Problem with gas

One of the most usual reasons boaters call for a tow is related to fuel. According to experts, you must never trust your ship’s fuel gauge. Most boaters think they have enough fuel in the tank, only to realize they don’t. When that happens, it’s usually too late.

Keep also in mind that gas gauges are different. Make sure you know your usage per hour and track the hours in of use in-between refueling. It’s also best to use 1/3 of the tank in going out and another 1/3 in getting back. Make sure that you reserve 1/3 of fuel.

Another important USCG NVDC tip to prevent a tow is to perform a regular maintenance on your boat’s fuel system. You must change its fuel filters and inspect its fuel bulbs and lines. If possible, you must only use 100 percent ethanol-free gasoline.

Not planning

Most boaters get in trouble because they change their plans while sailing. They go from plan A to plan B. Some boaters would even leave the dock without having a plan in mind. That’s quite a mistake. Not planning may cause you to sail with no direction, leading to running out of fuel. When it gets dark, you might find it difficult to go back.

That said, always think in advance about your trip. No matter what kind of trip it is, you must have an online chart to ensure that you have a route to go back home. It can help you determine how much fuel you need throughout your trip.

When you have a plan, make sure to stick to it.  Planning will also help you determine whether or not your boat’s registration or documentation is updated. Before you even go, make sure that your boat is registered or documented. Else, you’ll face some fees and penalties. Or what is worse, you may lose your ship.

Boat documentation and registration are two different things. All boat owners have to register their vessels with the corresponding state government. Although not all boats require documentation, there are many benefits of having a documented boat. It may be very helpful when you’re in the international water.

If you wish to make your documentation process a lot easier, please call us at +1 (800) 600-4258. Get more USCG NVDC tips to prevent a tow or any other useful information. Vessel Documentation Online can help you with everything related to your boat.

The post USCG NVDC Tips to Prevent a Tow appeared first on NVDC Documentation LLC.

Boyne Thunder Poker Run

This event takes place in Lake Michigan and Lake Charlevoix. You don’t have to be a player for this event. Even if you’re just a spectator, it’s still worth your time. The atmosphere in this event is inviting and laid back, not to mention the breathtaking scenario of Michigan.

If you’re in New York, however, you could attend the Western NY Poker Run. This year, it aimed to have 100 boats.  The Big Cat Poker Run in California happens on the Sacramento River Delta. Participants will get to explore the Central Valley farmland. It’s held in August, which can be oppressively hot. But don’t worry as you will be on and off the water while you chill out with some cool folks you meet in the event.

Offshore racing

If offshore racing is your thing, you need to attend the Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix. It’s held in Florida every June and July. It features the most diverse field. When you view the nonstop action from the shoreline, you also experience the nonstop fun that the organizers provide. All proceeds from the event would go to a charity foundation.

The St. Clair River Classic is another event you should look forward to every July of the year. The race attracts more than 50 race boats. Attending the event will let you visit the charming city of St. Clair. Although it’s not a rough-water race, it’s still a highly competitive one that provides excellent viewing areas.

If you’re a dedicated offshore racing fan, you must go to Key West, Florida on November 5 to 12 for its annual Key West Offshore World Championships. These event includes multi-race days. The viewing areas here are unlimited. Racers, on the other hand, have to tackle water that runs from smooth to rough during the week.

Be prepared for the fun

If you wish to participate in one of these events, make sure that your boat is properly documented. It’s like having a car: you can’t drive it without proper registration. Vessel documentation has plenty of benefits. And one of them is that it allows you to stay in another state for more than a month.

Find out more how you can document your vessel by calling Vessel Documentation Online at (800)680-4258

The post NVDC Must-Experience Boating Events in the US appeared first on NVDC Documentation LLC.