That’s great news about the new Boat Register that has been set up (see this month’s lead news story). Now you can register your boat for free and also, if you wish, tag your boat. In these times of growing security concerns anything that we can do to deter thieves is a good thing, and I would definitely recommend boat owners take up this service.
At the moment there is no official register that you must list your boat’s details with when you buy her, and although this one isn’t mandatory either, hopefully over time it will become more and more common place for people to do so when they buy a boat. If nothing else it will help you proof you are the registered keeper of the boat when you come to sell her, something private buyers and sellers will find especially handy. The great thing is that registering your boat is free and there are no annual fees, so really you have no excuse not to sign up.
We’ll be following the progress of this site and let you know how successful it is.
Boat Register: www.boatregister.eu
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May 14th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
MAINTENANCE JOBS
Do you know what checks need to be made before you head out to sea? Do you look after your boat throughout the season, or just wait until laying up time? There are various checks to be done both before each trip and at regular intervals throughout the season that’ll help keep your boat in good condition, and ultimately you and your crew safe.
MONTHLY CHECKS
Fuel filter and filler cap seal
All fuel pipes and connections
Petrol engine spark plugs and high-tension cables
Bellows condition, out-drives
Belt tension and condition
Lubricate cable and other moving parts, including steering mechanism
Impeller operation and condition
Any gas installations on board, including pipes, connections and safe operation
Trailer coupling head
Strip trailer bearings, clean, check, grease and adjust
Check brake adjustments if fitted
PRE-TRIP CHECKS
Check engine for fluid leaks
Oil levels for gearbox and engine
Coolant fluid levels
Check fuel levels including reserve
Tank primer-bulbs
Operation of kill-switch (if fitted)
Condition and operation of seacocks
Seawater strainer
Vents
Propeller condition
Trailer wheel bearings, brake mechanism, rollers, winch and strap
Trailer safety chain, lighting board and operation
Tyre depth and pressure
Bilge pump operation
Boat tie-down straps
Although the above condition and level checks look involved, in practise, the pre-trip checklist will take little more than ten minutes and the monthly checks within the hour, providing nothing untoward is uncovered.
It is a good idea to keep a simple maintenance log and just tick boxes for operations you have carried out monthly, together with the date. Logs can be simply a sheet of card or you can buy the ready-made version.
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April 17th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
Putting together the recent events diary and this month’s summer event guide have really made me realise what a fantastic choice of shows, festivals and days out this country has to offer boaters. This month we have been discussing whether events really do get enough coverage in the media and it’s when you see the huge list of upcoming diary dates that you realise that while they may not all get national attention, even the smaller festivals will probably make the local TV and will definitely feature in regional newspapers. This is all fantastic promotion for boating and shows how diverse our hobby is. The inland waterways festivals, for example, offer a completely different day out to larger, national boat shows such as those taking place this spring in Wales. Then again there are watersports racing and championships on offer, not to mention test days put on by dealers. So really whether you want to watch others on the water or take to the water yourself you can be sure there’s something happening each weekend not too far from where you live. In our diary dates we can only print a selection of what’s on offer and so it’s always worth finding out what else is planned for the coming month. There are plenty of Web sites with this information such as your local tourist information site. You’ll have some great days out enjoying, hopefully, some great British weather and meeting lots of other lovers of all things nautical. Now what could be better than that?
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April 17th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
The Honda CR-V has been around since 1995 and during that time it’s proved to be a highly successful model for Honda. To this day you will see plenty on the road and this has to prove that the company have been getting this model right for a very long time. Boaters will also know the company as they have supported many marine events as well as teams and we are all familiar with their range of engines. So it’s nice to be able to look at a car that would link in well with our boating theme.
For 2008 the CR-V has undergone a revamp and the result is a comfortable and well laid out 4×4 that fills the gap between a heavyweight tug and a lightweight family saloon. From the outside the new version looks tough with a new nose and added detailing on the sills. This all goes to take the car away from the family saloon look and more towards the off-roader end of the market. Having said that, the lines along the windows etc do give the car a more saloon or hatchback look so they are obviously looking to cover both bases.
The build quality is what you would expect of Honda and the car runs well and feels very like the family runabout it can happily become. It’s light and easy to use and for anyone who tows, can be equipped with a very useful and effective rear facing video camera. Put the car into reverse and the sat nav / radio screen (which is quite sizable) gives you a good view of what’s behind you. The angle ensures you can see the tow hitch so you can easily reverse right up to the trailer single handed and without fitting one of those unsightly mirrors on the back. Nice touch Honda!
