouses, or emergency services. 

Visual distress signals, as the name suggests, help other boats and emergency rescuers locate your boat so they know that you are in distress and can provide aid. 

Exceptions: The exception to the USCG VSD requirement is boats operating on lakes (apart from the Great Lakes), sailboats under 26 feet without propulsion machinery, manually propelled boats, and boats participating in organized events.  

These boats must carry a minimum of 3 approved night signals when operating from sunset to sunrise, and if pyrotechnic devices are selected, a minimum of three signals are required for day use and three signals for night use, although some signals (such as combination flares) can be used for both day and night. 

Sound Producing Device

Sound Producing Device 

One of the most important aspects of boating safety is the ability to let other boaters and vessels know what actions you are taking, such as crossing, overtaking, or meeting. In these situations, no human-made sound can sufficiently relay a message quickly to other boats, making it necessary to use sound-producing devices such as bells, whistles, hailer horns, and horns, or even air-horns, in a pinch. 

There are set requirements for sound-producing devices, depending on the size of your boat: 

  • All boats under 40’ should have a reliable sound-producing device such as a horn or whistle 
  • Boats over 40’ are also required to carry a bell  
  • Boats over 65.5’ must carry a bell and whistle, with an air horn or electric horn counting as a whistle. The mouth of the bell must be at least 7.87” in diameter and the whistle should hear from at least ½ a nautical mile 
Extra Raft or Boat

Extra Raft or Boat 

A small life raft, inflatable kayak, or even a backup canoe can be immensely helpful to have onboard your main vessel. Whether there is a malfunction with your boat and you need to evacuate, or you are operating a larger boat that needs a contingency plan for passengers, an emergency life raft or two can ensure that everyone has a place to go if they need to evacuate the boat in a hurry. 

There are many different types of life rants, but even the most basic inflatable boats can offer some reassurance and peace of mind, while others can fit a boat full of people and get them safely to sure. 

Communication Device

Communication Device 

Although most boats are required to have visual distress signals (VDS) and sound-producing devices (SPD), having a communication or location device such as an EPIRB,  small radio, or your mobile phone onboard can also be a great help in case of emergency or inconvenience.  

Both of these devices act as a way for you to easily contact others and for others to contact or locate you in case of emergency, bad weather, forgetting an important item, or any other safety-related concerns. 

Get Everything for Your Boat

Get Everything for Your Boat 

Shop the best quality boat safety accessories at the lowest prices online at Atlantic Marine Depot. Ensure that you have all the safety equipment and supplies you need before your boat hits the water. Get fast, free shipping on all orders over $99. Get marine electronics & boat accessories at the lowest prices. Shop our online inventory for the best marine & boat safety equipment for commercial boats, pleasure vessels, and fishing boats. 

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Get the Right Boat Equipment and Boat Supplies

As a boater, it’s important to have everything you will need while out on the water and ensure all equipment and supplies are tested and of good quality. The last thing anyone needs is a part to break on them in the middle of a nice day out with family, or during a worse time, like the beginning of a storm. 

While there is a bare minimum of required gear to have onboard your boat, there are also some highly recommended items that you’ll be glad you remembered to bring. 

As with everything, the equipment and boat supplies that you will need depend on the size of your vessel. Boating regulations and equipment guidelines tend to classify different boat sizes into the following categories: 

  • Vessels less than 16 feet 
  • Vessels 16 – 26 feet 
  • Vessels 26 – 40 feet 
  • Vessels 40 – 65 feet 

Safety Gear 

Basic safety gear and equipment is a must, regardless of the size of your marine vessel. From life jackets to items that offer assistance in rescue efforts or fire prevention, these safety items should be onboard your vessel (or on you) at all times. 

What You’ll Need: 

PFDs 

Personal flotation devices, also known as life jackets, are required on all boats within U.S. waters, and any boats over 16 feet must also have a throwable flotation device. There are a variety of different styles and categories of life jackets, ranging from type I-type V.  

The PDF you wear depends on the size of your boat, size and age of the user, and activity that is being performed. Type I PDFs are considered offshore life jackets, type II refers to near short life vests, type III are flotation aids, type IV are throwable devices (such as a ring), and type V are special use devices. 

Fire Extinguisher 

While it’s always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher handy, there are also minimum USCG fire extinguisher requirements for vessels that have enclosed living spaces, enclosed engine compartments, permanent fuel tanks, or have any flammable and highly combustible materials. Here are the required extinguisher types for each vessel size: 

  • Marine vessels less than 26’: one B-I type hand portable fire extinguisher 
  • Marine vessels 26’ to 40’: two B-I or one B-II 
  • Marine vessels 40’ to 65’: three B-I or one B-II and one B-I 
  • Marine vessels over 65”: 1-8 (depending on the weight of the vessel) B-II, plus a fixed system in the machinery space 

Fire extinguishers must be mounted in their brackets, be in good physical condition with no rust or dents, have operating gauges (if any) and have seals and tamper indicators in place. 

Backfire Flame Arrestor 

A boat backfire flame arrestor is a device used to stop flames, which can result from an engine backfiring or from flames encountering fuel and starting a fire on board your boat. Motorboats and motor vessels, apart from outboard motors, must be equipped with an acceptable means of backfire flame control.  

