Category: On the Web

Miami Boat Place Unveils Exclusive Ranieri International Dealership

In a move that’s stirring up the serene waters of Southeast Florida, Miami Boat Place is now the exclusive dealer for Ranieri International, one of Europe’s most prestigious boat manufacturers. This partnership embarks on a journey to redefine luxury boating in America, showcasing a fleet that epitomizes European elegance, Italian craftsmanship, and the promise of unparalleled maritime adventures. The collaboration kicked off with a grand showcase at the Miami International Boat Show, where boating aficionados discovered the distinguished and innovative designs that set Ranieri apart in the world of maritime luxury.

A New Horizon in Luxury Boating

With more 46 years of heritage in Sovarato, Italy, Ranieri International’s repertoire spans a wide array of models from sleek cruisers to robust center consoles and walkarounds, each bearing the hallmark of meticulous Italian craftsmanship. It’s this dedication to excellence that has positioned Ranieri International as a beacon of quality in the boating industry, revered for its innovation, design prowess, and unwavering commitment to delivering the quintessential boating experience.

Miami Boat Place: Gateway to Ranieri's Elegance

Under the visionary leadership of Rafael Arredondo, Nobel Diaz, and Nelson Rumes, Miami Boat Place is poised to introduce Ranieri’s celebrated designs to the discerning American market. This partnership transcends the mere selling of boats; it’s about cultivating a lifestyle where each voyage is a testament to luxury, performance, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Miami Boat Place’s commitment to excellence mirrors that of Ranieri International, setting the stage for a boating partnership that marries European sophistication with American dynamism.

Celebrating Craftsmanship: The Ranieri Fleet

The Pinnacle of Italian Design

Each vessel in the Ranieri fleet is a masterpiece, a reflection of decades of vision, design excellence, and a profound passion for the sea. The streamlined hulls, sophisticated interiors, and cutting-edge technologies are crafted to perfection, offering boaters an unmatched experience on the water. This fusion of beauty, functionality, and performance encapsulates the essence of Ranieri’s philosophy, making each model not just a boat, but a work of art.

Among the fleet is the Ranieri 275 LX, recently nominated as the “European Boat of the Year.” This accolade is a testament to Ranieri’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of boat manufacturing. The 275 LX, along with Ranieri’s extensive lineup, was exclusively unveiled at the Miami International Boat Show by Miami Boat Place, heralding a new chapter in luxury boating.

Navigating the Future Together

Miami Boat Place is introducing the Ranieri fleet at the Palm Beach and SoFlo Boat Shows. This collaboration promises to usher in a new era of boating elegance and sophistication. 

The partnership between Miami Boat Place and Ranieri International symbolizes a shared vision for the future of boating. With plans to expand its presence across North America, Ranieri International is poised to offer its unique blend of design, performance, and luxury to a broader audience. This strategic expansion ensures that the quality and exclusivity that have been Ranieri’s hallmarks for nearly a half-century continue to enchant boaters around the world.

Inboard Cooling System Maintenance: Practical Tips for Performance And Longevity

Inboard Cooling System Maintenance Must-Knows

Flush your inboard system. 

In an earlier issue, we discussed the need to flush outboard motors (to clean out the raw water and mineral deposits that remain in the engine block water jacket). This type of cooling is known as open-loop cooling. Inboard engines usually have antifreeze in the engine block; this is termed closed-loop cooling. An inboard engine still has raw-water cooling concerns but not usually in the engine block. So how do you flush your inboard cooling system? Inboard cooling system maintenance starts with understanding the system itself.

Most inboard engines are marinized automotive or industrial engines that use antifreeze in the engine block water jacket. Just like your car, that antifreeze needs to be cooled. But this time, cooling occurs via a raw-water-cooled heat exchanger. 

A marinized engine will use a tube in shell heat exchanger to cool the antifreeze with raw water running through the tubes and antifreeze circulating in the shell around the tubes. Think of a water-cooled tubular radiator. The easiest way to determine if your engine is closed-loop cooling is to search for a radiator cap that will contain the antifreeze coolant. 

Raw-water Heat Exchangers

There are other hot items in addition to your engine block that need to be cooled, and they do NOT use antifreeze. Some of these include oil and fuel coolers, transmission, and hot air coolers after the turbocharger. These are usually cooled with a raw-water heat exchanger. So maintenance is important to prolong the life of your engine’s cooling system. 

Sea life can corrode and foul the tubing bundle inside the heat exchanger, restricting water flow and cooling efficiency. All these coolers (aka heat exchangers) usually are made of cupronickel, a copper alloy that also needs periodic cleansing to clear out contaminants, sea life, and salt crystals. Worst-case scenario is the tubing welds (brazing) may have pinhole leaks and allow raw water to enter the loop it is cooling.

A DIY boat owner project may be something to consider, but there are a few steps. Close the seacock—one per engine—before you remove the end cap or raw-water hoses from the different heat exchangers. A simple visual inspection can help you decide the next step. Our photos include evidence of extreme marine growth. If you see crusty critters reducing the internal diameter of the tubing, then you have work to do. 

Fouled heat exchanger with plugged cooling tubes

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DIY Inboard Cooling System Maintenance: Step-by-Step Guide

First Time Jitters? Ask For Help

If you are not comfortable doing this DIY project for the first time by yourself, consider hiring a mechanic that agrees to have you watch or help. But here are the basics:

A rodding out may be the first step to improve cooling efficiency. Purchase an aluminum or brass welding rod from a hardware store. You can easily push the rod in one end and out the other to scrape out the growth. Be sure to use a soft metal rod and be gentle with the force required to push out the debris. Your next step may be to use a flushing chemical.

The best practice is to remove the heat exchangers and send them out to a marine radiator shop. The technicians will acid boil, clean, pressure test, paint, and return the exchangers for you to reinstall. Then you can start your scheduled preventive maintenance flushing schedule based on a certified clean heat exchanger system. 