The CR-V is well equipped in all departments and that snazzy sat nav screen (don’t use it as a table) is easy to read and, as with many new cars, becomes the hub of the cars information system. The gear shift is high on the dashboard leaving the floor area clear and the handbrake is ‘unconventional’ but works well. It reminds most people of an automatic gear selector.
On the slip it confidently pulled our boat from the water and did not complain in any shape or form and this is just what the car did in every other area we tried out. It did the job well and proved to a comfortable car that any boat owner could happily live with and enjoy. The new CR-V, as with previous models, seems to sit in just the right part of the market in that it is well priced and fills a place in the market to cope with most situations without being a big, bulky ‘gas guzzler’. It is just as much at home in Sainsburys carpark as it is on the slip or towing the boat to the coast.
All in all it’s a nice, comfortable and effective workhorse and family car which I think we are going to continue to see more of over the coming years. If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it!
Engine: 2.0 i-Vtec
Power: 150 ps @ 6,200 rpm.
Max torque: 140lb.ft @ 4,200 rpm
Gross weight: ? kg, ? lbs
Kerb weight: ? kg, ? lbs.
Towing - braked: 2000 kg
Fuel: Urban 34.9 mpg
Extra urban 49.6 mpg
Combined 43.5 mpg
CO2: 173 g/km
Price: £ 18,727 OTR
For more information on the CR-V visit www.honda.co.uk
(All prices and specification are provided for guidance only. Please check with your dealer for current information as specification can change without notice)
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March 28th, 2008 |
by Phil
7287pwkr
For many people the thought of having a pickup is somewhat unconventional but these tough and rugged workhorses have become more and more popular over recent years. This is despite the recent reports in the media regarding their safety ratings which, I’m sure, the manufacturers are working on at this very moment.
As a tug the Rodeo can’t be faulted, after all, it’s based on a commercial vehicle, so it’s suspension, which is independent torsion bars and double wishbones on the front with gas-filled shock absorbers and semi-elliptic, steel leaf springs on the rear, together with it’s general build strength make it ideal for hauling weights around. This does detract from the ride a little, as you might expect, and the Rodeo may not sport many of the trinkets and gadgets other cars may boast but, it does feel business like. You do, however, get 4×4 selection powered windows and air con in the one we looked at. There are a wide range of accessories to choose from but these are not fitted as standard as they will have been primarily aimed at the commercial market, which is not always interested in accessories.
The engine is a 4 cylinder, in-line diesel fitted with a variable vane turbo-charge, an intercooler and oil cooler. In use you can almost play tunes with the turbo which makes some great sounds when you put your foot down! Fuel is delivered via a common rail direct injection method, common to many diesels on the road today and the fuel is delivered from a 76 litre tank.
Transmission is rear wheel drive with a limited slip differential and ‘on-the-move’ selectable four wheel drive with a two speed transfer box. The clutch is hydraulic, the gearbox is five speed and the rear axle is fitted with a water-wading snorkel.
The Rodeo has won many awards over the last few years including the Caravan Club’s Tow Car of the Year in 2005 so the newly revamped 2008 models will certainly have a good heritage to build on. With a sports boat hitched on the tow bar and a few boards etc in the back the Rodeo would look the part and would give you all the carrying capacity and towing grunt you would need for launching. Granny might not like it but the kids will love it! Once you’ve tried a pickup you can see why they have become so popular as you get a lot of truck for your buck.
Engine: 4 cylinder diesel. 2499 cc
Power: 134 bhp @ 3,600 rpm.
Max torque: 294 Nm
Wheelbase: 3050 mm, 120 ins.
Gross weight: 2950 kg, 6503 lbs
Kerb weight: 1875 kg, 4133 lbs.
Towing - braked: 3000 kg, 6139 lbs
Towing - unbraked: 750 kg, 1653 lbs.
Fuel: Urban 28.8 mpg, 9.8 litres/100 km.
Extra urban 39.8 mpg, 7.1 litres/100 km.
Combined 34.9 mpg, 8.1 litres/100 km
CO2: 213 g/km
Price: £ 15,990 (Denver Max) OTR excluding VAT.