  • Marine vessels must have one USCG approved or AE-J-1928 or UL 1111 standard compliant backfire flame arrestor for each carburetor on all gas-powered vessels.  
  • The backfire flame arrestor must be secured to the air intake with a flame-tight connection. 
  • Other acceptable forms of backfire flame control include air and fuel induction systems (usually found on personal watercraft), velocity stacks (attachments to carburetors), and reed-type (found in outboard motors). 

Visual Distress Signal 

Visual distress signals, as the name suggests, help other boats and emergency rescuers location your vessel so they know that you are in distress and can provide aid. 

  • Recreational boats over 16 feet must be equipped with USCG approved visual distress signals (VSD). 

Exceptions: The exception to the VSD requirement is boats operating on lakes (apart from the Great Lakes), sailboats under 26 feet without propulsion machinery, manually propelled boats, and boats participating in organized events.  

  • Boats must carry a minimum of 3 approved night signals when operating from sunset to sunrise, and if pyrotechnic devices are selected, a minimum of three signals are required for day use and three signals for night use, although some signals (such as combination flares) can be used for both day and night. 

Sound Producing Device 

One of the most important aspects of boating is the ability to let other boaters and vessels know what actions you are taking, such as crossing, overtaking, or meeting. In these situations, no human-made sound can sufficiently relay a message quickly, making it necessary to use sound producing devices such as bells, whistles, and horns, and even air-horns, in a pinch. 

  • All boats under 40’ should have a reliable sound producing devices such as a horn or whistle 
  • Boats over 40’ are also required to carry a bell  
  • Boats over 65.5’ must carry a bell and whistle, with an air horn or electric horn counting as a whistle. The mouth of the bell must be at least 7.87” in diameter and the whistle should heard from at least ½ a nautical mile. 

Flashlight or Torchlight 

While this item is not a requirement, it is a good idea to have a flashlight or other means of seeing in the dark or in dark spaces onboard your boat. There are so many different types of flashlights, torches, and even glow lights to help brighten up your boat in the dark to help your eyes see further. 

A pocket flashlight makes it easy to see small, dark spaces or illuminate small workspaces. A larger flashlight or beam can provide useful visual aid when looking outside and around your boat as well. 

First Aid Kit 

A good first aid kit should be present in every area you regularly spend time, whether your home, car, or boat. Get an all-encompassing first aid kit to help patch up all kinds of injuries–from light scrapes to serious wounds.  

You can put together a few supplies such as bandages, gauze, tape, and other first aid items to make your own customized kit or purchase one of the many boating first aid kits that are fully stocked for any possible injury out on the water. 

Navigation 

Navigation might seem simple enough when everything is in line of sight and you stick to the coast or shoreline, but it gets much more complicated the further out you venture. There are many different devices and brands to choose from for navigation, but what’s important is that you use something that works for you and your boat. Get the right devices and equipment to help you navigate like a pro. 

What You’ll Need: 

GPS or Chart Plotter 

A GPS with longitude and latitude points is the bare minimum needed for navigation, but you’ll likely have an easier time with a chart plotter or more advanced navigation device.  

A chart plotter takes GPS information and plots it on a digital map to help you navigate. The device is especially handy on longer trips with no definite points of reference, such as offshore trips and blue water sailing. 

Compass 

A compass is the perfect addition to your GPS for navigation and direction. Whether you like the comfort of a small pocket compass or a larger compass installed in your navigation room or space onboard, you won’t regret adding this device to your navigation setup. 

A compass is great backup tool for navigation, or an excellent and thoughtful gift for the boater in your life. There are tons of different compass options, but many can be had for under $100 and function just as well as more expensive options. Check out our full selection of magnetic and electronic compasses to see which one strikes your eye the most.  

Paper Map or Download 

Although electronic and digital devices are the norm, a paper map is always handy to have onboard your boat and is a great tool for navigation. You can usually purchase paper maps online for the areas you sail in and around, or in local marine and boating shops.  

There are also excellent digital maps of local waters that boaters can purchase and print or download and use digitally. It’s a good idea to have a map backup, should your hotspot go out, your batteries die, or some other electronic mishap occur. 

Communication Devices 

Whether you want to let your spouse know you’ll be home late, effectively communicate with other boats in the area, or call for emergency help, a solid communication device (or two) should stay onboard your vessel. If you’re looking for beginner boating equipment, pick up these devices to ensure all your needs are met. You may also want to consider combination devices such as GPS and navigation devices with built in radios. 

What You’ll Need: 

Handheld VHS Radio 

Marine VHF radio is a system of two-way radio transceivers that is used worldwide for ship to ship and ship to shore communications. A VHS radio can reach between 30-50 miles and is the primary way that boats communicate with each other while on the water. 

Cell Phone 

Since most people never leave home without a cell phone, this should be a no-brainer. A cell phone is a great communication device, map, camera, and offers many other functions. Bring yours and stow it away in a dry bag or zippered waterproof pocket, just in case you need to make a quick call or for more serious emergency assistance. If you find that a cell phone just doesn’t cut it, you can upgrade to a satellite phone later. 