Heat exchanger tubes in shell design

To Flush or Not to Flush 

If you’d like to do this yourself, reassemble the heat exchangers using new gaskets and hose clamps where needed. To flush this, you need a simple bucket of a marine growth chemical remover such as Barnacle Buster. The cleaner can be recirculated through the engine heat exchanger system by using a small bilge pump in a bucket. Be sure that the engine sea cock is still closed, disconnect the raw-water pump discharge outlet, and connect the cleaner solution to that hose. Disconnect the last hose in the system and allow the fluid discharge to return to the bucket to be recirculated through the system. How much product or how long depends on the fouling of your engine’s heat exchangers and exposure to elements of raw water.

Keep a service log dating the pencil zinc inspections in the heat exchanger. The pencil zinc will help protect the tubing bundle. Not all heat exchangers have pencil zincs, but the bigger engines should have them on the antifreeze heat exchanger and, possibly, the transmission and turbo after-cooler heat exchanger.

Inboard Cooling System Maintenance Expert Tip: Eye Spy…Every Time

Visual inspection every time you check engine fluids offers a simple troubleshooting of raw-water leakage. Notice if the antifreeze is overflowing from the radiator cap. When your crankcase oil has turned a chocolate milk color, raw water has leaked in. If your transmission fluid looks like a strawberry milkshake, water got in there, too. Finally, when the engine stops or will not start because there is water on top of the piston, a catastrophic failure known as hydro lock has occurred. Hydro lock is the most severe and may bend the piston connecting rod, crankshaft, or blow out the side of the engine block. 

Hydrocked piston and bent connecting rod

Preventive inboard cooling system maintenance will make your life easier. Remember, owner visual inspections create the best results for your closed-loop cooling system—every time. 

-by Capt. Chris Caldwell

Ranieri International Appoints Madison Bay Holdings the Exclusive Representative Throughout The Americas

Ranieri International Appoints Madison Bay Holdings the Exclusive Representative and Distributor of Ranieri Boats throughout North America and The Americas

Madison Bay Holdings, LLC, now the exclusive representative and distributor for Ranieri International fiberglass and inflatable boats, is establishing a robust network of dealers across the U.S., Canada, and The Americas. Ranieri International, based in Sovarato, Italy, is a renowned boat manufacturer with more than 46 years of experience and recognized as one of the largest and most prestigious boat manufacturers in the European market. Ranieri has an established dealer network spanning Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.

Under the leadership of Ricardo Ruelos, Madison Bay Holdings plans to kickstart the U.S, Canada, and The Americas expansion with a network of dealers to offer Ranieri International’s diverse range of fiberglass boats, including cruisers, center consoles, and walkarounds, with models ranging from 19 feet to 37 feet. Their latest model, the Ranieri NEXT 275 LX, was nominated as the “European Boat of the Year (Up to 10 Meters)” at the Genoa International Boat Show. Additionally, Ranieri produces a series of inflatable boats (RIBs) in sizes from 12 feet to 45 feet.

Founded by Ruelos in Seattle, Washington, and later relocated to Sarasota, Florida, Madison Bay Holdings has a rich history in the marine industry. Ruelos, with more than 35 years of experience, has been involved with manufacturers such as MasterCraft Boat Company, Eliminator, Fountain, Century, Sealine Yachts, and Westship World Yachts.

Salvatore Ranieri and Antonio Ranieri, part of the second-generation management team, expressed their enthusiasm for partnering with Madison Bay Holdings to expand Ranieri International’s presence in North America.

“Over the past year, we have worked closely with Ricardo and Madison Bay Holdings to start building the foundation for the expansion of a select dealer network for Ranieri International in North America. Although Ranieri International has an extensive dealer throughout Europe and other areas in the world, Ricardo has guided us through the process of establishing a valued dealer network in North America. Included in this process has been our recent approvals for Floor Plan Financing that is an important ingredient to provide the support for the new Ranieri International dealers,” they said. “Ricardo also continues to remind us of the importance of giving the amore to our dealers and adopting the philosophy that Ricardo and his company, Madison Bay Holdings, has maintained throughout the thirty-five years of operations that states: ‘We treat our dealers and customers as family.’ This will include ongoing marketing support for the Ranieri International dealers and follow-up service to ensure that any warranty claims and parts that are needed are supplied on a prompt basis.”

Ruelos, in turn, highlighted the importance of fostering familial relationships with dealers and customers, a principle deeply ingrained in Madison Bay Holdings’ ethos.

“I am pleased to have the opportunity to represent Ranieri International and work with the Ranieri family and our valued dealers,” said Ruelos. “Throughout my career, I have had the pleasure to work with many boat companies that have been family owned and operated as this is the foundation and legacy of the marine industry. The full range of Ranieri boats and inflatable boats are a tribute to the forty-eight years that the Ranieri family has dedicated to produce an exceptional series of boats that are designed and manufactured in Italy with quality and attention to detail that can only be produced by two generations of Italian boatbuilders. I have spent my lifetime providing boaters with boats and products that boaters can enjoy and share with their families and friends, and it is a pleasure to introduce the rare and exceptional Ranieri boats to customers throughout North America.”

To showcase the full range of Ranieri boats and inflatable boats, Madison Bay Holdings, along with the Ranieri family and management team, will be present at the upcoming Palm Beach Boat Show and the SoFlo Boat Show. Prospective dealers interested in joining the Ranieri network are encouraged to reach out to Ricardo Ruelos for further information at madisonbay22@gmail.com or (206) 290-0028.

New Podcast Episode: Palm Beach International Boat Show Preview

Click Below To Watch

Exploring Innovations at the Palm Beach International Boat Show

In the latest episode of the Southern Boating Podcast, hosts Ian Sneed and James Anderson provide an insightful preview into the Palm Beach International Boat Show, spotlighting the advancements and luxury that define this year’s event. The episode navigates through a curated selection of yachts and innovations, showcasing what enthusiasts and professionals can expect from one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings.

