Table of Contents
Introduction 1
Part 1: Getting On the Right Boating Track 7
Chapter 1: Powering Up to Be a Boater 9
Chapter 2: Choosing the Right Boat Type and Engine for Your Boating Needs 21
Chapter 3: Finding and Buying the Right Boat for You 41
Chapter 4: Accessorizing Your Boat for Safety and Fun 67
Part 2: Safely Operating Your Boat 83
Chapter 5: Towing Your Boat and Maintaining Your Trailer 85
Chapter 6: Launching and Loading Your Trailered Boat 101
Chapter 7: Hitting the Open Water: Driving Your Boat 129
Chapter 8: Docking, Rafting Up, and Anchoring 147
Chapter 9: Finding a Safe Harbor for Your Boat 167
Part 3: With Much Boating Fun Comes Much Responsibility 189
Chapter 10: Rules Do Apply: Navigating to Avoid Collisions and Confusion 191
Chapter 11: Finding Your Way on the Water 207
Chapter 12: Navigating Bad Weather 229
Chapter 13: Preparing for and Handling Boating Emergencies 247
Part 4: Keeping Your Boat Shipshape 267
Chapter 14: Keeping Up with Routine Boat Maintenance 269
Chapter 15: Getting Your Boat Ready for Winter and Spring 295
Chapter 16: Repairing Leaks and Other Damage to Your Boat 303
Part 5: The Part of Tens 325
Chapter 17: Ten Tactics That Separate Pros from Amateurs 327
Chapter 18: Ten Important Items to Keep Onboard 335
Chapter 19: Ten (Plus Two) Mechanical Checks for Buying a Pre-Owned Boat 341
Index 349