Emergency Signaling Device 

The two most common devices are Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (also known as EPIRBs). These nifty devices transmit the location of either you or your boat to emergency responders via a coded message on the 406 MHz distress frequency to quickly summon help. PLBs are registered to a person and EPIRBs are registered to a vessel. 

Fishing 

Every fisherman, whether a hobbyist or a pro needs the right boating and fishing equipment to reel in the next catch.  Have everything ready and onboard your boat for the next fishing trip you plan to take, so you can catch, store, and enjoy the fish you reel in. 

What You’ll Need: 

Fishing Rid Holders & Racks 

If you love to fish, then you know the importance of a good rod holder–unless you plan to hold your fishing rod all day or give up on catching anything.  

There are plenty of fishing rod holders on the market, but you should invest in a quality one to ensure you don’t lose your pole, or your next big catch. Make life easier for yourself when you’re out on the water with a mounted rod holder. 

Tackle Boxes 

Store everything you need for easy access while fishing in an organized tackle box. Organize lures, sinkers, and live bait in a hardbacked tackle box.  

Keep all your best lures in one place and organize them all the way you like. Tackle boxes come in so many different colors, storage capacities, and materials, that you’ll have any configuration you’ve ever thought of to choose from. 

Coolers & Live Wells 

Keep the fish you catch fresh with coolers and live wells, whether you plan to take them home and cook them, grill them right there while you’re out on your boat, or use them as bait for a larger catch. You might also consider accessories for your live well if you plan to keep fish or bait in there for a while, such as an oxygen generator or pump, live well cleaner or filter, and a light. 

Fish Finder 

Fish finders use sonar to locate fish and other solid objects underwater, and often come in conjunction with depth sounders that tell you the given depth of the water. Both devices are useful to alerting you of rocks, hazards, and sharp drop-offs.  

General Equipment 

It’s important to have all the right tow lines, towers, buoys, anchors, engine oil and other mooring, docking, and engine equipment for your boat, since these items are required for its operation and maintenance. 

What You’ll Need: 

Engine Oil & Parts 

Just like you keep oil for the vehicle you drive, having some extra engine oil for you boat is always a good idea in case you need to top it off. Likewise, spare engine parts come in handle when you least expect to need them. Get stocked up on everything you might need for your engine, before you have to get towed back to shore to find them. 

Boat Fenders 

Keep your boat safe while docking and mooring with good quality and good fitting boat fenders. Fenders absorb the shock of your boat hitting a dock or another vessel. They are an inexpensive way to extend the life of your boat and protect its structure and visual appeal.  

Protect your boat the same way you maintain the siding on your house or keep your car’s paint looking good–with precautionary measures and maintenance. As a general rule, boat fenders should be roughly 1″ of diameter for cylindrical fenders or 2″ of diameter for spherical fenders for every 4-5′ of boat length. Boats docked in choppier waters will need more protection than those docked on calm lakes. 

Anchor & Lines for Towing and Docking 

Keep an anchor handy onboard for when you plan to stop at a certain point on the water, and extra lines for towing and docking.  

You never know when you’ll need an extra line, whether for yourself or a friend. Make sure you have everything you need to get your boat to where you’d like it to be, whether docked or out on the water. 

Spare Tire & Hitching Equipment  

There is nothing worse than getting everything ready for a nice day out on the water and getting a flat tire on your boat trailer, stopping your plans before they have even begun.  

Make sure you have all the items you need to get your boat to the water and back. The tires and equipment you should purchase will depend on the vessel you have but are a good idea for frequent boaters that have distance to travel in order to get to the water. 

Get Everything for Your Boat 

Shop the best quality marine electronics & boat accessories at the lowest prices online at Atlantic Marine Depot. Ensure that your boat has everything it needs, before it hits the water. Get fast, free shipping on all orders over $99. Get marine electronics & boat accessories at the lowest prices. Shop our online inventory for the best marine electronics & boat accessories for commercial boats, pleasure vessels, and fishing boats. 

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20 Must-Have Boat Accessories

Summer is right around the corner and now is the perfect time to stock up on accessories for your boat. When you’re ready to take your boat out on the water, make sure you’re stocked up on these must-have accessories. These also make great gifts for family, friends, and loved ones. 

Fun and practical boat accessories that cost less than you might think. Check out these 20-must have boat accessories, perfect for gifts or your next trip out on the water 

Dry Bag or Box 

Keep all your valuables, non-waterproof electronics, and anything else important from getting waterlogged. Thereof a ton of options for dry boxes and bags, but for a basic dry box that gets the job done, try this Attwood Boater’s Dry Box or this DryCASE Waterproof dry bag.  

For those unexpected rainy days or when the spray gets everywhere, you’ll be glad you have a dry box and your items aren’t soaked. Check out our full selection of waterproof bags and cases. 

Towables  

When people find out you have a boat, their minds tend to go to fun on the water. Treat friends and family to some fun with a variety of towables. With air pump and tow rope–for a fun day out on the lake, variety of different floats and tubes, just stay safe and make sure everything is tied and hitched correctly. Whether you’re carting everyone around or just allowing single riders, you’re sure to have a great time. 