Riviera 46 Sports Motor Yacht: A Synthesis of Luxury and Performance

The discussion kicks off with the US debut of the Riviera 46 Sports Motor Yacht. Developed in collaboration with 40 Designs, this yacht is highlighted for its exceptional design and functionality. With features such as a wide-open cockpit and a spacious salon, the Riviera 46 is designed for both entertainment and comfort, setting a new benchmark in luxury yachting.

Sustainable Sailing: Horizon Power Cat’s Advanced Power System

A significant portion of the podcast is dedicated to Horizon Power Cat’s introduction of its advanced power package system, now standard across select models. This innovation marks a significant step towards sustainable yachting, offering an 84% improvement in energy efficiency. This feature not only contributes to a quieter and more serene boating experience but also reflects the industry’s growing commitment to environmental stewardship.

Bahama Boat Works 41 GT: Versatility on the Water

The Bahama Boat Works 41 GT is lauded for its dual-purpose design that caters to both avid fishers and families looking for leisure on the water. Described as a “hardcore offshore fishing machine,” the 41 GT combines luxury with functionality, illustrating the versatility modern boaters seek.

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Serena 48: Accessible Luxury Redefined

The Serena 48’s US debut is presented as a milestone for the brand, offering an entry-level yacht without compromising on the quality and craftsmanship Serena is known for. This model emphasizes the brand’s dedication to merging elegance with practical design, making luxury yachting more accessible.

Anticipated Announcements from Grand Banks and Ocean Alexander

The episode also teases upcoming announcements from Grand Banks and Ocean Alexander, two titans of the yachting industry. While details remain undisclosed, the anticipation underscores the continuous innovation and excellence these brands are known to bring to the maritime world.

Discover What’s Next in Boating at the Palm Beach International Boat Show

The Palm Beach International Boat Show is a must-visit for anyone serious about boating. Whether you’re eyeing the luxury and innovation of the Riviera 46, the sustainable advancements of the Horizon Power Cat, or the sleek design of the Serena 48, this show offers an unparalleled glimpse into the future of the maritime lifestyle. Join us to explore these marvels and more, ensuring you stay ahead in the world of boating.

Discover The ULTRA Anchor: Stay Secure With Quality Stainless Steel

Revolutionizing Marine Anchoring with ULTRA Anchor

Anchoring is so important; it can make or break your time spent on the water. Apart from knowing how to anchor, securing a strong hold in an anchorage often depends on the type of equipment selected. For decades now, boat owners have relied on the tried and trusted plough, Bruce, and Admiralty anchors to guarantee a good night’s sleep when at anchor. These established anchors are usually fairly drab and are probably the least attractive, yet most important, piece of equipment on any boat. Then, around 2005, a new, shining anchor came to the marine market. The ULTRA Anchor quickly established a reputation for excellent holding power and its appealing stainless steel looking.

Why Choose ULTRA Anchor: The Ultimate Stainless Steel Anchor

The history of the development of the most technically advanced anchor the world has ever seen is as interesting and surprising as the level of acceptance these brilliantly engineered anchors have achieved. While most well-known anchors have evolved from the world’s established maritime nations, the ULTRA Anchor was first designed and manufactured by a little known Turkish engineering firm based in Istanbul.

Designed and Made in Türkiye, the ULTRA Anchor range is the pinnacle of anchoring technology and design. Completely hand made from 316L and 318LN stainless steel and hand polished, every ULTRA Anchor is designed for excellence.

Other Anchor Features

The ULTRA Anchor demonstrates why correct weight distribution and design are so important when setting and recovering your anchor. In fact, invert any ULTRA Anchor and it will instantly right itself into attack position. This level of performance is achieved with the innovative patented features this anchor displays; including a curved lead-filled tip for instant penetration, a hollow shank for optimal weight distribution, concave base surfaces for maximum holding power, and large side wing plates to avoid release during changing wind or tide conditions.

Furthermore, each anchor is easily recoverable with the flat pivot surface on the underside base. The ULTRA Anchor is suitable for all vessel types and secures snugly onto the bow roller. ULTRA Anchor range in size from 5kg (11lbs.) to 360 kg (800lbs.). Sourcing Europe’s finest materials and fabricated by specialist engineers, the ULTRA Anchor is supplied with a LIFETIME WARRANTY.
SEE THE ANCHOR HERE

ULTRA Anchor Features

Hollow Shank: Enables weight to be concentrated on anchor tip.

Tubular Construction: Anchor cannot lie on its spine and recovers instantly to the attack position. Anchor will also load correctly into the bow roller.

Lead Filled Tip: Lead is inserted into the anchor tip, achieving the optimal weight distribution and ensuring the anchor will penetrate unfavourable bottom conditions.

Scratch-Catch Point: Especially, it is positioned at bottom. It prevents dragging and provides instant set when anchor moves.

Curved Tip: Importantly, the anchor tip is shaped downwards, ensuring a continuous setting under unfavourable weather conditions. Its angles on the other hand let it help anchor instant set even the anchor is not at the right attack position.

Max Holding Power Base: The concaved base/fluke has the appearance of a shovel and has extreme holding power with a grater surface area than conventional style anchors. The result is more secure, higher holding power anchor that will not release.

Flat Underside: Once you begin to recover the anchor from the sea floor, it pivots itself on the flat section and begins to release (boat should be directly over anchor).

Side Wing Plates: The ULTRAnchor does not release in a changing wind or tide, it performs a complete 180 degree rotation (while still buried) on its own length and holds firm. On the other hand, it helps easy transport and a continuous geometry on bow rollers.

Non Chain-Foul Bar: Often chain can foul around the shank of the anchor, resul-ting in the anchor not able to set. The clever design features of the non chain-foul bar ensures chain simply cannot wrap around the shank and provides the ability to attach a trip line. On the other hand, it helps easy transport and a continuous anchor geometry on bow rollers.

Reinforced Eye: Even under the most extreme load the shank’s reinforced eye will not bend, break or fail.

Anchor Weight Detail: The anchor weight is stamped into the shank and identifies the anchor size in both kg’s and Ibs.

