Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
Galvanic Corrosion: What is it and how can we prevent it?
I was originally hoping to create a light and entertaining article about outdrive galvanic corrosion. Yet, in the end, it is corrosion. How sexy can it possibly be? Nonetheless this is an important issue that should concern ALL boaters.
First, what exactly is corrosion? Corrosion is a process of deterioration when metal components are exposed to a wet environment. This occurs both underwater and in the atmosphere. This deterioration is the process of the metal reverting to its oxide form. Steel, for example, will degrade (oxidize) back to its natural stable state – rust (iron ore).
Are you getting excited yet? If not, read on…
Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals (copper and steel in the example below) are connected and submersed in an electrolyte (water) whereby an electric charge is created, like a DC battery. Negative electrons from the negatively charged metal (anode) will flow to the more positively charged metal (cathode). Left alone, the charged metal will corrode away to nothing.
If protection for both types of metal is desired, then a third more active metal must be added – a Sacrificial Anode. The most common metal is zinc although magnesium and aluminum are also used. This active metal becomes the anode for both metals. In the example below, the zinc or aluminum sacrifices itself to protect the other two metals, hence the term “sacrificial anode”.
On your boat these sacrificial anodes will protect the aluminum outdrive from corroding away. Without proper protection your outdrive could look like this:
For your boat these anodes come in three common forms – zinc, magnesium, or aluminum. Zinc can be used in saltwater or heavily polluted waters; magnesium can be used in fresh – but NEVER in salt or brackish water; and aluminum, which can be used in ALL environments and last up to 50% longer. This begs the question of course, how can an aluminum anode protect my aluminum outdrive from corroding? The answer is the aluminum anode is composed of an aluminum alloy that is more anodic than the aluminum in the outdrive.
Which Anode Material is Right for Your Boat?
Zinc Anodes
Zinc is the most common material used in saltwater - like boating at the Jersey Shore or the southern end of the Chesapeake Bay. When used in freshwater, Zinc anodes can form a coating after only a few months of use. This coating can stop them from working. It is a good policy to change them regularly, even if they look OK. Remember, if an anode doesn’t wear away it is NOT working!
NavalloyTM (Aluminum) Anodes*
The Aluminum alloy used in anodes is very different from normal aluminum. It includes about 5% zinc and a trace of Indium, which prevents the build up of an oxide layer.
Aluminum alloy anodes provide more protection and last longer than zinc. It will continue to work in freshwater and is safe for use in salt water. Aluminum is the only anode that is safe for all applications. Use these when boating in the Delaware River near Philadelphia, the northern parts of the Chesapeake Bay, or acidic lakes like Lake Wallenpaupack.
Magnesium Anodes
Magnesium is the most active metal on the galvanic scale. It can be used in freshwater, but care must be exercised. Magnesium can over-protect aluminum hulls or outdrives in salt or brackish water or even polluted freshwater, causing paint to be lifted with resulting corrosion. Even a few hours immersion can cause severe damage. Many boaters on Cayuga Lake in New York State are switching to magnesium for extra protection.
You have now taken the time to protect your boat properly. You tied your boat up in the slip - ready for a season of boating - proud that you have taken the right precautions regarding galvanic corrosion. However, is the boat tied up along side of you protected? If not, why should you care?
Connecting into shore power connects your ground to neighboring boats. If those boats are not protected properly by suitable anodes, your boat will be protecting both yours and theirs resulting in a rapid wearing of your anodes.
Other factors that affect corrosion are pollutants in the water, salinity, temperature, and the presence of stray electrical currents from incorrectly wired or insulated electrical equipment onboard your boat.
I hope you found this explanation enlightening and maybe even a bit entertaining. A little basic knowledge about corrosion will ensure a long and happy relationship between you and your equipment.
Many thanks to the people of Performance Metals of Bechtelsville PA, makers of NavalloyTM Anodes, for the information and graphics contained in this article. For more information on their products, please visit http://www.performancemetals.com/
First, what exactly is corrosion? Corrosion is a process of deterioration when metal components are exposed to a wet environment. This occurs both underwater and in the atmosphere. This deterioration is the process of the metal reverting to its oxide form. Steel, for example, will degrade (oxidize) back to its natural stable state – rust (iron ore).
