Episode 3:  In today’s episode, Molley and Chad talk about making that boat “your boat.”  They’ll discuss ways to personalize and customize your boat, so it’s more comfortable and reflects your personality on the water.

Naming Your Boat

Molley came across an article providing 7 Tips for Naming Your Boat.  She and Chad talk about things to consider.   Traditionally boats are named after a woman in one’s life.  Why?  They don’t know either!  Some boat names reflect a profession (Knot on Call for a doctor).  Puns and double meanings are always welcomed.  Naming them after references to movies and/or songs is always popular.

Keeping Your Stuff Organized

Finding a solution for your storage needs can be an issue.  Molley figured out several ways to keep items neat and compact, so they’re out of the way and safely stored.  A garbage can and plastic containers are life-savers.  Don’t forget to add an air-freshener to your garbage can.  In the hot sun, you’ll be glad you did.

Molley and Chad discuss “the boat purse” and how it’s a great solution for keeping phones, wallets and keys dry during the day on the water.  Surprisingly, a bread box is also a vital component for your boating enjoyment.

Choosing the Right Cooler

You really don’t need to buy an expensive cooler.  You want to keep your ice from melting and the beverages cold, but don’t go overboard.  Regardless of how well the cooler is insulated, each time someone reaches into the cooler, the cold air escapes.

Styrofoam coolers should be avoided.  The lids will blow away.  It’s worth the money to buy a regular cooler.  Also, remember to refrigerate your beverages before you put them into the cooler.  It helps to reduce the ice-melt.

Remember, capacity is an issue.  Some of the expensive coolers may not actually store the same amount as a cheaper model.  This is a big factor if you have a lot of people on your pontoon.

Floaties and other Floatation Devices

There are tons of options for recreational, flotation devices such as noodles, inflatables, etc.  Always remember to make sure you have the proper number of Coast Guard Approved safety devices.  Not all life-jackets and vest are actually approved.  You will get ticketed if they inspect your boat and you don’t have the proper personal floatation devices. 

It’s also a good idea to make sure you have a number of various sized life-jackets.

Ropes and Related Accessories

You can find easy to use devices to keep your ropes from getting tangled and also enabling them to be simply stored.  You might also consider purchasing a large bungie for tying up with other boats or docks.  They come in various lengths, depending on your needs.  If you get caught in a wake, the bungies are better than regular ropes, which may not allow for adequate “give.”

Anchor Selection

Each boat is different, so you may need to experiment to find the best model for your particular situation.  Molley and Chad have found a box anchor to be a terrific type of anchor for their boat.  Theirs will hold a 24’ pontoon is a strong wind. 

Other Coast Guard Must-Haves

Always make sure you have a fire extinguisher on-board.  It’s important that everyone know where it is, in case of an emergency.  You need multiple signaling devices.  Back-up red and green lights (such as glow sticks) can be helpful to signal other boats when your batter fails or if you’re stranded after sundown. 

Multi-packs of extra life-jackets can be very versatile.  You can use them as emergency bumpers.  It’s also a good idea to keep an extra bailer to get water out of the boat.  An old bleach bottle with the bottom cut out can be a terrific bailer.

Bring a back-up battery jumping device.  The new lithium versions are terrific for cell phones and boat batteries.

Make sure you have a fresh first-aid kit on board.  Remember to check the expiration dates, so you’ll always have the supplies ready, should you need them. 

The Coast Guard also requires that you have a rescue paddle on board.  In a pinch, you can actually paddle your boat to shore.

A ship-to-shore VHF radio is also a requirement.  Don’t rely on your cell phones.  You may not have a good signal when you need it.

Tips and Tricks from Fellow Boaters

• Keep extra towel clips to hang towels from the Bimini to create shade for babies and other passengers.
• Zip-Lock bags, in various sizes are extremely handy on the boat.
• Large zip-lock bags can also be used to keep extra towels and sweatshirts dry and fresh.
• A box filled with cheap sunglasses.
• A miscellaneous emergency kit, including dental floss.
• A clear tackle box for hair ties, nail clippers, a whistle, tweezers and Band-Aids.
• A blow horn and a Swiss Army knife. The extra knife is a great utility knife to get you out of a jam.
• A collection of dry-bags can be useful.

That’s a wrap for this episode.  I hope you found it helpful, insightful and maybe a little entertaining. 

Thanks for Listening!

If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider sharing it with your friends.  We hope to see you out there soon.  Until next time, here’s to warm weather and calm waters!

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