Serial Number: Every ULTRA Anchor is stamped with a unique serial number, ensuring your anchor is always identifiable

SEE THE ANCHOR HERE

Celebrate the Water’s Elegance with Hinckley’s 30th Anniversary Picnic Boat

ONLY ON A HINCKLEY

As Hinckley Yachts celebrates the 30th anniversary of its iconic Picnic Boat — which has become emblematic of American yachting — the brand has solidified its reputation as an industry pioneer. Regardless of your preference in boat style or size, Hinckley is famous for beautiful boats handcrafted by generational craftsman using only the finest materials and technological innovation. Whether you prefer to tackle open seas in a Talaria 48 MKII or cruise remote coastal coves while running a Picnic Boat 37 S, form meets function on every Hinckley adventure. An afternoon aboard any Hinckley yacht? Poised for barefoot happy hours and cruising playlists. Ultimately, a Hinckley represents freedom. Freedom to transcend daily pressures. Freedom to explore and celebrate nature. Freedom to connect with cherished family and friends. And the liberty to live life to the fullest. Afterall, the life aquatic is, by nature, an expression of a maverick spirit.
Explore what’s possible below—only on a Hinckley.

ZERO DRAFT, MAXIMUM PLAY

“Hinckley’s shallow draft innovation defines how we use our boat. Given only a few feet of water surrounds our dock at low tide, our Talaria 43 was the only boat we could store and utilize right from our house — and home is where life aboard our Hinckley begins. We can quickly skim across shallow areas, anxiety-free, and sneak ashore at a forgotten beach. Our kids can step right off the swim platform and easily explore remote areas where most captains wouldn’t dare venture. To this day, I often can’t believe we’re the only ones exploring such beauty. Only on a Hinckley.”

Explore Zero Draft on the Talaria 43 MKII

JETSTICK 4. CONTROL, REIMAGINED.

“There’s nothing like connecting with loved ones aboard a Hinckley. As experienced boat operators, we’ve owned several boats, and I quickly discovered not all technology is created equal. Before owning a Hinckley, joystick “control” often meant lack of control and unwanted distraction. Yet today, Hinckley’s JetStick 4 has become an extension of my boating intuition. I no longer consider every move. With just the right amount of assistance and automation, JetStick 4 allows me to be in the moment and create indelible memories. Spending time on the water is what I live for. Now I’m truly free to celebrate my love for the life aquatic. Only on a Hinckley.”

Experience Unmatched Control with JetStick 4

SILENTJET. THE SOUND OF SILENCE.

“Disrupting the mood with the sound and smell of diesel engines? Not aboard our Hinckley Picnic Boat 40. Once everyone is onboard and settled into the settees, conversation settles into normal volumes. With the waterjets engaged, I can depart the marina with only the sound of water passing by and fun family chatter. When cruising to our favorite shallow cove — just 10 miles from the harbor and where prop and pod boats don’t dare navigate — I maneuver the boat in silence until reaching open water. As I push the throttles forward, the light vibration of diesels come to life as the sound of waves and water take over. Only half an hour of runtime can charge the batteries back to 100 percent, allowing for a peaceful, generator-free visit to the shallow-entry cove. No buttons or modes to select. No technology for the sake of it. Seamless, minimal impact. Only the water. My family. And a Hinckley poised to create the finest memories life has to offer. Only on a Hinckley.”

Discover the Sound of Silence

7 of the Best Available Navigation Apps for Boaters

New smartphone apps make navigation portable.

Today’s navigation apps for boaters make smartphones an even more powerful aid for captains. By tapping into GPS and NOAA weather data, these apps can stand alone or act as a backup navigational tool.

Mobile applications (apps) are built to follow changing waterway conditions as quickly as possible. Automated data pipelines deliver updated charts as soon as they become available. In addition, apps gather information from reliable sources, such as the Waterway Guide in the United States.

Chart Your Course: Top Smartphone Navigation Apps for Boaters

Argo

“One of the most dangerous boaters on the water is one who ‘just goes’ without a thought for planning or even routing,” explains David Rowe, a user of the Argo navigational app. “I’m not talking about the person who has been boating the same fifty square miles of water since they were a tot, but the boater who is plying unfamiliar waters without knowing the local dangers, including avoiding known obstacles and staying out of exclusion zones.”

Argo’s auto-routing feature does this quickly, allowing a boater to plot a course of hundreds of miles in seconds. The recommended course is based on vessel draft and the shortest, safest distance. This provides the boater with peace of mind to easily navigate where they want to go without risk or worry.

Argo Screen

savvy navvy

“Our user feedback and anonymous GPS tracking helps to see the real picture of conditions on the water and allows us to make the necessary changes to the charts,” says Misha Vysokovskiy, head of product for savvy navvy, who noted that version two of the app just launched. “One way savvy navvy utilizes cutting-edge technology is through satellite imagery and tidal flow modeling. It provides users with information on water currents and tides and allows us to predict changes in water depth and flow, which can be crucial information for boaters navigating shallow waters or areas with strong currents.”

savvy navvy with a weather display

Wavve Boating

The portability and convenience of a boating app makes marine navigation accessible even when owners are away from their boat or on a different vessel, such as a tender. However, while smartphones are getting larger and more resistant to impact and water, multifunction displays (MFDs) still have the advantage of better visibility in high light conditions. Some MFDs also connect with other onboard systems like radar, sonar, and engine data.

“What we’re most excited about at Wavve Boating is the blend between these two technologies, where navigation apps interface with a vessel’s MFD,” said Adam Allore, Wavve Boating founder and CEO. “Bombardier Recreational Products brought to market an integration between a rider’s phone and their in-vehicle display with the 2021 GTX 300 SeaDoo. As a result, Wavve Boating is currently integrated and available on several SeaDoo models via a connected LCD display.”

Wavee Boating Navigation

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C-MAP

While an MFD stays on board, you do not. Apps are always with you on your phone or tablet and on every boat, offering convenience and accessibility.