Are you getting excited yet? If not, read on…
Galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals (copper and steel in the example below) are connected and submersed in an electrolyte (water) whereby an electric charge is created, like a DC battery. Negative electrons from the negatively charged metal (anode) will flow to the more positively charged metal (cathode). Left alone, the charged metal will corrode away to nothing.
If protection for both types of metal is desired, then a third more active metal must be added – a Sacrificial Anode. The most common metal is zinc although magnesium and aluminum are also used. This active metal becomes the anode for both metals. In the example below, the zinc or aluminum sacrifices itself to protect the other two metals, hence the term “sacrificial anode”. On your boat these sacrificial anodes will protect the aluminum outdrive from corroding away. Without proper protection your outdrive could look like this: For your boat these anodes come in three common forms – zinc, magnesium, or aluminum. Zinc can be used in saltwater or heavily polluted waters; magnesium can be used in fresh – but NEVER in salt or brackish water; and aluminum, which can be used in ALL environments and last up to 50% longer. This begs the question of course, how can an aluminum anode protect my aluminum outdrive from corroding? The answer is the aluminum anode is composed of an aluminum alloy that is more anodic than the aluminum in the outdrive. Which Anode Material is Right for Your Boat?Zinc Anodes
Zinc is the most common material used in saltwater - like boating at the Jersey Shore or the southern end of the Chesapeake Bay. When used in freshwater, Zinc anodes can form a coating after only a few months of use. This coating can stop them from working. It is a good policy to change them regularly, even if they look OK. Remember, if an anode doesn’t wear away it is NOT working!
NavalloyTM (Aluminum) Anodes*
The Aluminum alloy used in anodes is very different from normal aluminum. It includes about 5% zinc and a trace of Indium, which prevents the build up of an oxide layer.
Aluminum alloy anodes provide more protection and last longer than zinc. It will continue to work in freshwater and is safe for use in salt water. Aluminum is the only anode that is safe for all applications. Use these when boating in the Delaware River near Philadelphia, the northern parts of the Chesapeake Bay, or acidic lakes like Lake Wallenpaupack.
Magnesium Anodes
Magnesium is the most active metal on the galvanic scale. It can be used in freshwater, but care must be exercised. Magnesium can over-protect aluminum hulls or outdrives in salt or brackish water or even polluted freshwater, causing paint to be lifted with resulting corrosion. Even a few hours immersion can cause severe damage. Many boaters on Cayuga Lake in New York State are switching to magnesium for extra protection.
You have now taken the time to protect your boat properly. You tied your boat up in the slip - ready for a season of boating - proud that you have taken the right precautions regarding galvanic corrosion. However, is the boat tied up along side of you protected? If not, why should you care?
Connecting into shore power connects your ground to neighboring boats. If those boats are not protected properly by suitable anodes, your boat will be protecting both yours and theirs resulting in a rapid wearing of your anodes.
Other factors that affect corrosion are pollutants in the water, salinity, temperature, and the presence of stray electrical currents from incorrectly wired or insulated electrical equipment onboard your boat.I hope you found this explanation enlightening and maybe even a bit entertaining. A little basic knowledge about corrosion will ensure a long and happy relationship between you and your equipment.
Many thanks to the people of Performance Metals of Bechtelsville PA, makers of NavalloyTM Anodes, for the information and graphics contained in this article. For more information on their products, please visit http://www.performancemetals.com/
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Blue Marsh Lake Report
I went to Blue Marsh Lake for a meeting on Tuesday night. On my way to the meeting I did a quick pass by the Dry Brooks Boat Launch. I have good news! The docks are in the water and the water level is normal. The docks have been done correctly with cleats every ten feet and bumper guards all the way around. Good job Blue Marsh Lake!
No it's not snowing. Those are raindrops on my camera lens.