Life Vests 

A no-brainer for getting out on the water. These days life vests come in so many different, sizes, shapes, and styles. Get a cheap pack of them to keep on your boat, or find the perfect life vest fit for you and your family while you’re all out on the water having fun. From infants to experienced boaters, there should be a fitting life vest onboard for everyone to use. 

Boat Fenders 

This item is probably one of the most important on the list, and if you don’t already have boat fenders, you should get them. Fenders prevent scratches and scrapes on your boat hull when docking and can save you thousands if your boats even gets a little too close to a dock post. Most boat fenders do the same thing, so as long as it fits well, your boat will be protected. Check out some of our basic boat fenders and keep your boat safe. Don’t forget those fender lines, either! 

Boat Towing Membership 

It may not be a physical accessory, but whether you’re on a local lake or along the cost you can get a boat towing membership to ensure you have a backup if things don’t go to plan. It’s better to be a member with a local towing business than to pay an arm and a leg on the off chance that you need a tow and haven’t invested in a membership. 

Sea-Tow and TowBoatUS are the most popular services, and they typically reimburse for towing when their services aren’t available near your boat. An annual membership usually costs anywhere from $149-$179, while the one-time cost of on-water towing can be anywhere from $250-$500/hour. In fact, according to BoatUS, the cost of an on-water tow back to port by a commercial provider average about $700 per incident. 

Fishing Rod Holder 

Boating and fishing are almost synonymous in some places, and if you love to fish you know the importance of a good rod holder–unless you plan to hold your fishing rod all day or give up on catching anything. There are plenty of fishing rod holders on the market, but invest in a quality one to ensure you don’t lose your pole. Make life easier for yourself on the water with a mounted rod holder. 

First Aid/Safety Kit 

Keep standard first aid items onboard like sunscreen, bug spray, bandages, antibiotics, antiseptics, and sterile tools in case of a medical emergency…or a bug bite or scratch. With all the different ways to accidentally cut a finger or sustain more serious injuries, it’s smart to have a well-stocked safety kit on your boat at all times. You never know when you’ll need it and you’ll be grateful to have it when you do use it. 

Tool/Resource Kit 

While you can purchase these sort of tool kits, it helps to add your own items to them to stay functional. Keep more useful things like a basic tool kit, towels, spare shirt and shorts, additional boat flares or a flare gun, an air horn and whistle, tape, knife, zip ties, a flashlight, and more all in an easy to locate kit or toolbox. Most of these items are extremely useful and you’ll be glad they’re in one location for easy access. 

Emergency Paddles 

Having extra paddles is a good idea, especially for smaller boats. These telescoping paddles are a great choice and even come with a nylon carrying case. For paddles that are a bit longer, try these 25”-75” telescoping paddles with a boat hook handle. 

Boat Fire Extinguisher  

if you don’t already have one or your boat didn’t come with one, you need a boat fire extinguisher. From putting out the grill when someone is too enthusiastic to stopping dangerous boat fires, extinguishers should be on board your boat at all times. 

Jump Starter Pack For Boats 

You never know when your battery might die on you, and it’s better to be prepared in case of an emergency. These little jump starter kits are powerful enough to give your battery a boost so you can get back to land and purchase a new one. They are specially calibrated for boats, so you don’t have to string along any car jump starters. 

Solar Panel  

Choose a larger solar panel for keeping your boat battery charged or smaller ones for your phone and other small electronics. Solar panels are much more efficient and affordable than they used to be. Leaving a solar charger out on the deck is an easy way to power all your devices. Solar chargers come in lots of different sizes, from charging a phone to charging a boat battery, so shop around to see which panels are the best fit for your needs. 

12v Charger 

Charge phones, keep 12v air pumps going, and power anything else you might have onboard. There are plenty of 12v charger options, from large lithium battery backs that take solar panel energy to specially created boat battery chargers. Make sure you have enough power at all times for all your electronics and get the right 12v charger. 

Boating Anchor System 

There are tons of boat anchoring system options out there, and the one you select will depend on your boat size. From a small weekend boat that provides an hour or two of fun to a sailing vessel that can stay out on the water indefinitely, an anchor is a must-have. Check out our boat anchor systems to see which is a best-fit for your boat. 

Marine GPS 

Be sure to have a GPS handy for when your phone dies or can’t get a signal. Most people on small lakes are just fine with using their phones, but for larger lakes and the ocean, a GPS is a must-have. Many marine GPS devices also come with multiple functionalities such as fish finders, AIS, chartplotters, and other neat abilities. For a great GPS gift, check out these Garmin Quatix marine smart watches with GPS in blue and stainless steel.  

Boat Grill 

If you spend whole days out on the water, then a boat grill is a must-have accessory, and most can be had for the same amount or less than a regular grill. Most boat grills are mounted to the side or railing of your boat and provide an easy way to grill up food for everyone. Once you have purchased a grill, you can get a boat grill mount to attach it to the railing of your boat.  

Keep everyone fed and happy with a great boat grill for those weekends out on the water. From skewers to hotdogs and burgers, you can guarantee everyone onboard will be glad you chose this addition. 

Cooler 

A cooler for your boat is a no-brainer. Keep your drinks, snack, and everything else cold on those hot days out on the water or store freshly caught fish for later. Since the sun can really dehydrate you after hours outside, make sure to bring plenty of bottled water, drinks, ice, and your favorite foods to hydrate and keep your energy up. 