For more information visit www.isuzu.co.uk
(All prices and specification are provided for guidance only. Please check with your dealer for current information as specification can change without notice)
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March 28th, 2008 |
by Phil
7287pwkr
It is early Spring, the sun is brilliant and I have just finished commissioning the boat for this season. At last, the long winter days are over and the boat is back in action. What a fantastic time of year this is: sun, sand and water, what else could you possibly yearn for? Absolutely nothing beats the first outing, and provided you have followed our monthly tips, there will be no delays in getting back on the water. That first glimpse of the slipway and the sheer joy of rolling her off the trailer and back into the water where she belongs are unequalled.
TRAILER
Once she is in commission, continue with the trailer maintenance paying particular attention to bearing lubrication and adjustment, correct brake operation and the security of all fastenings.
Trailer Launch & Retrieval Tips:
1. Always allow ten minutes for the wheel bearings to cool before immersing the trailer in water.
2. If possible, flush the trailer with fresh water immediately following retrieval or consider pulling into a garage and using a pressure washer to remove harmful salt from wheels and box sections.
3. To avoid putting the trailer and tow vehicle too deeply into the water for launching, consider using an extension bar or thick towing rope between the vehicle hitch and trailer.
ENGINE
1. Keep a careful check on fluid levels, hoses, belts, filters and water pump impellors.
2. Clean, dry fuel is essential for any marine engine; provided your tank is clean at the start of the season and all fuel entering the tank is filtered there should be no problems with fuel quality.
3. Keep your tank full to avoid condensation.
BOAT
Be fastidious with bilge cleanliness. It will eliminate bilge pump blockages, float switch jamming and indicate immediately if there is a problem such as an oil or water leak from the engine. Remove the bilge pump cover and check for cleanliness; any debris may prevent the automatic float from working correctly.
The majority of hull damage happens when the boat is not in its natural environment, the water. Care taken with launch and retrieval can avoid most hull damage and scratching.
By: David Webber
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March 27th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
Fairline Boats introduced the enhanced Targa 52 GRAN TURISMO at London International Boat Show in January 2008 and visitors to Fairline UAE’s stand at Dubai International Boat Show had the opportunity to learn more about this model as well as the new Squadron 55, which is scheduled for launch into Europe in late 2008.
The Targa 52GT benefits from significant interior and exterior modifications. The triple cabin Targa 52GT boasts a number of new features including a revised helm design, Recaro® seats on electric pedestals, new saloon table, newly styled head arrangements, and the provision of a new external bar unit with refrigerator, coolbox and sink. The interior has been re-created throughout with new materials and woods, including the latest teaks and interior fabrics seen on the new Targa 44GT and Targa 64GT. The new 52GT also has an upgraded standard electronic package that now includes the latest Raymarine E120 and a 26” Loewe LCD TV/DVD/CD with electric lift mechanism. Priced from 3,939,215.00 AED (excl. taxes), the Targa 52GT is available with a range of engine options and can reach speeds of 36 knots when fitted with twin Volvo Penta D-12-800 EVC Diesel 775mhp engines.
As for the Squadron 55; Fairline launched the original Squadron 55 in September 1995 and the 21st century version will be making her world debut in autumn 2008. Can we assume this means the 2008 Southampton Boat Show?
The Squadron 55 has, so we are told “one of the finest full-beam master staterooms created to date.” It has an electro-opaque walled master en-suite bathroom that converts from clear to opaque at the touch of a button; and expansive entertaining areas throughout.The Squadron 55 is equipped with sleeping accommodation made up of three double cabins and an optional crew cabin. This is completed with two en-suite bathrooms with oversized showers and stowage, including a cabin-width wardrobe in the master stateroom. In the main saloon are features include seating for 10 people with two tables that can be converted electrically from cocktail to dining height, electric lift LCD TV, and a highly crafted drinks cabinet.
An open-plan galley lies adjacent to this and includes Avonite surfaces, a range of stowage cupboards and drawers, hob, microwave oven, refrigerator and twin sinks with hot and cold water.The main helm station offers access to the side deck via a convenient door and hosts two Recaro® helm and co-pilot seats with electric adjustment. Other features include a chart table, overhead lockers and the latest Raymarine electronics package. The flybridge and second helm station aboard the Squadron 55 includes double bolstered helm seating, companion seating to helm and dedicated dining seating with a large teak table.
