Choosing the most suitable marine electronics can not only make your boating experiences more fun and your fishing more productive, but it can be important to your safety as well in case of an emergency. Learning to use your electronic equipment is equally as important as choosing it. And that means you’ll have to take the time to learn how to use the equipment whether it’s from instructional videos, manuals, or having someone show you how to use it.

Furthermore, you need to know how to use other navigation methods if your electronic navigation system fails. Learning how to read charts and plan your course is still an important skill. That being said, here are some tips to help you choose your electronics.

1.Amoung the boating electronics you should choose is the AIS or automatic identification system. Its purpose is for Vessel Traffic Services to find and broadcast the identity of boats. Your automatic identification system gear is the most important electronic device you’ll buy. It allows boats to exchange electronic information including position, identification, and course. The AIS transponder will cause your vessel to show up on computer screens at Vessel Traffic Services stations. This is critical to have should there be an emergency, or should you become lost.

2.      A GPS system is another important piece of boat electronics your boat should have. One of the more popular choices is for a multifunction display that puts several different instruments onto one screen. Mutifunction displays can even allow you to run radar, GPS and fish finder data on one screen at the same time. They are also quite easy to expand for other functions and displays.

3.If you have a choice of display size, remember that the larger it is, the easier it will be to see. And keep in mind that on a boat, viewing conditions can be far from optimal due to sun glare, storms, and swells. If you can afford a 10 to 12 inch display, that’s best, but you should definitely choose at least a 7 inch display for your boating electronics.

4.When there is an interest in onboard entertainment you may want to coordinate your mutifunction display for several perifheral electronic devises. Other devises like satelite recievers, computers, DVD players and music systems can be connected. These are great extras to have, but don’t get them at the expense of choosing inferior safety equipment. Be sure to mount your navigation equipment in an easily accessed area on the helm.

5.      A depth sounder is another good investment in the safety of your boat. If the weather turns bad, a depth sounder combined with your GPS plotter can help get you safely back to shore.

6.      There is an ever-evolving suite of boating electronics goodies becoming available for marine settings. Now there are laptop computers designed for marine use. These computers do what normal laptops do, but they can also be equipped with special software like RayTech RNS 6.1, which allows multi-format charting, hsb² electronics integration, and worldwide tides and currents among its many functions.

In summary, your AIS device, GPS plotter, and depth sounder are the most critical pieces of boat electronics for your vessel because they pertain to your safety and the safety of your passengers. Have these pieces in place first, and if it’s in your budget, there are plenty of extras you can add in the way of entertainment equipment and fish finding devices that you can have fun with.

The Bahamas are made up of over 700 islands and there are over 2,000 uninhabited cays to explore and discover. About 30 to 40 people inhabit the 700 islands here. Fishing and diving are world renowned activities here. The area is affected by a cooler winter, but the summer temperatures are known to reach well into the 90s with a high humidity. In the Bahamas, regattas are actually an important social interaction. These regattas are usually over the span of a few days, and feature traditional wooden sailboat parts. On the land there is a festival that is held, while the regatta is underway. Check out the Abacos chain of islands in the north, for a taste of British colonial style and culture.

Belize is most famously known for the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the longest of its kind in the Western Hemisphere and only the second largest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Take a chance to anchor and break out the snorkeling gear to see this amazing natural wonder. In the Western Hemisphere, three of the four atolls are located off the coast of Belize. Besides snorkeling, the waters are also excellent for fishing and scuba diving. The region has an overall tropical climate, with summer temperatures getting into the comfortable 80s. Ambergris Caye's San Pedro Beach is definitely not to be missed.

Some of the numerous Virgin islands are inhabited while others are not. The region has a warm tropical climate with trade winds, and temperatures remain consistent throughout the year for the most part. Certain areas experience highs into the 90s while other areas remain at a comfortable 70 degree range. The Virgin Islands are prime locations for activities such as snorkeling, diving, fishing, swimming, and definitely sailing so make sure the sailboat accessories are stocked up. In fact, the Sperry Top-Sider National Offshore One-Design Regatta championship is being held there in 2009.