“We know that boaters all have different preferences; however, market data tells us that the vast majority of boaters in larger (forty-foot plus) vessels are using a range of technology on board,” says Tracy Cox, global brand manager for C-MAP. “The C-MAP app carries the latest chart updates as well as frequent feature updates. It’s designed to be a stand-alone solution to safe navigation. Boaters with an MFD on board can also benefit from the latest C-MAP charts, as all chart sales include twelve months of free updates.”

C-Map display

TZ iBoat

Some of the opportunities on the horizon for navigational apps include additional map layers, auto-routing improvements, enhanced community features, and more vessel integrations.

“You can add important layers like depth shading,” explains Iker Pryszo, product manager for TZ iBoat. “You can customize the colors and shading, and we use very accurate surveys from NOAA to render what you see. So if you are fishing, it is a very good feature, and you can adjust it to see even more contours.”

TZiboat Display on multiple screens

iNavX

Boat manufacturers are focusing on electrification and automation right now, creating new opportunities for interconnectivity between smartphones and vessels.

“As my grandfather taught me, always have a backup,” says Shaun Steingold of iNavX. “Even if you primarily rely on an MFD for navigation, having a backup navigation app like iNavX is a smart move. It provides an extra layer of security and ensures you have a reliable backup in case of technical issues or emergencies.”

iNav mobile display

Aqua Map

Like many programs developed for phones, navigation apps for boaters can be much less expensive than larger scale electronics.

“Cost-effectiveness is another benefit of mobile apps,” says Pietro Ferri, marketing and communication at Aqua Map. “MFDs can be expensive, requiring professional installation and interfacing. In contrast, Aqua Map and similar applications offer a more convenient solution, even considering the cost of a dedicated mobile device and accessories.”

Aqua Map Screen

Most apps are available for free with limited features and offer premium services with subscriptions averaging between $20 and $45 annually.

-by Doug Thompson

Fort Lauderdale’s Exclusive Over-the-Water Estate: A Nautical Haven

OVER-the-water Fort Lauderdale Modern Masterpiece & Dockage Haven - A nautical match made-in-heaven.

The artisan owners of a rare Frank Lloyd Wright styled over-the-water estate in East Fort Lauderdale decided to sell their keepsake home. When they shared the news with their friend Captain Danny Cole, Cole immediately knew they needed to meet his friend of many years, Rose Ann Lovell, Broker-Owner of Lovell Realty Group, whose unique expertise would be exactly what they needed. A 2nd generation, South Florida native, Lovell is also the owner of yacht slips at Lovell BOATique Dockage as well as the owner of DOCKSEEKERS, a yacht placement company. Or, as Lovell likes to call herself, “a nautical matchmaker” – placing the right boat at the right slip at the right price. Lovell was “featured/quoted” in the Jan. 2016 Southern Boating article – “Dockage Dilemma.” Let’s just say dockage is in her wheelhouse.

Cole and his wife Libby met Lovell many years ago in a faith-based Foster Parenting class. That too was an instantaneous friendship and alliance made in heaven. The yacht slips owned by Lovell were often filled by Cole’s expertise in yacht placements and Lovell would reciprocate to send him her overflow.  Lovell Realty Group, along with business partner John Smigiel, also represented the Cole Family for their purchase of a beautiful luxury waterfront home. Utilizing their stellar negotiating skills to lock in a great deal just before the market went crazy. Additionally, as a highly-trained lawyer, Lovell would offer her skills and insights on issues that would arise in the ebb and flow of all their dealings.

“It’s South Florida, if you are in the game, you will have issues and will need to navigate,” says Lovell.

Ahoy to savvy owner/investors. This is not your average beautiful waterfront home in East Fort Lauderdale. There is no comparison.

It was these years of working closely together which anchored Cole’s confidence that his friends needed a Broker with Lovell’s multi-layered expertise. It is not every day that a home boasting over 200’+ of deeded riparian rights of deep-water dockage goes on the market. There is no shortage of waterfront homes on the market at any given time in Fort Lauderdale. It is, after all, the Yachting Capital of the World. But a waterfront luxe retreat like the 2640 Riverland Estate is worthy of the word rare. Many can boast living on the water, but few can boast (a la Venezia) living OVER it!

Immediately upon meeting the owners of 2640 Riverland Road, there was kismet because there was the knowledge that they needed. The owners had arduously and impeccably improved and maintained this home. The brokerage team that would be up to their exacting standards would have to be as hard-working! Rose Ann Lovell and John Smigiel of Lovell Realty Group were humbled and grateful to be awarded the listing.

All brokers know the elated feeling of securing a listing only to face the hard part. The hard part of what to highlight and yes, sometimes diminish in marketing collateral. It was joyous for Lovell & Smigiel to dive into the marketing because there was no marketing hyperbole needed. Start with the stunner that there are only two such homes ever built over-the-water in Fort Lauderdale and that this architectural rarity could never be built again.

Vist Lovell Realty Groups' Website

The well-executed design hallmark to transport you onto the water is experienced throughout. From the minute one steps through the front door; you are on board. But no seasickness ever. Expected and well-appointed luxurious accoutrements abound in this 3 bedroom, 3 and one-half bath estate. The interior is only matched by the exterior for seamless and sultry entertaining. The architectural pool and spa with high-cascading waterfall make for a magical backdrop while using the Outdoor Kitchen and entertaining patio with full cabana bath. The extraordinary layout of this well-positioned single-family home allow the boat lover to view their collection of watercrafts without blocking the view of the wide yacht turning basin.

The gem of 2640 Riverland Road is that it is not just an extraordinary layout but a fabulous location. It is 5 miles to famed eating and shopping on Las Olas Boulevard and only 6 miles to Fort Lauderdale International Airport. If Palm Beach or Orlando is on your rotation, the upscale Brightline station is minutes away. There is always the Fort Lauderdale styled evening out to hop in the boat and cruise to a plethora of on the water eating venues.