Magnetic Compass 

A compass is great backup tool for navigation, or an excellent and thoughtful gift for the boater in your life. There are tons of different compass options, but for under $100 we like this Richie Angler Compass with a 5-year warranty. Check out of full selection of magnetic and electronic compasses and see which one strikes your eye the most. If you’re looking for an easy to remember, on the go compass, try this simple Timex watch with integrated mini compass. 

A compass is great backup tool for navigation, or an excellent and thoughtful gift for the boater in your life. There are tons of different compass options, but for under $100 we like this Richie Angler Compass with a 5-year warranty. Check out of full selection of magnetic and electronic compasses and see which one strikes your eye the most. If you’re looking for an easy to remember, on the go compass, try this simple Timex watch with integrated mini compass. 

Cooling Towel 

Stay cool and safe on those beautiful, hot, and sunny days. Cooling towels usually use cooling gel or special fabric material to keep water cool against your skin. If you need a recommendation, try this Klein Tools Cooling Towel in gray and blue. You’ll be glad you brought it when the sun is glaring down on you. 

VHF Radio 

Ensure you have a way to call for help if nobody is around and incorporate many functions in one great device. We like this Standard Horizon Matrix Fixed Mount VHF Radio with AIS & GPS, and since there are so many different radios out there to choose from, you’re bound to find one you love. 

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Boat Electronics For Beginners

Boat Electronics For Beginners 

If your boat has aging or outdated electronics or you need to update a “new to you” boat that you’ve just purchased, the options out there can be overwhelming. 

Whether you are a beginner boat owner that is just now getting involved with your own boat electronics purchases or looking to upgrade your current setup to prepare for your next trip on the water, we have put together a comprehensive guide to some of the most common boat electronics. 

In the last decade or so, advances in technology have allowed boat manufacturers and electronics inventors to make smaller and more efficient boating electronics and devices. While not every boat needs to have all the bells and whistles that are available, many of these new devices make boating safer, more approachable, and more efficient. 

Electronics For Your Boat 

The use of each electronic device will depend on the size, location, and use of your boat; however, many of them can be used on almost any vessel–such as AM/FM radios, Emergency signaling, and chart plotters. 

Many of these items and electronics are interchangeable at different boating “levels” of knowledge and experience, depending on the type of boat you have and how you plan to use it. For example, an experienced boater may use several multifunction displays (MFD), while a beginner boater would only need a very basic chart plotter or MFD to get them started. For water sports enthusiasts and cruisers, a tricked-out stereo and entertainment system is a must, whereas an offshore angler may not place as much importance on keeping the tunes flowing. 

Whether you’re an offshore angler, freshwater angler, have a family day boat, are a water sports enthusiast, or have a cruiser, we have an easy to understand list of the types of boat and marine electronics you’ll likely need for going out on the water. 

The Basics: For Boat Beginners 

These items should be on the basic electronics list for the average boater and can help everyone onboard have a safe, fun time. 

  • VHF Radio–Marine VHF radio is a system of two-way radio transceivers that is used worldwide for ship to ship and ship to shore communication. It reaches 30-50 miles and is the primary way that boats communicate while on the water and is important for boat safety. Consider a handheld backup VHF radio for boating longer distances. 
  • Entertainment (AM/FM Radio, Music Player)–Even if you don’t feel the need for a TV onboard, most people will want some music or a way to play songs from their phone, iPod, or mp3 player. 
  • Chart Plotters–A chart plotter takes GPS information and plots it on a digital map. This device is a great way to navigate, especially on longer trips with no definite points of reference (such as offshore trips and blue water sailing). Consider using a handheld device for longer distances. 
  • Depth Sounders/Fish Finders–Depth sounders, as their name suggests, are used to tell you the depth of the water, which is useful in areas with rocks, hazards, and sharp drop-offs. Fish finders use sonar to locate fish and other solid objects underwater. There are also combination devices available to provide dual functions of each. 
  • Emergency Signaling Device–The two most common devices are Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) and Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (also known as EPIRBs). PLB’s are registered to a person and EPIRBs are registered to a vessel. Both devices send a coded message on the 406 MHz distress frequency. 
  • GPS Speedometer–This device measures the speed of your boat and is helpful for keeping speed steady so that wakeboarders and water-skiers can hit the water at a safe and constant speed. These controls allow you to set the exact desired speed and change them in 1-mph increments. 

The Prepared: For Weekend & Regular Boaters 

For the more experienced boater, a few electronic additions can make the entire experience go smoother. From taking better stock of your surroundings to measuring efficiency, these devices will help you gain better understanding of your boat and navigate with ease. 