There are dozens of other countries to check out in the Caribbean, most of which are in close proximity. The crystalline tropical waters and climate of the Caribbean are truly unparalleled, which is why when anyone speaks of going some place nice for a vacation it is usually the Caribbean that comes to mind. Cruise through isolated inlets and coves, discovering all the beauty these waters really offer to a sailor. Sailing definitely has a strong and growing home in the Caribbean, with more attention attracted to its waters each year.

On the North West side of Africa is the small country of Morocco. Most will recognize the name of Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca. Stay at the docks in this famous city and enjoy the life of the people. Visit the local bazaar and pick up a few unique and special souvenirs or boat parts if need be. Moroccan cuisine is actually considered one of the most diversified cuisines in the world. Spain, Portugal, and the Mediterranean countries have no doubt had an influence on this since they are neighboring countries. Beware though, spicy foods happens to be one of their specialties. There are dozens of other harbors along the coastline, including amazing beaches with plenty of snorkeling potential.

When it comes to sailing the Southern region of Africa, there is definitely no better place to visit than South Africa. In Africa, the most popular tourist destination is Cape Town, South Africa, surpassing even Cairo, Egypt in popularity. As well as great climate, Cape Town has a well developed city structure. Where else will there be numerous beaches in close proximity due to the geography of the city. Drop boat anchor off the coast of these gorgeous beaches and take part in activities such as diving and especially surfing. Boulders Beach is well known for its colony of African penguins that frequent the area. The beaches which are located on the Atlantic Ocean side tend to have cold water, but the waters off the coast of False bay are much warmer, by up to even 18 degrees Fahrenheit.

The island of Madagascar is located only 250 miles east of continental Africa. Year round thermal winds and amazing waters are just the beginning in Madagascar. Water temperatures here actually range well into 86 degrees Fahrenheit; most of the year the waters are warm in the 75 degree Fahrenheit range. Many different tropical fish, and a good amount of rainbow-colored fish, are hiding in the coral reefs. There are beaches that stretch for miles and it’s relatively easy to anchor and explore the mainland. Go snorkeling in the coral reefs, or fish from the comfort of a sailboat. There is no shortage of wildlife to see here, as most wildlife is indigenous to Madagascar considering its separation from Africa mainland.

The continent’s rich diversity and excellent sailing prospects can be found along the coasts of Morocco, South Africa, and Madagascar just to start with. There are so many miles of coastline to cruise along, that it would be impossible to get bored. It could even be considered a worthy adventure to circumvent all of Africa to get the full exposure of these rich and beautiful shores. Stock up on boat supplies and get ready for some good weather, a decent amount of sun, and warm waters; Africa is definitely a great location to check out for cruising potential.

A small country on the North West of Africa is Morocco. Most will recognize the name of Morocco’s largest city, Casablanca. Enjoy the life of the locals, and dock at the harbor in this famous city. Visit the local bazaar and pick up a few unique and special souvenirs or boat parts if need be. Moroccan cuisine is actually considered one of the most diversified cuisines in the world. Spain, Portugal, and the Mediterranean countries have no doubt had an influence on this since they are neighboring countries. Beware though, spicy foods happens to be one of their specialties. There are dozens of other harbors along the coastline, including amazing beaches with plenty of snorkeling potential.

When it comes to sailing the Southern region of Africa, there is definitely no better place to visit than South Africa. Cape Town is the second largest city in South Africa and is actually the most popular tourist destination in Africa surpassing even Cairo, Egypt. A well developed city structure and a great climate are just a few of the aspects Cape Town possesses. Where else will there be numerous beaches in close proximity due to the geography of the city. Drop boat anchor off the coast of these gorgeous beaches and take part in activities such as diving and especially surfing. Known for the colony of African penguins that frequent the area is Boulders Beach. The beaches which are located on the Atlantic Ocean side tend to have cold water, but the waters off the coast of False bay are much warmer, by up to even 18 degrees Fahrenheit.

