Alarm system for boats

by Simon White

Most boats are moored away from home where it's difficult to keep an eye on them. That's why good security is essential. Mobile phone and satellite communication alarm systems may be the answer.

A good security system for your boat is essential. Mobile phone and satellite communication alarm systems may be the answer.

Here is an overview of the options available:

What is monitored? Bilge water level - using a bilge-water alarm sensor. The simplest form is a float switch which can send a signal to a central alarm system.

Smoke and carbon monoxide - detectors can send a signal to the alarm control box.

Gas leak - using a gas detector with terminals for a gas cut off solenoid valve.

Intruder alarms - such as door switches and pressure mats.

Dinghy and outboard removal - using a continuity cable.

Geographical position - using GPS. A 'geo-fence' is created around the boat's position, when the boat leaves this area an alarm is triggered.

A webcam - can be linked to most systems so you can actually see the boat for yourself.

What information is transmitted? In marina based systems, a warning is displayed on the control panel and a member of staff will check the boat's security.

A GSM based (non GPS) system will send a message to the owner to alert them of any problem.

A GPS system will send a text message. With a service contract, the service provider will alert the police if there has been a theft. A GPS system can track the boat anywhere and will warn by text or email.

Doing it yourself Professionally installed systems are less likely to result in false alarms and unnecessary travelling, but it is possible to do it yourself.

You can buy sensor components individually and wire them together with a control box. The warning signal can then be transmitted to a GSM modem and the signal is sent to a mobile phone network of your choice. Alternatively, buy a dedicated alarm kit, complete with sensors, and send the signal to a pay as you go GSM modem.

Another option is to buy and fit a full boat kit, including GSM modem and GPS receiver or with a satellite modem and GPS receiver.

Wired or wireless? The easiest way to set up a system is wirelessly - there is no need to run cables from each detector to the control unit. However, each detector needs its own battery for its wireless transmitter and you may not be able to incorporate bilge water, smoke or gas detectors unless you can find wireless varieties.

With a low number of detectors required on a small boat, it is recommended to opt for a wired system.

Where to buy a kit? There are many companies which supply security equipment. If you make up your own system then your components may consist of:

Bilge water float switch Pressure pads Door contacts Heat detector

In conclusion A non-communicating system with an external alarm will just make a noise, annoy people and will probably be ignored. If your normal berth is in a marina, you can use their wireless security system if they provide one. This will only work in a marina with the same systemArticle Submission, so you'll have no protection if you leave the boat elsewhere. Be sure to contact them and check for availability and pricing.

A system communicating via GSM phone link can send messages to one or more phone numbers. They may also be able to send email messages or even voice messages to your phone. They will work only when in range of your mobile service provider's network and will incur roaming charges if you go abroad. For long stays abroad you could use a local pay as you go SIM card. This can be a relatively cheap option with no monthly contract. Some of these can link your PC to a website where you can view a map showing the position of your boat.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Related guide on Selling A Boat Online classifieds of Boats For Sale from TheYachtMarket

Repossessed Boats For Sale - Why You Can Save a Ton of Money When Shopping For Repossessed Boats

by Jimmy Harris

Finding repossessed boats for sale can be one of the most profitable things you can do to find the top fishing boats without spending a fortune. The majority of people try and avoid repossessed items, simply because they think of low quality, but the reality is that an item that is being repossessed says nothing about it’s overall quality.

It’s simply being done because the owner couldn’t pay their bills, whether they be a loan or mortgage, and the bank or bankruptcy court then takes the item to sell it and therefore use that money to pay off their creditors. Obviously, the bank doesn’t want to keep boats, cars, and other items it often is forced to liquidate.

This is why there is so much opportunity for people shopping for these boats, because since these institutions are in such a hurry to sell them, you can often times find dirt cheap prices, and save a bundle versus even buying a used one from a private owner. If you want the biggest savings possible, you will look into repossessed boats for sale, as no other way offers you these savings opportunities.

The reality is, however, they can be hard to find. There are websites that sell repossessed boats, but you usually need to pay a monthly fee in order to see the boats for sale, something most people are not willing to do. However, if you pay this, you can expect to get big savings, so keep this in mind.

If you are serious about finding repossessed boats, I’d recommend you join one of these sites versus going to your local bank auction, because even though the local auctions are free, you don’t get nearly the selection you would online. The reason is that the boats they show are nationwide, and therefore your range of choices is virtually unlimited.