But wait, there is mega-yacht more. The genius of the 2640 Riverland Estate owners to secure the adjacent lot is the game-changer. The rarified architectural beauty of 2640 Riverland now becomes a mega-yacht, multi-boat slip haven. Why a haven? It’s a haven on many levels. Notably, there is the tranquil yacht turning basin and wide deep-water canal. But think “haven” in terms of hurricanes. For instance, at Lovell’s docks which are east of 2640, when a Category 1 hurricane has been named, yachts must leave her docks. Yachts, in accordance with their pre-filed insurance company hurricane plan usually takes them up river. This is a fleeting moment in time for a savvy yacht owner/investor to snag the haven of 2640, snuggly up river, one block from the South Fork of the New River.


Lovell closes with, “Smooth seas and following winds till we speak again.”

For more information or to speak with Rose Ann Lovell about getting a deal done in South Florida, it would float her boat to speak with you! Contact her direct at Lovell Realty Group by email at contact@lovellrealty.com or call +1(305)333-7382. www.lovellrealty.com

Watch This Video To See The Property:

Expert Guide to Diamond Jig Lures for Striped Bass

The Art of Jigging: Mastering Diamond Jigs for Trophy Striped Bass

Thwack! My rod doubled-over as my silver slab of metal came to a jarring stop some 40 feet below the port gunwale. I was diamond jigging for striped bass (aka rockfish) that were hounding sand eels along a sharp nearshore edge and the action was smokin’. All I had to do was free-spool my four-ounce jig until it hit the bottom, engage the reel, and quickly crank up 10 turns before repeating the process. Earlier, I had released six fish to 32 inches on six consecutive drops, most inhaling my lure by the time I’d hit turn number seven.

You’ve got to love the feel of a big predatory fish smacking a diamond jig, especially during the height of a feeding blitz. Most anglers are familiar with the slim-profile metal lures. After all, they’ve been tempting fish for as far back as any of my piscatorial cronies can remember, and some of those guys had pet triceratops. Simple to use, diamond jigs get to the bottom quickly, catch species ranging from tuna to sea trout, and are a great tool for introducing novice anglers to the use of artificials.

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Several attributes combine to make diamond jigs so productive. For starters, most feature thin profiles and provide plenty of flash underwater, making them a perfect match for silvery baitfish like sand eels, bay anchovies, and various “rain baits.” Made of lead and coated with chrome or a hard, shiny finish, they are nearly indestructible, even when inhaled by ferocious predators with solid shoulders and big, sharp teeth. Because diamond jigs are heavy for their size, yet aerodynamically designed, they cast great in a stiff wind and cut quickly through the depths to get down where the biggest fish swim. Choose a style with a single hook as opposed to a treble for a safe and quick release when getting it back from toothy combatants.

Most anglers are familiar with the standard diamond jig retrieve called “squidding,” described above, but there are a lot of other ways to put these lures to good use. For fish feeding on or near the surface, a fast, unbroken retrieve keeps the target high in the water column while eliciting “reaction strikes” as your quarry has to make an instant decision to engage or pass. This is a great retrieve for tempting fast-moving, roving species like Spanish mackerel, false albacore, bonito, and bluefish.

For working tightly packed schools of predatory fish at a known mid-depth like weakfish or sea trout, a jigging or “yo-yo” retrieve can keep your lure constantly in the strike zone. With this technique, snap the rod upward to quickly raise your offering and then immediately lower the rod tip all the way to the water, allowing the diamond to flutter unfettered on a slack line. You won’t need to wonder if you’ve had a bite while retrieving these lures as predators often stop them dead in their tracks. 

Keep in mind that large jigs weighing four to six ounces or more are often needed to tangle with big fish in strong currents while smaller diamonds tempt school fish in calm inshore waters and inside the bays. Some jigs come with tube-tails and some come plain. Both work fine, but my preference is for the tubeless style as I feel it looks more natural sliding through the water. As a rule, green and white tails work best in shallow water and red is the color of choice for digging down deep.

One trick that can also increase your score is to nick new diamond jigs before putting them to use. Simply bang two jigs together a couple of times to dent the shiny coating. This breaks up the flash of these lures, giving them a more life-like appearance that even the leeriest trophies find hard to resist. 

-by Tom Schlichter

See What Happens With Boat Bottom Cleaning Efficiency

The Secret to Speed? A Spotless Boat Bottom

Below the waterline of your boat is one big target for sea creatures. These barnacles, sea grass, tube worms, and general slime can quickly grow into a fuzzy carpet that slows your glide. A clean boat bottom not only looks nicer but can be the difference in fuel and equipment efficiency. So what’s a boat owner to do?

Let’s start with clear terms to understand how speed is affected by a clean bottom. Miles Per Hour (mph) is more accurately known as your speed in knots. Miles Per Gallon (mpg) considers the amount of fuel burned to cruise at an optimum speed. It helps to understand what is optimum versus the speed that you desire. If you are lucky, this may be the same.

WOT is Wide Open Throttle, often wasting fuel and not necessarily getting the best mileage possible. Many boat owners will consider slowing a bit less than WOT to achieve better fuel economy. If you reduce the rpms a mere 200 or so, then you may slow about 1 knot. Does that really matter?

So what else can you do to make your boat slide across the water easier? You may think that since water is wet and slippery, how can we improve on that?

Hull Preparation 

The hull on planing boats starts with a V to cut through the waves. Then it flares out in the stern to a flatter concept. This allows the boat to get up on top of the water to go faster depending on the horsepower aboard. The hull design and horsepower contribute to the builder’s designed speed—at perfect conditions right from the factory. Now consider the condition of the hull itself. 

Dirt and slime create more resistance to that slippery water your boat is running through. The most pristine waters can foster marine growth. Barnacles are obvious, but what about algae or seaweed? Choose an anti-fouling paint that works well for the waters you call home port and lasts longer than the lower price alternative.

Barrier Coat and Anti-fouling Paint

When hauling the boat for seasonal bottom job cleaning, check the existing paint for wear and adhesion. Is it smooth or has the bottom of the boat been painted too many times without taking the old paint off entirely? If the paint shows too many moon craters or high and low spots, then the bottom may have to be blasted to remove everything down to the original gel coat. 

