Hull Identification Numbers (HIN) are permanent markings used to identify every boat manufactured in or imported to the United States since 1972. A HIN is made up of 12 characters including numbers and letters. Each HIN is unique. A HIN include the boat’s serial number, as well as other indicators. It is illegal to alter … Read more ›
According to United States Coast Guard statistics, the leading cause of boating-related deaths is capsizing. How can you minimize this risk? By understanding the information on your Boat Capacity Plate and following the recommendations for number of people, gross load and horsepower for your boat. Remember, boating regulations are there to keep you safe. It’s … Read more ›
To operate a boat safely and legally, you need to have the right type of safety equipment on board at all times. But how can you know what type of equipment is required for your specific type of boat? The key is discovering your boat’s class. And boat classes are determined by boat length. Let’s … Read more ›
Boat engines come in various shapes and sizes, but there are only four main types: inboard, outboard, sterndrive and jet drive. It is important to choose the right type of propulsion system for your boat, as the weight and horsepower of the engine will affect boat performance. A motor that is not powerful enough for … Read more ›
The shape of the hull is a defining feature of any watercraft. Boat hulls do not only differ in appearance, their varying structural characteristics make them more or less suited to specific water activities. Different boat hull types have different functions. Some hulls displace water as the boat travels, while others are designed to ride … Read more ›
Knowing the parts of a boat and being able to call them by their correct names is important, whether you are just learning how to drive a boat or you already comfortable navigating the water with different types of vessels. Boats may seem to have a front, back, kitchen and bathroom – but they don’t! … Read more ›
Boating is a fun and thrilling experience, but it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. If you’re planning to hit the water this season, it’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary skills and knowledge to stay safe. While there are plenty of boating courses available online, opting for a paid … Read more ›
There are 5 species of marine turtles in Florida: loggerhead, green, leatherback, Kemp’s ridley and hawksbill. All 5 species are listed as either endangered or threatened. As such, they and their habitats are protected by federal and state law. Discover what the law says about protecting sea turtles, and what boaters can do to help! … Read more ›
Seagrass is a type of underwater flowering plant that is usually found in shallow marine waters and estuaries. Seagrass plays a vital role in Florida’s marine ecosystems, but is currently under threat from careless recreational boating practices. Discover the penalties for the destruction of seagrass in Florida, why the plant is so important and what … Read more ›
The Florida manatee is a subspecies of West Indian manatee that has been designated as the state’s official marine mammal. Found throughout peninsular Florida, these gentle, slow-moving giants make their home in calm rivers, estuaries and bays, and move to warmer waters in the winter. Manatees in Florida are currently threatened by algae blooms … Read more ›