Make sure, however, before you pay anybody a monthly fee to access their listings, you know about the company doing so. Many companies online in this industry have developed a reputation as scamming customers and not giving them any return for their money, so make sure you read reviews of them on the internet if you are even thinking about paying them money.

Many sites will review them, and often times, people who’ve paid them themselves will tell you their experiences so that you can know what to expect, and in this way you can find the best sites and avoid the duds.

Make sure you also know how the pricing is agreed upon, whether it be an auction or buy it now or best offer format. If you aren’t comfortable with auctions, I’d recommend you avoid these sites, but the reality is, you can save the most amount of money with auctions, when you know what you’re doing.

They do take some time to master, admittedly, but if you can perfect your auction buying skills, you can really save a bundle when buying your next boat, car, or anything else. Repossessed boats for sale should certainly be at the top of your list when shopping for a new car, and if you haven’t at least looked at these listings, I’d highly recommend it.

About Jimmy Harris
Want to save big money on your next fishing boat? For more info on repossessed boats for sale, check out internetfishingtips.com, a popular site that reviews fishing locations and equipment, and teaches you how to improve your skills.

Let Bass Boats Enhance Your Fishing Expedition

by M. Jedediah

Fishing is a great American pastime, and thousands of bass fishermen set out each year to enjoy the great outdoors, fish for bass and swap tales of the big one that got away. Many people aren't aware that some boats are made specifically for bass fishing, and good bass boats can make all the difference between success and failure.

Bass boats allow fishermen to take their boats just about anywhere because of their speed, size and maneuverability. First however, there are a few basics to know about bass fishing boats.

Before you even buy bass boats, people must think about towing it from Point A to Point B. Will your vehicle easily be able to pull almost four thousand pounds, up and down hills if necessary? Think about that before you go shopping for any kind of boat. When considering bass boats, think about your options and the kind of boat you want.

Some things you need to consider are what types of water you'll be fishing in the majority of the time. Will you be fishing in rivers or small lakes? Then a smaller, outboard boat may be just what you're looking for. If you're going to be fishing in larger bodies of water, larger bass boats will be necessary, and at least nineteen feet in length, especially if you venture more than twenty to thirty miles from shore.

There are basically two kinds of bass boats: aluminum and fiberglass. An aluminum boat is cheaper than a fiberglass boat, and is more durable against bumps and scrapes. However, it also offers a rougher ride than a fiberglass boat. An aluminum bass boat gets tossed around in the wind fairly easily, but in small bodies of water, a sixteen to seventeen foot aluminum boat would be your best bet.

Fiberglass bass boats are faster than their aluminum counterparts, but a lot more expensive. When in the market for fiberglass bass boats, be prepared to spend anywhere from $20-$40 thousand dollars. However, this cost may be offset by better fuel economy, and they run much quieter and cleaner.

Depending on what part of the country you live in, the prices for bass boats may be reasonable or sky-high. Some people opt to purchase their boats out of state and then have them towed in, while others purchase bass boats and then store them on lakes or rivers and only use them a few times a year.

Next in considering purchasing bass boats are whether you want to buy a new one or a used one, but that's a personal decision everyone must make for himself or herself. There's more to fishing than just taking that old dingy out into the water, and bass fishing is a sport that can cost thousands of dollars a year for enthusiasts.

It's up to each individual to decide how much time they're going to spend bass fishing every year to determine whether buying bass boats will be worth the expense, but many bass fishermen say they can't live without their bass boats. For speed, agility and getting you to the best bass fishing spots out there, bass boats are definitely a must have for many anglers.

About M. Jedediah
For more information on boats, try visiting http://www.craftguidance.com - a website that specializes in providing boat related tips, advice and resources to include information on bass boat.

Used Boats

by Thomas Morva

The one benefit of purchasing a used boat is that it will come cheaper than a new one, and is generally better equipped. Added to that, a used boat has a proven track record. On the downside, upgrading a used boat will eventually cost you money.

If you choose to purchase a used boat, there are many ways to go about it. Shopping can be done through classified advertisements in the newspapers, journals, magazines and on a plethora of websites relating to boats. Also, dealerships offer boats that have been accepted as trade-ins. The warranty offered on the used boat would be limited, and the boat will most likely have gone through some servicing to get it ready for sale. The dealer, being a third party with obvious overhead costs (for example, sales commissions), would put a higher price on the used boat than the owner of the boat would.