The island of Madagascar is located only 250 miles east of continental Africa. Madagascar has amazing waters and there are thermal winds year round. Water temperatures here actually range well into 86 degrees Fahrenheit; most of the year the waters are warm in the 75 degree Fahrenheit range. Many different tropical fish, and a good amount of rainbow-colored fish, are hiding in the coral reefs. There are beaches that stretch for miles and it’s relatively easy to anchor and explore the mainland. Visit the coral reefs and snorkel, or sit down and fish from a sailboat. There is no shortage of wildlife to see here, as most wildlife is indigenous to Madagascar considering its separation from Africa mainland.

Just to start with Morocco, South Africa, and Madagascar are all known for excellent sailing prospects and show the continent’s rich diversity. There are so many miles of coastline to cruise along, that it would be impossible to get bored. It could even be considered a worthy adventure to circumvent all of Africa to get the full exposure of these rich and beautiful shores. Stock up on boat supplies and get ready for some good weather, a decent amount of sun, and warm waters; Africa is definitely a great location to check out for cruising potential.

To supplement the fire alarm, there should be a carbon monoxide detector installed as well. Yearly, carbon monoxide poisoning is a significant cause for injury. The most deadly aspect of carbon monoxide is that it is odorless, and even those with a keen nose will miss its presence. There should be one installed in every sleeping area, galley, and confined space to maximize coverage and protection for the crew. Installing a carbon monoxide detector will provide early detection of the situation and prevent needless health injuries.

The boat interior should be well lit without a doubt. Utilize boat interior lighting which is cost beneficial. Chose from many types including attachable LED lights which can be on the ceiling or wall. Use a small halogen type lamp in order to control the direction of where the light is cast. This latter type would be ideal for reading. It is also important of course to get a waterproof design. For smaller spaces and other situations, keep a powerful flashlight aboard. Some flashlights even come with built in FM radio.

Beyond safety within the sailboat, the exterior of the boat should also be well lit with boat exterior lighting. These lights are used also for navigational purposes. The best type will be the LED type, since they use half the energy and have a long life. One factor in chosing a type and model of external lights is the length of the boat. Two miles at the least should be the visibility allowed by the exterior lights. Certain situations are going to call for a floodlight to be aboard the sailboat.

If it is possible, having a generator would also be a good idea. A worthwhile and especially efficient generator needs to be purchased. The long term benefits will make themselves known, even if this will cost a bit more. There needs to be specific features installed on a boat for safety purposes. To those who sail actively, it becomes known that just as important as maintaining the sailboat is maintaining safety on a sailboat.

Thailand and it’s many islands have a warm tropical climate and lovely white sands to welcome sailors. The draw of these waters undoubtedly is credited to the renowned friendliness of the Thai people and the year round cruising potential. The magnificent coral reefs off the shore are just a hint at the multitude of divers that visit these waters. There will never be an empty stomach, as Thai cuisine has ample selection, or an idle moment. Of course the must-see city is Bangkok, where the Thai identity is still visible beneath the modern guise of the bustling metropolis.

There are so many islands in Indonesia that there is actually no offical count as to exactly how many islands total. There are definitely 13,000 to 17,000 individual islands in the range. With all these numerous islands, it is conceivable to sail and discover an untouched landscape and coral reefs thriving with life. For the avid surfers, drop boat anchor in Flores or Lombok. Sumatra has an excellent location for surfing. The infamous Komodo dragons have a home in Komodo. For a taste of the city life, the capital of Indonesia, Jakarta is the most populated city in Southeast Asia.

When in Vietnam, Halong Bay would be the first place to check out. The limestone islands on the north coast are exactly the type of breathtaking backdrops to sail a boat alongside of. These massive pinnacles, which also go by karsts, have stirred many local legends, mythology, and poetry. For lush beaches visit Nha Trang and hang out with the fish in the waters ideal for snorkeling. Enjoy the sun set over the horizon, lighting up the limestone in radiant warm colors, while sitting on a sailboat.

One of the lesser visited destinations of Southeast Asia, the Philippines boasts over 7,107 islands laid out on 1000 km of turquoise waters. Most of these islands have sandy beaches and volcanic mountains. Visit the island of Puerto Galera for some of the best beaches. For excellent anchorages, stop by Cebu and its neighboring islands. Most visitors to this island archipelago stop by the country’s capital, Manila. If one happens to find themselves on Roxas Boulevard, be sure to view the sunset. Glimpses of Spanish culture are fused into the architecture and lifestyle prevalent among its people.