Now where’s the good weather?Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Boat Handling - Caddyshack Style
Ted found this video on boat handling -
What NOT to do Caddyshack Style. "Hey you scratched my anchor"
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Propellers: Stainless or Aluminum
The two main materials used for recreational boats are either aluminum or stainless steel. While they can be used interchangeably, they do have specific purposes. Depending on the type of boat you have and what you want to do with your boat you will need to decide which material will work best for you.
Both types of material have advantages and disadvantages and some engines will really only perform well with one material or the other. A small horsepower engine (a 4cyl. sterndrive, for example) really doesn’t create enough torque to spin a SS prop as it weighs considerably more than an aluminum prop. The potential gains of the SS are negated by the fact that the engine can’t spin the prop fast enough. On the other hand, a big, high horsepower monster engine will all but require the use of a SS prop to be able to handle the high torque that the engine creates. The blades of an aluminum prop will actually deflect under the demands of engine’s higher torque, thereby rendering it much less efficient – possibly useless.
An aluminum prop has a lower initial cost and is usually less expensive to repair. However, it can also be damaged easier. While a SS prop is more expensive to purchase, it has a much longer usable life. An aluminum prop can be damaged quite easily by debris in the water or certainly by hitting the bottom; a stainless prop will more than likely chew right through sticks and other debris and not even think twice about it. It’s even possible for a SS prop to survive a light hit against rocks. A benefit that most boaters will appreciate when using a SS prop is faster acceleration, improved throttle response, more pulling power and increased fuel economy. But again, these benefits can only be realized when the engine has enough power to spin the prop efficiently.
Hitting something underwater brings up another point. What about the “shockwave” that is created by the hit and sent up through the driveshaft to your engine? Because an aluminum prop is made of softer material it will take the brunt of the hit, although it more than likely will be damaged beyond use and possibly beyond repair. A SS prop may very well survive the hit unscathed, but could send that shockwave up to your engine. However, most propellers have an internal “shock absorber” to help with this.
In the end, talking to a professional or using something like Mercury Marine’s online Propeller Selector will more than likely help to make your decision easier.
One last note: If your prop has any signs of damage – rough edges, bent blades, chips/gouges, etc. – get it repaired ASAP. Even just the tiniest amount of damage will cause the prop to be out of balance and when it is spun at thousands of RPM’s that will translate into “bad vibrations” being sent to your engine (the “shock absorber” will be of no help in this situation). Call or visit your local marine dealer or repair shop and ask about a propeller repair service.
Both types of material have advantages and disadvantages and some engines will really only perform well with one material or the other. A small horsepower engine (a 4cyl. sterndrive, for example) really doesn’t create enough torque to spin a SS prop as it weighs considerably more than an aluminum prop. The potential gains of the SS are negated by the fact that the engine can’t spin the prop fast enough. On the other hand, a big, high horsepower monster engine will all but require the use of a SS prop to be able to handle the high torque that the engine creates. The blades of an aluminum prop will actually deflect under the demands of engine’s higher torque, thereby rendering it much less efficient – possibly useless.
An aluminum prop has a lower initial cost and is usually less expensive to repair. However, it can also be damaged easier. While a SS prop is more expensive to purchase, it has a much longer usable life. An aluminum prop can be damaged quite easily by debris in the water or certainly by hitting the bottom; a stainless prop will more than likely chew right through sticks and other debris and not even think twice about it. It’s even possible for a SS prop to survive a light hit against rocks. A benefit that most boaters will appreciate when using a SS prop is faster acceleration, improved throttle response, more pulling power and increased fuel economy. But again, these benefits can only be realized when the engine has enough power to spin the prop efficiently.Hitting something underwater brings up another point. What about the “shockwave” that is created by the hit and sent up through the driveshaft to your engine? Because an aluminum prop is made of softer material it will take the brunt of the hit, although it more than likely will be damaged beyond use and possibly beyond repair. A SS prop may very well survive the hit unscathed, but could send that shockwave up to your engine. However, most propellers have an internal “shock absorber” to help with this.
In the end, talking to a professional or using something like Mercury Marine’s online Propeller Selector will more than likely help to make your decision easier.