Now that your hull has been properly prepped, it’s time to apply a barrier coating and, finally, good anti-fouling paint. The decision of what type of paint to use is dependent on the local waters in which you plan to boat and the kind of sea creatures that grow in your area. Ask other boaters what anti-fouling paint they favor. Check with your local yard experts too. 

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More Than the Hull

Don’t forget that your running gear includes props, rudders, shafts, and trim tabs which all need protection from marine growth too. But here you will use a different coating than the hull anti-fouling paint. Think about friction of the water rushing under the hull which can wear off fresh marine growth. The friction on the rotating propellers is much greater than the hull and requires a different type of anti-fouling coating. 

An etching primer is followed by a fouling-release coating applied to the running gear to reduce the chances of marine growth attaching to the surface. If they do attach, the growth will slip away once the boat is underway. Proper prep includes having the running gear roughed-up with an 80 grit sander to remove all old paint and marine growth. Clean off any dust and oil before applying a two-part etching coating. The final clear coat is the magic that reduces marine growth from attaching.

Use It or Clean It

The best way to keep your hull clean is by driving away from your dock. But if you can’t find the time to keep those critters from settling in, then a diver can do a little maintenance in between. In addition to a gentle cleaning of the hull and running gear, a diver can also keep the depth gauge transducer free of marine growth. 

Underwater lights are attractive and can attract bait fish to the stern of the boat. Ask the diver to keep the lenses clean too.

Your bottom is clean, and the hull and running gear are properly prepped. Get the boat up on plane, feel the ride, and watch the SOG (Speed Over Ground) compared to the rpms and fuel consumption. Adjust your trim tabs, angle the boat across the wave action, and experiment with the rpms. A clean bottom will improve your speed efficiency, letting your boat perform as it was designed. It is now up to the helmsman to achieve best results. 

– by Chris Caldwell

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Podcast Release: The 2024 Miami International Boat Show Recap

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Exciting Miami Boat Show Reveals: Regal Boats, Suzuki Stealth & More

The annual Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show once again introduced an array of innovations, luxury yachts, and cutting-edge marine technology.

This year’s event was a treasure trove of advancements, from the sleek lines of Regal Boats to the stealth power of Suzuki’s latest marine engines. As boating enthusiasts and industry professionals converged on Miami’s sunny shores, the show unveiled trends set to redefine boating in the coming years.

Regal Boats: A New Era of Luxury and Entertainment

Among the showstoppers, Regal Boats debuted a new model, the 50 SAV. Known for their craftsmanship and innovative designs, Regal’s new models continue to push the boundaries of boating. With enhanced amenities including an armrest Garmin display, refined interiors, and powerful performance, these vessels are designed for the discerning mariner who seeks both adventure and comfort on the open water.

Suzuki Stealth: Revolutionizing Marine Propulsion

Suzuki Marine, a name synonymous with reliability and innovation, introduced the Suzuki Stealth, a groundbreaking addition to its outboard lineup. The Stealth series promises to deliver unmatched efficiency and ocean water cleanup of microplastics. With this launch, Suzuki reaffirms its commitment to eco-friendly propulsion solutions without compromising on power.

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Jupiter 34: For Sportfishing Fanatics

The Jupiter 34 is often a favorite for sportfishing aficionados. Combining robust performance with a spacious layout, this model is equipped to tackle high seas while providing comfort for leisurely cruises. Its versatility and handling make the Jupiter 34 an excellent choice for those who demand the best of both worlds.

Innovations in Marine Technology and Accessories

Beyond the boats and outboards, the Miami International Boat Show was a showcase for technological advancements and accessories that enhance the boating experience. From Bluwater Marine’s EzKonnect, which simplifies rafting up to other boats, to Yacht Armor’s marine protective solutions that help keep vessels in pristine condition, innovation was a prevailing theme.

As the show concluded, it was clear that the future of boating is bright, with technological advancements, design innovations, and sustainability taking the helm. The Miami International Boat Show offered a glimpse into the future of boating while entertaining all the attendees.

Other Topics in This Episode

Yachts

Sabre Yachts 58SE (Salon Express), with its luxury and comfort for a refined experience. The Marlow 90 Voyager that exudes opulence for any style of cruising and entertaining.

Products

Teasing a Kicker Marine update and how Southern Boating will be a part of bringing these new marine audio solutions to the market. 

Docking Revolutionized: The Helix-P Boat Lift by Sunstream

Sunstream® redefines boat lift technology with the world's fastest and sleekest piling boat lift - The Helix P

Sunstream® Boat Lifts, the leading manufacturer of high-quality free-standing and free-floating boat lifts and the SwiftShield™ Automatic Boat Cover System, announced the company has completely reimagined what a cable boat lift should be.

The first in a new range of cable boat lifts, the Sunstream Helix line, the new Helix-P piling lift combines unprecedented hydraulic speed with an attractive hidden cable lift structure and a sleek, modular power supply. Helix delivers a refined aesthetic with easier boarding, increased reliability and safety, reduced noise and launching and lifting speeds as fast as 15 seconds.

“We are constantly innovating to give boaters the experience they want,” said Ken Hey, CEO of Sunstream Boat Lifts. "We didn’t approach the design of Helix-P to do a better version of what everyone else is doing, but to change the way you think about your boat lift and how it can enhance your boating experience, as well as how you show off your boat and your waterfront property. The Helix line and our first model to be released, the Helix-P, was designed with a minimalist aesthetic to showcase your trophies while making it easier and more enjoyable to use. Helix-P is an invitation to go boating more often and have more fun!”

The Helix-P lift features a robust marine-grade aluminum structure and stainless-steel hardware, ensuring both stiffness and resistance to corrosion. Its design excludes visible motors, electrical components, or gearboxes, enhancing the views due to low pilings and absent side beams.

Its innovative design allows for installation with just a five-inch gap between dock and boat, streamlining the loading and unloading process. The lift boasts lubricated stainless steel ball bearings that facilitate increased speed, quieter operation, and decreased friction.