  • Autopilot–For extended periods of boating and areas where the navigation is simple, don’t leave home without your autopilot device. It can also be connected to other devices such as GPS and MFDs. 
  • Radar–Radar works similar to fish finders, but instead of alerting you to solid objects below, it tells you about what objects are around you. Radar is extremely helpful for boating in fog or the dark. Use radar in low visibility situations and to stay alert of other boats. 
  • Alarms–These days, there is an alarm for almost everything. Alarms can help notify you when certain parts of your boat require your attention. Get notifications if a pump stops working, your boat drifts too far off course, or if there is smoke or carbon monoxide detected. 
  • Automatic Identification System (AIS)–AIS is an automatic tracking system that uses ship transponders to broadcast the vessel’s name, direction, and speed. This is especially useful for avoiding collisions with large, fast moving ships and hailing boats which are too far away to read. 
  • Instrument System–Install a comprehensive instrument system to tell you the current water depth and temperature, boat speed, wind speed and direction, impending weather, and more. The system can be networked to your GPS and autopilot to make navigation easier. 
  • Networked Multifunctional Display (MFD)–With the same chart plotting and fish finding functions as a standard chart plotter, an MFD offers additional functionalities such as displaying all navigation info from different units, programming routes, sonar, alarms, fuel/temp/AIS monitoring, and more. 
  • Onboard Battery Charger–For those with electric motors, a battery charger is a must. With an onboard charger, you don’t have to worry about dragging a charger to the boat or cutting your time on the water short.  
  • Fuel-Flow Meters–Fuel flow meters determine the rate of flow from the boat’s fuel tank to the engine. While they can’t tell you how full the tank is, they are useful for engine efficiency and alerting you to any issues before they might require costly fixes. 

The Electronics Enthusiast: For Those That Have It All 

In addition to the boat basics and more advanced options that many regular boaters have, these items are for the boater that likes to have it all or frequently uses their boat for specific purposes. Many of these electronics are for boaters that find themselves away from the inland coast a good portion of the time as well. 

  • Satellite Phone–Don’t worry about signal reliability with a sat phone. Call, text, send and receive emails, check the weather, surf the internet, and more. A sat phone is a good investment for those that spend a lot of time on the water but want to stay connected. 
  • SSB Radio–This type of radio is similar to the VHF, but it has an ocean-sized range. A medium frequency SSB radio has a range of around 400 nautical miles, while a high frequency will reach out for several thousand miles. 
  • Infrared Camera & Night Vision– Infrared cameras provide thermal imaging that can be integrated into MFD screens. Night vision vison allows you to see obstacles in low light conditions for those late nights or early morning out on the water. 
  • Satellite Weather– Don’t leave it up to the weather channel. Get real-time Doppler radar weather, right on your chart plotter screen. Stay aware of incoming storms or changing weather conditions. 
  • Entertainment Center–For the large cruiser or water sports enthusiast, media and entertainment are a must. From an integrated radio for music and great speakers to satellite TV, a DVD player and more, there are endless options to keep everyone onboard entertained. 
  • Cartography–Whether inland for popular lakes or for general coastline, there are plenty of cartography chip options to make your navigation flawless. Choose from popular maps and imaging and stay aware of changing water features. 
  • Cell Amplifier–For those that aren’t ready to take the plunge and invest in a satellite phone, a cell amplifier can extend the working range of your phone out 30-50 miles from the nearest tower. It makes a great addition for shorter trips close to the coast. 
  • Gyroscopic Binoculars–Minimize image shaking and view far off vessel names, overhead birds, incoming lights, numbers on buoys, and more. 7x50s or seven times the magnification with a 50-mm objective lens is the standard for boating binoculars. 

Get Boat Electronics 

Shop the best quality marine electronics & boat accessories at the lowest prices online at Atlantic Marine Depot. Ensure that your boat has everything it needs, before it hits the water. We offer fast, free shipping on all orders over $99. Get marine electronics & boat accessories at the lowest prices. Shop our online inventory for the best marine electronics & boat accessories for commercial boats, pleasure vessels, and fishing boats. 

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Items Required On U.S. Boats By Law

Items Required On U.S. Boats By Law

If you own a boat, or are in the process of buying a boat, you may be researching which items are required onboard your boat. This guide is meant to help you better understand which regulations are in place and how you can get all the items you need, depending on the size of your vessel, before heading out on the water.

These requirements and regulations refer to vessels operating on U.S. coastal waters, the Great Lakes, and territorial seas, as well as those waters connected directly, up to a point where the waterway is less than two nautical miles wide.

Each requirement or item is dependent upon the size of your boat, as well as where the boat is used. As a rule, the larger and more complex the boat, the more regulations it must adhere to.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)

Personal flotation devices, also known as life vests or life jackets, are required on all boats regardless of the size of your vessel.

Life jackets are a key part of responsible boating and marine safety when you are out on the water. According to the United States Coast (USCG) Guard’s 2018 annual report of recreational boating accident statistics, where cause of death was known, 77% of fatal boating accident victims drowned. Of those drowning victims with reported life jacket usage, 84% were not wearing a life jacket.

There should be an allotted Type I, II, III, or V PDF or life vest for each passenger on board, according to the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). Type V inflatable life vests can be worn by individuals over the age of 16 and must be worn onboard at all times in order to be considered a PDF. Life vests should be accessible, USCG approved, in good condition, and fit the individual on board that they are intended for. Each U.S. state has their own regulations for children’s life jackets. If the vessel is 16 feet or longer (except for kayaks and canoes), it must also carry an additional throwable flotation device (Type IV) onboard, such as a ring.