One last note: If your prop has any signs of damage – rough edges, bent blades, chips/gouges, etc. – get it repaired ASAP. Even just the tiniest amount of damage will cause the prop to be out of balance and when it is spun at thousands of RPM’s that will translate into “bad vibrations” being sent to your engine (the “shock absorber” will be of no help in this situation). Call or visit your local marine dealer or repair shop and ask about a propeller repair service.
Monday, April 6, 2009
Beltzville Dock
Dennis wrote a great Blog entry on different types of Boat Fenders and Hangers. Plus he made two great videos. Video 1 and Video 2. It reminded me of the boat dock at Beltzville Lake. This is the only dock at the main launch ramp. How well is your boat protected?
Taken August 2008 by synderella04 at Flickr.com
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Philly, via the Delaware River
Where are some interesting places to boat? If you are new to boating, or even if you’re a veteran, 
you may wonder the same thing. Well, just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip. OK, so maybe it should be a tale of a not-so fateful trip…
There are actually quite a few places to trailer a boat to that are close to the Lehigh Valley. There are many local lakes and even the Jersey shore is not that far away. However, something that often gets over looked is the Delaware River. Typically, my family and I will make 2 or 3 trips a year to Neshaminy State Park – it is only about an hour away from Allentown, just a short distance off rte. 276. They have a very nice boat launch with 6 lanes and it drops into deep water. In fact, they have two launches, but the free one is much smaller and launches directly into the river. If you are boating in anything other than small, aluminum boat, take my advice and use the pay ramp. The small ramp is muddy and you are launching directly into the river’s current. The pay ramp is well worth the money.
Once we get on the river, we usually head south as Philly is only a 30-minute boat ride away at that point. The main point here is that we are going into Philly by boat! It really is a beautiful ride down the Delaware and once we get there we can buzz up next to the USS New Jersey –
now that’s a boat! Then we either dock right at Penn’s Landing or even at Dave & Buster’s! When we dock at Penn’s Landing, there is a crosswalk that takes you right to South Street – an absolutely fabulous place to walk around. Have you ever tried to drive around, let alone park, in downtown Philly with a car? By boat is a much more enjoyable and relaxing experience. That’s what boating is all about – relaxing and enjoying life with family and friends. When my family and I walk around, I tend to gravitate towards the multitude of quaint places to eat and drink, while my wife seems to always end up at all of the places to shop at! I look forward to these day trips every year, as they are always enjoyable.
Get out there and make some memories!
Enjoy,
Dennis Galligani
you may wonder the same thing. Well, just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip. OK, so maybe it should be a tale of a not-so fateful trip…There are actually quite a few places to trailer a boat to that are close to the Lehigh Valley. There are many local lakes and even the Jersey shore is not that far away. However, something that often gets over looked is the Delaware River. Typically, my family and I will make 2 or 3 trips a year to Neshaminy State Park – it is only about an hour away from Allentown, just a short distance off rte. 276. They have a very nice boat launch with 6 lanes and it drops into deep water. In fact, they have two launches, but the free one is much smaller and launches directly into the river. If you are boating in anything other than small, aluminum boat, take my advice and use the pay ramp. The small ramp is muddy and you are launching directly into the river’s current. The pay ramp is well worth the money.
Once we get on the river, we usually head south as Philly is only a 30-minute boat ride away at that point. The main point here is that we are going into Philly by boat! It really is a beautiful ride down the Delaware and once we get there we can buzz up next to the USS New Jersey –
now that’s a boat! Then we either dock right at Penn’s Landing or even at Dave & Buster’s! When we dock at Penn’s Landing, there is a crosswalk that takes you right to South Street – an absolutely fabulous place to walk around. Have you ever tried to drive around, let alone park, in downtown Philly with a car? By boat is a much more enjoyable and relaxing experience. That’s what boating is all about – relaxing and enjoying life with family and friends. When my family and I walk around, I tend to gravitate towards the multitude of quaint places to eat and drink, while my wife seems to always end up at all of the places to shop at! I look forward to these day trips every year, as they are always enjoyable.Get out there and make some memories!
