Full Description
The simple guide to getting on the water and motoring around
Power Boating For Dummies, Second Edition teaches you everything you need to know about buying, choosing, operating, maintaining, and enjoying a power boat, and provides expert guidance for new boaters. This is also a fantastic book for experienced boaters, because it's full of tips and ideas on improving boating skills and getting the most out of water-time with the latest tech. With this guide, you can ace your boating pilot's exam and master the techniques you'll need to stay safe and have fun out there. You'll also find recommendations on great destinations for boating trips, plus coverage of all that's new in the world of boating—touch-screen navigation, automatic docking, smart boats, and even running routes right from your iPhone. Get on board!
Choose the right boat for your needs and learn the safety rules
Get good at piloting your boat in all kinds of conditions
Outfit your boat with the right gear and supplies
Discover new tech gadgets to make boating even more fun
For complete beginners who are new to power boating, as well as more experienced boaters looking for a complete reference, Power Boating For Dummies, Second Edition, is a must.
Contents
Introduction 1
Part 1: Getting On the Right Boating Track 7
Chapter 1: Powering Up to Be a Boater 9
Chapter 2: Choosing the Right Boat Type and Engine for Your Boating Needs 21
Chapter 3: Finding and Buying the Right Boat for You 41
Chapter 4: Accessorizing Your Boat for Safety and Fun 67
Part 2: Safely Operating Your Boat 83
Chapter 5: Towing Your Boat and Maintaining Your Trailer 85
Chapter 6: Launching and Loading Your Trailered Boat 101
Chapter 7: Hitting the Open Water: Driving Your Boat 129
Chapter 8: Docking, Rafting Up, and Anchoring 147
Chapter 9: Finding a Safe Harbor for Your Boat 167
Part 3: With Much Boating Fun Comes Much Responsibility 189
Chapter 10: Rules Do Apply: Navigating to Avoid Collisions and Confusion 191
Chapter 11: Finding Your Way on the Water 207
Chapter 12: Navigating Bad Weather 229
Chapter 13: Preparing for and Handling Boating Emergencies 247
Part 4: Keeping Your Boat Shipshape 267
Chapter 14: Keeping Up with Routine Boat Maintenance 269
Chapter 15: Getting Your Boat Ready for Winter and Spring 295
Chapter 16: Repairing Leaks and Other Damage to Your Boat 303
Part 5: The Part of Tens 325
Chapter 17: Ten Tactics That Separate Pros from Amateurs 327
Chapter 18: Ten Important Items to Keep Onboard 335
Chapter 19: Ten (Plus Two) Mechanical Checks for Buying a Pre-Owned Boat 341
Index 349