The yacht also boasts a comprehensive flybridge bar with refrigerator, icemaker, sink and electric griddle. Forward to the helm position Fairline has catered for those seeking relaxation with the provision of an expansive sunbathing area. The 55’s aft cockpit features a teak laid bathing platform with a telescopic hydraulic passerelle/dinghy lift and includes a seating area, as well as access to the engine room, lazarette and optional crew cabin/utility room. Priced from 5,618,750.00 AED (excl. taxes), the 55 will be available with twin Volvo Penta D12-800 EVC Diesel 775mhp engines and is expected to reach speeds of 32 knots. For further information about Fairline’s range visit www.fairline.com
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March 17th, 2008 |
by Phil
7287pwkr
In Boat Mart we’ve been discussing whether you can get afloat for £1,000 and do it safely, with all the necessary kit and enjoy yourself, that is to say that you end up with a boat that you and your family will actually want to use. It can be tempting, and many a boater has fallen into this trap, to buy a boat just because it’s in your price bracket, only to find that it doesn’t suit your needs or it wasn’t quite the bargain it first appeared when the maintenance costs start adding up.
So long as you don’t set your aspirations too high you should be able to find a boat, new or used, that will entertain your family, even if only for a few years. Buy a new inflatable, canoe, kayak, dinghy, hull only boats, boat only (no engine), aluminium boat and so on, or if you’re happy to buy used a whole world of boats become available to you. Just have a look through our Boats for Sale pages and you’ll find RIBs, fishers, sports boats and more, all for under £1,000. No they aren’t all in top-notch condition and they might need an engine, but they do all offer a great opportunity to get afloat.
Make sure you include enough money in your budget for the ‘extras’ like lifejackets and VHF and this season you could be joining the UK’s other boaters on our lakes, rivers, canals and seas.
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March 13th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
A consuming passion for boating is a feeling that most of us well understand. Every time we visit anywhere even remotely close to water, we head for the nearest chandler. It’s not that we need anything for our little beauty, it’s just that unless we come out of the shop with something in our hand that’s even slightly associated with boating, we remain unfulfilled.
Exit the shop with something boaty in your hand and you will see a smile much akin to the Cheshire cat. Give a cat milk and he is satisfied, give us a bit for our boat, absolutely any bit will do, and we are ecstatic.
A chandlers to us, is a bit like a butchers shop to a dog. The dog looks around, and doesn’t know where to begin. For us its the same, we are surrounded by fabulous bits and pieces of electronic wizardry, gadgetry, and engine accessories that will tell us what our engine thinks, why our engine thinks and even if it has a headache.
Surely, it’s reason enough to drag something off the shelf and get out our credit card.
This extra bit of fabulous equipment is not essential; nevertheless, we must have it.
No, not when we have saved up for it, not next season, not soon, but right now. We eagerly rip open the packet, paw it all over and instantly feel better.
We exit the chandlers, where outside our partner is waiting with carrier bag in hand.
“I just bought this lovely pair of shoes Darling, a real bargain,” she says.
Now why would you need yet another pair of shoes?
“You float my boat, and I will float yours,” she replies.
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February 25th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
Yes, we’re talking about safety again. Why? Well, we can’t say enough how important it is that basic safety rules are followed, by everybody. This year there will be many people taking to the water for the first, and so we need to make sure they do their safety checks, wear their lifejackets and know what they must do in an emergency situation. However, even experienced boaters, who might think they’re beyond such things as lifejackets, must still follow all the advice given out by the likes of the Royal Yachting Association and RNLI, and which we at Boat Mart fully support. However, it’s one thing to own a VHF radio, flares or lifejacket, but quite another to know how they work, keep them in good condition or choose one that’s right for your needs. An ill-fitting lifejacket, for example, is very dangerous; can you imagine a child slipping out because it’s too large? Or you might buy a selection of flares, but then hide them away on your boat so that in an emergency they’re tucked away, and you didn’t read the instructions anyway (which of course you will have time to do when your boat is rapidly taking on water). Now I’m not trying to scare you, as most people take to the water and have no problems; the point is that you have to be prepared, and that includes your knowledge and your equipment. A last thought; training is currently voluntary, which is a good thing as far as we’re concerned, so let’s hope the costs, which go up each year, don’t rise too high for the average boater to be able to afford this essential part of boating.
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February 25th, 2008 |
by Jane Rickard
7287pwkr
