Best site to learn about boating?

Question

In conclusion to my last question, thank you for all your responses. Would anyone know the best site to learn about boating? Boating 101? To recap I asked how I would go about buying a fishing/speed/skiing/tubing boat. I am completely new to boating. Need a reliable site that can teach me from start. I will be taking my time; most likely no buying until next summer.

Answer 1

There are a ton of sites out there on the sea of this World Wide Web... in fact, if you google boating 101 you are surely to find many of them...

But the very best "site" to learn about boating, is to hang out a bit at "ye ole local marina"

I have never owned a boat small enough to allow it to be trailered... and in fact, live on my boat.  When at a marina, I get a real kick out of just walking down to the "boat ramp" (especially on holidays) and watching everyone launch their boats...  Believe me, that in and of itself, is a learning experience... I have seen people launch boat and trailer, I have seen people even launch their new Ford F250 along with their boat and trailer... I have even seen two guys on jet skis - (using their jet skis) to push a half floating truck back up the launch ramp...

And while your at it... pick yourself up a USCG safe boating handbook... and study it along the way...

I know you wanted a "website" here... but in reality, the best site in the world to learn about boating is at a marina.  Boaters are always willing and eager to talk boats... especially about their own...

Oh... and by the way... you can build yourself a small (one or two person) sail pram or dinghy for under $400 - you can even build a Seaflea (that's a one person speedy little devil - that looks like a miniturized racing speed boat - that will out run any jetski on the lake) for less, plus the cost of a good used 15 - 20 hp motor... (very little money)... you can have the time of your life - while learning more than you ever dreamed of about boats and boating.

(just a thought... )

So, even if your just looking and dreaming for now - but want some good information, check out:

http://www.glen-l.com/

Happy and safe boating.

Answer 2

Capt. John is as usual on top of this, but even though the web is great for information, I'd check out the library.  There are some "boating" books that cover everything from rules of the road, to anchoring.  I can't remember the title but years ago it was called the "Sailors Bible"

      Over the years, I've found people are one of two types.  Those who like speed and power, Power boaters and those who thrive on the challenges of sailing, Sail boaters.  See, if you fit one of these.   And remember the worst day on the water, is better than most days anywhere else.

Answer 3

http://forums.iboats.com