The prudent thing to do, upon finding a boat that suits your taste, is to call the U.S. Coast Guard and get the requisite information on that particular model. If a recall has been issued, then you should call the owner to find out if the boat has been serviced. If the answer is in the negative, you should find out if the recall period is still on.

After the necessary research, the boat would then have to be thoroughly inspected. The engine is the major concern in a used boat. A boat\'s engine goes through a lot more wear and tear than a car\'s, so you have to check the condition of the boat engine in detail. If you are a mechanical novice, a technician should check on the condition of the engine before you purchase the boat. This is particularly important if the boat has been used extensively in salt waterFree Reprint Articles, which has a greater corrosive effect than fresh water.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sail Boats provides detailed information on Boats, Sail Boats, Used Boats, House Boats and more. Sail Boats is affiliated with Boating Accessories.

A Buyers Guide to Mochi Craft Boats

by Ian Morris

Mochi Craft yachts are of strong and durable construction yet manage to remain effortlessly beautiful. Italian design and craftsmanship has triumphed time and time again to create a unique yacht of the highest standards. Based on the original lobster boats the Mochi craft range is a definite trendsetter. Retro Italian style in wood, leather and natural fabrics are a fashionable feature of these timeless yachts and combined with cutting edge innovation the Mochi craft is in a class of its own.

Mochi Dolphin 74

The largest mochi craft yacht, the Mochi Dolphin 74 boasts a spacious cockpit and wide open windows that are sure to capture attention. Its twenty-two metres of craft ooze luxury and sophistication and are everything you would expect of Italian design. The Dolphin has exceptional appeal and makes great use of space. Guests can take in the panoramic view and sunbathe from the u shaped couch. From the flybridge there is access to the cockpit which provides a sink, fridge, couch and dining table. Through the glass cockpit bulkhead you can retire in the evening to the classic salon which blends drawing room style with leather and mahogany tan tones.

Mochi 64- fly

This flybridge version of the lobster boat has a great blend of elegance, versatility and performance as well as on board comfort. With soft sunpads on the desk cover the flybridge offers passengers a great excuse to relax and sunbathe on the terrace over the sea. The large U shaped divan with adjustable bimini for shade make enjoying sun and sailing even easier. The mochi dolphin 64 fly is available in a range of colours from aquamarine green, turquoise, coral, cream yellow, deep blue and amaranth. The craft manages to integrate perfectly sun and sailing with onboard luxury and comfort.

Mochi Dolphin 44

The award for the most vigorous of the Mochi craft fleet due to its high technological standards goes to the Mochi Dolphin 44. Elegance and class are common words used to describe this quite unique craft. Encapsulating the vision of the classic 1950’s lobster boat the Mochi Dolphin 44 appeals to those with a refined taste for exquisiteness.

Mochi Dolphin 64

A prime example of design by Victory Design and the Engineering Division of the Ferretti Group is the Mochi Dolphin 64 in an eye catching Aquamarine green colour. As well as standing out for its distinctive colour the craft also stands out for its rounded hull and use of woods, leather and bitts, taken and crafted from a single block of steel. The living area which forms part of the cockpit is fitted with a sofa and corner sofa.

Mochi Dolphin 54

Available in both flybridge and sun top versions the Mochi Dolphin 54 has progressed in the last 4 years. The sweet sailing characteristics and the reduction in gas and noise emissions leaves sea lovers feeling harmonious and at one with nature. The Mochi Dolphin 54 offers unrivalled levels of safety and security whilst sporting perfectly balanced lines. The beauty of the wood design used throughout most of the boats interior and exterior is enchanting.

Mochi Dolphin 51

The interior is in keeping with the mochi craft range, offering stylish leather sofas and wood fittings. As the first model launched by the Ferretti Group the mochi craft 51 design is both sophisticated and dedicated to onboard comfort.

About the Author
For more information about mochi craft yachts visit Inwards Marine at http://www.inwardsmarine.com. Based in Europe Inwards Marine yacht brokers have offices in London, Monaco, Southampton and Genoa.