Sailing along the coastlines of India is definitely rewarding, with time permitting. The region of Kerala has over 560 miles of interconnected waterway. One could view the entire natural habitat all from the comfort of a boat as it travels in rivers, lakes, and inlets. There are fish and sea turtles in the main waters off the coast. The coral reefs are in close proximity, ideal for snorkeling and diving. Most of the shorelines are well developed but a trip to the isolated archipelago of Andaman or Nicobar offers a retreat of over 500 islands.

Sailing along the coasts and islands of these Asian countries offers such experiences as fine cuisine, fishing, diving, snorkeling, and cultural diffusion. There is a collection of so many islands of different countries in such proximity. The sun rises over a placid Pacific Ocean as a cool breeze whips through the air, catching the sails, propelling sailors into the fascinating unknown.

The Sperry Top-Sider Chicago NOOD Regatta commenced on June 19^th until June 21^st in Chicago, IL. This NOOD Regatta, hosted by the Chicago Yacht Club, is known to place sailors in the turbulent Lake Michigan waters, and give them the opportunity to measure up their skills directly against fellow sailors without attention to the different designs between sailboats. Major entries in racing classes for this year’s fleet included Beneteau 40.7, Great Lakes, J/105, and Tartan Ten boats.

On July 23^rd until July 26^th the Sperry Top-Sider Marblehead NOOD Regatta was underway in Marblehead, MA. Other NOOD regatta locations do not attract as many people and huge crowds as this Regatta does, annually. This year is not any exception, taking place in the Massachusetts Bay waters, the Marblehead Racing Association expected a turn out of over 1,000 sailors. A few of the fleet sailing in Marblehead will include boats from Sonar, Town Class, Viper 640, and J/105 classes.

Hosted by the Larchmont Yacht Club the Sperry Top-Spider Larchmont NOOD Regatta is taking place in September on the 12^th and 13^th in Larchmont, NY. This NOOD Regatta held by the Larchmont Yacht Club, one of the most prestigious yacht clubs in the nation, attracts many sailors to its unique and special waters. These are the same waters that last year caused quite a stir when winds directions shifted suddenly as much as 50 to 60 degrees prompting a few sailors to react fast or risk getting nudged off course. The fleet for this year includes boats from Farr 40, Express 37, Shields, Etchells, and many more classes.

Last year, damage from Hurricane Ike resulted in the cancelation of the 2008 Sperry Top-Sider Houston NOOD Regatta only a few days before it was scheduled to take place the weekend of the 19^th. This year’s Regatta takes place from September 25^th to September 27^th in Seabrook, TX. Be on deck and at the ready to raise those boat anchors because it can be surmised that the Houston Yacht Club is itching for a wicked revival. Of course, their first request will be for pleasant skies and steady waters.

Whether it be a venue hosted by a local Yacht Club or sailing for pleasure, it will be foolish to miss out on the NOOD Championship which is taking place in Tortolla in the British Virgin Islands November 7^th to November 12^th. If last year’s NOOD Regattas were any indication, load up on boat supplies and start yearning for that perfect day, because this year’s Sperry Top-Sider NOOD Regatta season will certainly be full of surprises.

The wind and sailboat will usually have different directions, and it is this particular difference is the apparent or relative wind. A sail uses this apparent wind and generates lift. This is an example of an airfoil, and using Bernoulli’s Principle the airfoil creates lift much like an airplane does. In fact, depending on the orientation of the sailboat, its point of sail, and its design it could conceivably obtain a speed faster than the true windspeed.

By utilizing the sail, the boat can move in the water. If a direction can be chosen, it is better than if the boat can move in the water alone directionless. To help direct the boat an underwater component is required, such as a centerboard, underwater foil, keel, or even the hull itself can be employed. The boat can move in any direction, except into the wind, with the underwater component and sail.

