There is something undeniably alluring about the open water. It’s an alien environment yet still strangely inviting; it can be both relaxing and exciting, and it’s also bountiful. Because it’s such an alien environment, you won’t get far without some sort of aquatic craft. Maintaining a sizable boat can quickly become an expensive task, but for millions of people the cost is well worth it.
A boat can be a small investment or a very large one, but you should take good care of it either way. It’s good to know how to park your boat, because most personal boats spend more time out of the water than in. If you have a very small craft, like a rowboat, flatboat or canoe, it can be pulled up on shore with ease. Be sure to tie it up, though, in case of floods or a rising tide.
As you get into bigger boats, the logistical challenges of parking get bigger as well. For those lucky enough to have navigable waterways in their very backyards, the ultimate in boat parking is a private slip or boathouse. You can complete it with a hoist for taking the boat out of the water; this will help prevent buildup of algae, barnacles and other undesirables. It’s also extremely useful when you have to perform maintenance or repairs.
Some boats are just too big to be taken out of the water regularly. If you have a yacht or a large fishing boat, you’ll probably want to rent or buy a permanent slip at the nearest marina.
Most owners of small and medium sized boats, however, use trailers to transport and launch their boats. If you’re going to invest in an expensive boat, don’t pinch pennies when buying the trailer. You can get a bare bones trailer or one with useful winches and hydraulic doohickeys. A better trailer will make everything easier. At the very least, make sure all of its lights work and that you’re in accordance with any registration laws.
You’re best off parking your boat in the garage if you want it to last as long as possible. That will keep the rain off of the seats and the sun off of the fiberglass, so get in there and move some of that junk out if the way. Get used to backing in with an unwieldy trailer attached, because that’s how you’ll have to park it.
When you park your trailer, it’s always a good idea to have some wheel chocks on hand. If your boat’s parking spot is on a slope they’re crucial. Chocks are available at boat shops, but you can use bricks or boards in a pinch. You definitely don’t want your favorite toy to go rolling off on its own. Try not to leave the trailer attached to your truck for too long, to reduce stress on the hitches.
If you can’t park your boat in a covered port or garage, invest in a sturdy fabric cover for it. At the very least, get a cover for the motor. If you take proper care of your boat, it will stay clean and running for years to come.
- How to Choose a Boat?
- How to Buy a Boat?
- How to Name a Boat?
- How to Live on a Boat?
- How to Buy a Used Boat?