Boats Come In All Shapes And Sizes, But Which One Should I Buy?

by Mike Fisher

That’s a great question, meaning you’re seriously thinking about getting your first boat.
To answer that question, you’ll have to think about how you will use your boat and define your specific needs. So before you start searching the boat classified ads or go looking for a new boat for sale or used boat for sale, here’s some of the things to think about to help you define what type of boat and how large a boat you need.

- What kinds of activities do you want to do - leisure boating, water sports such as water skiing, fishing or better yet travel and overnight excursions?

- What types of water will you use your boat in - small inland lakes, large inland lakes, waterways, bays or larger bodies of water?

- How many people do you need to accommodate while boating?

When it comes to fishing you can fish in small aluminum boat 10-12 feet with a small outboard. These are considered utility boats and are perfect for small inland lakes and ponds. They’re relatively inexpensive, light and easy to move around. And on calm days you can use them on larger lakes near shore. In terms of capacity, they can hold two adults or an adult and a child. Larger aluminum boats come in 16-18’ range and can hold 4-6 persons.

Taking a step up you get into the 14-18 foot range which are considered small boats. They’re available with an open or closed bow and in many varieties – from deck boats, ski boats to powerboats and fishing boats. Fishing, ski and deck boats have unique features for those activities. Our first boat was a 14 foot Bayliner Bowrider, meaning it had an open bow and seating for two in the front. It also had 3 seats across in the rear. It was good for 2 – 3 persons comfortably. If I wanted to take my boys out cruising on a small inland lake, this would have been the perfect size. It was equipped with a 50HP Chrysler Force outboard and moved fairly well for a small boat. It was even capable of pulling a skier as long as the skier wasn’t too heavy and the boat wasn’t overloaded. We skied with it when we pretty thin and there was only 1 or 2 persons in the boat – more than that and it had a difficult time pulling a person out of the water. But it was fine for pulling tubes or other water accessories. We once had it out on a larger inland lake when the water was pretty choppy with 2 to 3 foot waves. That was pretty rough. The boat was bouncing around to the point where we had to get it out. If you’re going to take a smaller boat out on larger waters, for example 14-16 footer, it’s only enjoyable and safe when the water is fairly calm. If you’re target is general or recreational boating, then a powerboat or deck boat provides the ability to do a number of activities. But if you have a specific focus, like fishing or waters skiing, you’ll want to take a closer look at boats in those categories.

Advantages: low to mid cost depending on whether you buy new or used, easy to trailer, launch and store, perfect for dad and kids in small to midsize lakes Disadvantages: minimal seating capacity, smaller engines means limited ability for recreation and sports.

If you’re planning on larger parties and pulling adult skiers, you’ll want to move up to the 18-24’ range. These boats generally come with larger motors, outboards or inboards and hold 4 or more passengers comfortably. They’re great on both small and larger lakes and because their depth or draft is relatively low, they’re also good on shallow lakes.

Many of these boats come with large outboard motors or 4cyl., 6cyl. or even 8 cyl. engines. Reliability is generally high and gas mileage is pretty good. You can also find 6 or 8 cylinder I/O’s for added speed and power.

Advantages: mid-cost range, fairly easy to trailer, launch and store, good for families and larger parties of 4-6

Disadvantages: generally without sleeping amenities, head or shower

If boating and sleeping over night is in your blood, you may need to consider 26 to 30’ footer with a cuddy cabin. These boats offer usually offer sleeping for 4 or more, toilet, shower, and some include kitchen amenities. This size of boat is getting fairly large and you’ll need a good size truck to pull it. These boats are perfect for the larger inland lakes and waterways. You can also get them out in the inlet waters off the coast or in bay areas in calm waters. In this size of boat you’ll have the ability to cruise to different locations or hot spots for fishing, swimming, overnight camping and the like. They’re fitted with larger gas tanks, around 100 gal and also hold 15-30 gallons of water. They provide large storage areas and amenities to keep every member of the family satisfied.

Advantages: ability to do a variety of boating recreational activities- from skiing, tubing, fishing and more

Disadvantages: more expensive than mid-size, requires a larger truck and trailer, more expensive to operate, store and maintain.

Lastly, if you want to spend even more time on the water, either traveling or overnight trips, you may be interested in 30-36’ boat. Now you’re in the large size boat range or small size yacht range. These guys are not towed frequently. They are usually kept at a marina, stored and maintained there. They generally have twin or triple inboard motors and outdrives and are well detailed inside and out. You can easily sleep for 4 or more and you’ll usually find a stove, refrigerator, TV, shower and toilet.