If you need a life jacket for your boat, check out our great selection of personal flotation devices in a variety of sizes, colors, and styles.

Fire Extinguishers

While it’s always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher handy, there are also minimum fire extinguisher requirements set out by the U.S. Coast Guard for vessels that have enclosed living spaces, enclosed engine compartments, permanent fuel tanks, or have any flammable and highly combustible materials.

Marine vessels less than 26’ require one B-I type Coast Guard-approved hand portable fire extinguisher; 26’ to 40’ vessels require two B-I or one B-II; 40’ to 65’ require three B-I or one B-II and one B-I. Boats over 65 feet need one to eight (depending on the weight of the vessel) B-II along with a fixed system in the machinery space.

Fire extinguishers must be mounted in their brackets, be in good physical condition with no rust or dents, have operating gauges (if any) and have seals and tamper indicators in place.

State Registration, Numbering, & Letters

Recreational boats are must be registered in the state where they are and used docked. Upon registering your vessel, the state will provide you with a certificate number that must be onboard the boat while in use. The certificate number is typically attached on the front half of the boat, at minimum 3” in height, and in contrasting color to the boat so that it is visible to onlookers.

A provided validation sticker must be placed within 6 inches of the registration numbers as well with no viewing obstructions, like how a car displays a license place and registration. All vessels with propulsion machinery must be state registered or documented with proper numbers displayed.

Fire Extinguishers

Visual Distress Signals

Recreational boats over 16 feet in U.S. waters must be equipped with USCG approved visual distress signals (VSD).
The exception to this requirement is boats operating on lakes (apart from the Great Lakes), sailboats under 26 feet without propulsion machinery, manually propelled boats, and boats participating in organized events. These boats must carry a minimum of 3 approved night signals when operating from sunset to sunrise

If pyrotechnic devices are selected, a minimum of three signals are required for day use and three signals for night use, although some signals (such as combination flares) can be used for both day and night. Under certain situations, non-pyrotechnic devices and electric distress lights may also serve as acceptable forms of VDS.

Backfire Flame Arrestor

All modern motorboats and motor vessels, apart from outboard motors, must be equipped with an acceptable means of backfire flame control. This means that boats must have one USCG approved or AE-J-1928 or UL 1111 standard compliant backfire flame arrestor for each carburetor on all gas-powered vessels. The backfire flame arrestor must be secured to the air intake with a flame-tight connection.

Other acceptable forms of backfire flame control include air and fuel induction systems (usually found on personal watercraft), velocity stacks (attachments to carburetors), and reed-type (found in outboard motors).

Ventilation

Modern boats built after 1980 that use gasoline for propulsion, mechanical power, or electrical generation are required to have adequate ventilation systems. Boats must have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls (or their equivalent) in order to properly ventilate the bilges of every closed engine and fuel tank compartment using gasoline as fuel (or other fuels having a flashpoint of 110 degrees or less). The exception to this requirement is boats with outboard motors.

A good way to ensure that your boat meet federal regulations for ventilation is to install a powered ventilation system-if one is not already in place. Proper ventilation ensures that toxic and potentially explosive or fire hazardous gasoline fumes do not linger onboard.

Sound Producing Devices

One of the most important aspects of boating is the ability to let other boaters and vessels know what actions you are taking, such as crossing, overtaking, or meeting. In these situations, no human-made sound can sufficiently relay a message quickly, making it necessary to use sound producing devices such as bells, whistles, and horns.

Any boat under 40 feet should have a reliable sound producing devices such as a horn or whistl. Boats over 40 feet are required to carry a bell and those over 65.5 feet must carry a bell and whistle, with an air horn or electric horn counting as a whistle. The mouth of the bell must be at least 7.87 inches in diameter and the whistle should be able to be heard at least ½ a nautical mile.

Navigation Lights

Navigation Lights

Recreational boats are required to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility (such as fog, rain, haze, etc.). For sailing vessels under 23 feet (7 meters), if lights can’t be shown, then a handheld flashlight with white light must be shown to avoid a collision.

Boats under oar or paddle power may also use a white flashlight, if navigation lights are not part of the vessel’s equipment list. All other boats should exhibit proper lighting as required.

Power-driven and sailing vessels less than 65.5 feet (20 meters), must comply with the U. S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules that specify lighting requirements for every watercraft.

Marine Sanitation Device

Marine Sanitation Device

If your boat has a toilet onboard, it must have a working type I, II, or III Coast Guard certified Marine Sanitation Device (MSD). Type I and Type II MSD’s are flow-through, while Type III operated with a holding tank. All vessels over 65 feet with onboard toilets must install a Type II or III MSD.

A certified marine sanitation device ensures that waste will not pollute the water or harm marine biodiversity.

Other Requirements: Size Dependent

⦁ Vessels 26’ and longer must display a Garbage Placard.
⦁ Vessels 26’ and longer with a machinery space must display an Oil Pollution Placard.
⦁ Vessels longer than 39.4 feet (12 meters) must have a copy of the Inland Navigations Rules aboard.
⦁ U.S. Oceangoing vessels over 39.4 feet (12 meters) with a galley and berthing or vessels that are engaged in commerce must have a posted Waste Management Plan onboard.