Sunstream’s patented Superbunks™ with a rubber cap and aluminum base provide a gentle yet sturdy cushion for the boat’s hull. Safety is further ensured by non-slip striping on the frame, and for areas prone to storms, there are optional Storm Surge Inserts to elevate the boat by an additional 24 inches.

The Helix-P’s cradle locks when raised, eliminating wind-induced swaying, thus reducing cable wear and prolonging its lifespan. Its single-motor configuration also means less frequent need for re-leveling.

The unique Sunstream Power System™ (SPS) allows the combination of hydraulic DC powerpacks to boost power up to 24 HP, achieving speeds twelve times faster than typical piling lifts. The SPS includes a backup power source and maintenance-free sealed batteries. It offers versatility, as a single powerpack can serve multiple Sunstream lifts or SwiftShield Automatic Boat Cover Systems. Remarkably, Helix-P only requires a standard electrical connection, either 6A of 110V or 3A of 220V, avoiding the need for higher voltage installations or underwater cabling.

Adding to the user experience is the advanced control system of Helix-P, which can be operated via a proprietary mobile app. This feature ensures the lift is always accessible on a smartphone, offering the ultimate convenience. The lift smoothly accelerates and decelerates, with a double-click feature for preset stops, customizable to the dock’s specifications. The integrated encoder revolution counter in the motor replaces the need for external limit switches and allows for multiple stop points, providing superior control for the user.

Helix-P is available in four different sizes to accommodate boats weighing from 8,000 to 24,000 pounds, catering to a wide range of vessels.

For more information on the Sunstream Helix-P, Sunstream or its complete line of high-quality boat lifts and accessories, please call (253) 395-0500, or visit www.sunstreamboatlifts.com.

About Sunstream Corp:

Sunstream Corporation, based in Seattle Washington, is the leading portable hydraulic boat lift, hoist, and automatic boat cover system manufacturer in the world. Founded in 1996, Sunstream has been recognized multiple times for their innovation and fast growth. www.sunstreamboatlifts.com

Southern Boating’s First Podcast! Luxury yachts, self-driving boats & more.

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What to Expect in This Episode:

Luxury Unleashed: Maritimo S75
Get an insider’s look at the most extravagant yachts sailing the seas today, including an in-depth feature on the stunning Maritimo S75.

The Future is Now:

Dive into autonomous boating technology and discover how self-driving systems could revolutionize maritime travel.

Boat Show Review:

Recapping the Stuart Boat Show from January for everyone who missed out.

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New YouTube Video: The Explorer 46 Hydrofoil Power Catamaran

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Ryan Sturgis with Vandal Marine sits down with Southern Boating’s Editor In Chief, Steve Davis, to talk about the new Vandal Marine Express 46, a hydrofoil power catamaran with unique features to serve every style of boater.

With smoother rides, fuel efficiency, and comfort from the cabin to the flybridge, the Vandal Express 46 has incredible features everyone must see. You can schedule a sea trial on their website (linked below) or see them at the 2024 Discover Miami International Boat Show.

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Prevent Marine Growth In Your Pipework With ElectroStrainer

ElectroStrainer: The Smart Technology Defending Boats Against Marine Growth

It’s easy to see barnacles and biofouling on the hull of your boat, but the marine growth in your pipework, hoses, pumps, sea strainers and air conditioners can be even more damaging and harder to remove. This unwanted marine growth clogs pores in strainer baskets and restricts flow through pipework, threatening the performance of seawater-cooled equipment. Blockages caused by this biofouling can result in equipment overheating, high-pressure fault (HPF) alarms, shortened equipment lifespan, and equipment failure at the worst possible time.

Traditionally, the battle against marine growth has relied on acid descaling, a messy practice that involves pumping harsh acids through your boat’s plumbing system, potentially damaging components and releasing harmful chemicals into the environment. Worst of all, acid descaling is only a temporary fix to the never-ending cycle of unwanted marine growth. As soon as you turn on your seawater pump, biofouling resumes.

Fueled by their own frustrations with persistent biofouling and subsequent equipment failure, the founders of ElectroSea set to develop a better way to address the problem.

Enter ElectroStrainer, a proactive defense system that prevents marine growth from forming and offers boaters a smarter, maintenance-free way to enjoy their boating experience.

Meet ElectroStrainer: The End of Biofouling for Boaters

ElectroStrainer prevents biofouling in pipework, seawater lines and the sea strainer before it begins. When seawater enters the ElectroStrainer, it passes through a series of electrified titanium plates and undergoes an electrochemical reaction to generate a safe and super-low level chlorine, about the same amount found in tap water. There are no additives – the reaction uses the sodium chloride (salt) in seawater to generate sodium hypochlorite (chlorine). The precise level of chlorination is just enough to prevent marine growth by creating an environment where these pesky organisms simply can’t live. Your pipes and strainer basket remain free of marine growth, and you’ll never have to descale again. Period!

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ElectroStrainer is a direct replacement for your boat’s existing sea strainer. This all-in-one system enhances the boating experience by not only eliminating the need for acid descaling, but also greatly reducing the need to clean your strainer basket. Instead of making a mess opening your strainer to check the basket, an advanced, smart flow-monitoring system alerts you if the strainer basket needs attention. The system also shows you exactly how much seawater is flowing through your system in real time. ElectroStrainer assures you it’s generating chlorine and protecting your boat’s cooling systems.

Say Goodbye to Acid Descaling with ElectroStrainer’s Innovative Solution

Furthermore, ElectroStrainer is an environmentally friendly option, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals. The chlorine that is generated has a very short half-life in seawater with two-thirds decomposing back into salt and water in less than a minute.

ElectroStrainer represents a paradigm shift in the fight against unwanted marine growth. It’s a proactive, convenient, environmentally friendly solution to keeping your boat’s air conditioners, chillers, refrigeration and livewells running smoothly. ElectroStrainer can be used on all boat types, including center consoles, cruisers, sportfishers, sailboats, and superyachts. It has no scheduled maintenance and forever changes the industry’s approach to seawater management.

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