Advantages: ability to travel, stay overnight and enjoy all the comfort features of home
Disadvantages: cost is generally high to purchase, operate and maintain, also harder to trailer and store, usually done professionally

There are many boat manufacturers of all types and you have quite a large choice depending on where you’re at and what your local dealers offer. Here’s a few to get you going. Check these boat manufacturers out.

Utility /Small Boats: BRIG , Whitehall

Fishing Boats: Sea Swirl, NITRO, TRACKER, SYLVAN, LUND, SMOKER CRAFT, TROPHEY

Ski Boats: EPIC

Pontoon Boats: Sun Tracker, Manitou, TRACKER, Sunchaser, Premier, Gillgetter, Northwood

Power Boats: Bayliner, Sea Ray, MAXUM, Rinker, Four Winns, Wellcraft

Race /Cruisers: Formula, Fountain

Yachts: TIARA

Well, that should give you some things to think about. Look around, shop around and also talk to your friends that already own a boat. They’ll be able to offer some great advice. But it’s more important to really figure out what you want to do and where you want to do it. If you do that before you go out and start searching your local boat classified ads or start looking at new boats for sale or used boats for sale, you’ll be well on your way to deciding what type of boat and how big a boat you really need to buy. And remember, it’s not the size that counts, it’s just being on the water!

About the Author
Mike Fisher is an engineer by trade and a long time boater and writer for http://www.BoatFisher.com. List your New or Used Boat for Sale only $9.95 or find Boat Covers, Boat Trailers , Boating Accessories and more at http://www.BoatFisher.com

Aluminum Fishing Boats. Way Better Than Fiberglass Boats.

by Peter Clark

If you're thinking of buying a fishing boat you have a number of choices. Basically you can buy an aluminum fishing boat, a timber boat or a figerglass fishing boat.

Personally I'm a huge fan of aluminum boats, and would never buy a fiberglass boat. Here's why.

You're buying a boat because you want to be fishing, not working on boats. If you want to be working on boats buy a timber fishing boat and I can guarantee you'll spend many hours working on it. If you love that then fine, but for me I want to be fishing, not working on boats.

So timber is out. But what about fiberglass compared to aluminum. After all you see a lot of fiberglass boats out there.

What do you want in a fishing boat? Well you want it to be tough. Water resistant. Impact resistant. Low maintenance. Long lasting. Light. Easy to use.

Aluminum is all of these and more. It's extremely tough. It is welded not riveted, so is totally waterproof. It is highly impact resistant. That doesn't mean that it can't be holed, but it's pretty hard to do. Rather than get a hole aluminum tends to dent. This is great. If you hit something, as I recently did, you end up with a dent and head home feeling silly. If you hit something in a timber or a figerglass boat chances are high that you end up with a hole, and someone needs to come and get you because your boat is sinking.

Aluminum has a very high strength to weight ratio. So it's light and easy to handle, both in the water and onto and off a trailer or even a roof of a car. It's incredibly strong and will take a stack of punishment. It needs very little maintenance and will last forever.

A fiberglass boat on the other hand, has some drawbacks. It is heavier. It is less resistant to impact, and more easily holed. It takes a little more maintenance, although much less than a timber boat. And if treated badly it can absorb water. Be careful not to damage the gellcoat, or if you do repair it before you go out again.

And whereas an aluminum boat retains a very good resale value because they are so tough and durable, fiberglass boats can be more easily damaged and for this reason may not retail their value as well.

So for me it's an aluminum fishing boat every time. I've had all 3, timber, fiberglass and aluminum, and will be sticking to aluminum.

And the best thing about aluminum boats is that they are so tough and durable that it is far better to buy a used aluminum boat rather than a new one. A new boat is expensive, and like all things new will lose a lot of it's value as soon as you buy it. So a used aluminum boat is much cheaper, and will retain it's value to when you sell it you'll probably get most or all of your money back. I bought a used boat 2 years ago and it's worth as much or even more than when I bought it.

So if you're pondering your choices between the different types of fishing boat, make it a used aluminum fishing boat. You won't regret it.

About the Author
For a website totally dedicated to Used Aluminum Fishing Boats visit Peter's Website Used Aluminum Fishing Boats For Sale at http://getafishingboat.com