BOATERS BLOG

National Boat Owners Association is the nation's #1 Boating Association in the United States. Provides Boat and Yacht Insurance, boat financing, safety products, boat towing, and more.

Do I Need a License to Go Boating in My State?

Boating without a license isn’t required in every state across the country. While some states require one to be held by a captain of a certain age, other states simply encourage one to be obtained. To help figure out your state’s requirements, or if you’re new to the boating world, NBOA is here with all the information about…

Boating without a license isn’t required in every state across the country. While some states require one to be held by a captain of a certain age, other states…

A Guide to Life Jackets, Vest Types, & State Laws: What Every Boater Needs to Know to Stay Safe

Whether you’re heading out for a peaceful cruise, a day of fishing with friends, or a full water skiing adventure with the family, one piece of gear should never be an afterthought: a life jacket. It might not be the most exciting thing on board, but it’s easily one of the most important. Life jackets save lives every…

Whether you’re heading out for a peaceful cruise, a day of fishing with friends, or a full water skiing adventure with the family, one piece of gear should…

Knowing Your Way Around A Vessel: A Vocabulary Lesson for Novice Boaters

Whether you’re a new boat owner, getting your feet wet by sailing with friends, or need a vocabulary refresher, knowing your way around any boat is crucial from both a knowledge and safety standpoint. When the captain points out a dolphin on the starboard side, will you know where to look? If you plan on being behind the wheel, can…

Whether you’re a new boat owner, getting your feet wet by sailing with friends, or need a vocabulary refresher, knowing your way around any boat is crucial from both a…

Seventy-Five More Nifty and Witty Boat Names (Part 2)

So, you’ve chosen your boat, joined the National Boat Owners Association, and locked down the best boat insurance and marine financing in the industry. There’s just one thing left to do, and that’s to give your boat a name that truly floats your… well, you know. If our first collection…

So, you’ve chosen your boat, joined the National Boat Owners Association, and locked down the best boat insurance and marine financing in the…

Weathering the Storm: A Boater’s Guide to a Safe Hurricane Season

From June 1st through November 30th, the Atlantic hurricane season rolls into full force. Boaters beware, as tropical storms, hurricanes, and even thunderstorms can be life-threatening dangers on the water. Even seasoned captains can underestimate the speed and severity of a tropical system, as storm paths can shift in hours, turning a relaxing cruise into a risky venture. That’s…

Spring Lines Explained: A Guide to Casting off and Docking with Ease

While the best parts of boating involve cruising and gliding through the waves, enjoying watersports, or fishing peacefully, an easily overlooked but vital aspect to be cognizant of is taking care of your boat when casting off and docking. Between the movement of the water, continuous waves, and gusts of wind, it can be challenging to keep your boat steady…

While the best parts of boating involve cruising and gliding through the waves, enjoying watersports, or fishing peacefully, an easily overlooked but vital aspect to be cognizant of is taking…

A Guide to Boating in California

California is home to 840 miles of coastline, white sandy beaches, breathtaking ocean adventures, captivating mountain ranges, and inspiring lakes. As one of the most scenic places in the world, it can be impossible to experience everything California has to offer while only staying onshore, walking through San Diego, San Francisco, or Los Angeles, or even traveling the famous Pacific…

California is home to 840 miles of coastline, white sandy beaches, breathtaking ocean adventures, captivating mountain ranges, and inspiring lakes. As one of the most scenic places in the world,…

Protecting Your Boat from Theft: A Guide to Securing & Deterring

If you own a boat, or you’re thinking of purchasing, please review these theft-prevention tips to keep your boat safe. For more information, visit www.nboat.com…

Navigating South Carolina: A Guide to Boating in the Palmetto Sate

South Carolina, affectionately known as the Palmetto State, is a haven for boaters. Whether you’re seeking thrilling watersports or peaceful fishing retreats, South Carolina’s 370,000 acres of open water, comprised of 14 major lakes and reservoirs, rivers, harbors, and beaches create a diverse aquatic landscape that appeals to every type of boater. This stunning collection of…

South Carolina, affectionately known as the Palmetto State, is a haven for boaters. Whether you’re seeking thrilling watersports or peaceful fishing retreats, South Carolina’s 370,000 acres…

Fun Fishing Facts: From Ancient Hooks to Record-Breaking Catches

One of the most popular activities to enjoy while boating is fishing. Whether you’re teaching the littles how to cast their first line or you’re a seasoned fisherman ready to bring home dinner, there’s a thing or two you might not know about this popular sport. For example, did you know that having bananas on a fishing boat is…

One of the most popular activities to enjoy while boating is fishing. Whether you’re teaching the littles how to cast their first line or you’re a seasoned fisherman ready…