Enjoy,
Dennis Galligani
Friday, March 27, 2009
Boat Fenders and Ways to Hang Them
Boat Fenders, or bumpers as they are often called, are an important accessory to protect your boat from damage during docking or rafting up with other boaters. They are available in many different shapes and sizes depending upon the type of boat you own. There are even various types of hardware options to hang them from your boat.
Join Dennis as he demonstrates the many choices of fender hangers.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Some Tips to Discover Your Own Boating Adventure
Last week we enjoyed a taste of spring weather. It may not have lasted long, but long enough to get the “props” turning in my mind. Many thoughts of how we can enjoy this season in our boat quickly floated by.
How about you? Have you given any thought to how boating can be a part of the warmer weather ahead? Many people will immediately conjure up images of racing up and down the lake pulling skiers and tubers all afternoon. While that can sure be loads of fun, why not consider including your boat into other fun activities as well?
Here are a few tips to get you started. For instance, why not book a dinner cruise date with your significant other – reservations for two at the best table overlooking the water, your boat! Pack a picnic meal and enjoy a beautiful sunset while gently anchored in a secluded cove. Or better yet, fire up a grill mounted right to your boat and create a lakeside barbeque. Afterward enjoy the peace and serenity of a moonlight cruise. Life on the water takes on an exciting feel once the sun goes down. 
If the two of you cannot easily escape from the rest of your clan, then take them along and reconnect! Use your boat as your personal waterfront estate. Find a cove, throw out the anchor, and spend an afternoon swimming, fishing, laughing, and just plain enjoying each other’s company. Togetherness is the only option in the confines of your boat.
Create your own vacation cruise and take a trip by boat. See new sites from an entirely new prospective this year. Frequent visitors to our blog have most likely read my entry about our summer boating trip last year. Spend an overnight, a weekend, or longer traveling by boat. There are always new ‘ports of call’ waiting to be visited.
Include your boat in your plans this summer and discover your own boating adventure. The possibilities are endless.
Have some ideas that you would like to share? Leave a comment below and let us know how you are planning to use your boat this year.
How about you? Have you given any thought to how boating can be a part of the warmer weather ahead? Many people will immediately conjure up images of racing up and down the lake pulling skiers and tubers all afternoon. While that can sure be loads of fun, why not consider including your boat into other fun activities as well?
Here are a few tips to get you started. For instance, why not book a dinner cruise date with your significant other – reservations for two at the best table overlooking the water, your boat! Pack a picnic meal and enjoy a beautiful sunset while gently anchored in a secluded cove. Or better yet, fire up a grill mounted right to your boat and create a lakeside barbeque. Afterward enjoy the peace and serenity of a moonlight cruise. Life on the water takes on an exciting feel once the sun goes down. 
If the two of you cannot easily escape from the rest of your clan, then take them along and reconnect! Use your boat as your personal waterfront estate. Find a cove, throw out the anchor, and spend an afternoon swimming, fishing, laughing, and just plain enjoying each other’s company. Togetherness is the only option in the confines of your boat.
Create your own vacation cruise and take a trip by boat. See new sites from an entirely new prospective this year. Frequent visitors to our blog have most likely read my entry about our summer boating trip last year. Spend an overnight, a weekend, or longer traveling by boat. There are always new ‘ports of call’ waiting to be visited.
Include your boat in your plans this summer and discover your own boating adventure. The possibilities are endless.
Have some ideas that you would like to share? Leave a comment below and let us know how you are planning to use your boat this year.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Onboard Weather Forecasting
A US Power Squadron Seminar
Changing weather conditions can convert what was a delightful day on the water into a real challenge. Forecasting what weather you will encounter is one of the top priorities for safe boating.
Should we go out? When should we come in? These are important questions, but some fundamental understandings of the weather can help you make these decisions. That’s what this seminar is all about.
While not a course in weather, this seminar explains how just using your own senses can help you determine what conditions you will encounter where you are.
By all means, a forecast is important. It will tell you what weather systems are headed your way, but they are challenged to tell exactly where and when conditions will change. Add your own observations and you have an extra edge. Add a couple of instruments and you can verify your observations. The seminar explains weather systems, how to understand clouds and their changes, using changing wind direction, temperature, and pressure to hone in on emerging weather fronts. The seminar includes the McGraw-Hill Onboard Weather Forecasting waterproof Captain’s Quick Guide to take aboard your boat.
