With so many different types of boats available, we bring you this beginner's guide to Motorboats. We hope it will help you make the right choice when buying a boat.
If you're thinking of buying a motorboat, take a look a this guide to motorboating first.
What is a motorboat? - A motorboat is a power driven vessel with an internal combustion engine driving a jet pump or propeller. Even a sailboat, while it has an engine running, is technically a power driven vessel. The term motor boating refers to motorised cruising vessels used for leisure.
A little bit of history! - Many names contributed to the invention of the motorboat. Charles Raymond Hunt introduced the v-shaped hull, one of the motorboats most important advances. Renato Levi is given credit for the evolution of the motorboat, particularly developing unique concepts - improving the performance of racing boats. Rudolph Diesel also helped make advancements in motorboat industry. He is best known for inventing a 25-horsepower, four-stroke, single vertical compression engine.
Types of motorboats - A speedboat is a small motorboat designed to move quickly. It is often used in races and for water skiing. Even inflatable boats and dinghies with a motor attached are classed as types of motorboats.
There are 3 popular version of motorboats, which are: inboard, inboard / outboard and outboard. If the engine is fitted within the boat, it's called a powerplant. An outboard motor has a removable section attached to the boat.
Motor cruisers offer a range of amenities, depending on the number of passengers and the type of the cruising. They range from small vessels equipped with basic essentials for a short cruise to much larger holiday crafts complete with shower, cooker and sleeping accommodation.
Where to begin - All first time motorboat cruisers should have some form of training. As a rule, the larger the motorboat and the longer the journey, the greater the level of training is required.
Beginners can rent small vessels for a short cruise, without needing much training. This will help you get to grips with the basic motorboat controls. Courses are available for beginners which cover the basic areas of handling the boat. The Royal Yachting Association offers three levels of courses, from a two day helmsman course offering basic boat handling, helmsmanship and engine maintenance to a five-day coastal skipper course.
A great way to start motorboating is to combine your motor boating course with a holiday, either in the UK or across the European mainland. Holiday companies can offer RYA training centres with courses and certificates.
Where to use your motorboat - Motorboating is the perfect way to explore Britain's many rivers 'the Norfolk Broads, the Yorkshire dales, the historic city of York and the River Thames.
You don't need to limit cruising to the UK. Many European countries offer an interesting waterway journey.
Motor boating can be a fun and relaxing pastime. Unlike sailboats, there is no need to wait for the right wind conditions before setting sail.
Beneteau Sailing Boats
The Beneteau company formed over 100 years ago on the quays of Croix-de-Vie, Vendée. For 120 years, innovation as been at the heart of Beneteau's craftmanship. And it is ground-breaking force of Benjamin Beneteau which drives the 2,500 employees. To this day, over 42,000 Beneteau yachts have been created.
Safety equipment: Danbouy
Bring able to clearly spot a man overboard, especially in dark conditions and rough weather, is essential. A horseshoe lifebelt is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment for any boat owner. Having a buoyancy device at hand for anyone in an overboard situation should be your top priority.
Navigating the Waters of Boat Security: The Rise of Alarm Systems
Ensuring the safety of your boat, especially when it's moored away from your watchful eye, is paramount. With the advent of technology, mobile phone and satellite communication alarm systems have emerged as effective guardians for your maritime investment. These systems not only protect against theft but also monitor various potential hazards, keeping you informed and your vessel secure.
