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No matter whether you bought new or pre-owned, your first months with your boat are sure to be filled with plenty of excitement. There\’s always more places to explore and activities to enjoy with a boat. No matter your favorite activity, any of these activities are sure to keep you enthusiastic about your next time on the water.

Watersports — It’s fun to be in the boat, but it’s also fun to be behind it as well, skimming along the water on the latest towable. Inflatables are the easy choice, a one-size-fits-most option that doesn’t require much athletic skill or balance. Just hang on for the ride while a responsible driver swings you in and out of the wake. For those looking for a greater challenge, skiing and wakeboarding are always popular, enabling riders to zip in and out of the wakes, or even soar high above them. The latest craze, wakesurfing, is also rapidly growing in popularity. It requires inboard, jet drive, or forward-drive propulsion, but allows any rider to experience the thrill of surfing, no ocean required.

Coving — Every lake, river or waterway has its unofficial “party cove,” a gathering spot where fellow boaters anchor, nose into the sandbar, or “raft up” to socialize and share in the pleasure of boating. Find one that fits your style and join in on the fun. Many boats are designed to enhance the experience, with aft seating areas, extended swim platforms, and boarding ladders to encourage passengers to ease in and out of the water. You may even find a transom remote to control the stereo. Another benefit of coving? It allows you to enjoy the boating lifestyle, while not using fuel.

Fishing — You don’t need a dedicated fish boat to bait a hook and throw a line over the side. Fishing can be done from any boat and is a great way to bond with kids, spend time with your friends, or just get away for a few moments of solitude. The equipment required is minimal — rod, bait or lures, and somewhere to store your catch. Just don’t forget your fishing license, typically available online for a nominal fee. Check with your province’/territories’ fish and wildlife agency to get started. Good news? In Canada, no license is required under 16 years of age, meaning kids are free. However, there are exceptions so please check with your province/territory to confirm any restrictions.

Join An Excursion — Dealers are aware many customers are looking for new experiences, and as such many plan getaways to locations outside their customer’s normal boundaries. These trips aren’t just for those with bigger boats. Trailer boat excursions put boaters both on the road and on the water; overnight or multi-day trips encourage those with overnight accommodations to actually spend the night aboard. Boat camping is also a popular activity. Sleep aboard under the stars, or pitch a tent on a picturesque beach. Just don’t forget to pack the cooler!

It’s easy to keep your outboard in tip-top shape, even if you’re not a mechanic. A little TLC and preventive boat engine maintenance facilitates safe boating and can keep your engine running well and reliable for years to come.

After Every Trip

• After every outing, flush out the engine. This doesn’t just apply to salt water adventures, but to fresh water outings as well.
• Buy a set of “rabbit ears”: two flexible rubber seals connected with a metal clamp. Slip the apparatus onto the lower unit where the water is picked up and attach a garden hose.
• Start up the engine and let the water pump do the rest. (Practice safe boating and remember to stay clear of the prop and make sure no one tries to shift the motor into gear.)
• While you’re flushing the motor, check the water pump to make sure it has good water flow. Carefully put your finger through the stream of water. It may be warm, but it shouldn’t be hot. If the output is not strong, you may have some debris stuck in the outflow tube. Immediately shut down the engine to prevent overheating and damage.
• Insert a small piece of wire into the flow tube and work it back and forth. Start the engine again and check the output. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you may need a new water pump.
• After flushing the engine, disconnect the fuel line and allow the engine to burn all the fuel in the carburetor.
• Once you’ve finished the flushing and run the engine out of fuel, be sure to turn off the key and, if you have a battery switch, turn it off.
• Take the engine cowling off and check for fuel or water leaks. If you find leaks, consult your safe boating mechanic.
• Wipe everything down and spray with an anti-corrosive like WD 40 or Quick-lube. Be sure to lubricate all the moving parts such as the shift and throttle cables, carburetor valves, etc.
• Replace the cowling and wipe it down. Keep a canvas or plastic cover on the engine between trips.
• Always use fresh fuel. At the end of the season, boat motor maintenance should include draining your tanks and taking the fuel to the proper recycling authority.

Regular Maintenance

• Periodically check the fuel line for cracks and worn spots.
• Make sure the fuel primer bulb is not cracked and is pliable.
• Make sure the fuel-line fittings seat properly and don’t leak.
• Check the clamps on the fuel line for rust or corrosion.
• Check the fuel tanks for damage and corrosion.
• Check the tank vent to make sure it aspirates properly.
• Check regularly for water in the fuel.

Working on gradual improvements to this yacht, we created something that would comfortably fit the family and reflect their casual elegance. Although the boat has nearly doubled in size from its original form, we were careful to ensure that the additions fit seamlessly with the rest of the structure, appearing as though the cottage has always been what it is today. A favorite feature of mine is the dining section we added.

Project Overview

• Renovation Plans
• Interior Design
• Project Oversight
• Trades-people Coordination

“I have worked with Marino for over a decade on projects from the simple to full reconstruction. He has always taken as much care as if it were her own yacht, no detail too small, no effort too large! His network of local craftsmen and professionals is enviable. He is also a jolly person to work with, so it doesn’t feel like work!”

— Joed Nicolas, Yacht Owner