HOW DO LIFE JACKETS SAVE LIVES? Life Jackets provide buoyancy. That is to say, the ability to float in water. To begin with, what if you unexpectedly find yourself in the water? What if you jump in the water to save some one else? Moreover, what if you are no longer able to keep yourself…
Boating Blog
Abandoned Boat
The Abandoned Boat Process: The CT DEEP’s Marine HQ states the following. Abandoned Boat: Under Section 15-140c of the CGS, an aggrieved person, or “Party with Standing”, submits a Notice of Abandoned Vessel along with a fee to the DEEP. The DEEP will make all the necessary checks and contacts required under the law. The…
Clean Marina Program
It’s everyone’s job to keep our waterways clean. You can join the Clean Marina Program and be proud to do your part! The following article is based on a letter from the Connecticut Marine Trades Association, Inc. They are leading the way in Connecticut. The Mission To begin with, Long Island Sound is a precious environmental,…
Anchoring a Boat
Anchoring equipment Let’s familiarize ourselves with the equipment when anchoring a boat. The Anchor Rode consists of all the pieces and parts used for anchoring. In addition to the anchor itself, the rode includes the line, rings, chain leader, and swivels to name a few. Nylon is a great choice for line as its elasticity…
Navigational Rules for Boating
LETS GO OVER SOME BASICS When we discuss Navigational Rules for Boating keep in mind that above all, it is everyone’s responsibility to avoid collisions. Meaning regardless of who’s fault it is or who may or may not have the right of way. With this in mind, boats do not have brakes and you should…
Safe Water Skiing Endorsement
WHAT IS THE SAFE WATER SKIING ENDORSEMENT The Safe Water Skiing Endorsement has been a part of Connecticut boating education since 2015. In short, it is a “Plus” endorsement on your Safe Boating certificate. It allows an operator to tow either a water skier or someone on an inflatable. Incidentally, the old law allowed operators…
Engine Cut Off Switch
THE NEW LAW ON ENGINE CUT OF SWITCHES The United States Coast Guard announced on April 1, 2021 that the proper use of the Engine Cut Off Switch (ECOS) and link will be enforced. The link is usually a coiled bungee that connects the boat to the operator while the vessel is underway. It must…
The Preferred Channel Buoys
PREFERRED CHANNEL BUOYS Ah the dreaded Preferred Channel Buoys, what are these beasts? This buoy sinks vessels in the blink of an eye and has been known to cause magnetic disturbances, no of course NOT! Read along and understand they’re not that complicated at all. Preferred Channel Buoys are very helpful and easy to understand.…
Boating and the Weather
DRESS FOR THE WEATHER WHILE BOATING Whether you are out on the lakes or on Long Island Sound weather plays an important role in everyday boating. Weather traits are magnified on the water. Hot days are hotter and cold days are colder. The sun shines off the water into our eyes. The winds get stronger…