If you have additional questions regarding what items boats musts carry or the regulations in place for operating a boat, refer to the Boater’s Guide To Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats. This informational guide was created in order to illustrate federal boating requirements by both the U.S. Coast Guard and Homeland Security.

Get Everything For Your Boat

Shop the best quality marine electronics & boat accessories at the lowest prices online at Atlantic Marine Depot. Ensure that your boat has everything it needs, before it hits the water. Get fast, free shipping on all orders over $99. Get marine electronics & boat accessories at the lowest prices. Shop our online inventory for the best marine electronics & boat accessories for commercial boats, pleasure vessels, and fishing boats.

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3 Things You Need To Do Before Taking a Boat Out For the First Time

There are over 17 million recreational boats in the United States. Investing in a boat is essential if you love spending time on the water. Before you choose a boat to buy, take some time to research all of your options.

When trying to make this important decision, consider things like what type of water you will be in and how much you can afford to spend. Once you have found and purchased a new boat, planning your first trip should be high on your list of priorities. Properly planning your maiden voyage can help you avoid problems along the way.

The following are some of the things you need to do before taking your boat out for the first time.

1. Get to Know the Body Of Water You Will Be Boating In

Whether you are taking your new boat out on the lake or traversing the ocean on your maiden voyage, familiarizing yourself with the area is essential. Taking the time to map out what course you will take on your voyage is a good idea. Before you put the boat in the water, make sure it has a few basic instruments.

Things like magnetic and electric compasses are a great addition to any boat. With these devices, you can avoid getting turned around or lost during a boating trip. Invested in a speed gauge and a wind meter is also a good idea. The more information you have about your boat and the environment while on a trip, the easier you will find it to stay safe.

2. Investing in the Right Safety Equipment

One of the main concerns any boat owner should have is staying safe while at the helm. Most modern boats come with a variety of safety features. However, there are some things you will want to buy on your own to ensure the safety of your craft and your crew.

Quality life rafts are one of the first things you need to buy. Some new boat owners think that accidents are only something that happens to other people. In reality, boating accidents are quite common. Having life rafts and personal flotation devices can help you get out of a scary situation and back on dry land.

3. Familiarize Yourself With the How the Boat Operates

If you are taking a boat out for the first time, study the owner’s manual thoroughly beforehand. The biggest mistake a new boat owner can make is getting on the water without familiarizing themselves with their new watercraft.

Knowing how to drop anchor, use the throttle or utilize the power of the onboard navigation system is vital. With a bit of time and energy, you should have no problem getting familiar with how your new boat operates. While getting comfortable with driving the new boat will take time, you need to remain calm and obtain as much information as you can before leaving shore.

Looking for a Great Deal on Boating Products?

If you are in the market for boating accessories, electronics and equipment, Atlantic Marine Depot can help you out. We have a vast selection of reasonably priced boating products. Contact us now to find out more about the quality items we have in stock.

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Great Accessories Every RV Owner Needs to Purchase

Taking a road trip is a great way to leave the stress of daily life behind. Out on the road, all you have to focus on is exploring new areas and having fun. If you have a large family or a group of friends you like to travel with regularly, investing in an RV is essential.

Over 10 million Americans own an RV. The popularity of these vehicles is mostly due to how spacious and luxurious they are. Once you have found and purchased the RV of your dreams, finding the right accessories should be your main goal.

Below are some of the greatest accessories every RV owner needs to have in their possession.

An RV GPS is a Smart Investment

Traveling to unfamiliar cities and towns is something most RV owners love to do. While taking these journeys can be fun, being able to find your way without getting lost is crucial. This is why investing in an RV GPS unit is a wise investment.

When looking at the various RV GPS units on the market, pay attention to a few key features. Making sure the GPS in question has a clear display and easy to use controls is a must. You will also need to find out how much map updates cost.

Some GPS manufacturers will include lifetime updates in the initial purchase price. With this information, you should have no problem choosing the best GPS unit for your recreational vehicle.

Make Communicating Easy With the Help of a CB Radio

Some new RV owners turn their nose up at the idea of getting a CB radio. Modern RVs are equipped to handle WIFI, cellphones and even cable television hookups. However, these pieces of modern technology may fail on you in certain areas.

Having a CB radio will allow you to communicate with other motorists in the event of an emergency. These radios will work virtually anywhere, which is why investing in one is a good idea.

Before buying a CB radio for your RV, be sure to find out if it can easily mount in the vehicle. Be sure to check out some online reviews to make sure the CB radio you are considering is well-built and durable.

A Quality Retractable Awning

While modern RVs are like homes on wheels, there are some additions you need to make to increase comfort. If you are going to be spending a lot of time hanging out in an RV park or campground, having a retractable awning is a fantastic idea.

These awnings come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Setting a budget before shopping for a retractable awning is a good idea. This budget can help you narrow down the list of available awnings on the market in a hurry. However, avoid letting price be the deciding factor when looking for an awning. Skimping on the quality of the awning to save a few dollars will usually come back to haunt you.

Work With a Knowledge RV Accessories Supplier

If you are new to the world of RVs, getting some professional guidance during the accessory selection process is a good idea. At Atlantic Marine Depot, you can get a great deal on the RV accessories you need.