Join us on Thursday, April 29th, 2010 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm for this fun, interesting, and very useful course.
Instruction is FREE. Course materials are $21.
Seating is limited so please reserve your seat today by calling us at 610-433-1606 or email at ted@petersmarine.com.
Boat Handling under Power
A US Power Squadron Seminar
Do you know what is the best way to approach a dock? Now, what if the wind were blowing or the current was pushing your boat, would you be confident of how best to handle the situation?
We all like to think that we are the master of our domain - the Captain of our ship - but sometimes a little extra knowledge can go a long way to improving all of our boating skills. Even experienced boaters will walk away from this course with an increased confidence.
Join us on Thursday, May 6th, 2010 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm for an instructional classroom seminar on how to depart and dock under a variety of conditions as well as all about trimming a boat while underway. Seminar materials include a waterproof USPS Captain's Quick Guide.
Instruction is FREE. Course materials are $25.
Seating is limited so call us today to reserve your seat at 610-433-1606 or email us at ted@petersmarine.com
Do you know what is the best way to approach a dock? Now, what if the wind were blowing or the current was pushing your boat, would you be confident of how best to handle the situation?We all like to think that we are the master of our domain - the Captain of our ship - but sometimes a little extra knowledge can go a long way to improving all of our boating skills. Even experienced boaters will walk away from this course with an increased confidence.
Join us on Thursday, May 6th, 2010 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm for an instructional classroom seminar on how to depart and dock under a variety of conditions as well as all about trimming a boat while underway. Seminar materials include a waterproof USPS Captain's Quick Guide.
Instruction is FREE. Course materials are $25.
Seating is limited so call us today to reserve your seat at 610-433-1606 or email us at ted@petersmarine.com
Using VHF & VHF/DSC Marine Radios
A US Power Squadron Seminar
Learn the proper use of VHF radio communication.
Join us on Saturday, March 6th, 2010 from 10:00am to Noon for a relaxed and informative instructional seminar on the proper way to communicate via VHF radio. Everyone on board should be familiar with this important piece of safety equipment.
Instruction is FREE. Course materials are $25.
Seating is limited so call us today to reserve your seat at 610-433-1606 or email us at ted@petersmarine.com
VHF radio is the mainstay of coastal communication and essential for emergency communications. Digital Selective Calling (DSC) is rapidly becoming a reality as more Coast Guard Rescue 21 System operations go live. Currently, the mid Atlantic coast is operational with DSC. The Gulf region will be operational early next year and all Coast Guard Cutters will be DSC equipped by next year.
DSC vastly simplifies and improves rescue and routine call signaling – making it easier to make a call while the system frees up Channel 16 for essential communications. However, you need to know how to use it. This seminar answers those needs and explains basic VHF operation. A CD is included with a DSC Simulator that allows you to practice on your computer at home. A handy waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain’s Quick Guide Using VHF is included with essential information that you should have aboard, which will explain to anyone on your crew how to use the radio.
Learn the proper use of VHF radio communication.
Join us on Saturday, March 6th, 2010 from 10:00am to Noon for a relaxed and informative instructional seminar on the proper way to communicate via VHF radio. Everyone on board should be familiar with this important piece of safety equipment.
Instruction is FREE. Course materials are $25.
Seating is limited so call us today to reserve your seat at 610-433-1606 or email us at ted@petersmarine.com
VHF radio is the mainstay of coastal communication and essential for emergency communications. Digital Selective Calling (DSC) is rapidly becoming a reality as more Coast Guard Rescue 21 System operations go live. Currently, the mid Atlantic coast is operational with DSC. The Gulf region will be operational early next year and all Coast Guard Cutters will be DSC equipped by next year.