The boat's movement relative to the true wind ranges from 35 degrees to 80 degrees and is called the tacking angle. Using a 35 degree tacking angle, on either side of the wind, a sailboat could cover over 290 degrees of the boat compass. Sailing into the wind can be accomplished indirectly by sailing close-hauled, about 45 degrees, and then tacking and sailing in a zigzag fashion. This is a prime example of both the sail and underwater component working in tandem to move in a given direction.

Understanding the dynamics between capturing and using the energy from the motions of wind and water can help answer the following questions:

1)How do sailboats move?

2)How can a sailboat sail upwind?

3)How can a boat sail faster than the wind?

Most sailors are not physicists but they are undoubtedly cognizant of the physical principles that govern basic movements in the water when sailing. A boat and its crew would be dead in the water if it wasn't for these principles.

1)First it is important to note the position of the overboard crewmember and mark the time. Over the course of time, if there is a current, the crewmember will move.

2)Throw as many flotation devices to the overboard crewmember as possible, as it will help the person overboard, and also create a localized area enclosing the person.

3)Have at least one person on the crew spot the overboard crewmember while rescue is underway so that he or she is always being monitored.

4)If the size of the crew is minimal, one of the crew may have to let go of the jib and maneuver with the main sail alone.

5)Use either the Quick Stop Method or Figure 8 (Quick Turn) Method to bring the crewmember back on board the sailboat.

The Quick Stop Method, when done correctly, is a fast technique. Allowing for easier spotting of the crewmember is the advantage of this method as the boat remains close. However this method is disadvantageous since a gybe maneuver must be performed which can be difficult in high winds or especially when the crew is minimal. The Quick Stop Method also cannot be performed if on a run.

A gybe is not required in the Figure 8 (Quick Turn) Method, making it advantageous as well as it can be performed from any point of sail. However trading in for these advantages leaves the consequence of being farther away from the overboard crewmember and possibly lose sight of him or her.

Using safety equipment such as flotation devices, can also lend to successful rescue of the crewmember. It will also help if the crewmember is wearing a boat life jacket. While most regulations require life jackets, ideally the life jacket should have the boat’s name, and be fitted with reflective material and a whistle. It is significantly harder to blow the whistles that have the small balls in them, especially when filled with water. The life jacket should also contain a flare so that in the event of poor visibility, the overboard crewmember could light it to signal his or her location in the water.

It is essential to have a liferaft in the occurence of a serious problem with the boat. The liferaft should be stowed in a location that allows its retrieval in 15 seconds or less. The liferaft should not be stowed below deck if it is greater than 90 pounds in weight. Make sure to verify that the boat liferaft is kept up to date and inflated every so often so that in a critical moment, it operates as expected. In an easily accessible location, there should be a ditch bag with emergency meal rations and water.

Sailing cannot be dangerous if proper safety rules are followed. As long as the crew is mindful and calm, there should not be any reason that everyone can’t have a great day on the water.

First off the sailboat itself needs to be well protected against the elements. Careful not to use bleach products unless it is absolutely necessary when cleaning the boat with soap. From time to time, the hull of a boat needs to be adequately recoated. As well as protecting the hull from rust, it will create a soother surface against the water. A fresh coat of varnish on the deck should be from time to time. Boat paint and varnish can serve a sailor very well with general upkeep of a sailboat.

Inspecting a sailboat from bow to stern must be done routinely. Small imperfections and cracks can be revealed by carefully glancing along the sailboat and which could grow to be a bigger problem if not addressed early. Assessing and acting on these cracks can help a sailor save time and money on more costly repairs down the line. For small cracks, a liquid sealant which does not shrink when cured is best. Such boat calking and adhesives are durable and cost efficient to use.

Every so often, clean the sailboat, and avoid long term problems from building up and compiling. Protect the sailboat now and often, and then cleaning will not be as difficult as if the sailboat was only cleaned once in awhile. Dedicating time to each aspect to address, such as the deck for instance, can help create an effective schedule for routine boat maintenance. Be sure to be stocked up boat cleaning supplies and get down to business.

Many sailors fall victim to costly repairs and maintenance because they did not establish a cleaning schedule for cost effective maintenance themselves and stick to it. Sailboats do not have to cost an arm and a leg to take care of. Time management and a cleaning schedule can help assure that a sailboat will see many more sunsets without breaking the bank.