With all of the fancy marine electronics out there these days boaters often ask themselves, is there really a need to use charts anymore? In my opinion, yes there is. While I am as much of a fan of wide screen displays as anyone else is, I believe that there are certain benefits of charts that a GPS can not provide. First, there is a certain margin of error associated with the GPS. Although it is small and errors occur very infrequently, a margin of error does have the ability to impact one’s safety. Next a chart will always be there and ready for use. If there is a question as to whether the GPS is accurate, the boater has the option of pulling out the chart to verify. Charts are very cost effective as well, coming no where near the price of the electronic version. Lastly there is something to be said about making notes on the chart itself. I have been known to mark where my favorite anchorage, marina or fishing spot is. Now don’t get me wrong, before I get underway my GPS is always powered up, but there are times when it is nice to know my charts are on board with me as well.

Posted by ribcraftusa at 09:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

For the most up to date news and events happening at RIBCRAFT, follow us on Twitter. Click here for our page.

Posted by ribcraftusa at 05:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

With today kicking off Memorial Day Weekend, the unofficial start to the boating season, Boat U.S. Towing released some statistics that solidify the importance of a thorough spring commissioning. They expect that over 3,400 recreational boaters will need assistance this weekend. Of the total number of calls, the majority are expected to be the result of incomplete spring commissioning and fuel that has gone bad over the winter. Boat U.S. states that they see a lot of people rushing to get their boat in the water, and then encounter problems once they get out there. Here is a basic check list to review courtesy of Boat U.S.

In addition to this list don’t forget to give special care and attention to your tube. First be sure the tube is fully inflated. Next wash the tubes with soap and water. For those really dirty spots use some Aurora Speed Clean. Aurora Poly Guard is also a great product to have on hand, as it protects your tube from UV damage and oxidation.

Posted by ribcraftusa at 03:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 16th kicked off National Safe Boating Week. This year’s theme is “Wear It” emphasizes the importance of wearing a life jacket while out on the water. According to the National Safe Boating Week website, boating related fatalities are down by over 200 compared to 1991, however there is still a significant amount of room for improvement. The US Coast Guard reported that in nearly 9 out of 10 deaths, those involved were not wearing life jackets. While RIBs are renowned for being one of the safest boats out on the water, we urge all boaters to take safety one step further and always wear a life jacket.

Posted by ribcraftusa at 08:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

I read a very unsettling article recently published by Boating World Magazine. According to the article, a coalition of 54 ethanol manufacturers have formed a group called Growth Energy and are petitioning the EPA to increase the maximum ethanol level to 15%. I described in detail during a previous posting the damage that 10% ethanol has on fuel systems. A 5% increase not only will have a severe impact on marine engines and other non-road vehicles, but raises safety concerns for motor vehicles as well. The article points out that no testing has been done to determine whether it will impact air quality and whether it is even safe for consumers to use.

Please support the NMMA in their effort to make boaters’ concerns heard by clicking here to email the EPA directly.

Posted by ribcraftusa at 09:33 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Just got back from a sea trial on a 5.85. The boat performed beautifully and the weather was great as well. Perfect way to start the day.

Posted by ribcraftusa at 09:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

We now have a Facebook page. Click here to check it out and become a fan!

Posted by ribcraftusa at 09:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Found a story in our local paper that is interesting. According to The Salem News, Marblehead resident Christopher Swain plans to swim all the way to Washington DC to make a statement about the environment and clean waters. He began his journey here in Marblehead last Wednesday and expects that it will take him about a year to complete. Click here for the full article and photo of Swain taking his first dive into the water while spectators watch aboard a RIBCRAFT.

Posted by ribcraftusa at 08:16 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)