DSC vastly simplifies and improves rescue and routine call signaling – making it easier to make a call while the system frees up Channel 16 for essential communications. However, you need to know how to use it. This seminar answers those needs and explains basic VHF operation. A CD is included with a DSC Simulator that allows you to practice on your computer at home. A handy waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain’s Quick Guide Using VHF is included with essential information that you should have aboard, which will explain to anyone on your crew how to use the radio.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Lake Wallenpaupack Real Estate Resource…
I have been reading Karen’s blog for sometime now. She is a realtor located at beautiful Lake Wallenpaupack in Pike County. I’ve learned a good deal about the Lake’s many available properties through this blog. She also has great information about local lake events and new store openings.
Great job Karen! Keep up the good work!
Karen’s blog can be found at: http://pikewaynepablog.com/Monday, March 16, 2009
US Power Squadron Boating Course
The Squadron Boating Course - by US Power Squadron
ARE YOU AN AVID BOATER LOOKING TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
This course goes BEYOND basic boating information and touches on the details of VHF Radio use, understanding Navigational Aids, Chart Reading, GPS Navgation, Adverse Weather Boating, and MUCH MORE....
The US Power Squadron will be offering their Squadron Boating Course here at the Peters Marine Safe Boating Classroom. Whether you skipper your own cruiser or paddle a kayak, this COMPREHENSIVE course is intended for ALL boaters. In fact, it is meant to be of interest to the whole family, and we encourage your family to attend as a group. It covers the basics you need to know to safely and legally operate your boat or PWC. We believe in safe boating. So if you ever wanted to learn some basic rules of boating and make yourself LEGAL on the water, call us and reserve your seat today.
The Squadron Boating Course:
6 Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
September 17th, 24th, October 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd
Must attend all dates as different topics are covered at each session.
The Squadron Boating Course:
6 Thursday Evenings from 7pm to 9pm
September 17th, 24th, October 1st, 8th, 15th, and 22nd
Must attend all dates as different topics are covered at each session.
Instruction is FREE.
Book and Materials are $50.
Reserve your seat today by calling us at 610-433-1606.
Or email us at ted@petersmarine.com
PA Safe Boater Courses
Learn Safe Boating at Peters Marine Service!
The PA Safe Boater Course is a basic introduction to safe boating and meets today's requirements of boater certification for Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
This course is FREE!
After successful completion of this course you will receive a temporary PA Safety Education Certificate. This certificate can then be used to apply for a permanent PA Boating Safety Education Card - a $10 fee to the PA Fish and Boat Commission.
Basic Facts:
Who can attend this course? Any PA resident 12 years of age or older.
Is this required to operate a PWC (Jet Ski) in Pennsylvania? Yes, this certificate is required to operate a PWC in Pennsylvania.
Is this required to operate a motorboat in Pennsylvania? Yes, if you where born after January 1st, 1982.
Is this course recognized nationwide? Yes, the PA Safety Education Course is recognized nationwide.
Basic Facts:
Who can attend this course? Any PA resident 12 years of age or older.
Is this required to operate a PWC (Jet Ski) in Pennsylvania? Yes, this certificate is required to operate a PWC in Pennsylvania.
Is this required to operate a motorboat in Pennsylvania? Yes, if you where born after January 1st, 1982.
Is this course recognized nationwide? Yes, the PA Safety Education Course is recognized nationwide.
Special note: The State of New Jersey requires a Safety Certificate for all ages.
Join us during these upcoming course dates:
August 27th and September 3rd - Thurs Eve 6 - 10pm - OPEN
Attendance on BOTH days is required to receive your certificate.
Reserve your seat today - Call us at 610-433-1606. Or email us at ted@petersmarine.com
Friday, March 13, 2009
March Madness at our Service Department
Need to get your boat ready for the season? You know it will be here before too long.
So why not get it ready BEFORE those warm days arrive so you are ready to hit the water running!
Schedule spring maintenance on your boat or trailer for MARCH and beat the rush.
We will even give you a minimum of $50 OFF your service bill --
15% OFF if over $500.
Call our service team for details at 610-821-0118.
So why not get it ready BEFORE those warm days arrive so you are ready to hit the water running!
Schedule spring maintenance on your boat or trailer for MARCH and beat the rush.
We will even give you a minimum of $50 OFF your service bill --
15% OFF if over $500.
Call our service team for details at 610-821-0118.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Blue Marsh Lake Report - March
On Saturday I took a trip out to Blue Marsh Lake in Reading. With the warm weather this past weekend I was thinking about boating. Of course it's way too early for that! Everyone will be happy to know the lake is still there. The trees and grass are brown, there are no docks in the water, and the water level is low. However, the lake is still there.
I was surprised to find I was not the only one thinking about boating. I witnessed several boats out on the lake! Granted they where fishing not skiing. But they where boating! Also to my surprised I found one of our customers AJ Devine walking around the lakeshore. He also is getting the boating itch. One thing AJ and I did notice was that the lake level was lower than normal. A quick call to the Ranger Station and Ranger Kathy revealed the lake is down about 6 feet, which is correct for this time of year. It will be back up to it's normal level when boating season starts. That's good because my boat would not like all those rocks.
On my way out of the Lake I noticed a sign for the Visitors Center. I had a little extra time so I decided to see what it was like. The Visitors center sits high up on a hill overlooking the Dam and Lake. It's a great view! Inside the structure is a great amount of information about the Lake, Dam, and surrounding area. If you still are not ready to go boating and want a nice place to just enjoy the view plus learn a little history this is a great spot.
Thanks for reading the Blue Marsh Lake Report!
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Knots, Bends, and Hitches - A How To SEMINAR
YOU CAN tie knots like an old salty mariner!
How often have you said, “I wish I knew how to tie a knot that will hold”?
Join us on Saturday, March 7th from 10am to Noon for this hands-on “learn to tie knots” program geared to a wide range of audiences.
You will receive the USPS guide Knots, Bends, and Hitches for Mariners, a copy of the presentation slide notes, and a kit including a die-cut knot board with two lengths of line. Participants WILL; learn about knots, learn to tie a set of the most useful knots, and then get to take the whole package home to practice.
Hey, it's WINTER why not spend a little time thinking about springtime and boating! Join us and have fun tying knots, swaping stories, and enjoying the company of good people with similar interests! Afterward you can tell everyone you meet that you tied one on at Peters Marine.
The instruction is FREE. Course material is $30.
Seating is Limited so Call Us Today to Reserve Your Seat
(610) 433-1606 or email
Thursday, February 5, 2009
How to Use a GPS - Seminar
Optimize Your Boating Experience, Learn to Use Your GPS!
Where: Peters Marine's Boating Safety and Skills Classroom, 1402 Union Blvd, Allentown, PA
Cost: $27 Materials Fee (Participants will receive a copy of the USPS GPS Guide and a waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain’s Quick Guide Using GPS to take aboard to remind you of the steps, or to show another of your crew how to use your GPS.)
CALL US TODAY to RESERVE your seat: 610-433-1606
Or send us an email to ted@petersmarine.com
GPS has become a common tool for navigation. However using GPS on the water is distinctly different from a moving map display in your car.
This seminar explains the principles of waypoint navigation which you will use. It then shows you how to relate the GPS to your charts which provide essential information about what is around you.
The seminar also shows you how to operate your GPS – what the buttons do, what the screens show, and how to access the functions you need. A handheld GPS is used as the demonstration model, but all GPS receivers function similarly. By the time you have completed the seminar, you will be able to store waypoints into your GPS, activate them for navigation, and use GPS to keep you on a safe, pre-qualified course of your choosing.
You’ll also get some tips for choosing a GPS if you don’t currently own one.
Participants will receive a copy of the USPS GPS Guide and a waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain’s Quick Guide Using GPS to take aboard to remind you of the steps, or to show another of your crew how to use your GPS.
Where: Peters Marine's Boating Safety and Skills Classroom, 1402 Union Blvd, Allentown, PA
Cost: $27 Materials Fee (Participants will receive a copy of the USPS GPS Guide and a waterproof McGraw-Hill Captain’s Quick Guide Using GPS to take aboard to remind you of the steps, or to show another of your crew how to use your GPS.)
CALL US TODAY to RESERVE your seat: 610-433-1606
Or send us an email to ted@petersmarine.com
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