Accessories for a new boat?

[BamaAlum97]

I've recently purchased a new boat. Can anyone help and give me a list of what accessories I should be purchasing along with it. I already have all of the required safety items. I am looking mostly for things like dock lines, anchor, fendors, etc...I have some stuff already, but I am afraid that I am missing something...Also, the number and sizes of lines would be helpful.

Thanks.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

it really depends on the type and area you are boating. always good to have 2 fenders, 3 dock lines. and atleast 40 feet of bow line when launching and loading.

 

[KnotKnormal]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

It may sound like overkill but I would suggest the 1/2 inch braided dock line. It won't stretch and is easier on your boat (chafing) than twisted line. You will not be replacing this dock line for years to come, even if you're planning on tying up to a slip all summer.

I like to use 3 fenders, two 6 inch ones for the front and back cleat, and one 8 inch one for the middle cleat. I highly recommend buying separate fender lines so you always have line on the fender when you need it.

As for an anchor, look at buying a complete set to save a little money. You need for a boats to 24', a 9lb. fluke anchor with 6' Anchor Chain and either 100' or 150' of anchor line 3/8" in diameter. You can pick up a set for around $100.

Check out WestMarine.com or Overtons.com and they'll ship it to you within a week.

Good luck with your new boat!

 

[KnotKnormal]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

I should have mentioned...

I'd buy at least 3 and probably 4 of the 1/2 inch braided dock lines and get them 15' in length. It is nice to have two for each side and it is easier tying up two 15 footers than one long 25 footer.

 

[stevewolverton]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

I too would recommend a nice anchor. Depending on the type of boating area (sand bottom, rocky, etc.) will affect what type of an anchor you should purchase. I use my anchor all the time while switching skiers, resting, or just watching other boats run by. Enjoy your new boat!

 

[External Combustion]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

A boat hook is unbelievably handy. If you don't already have a paddle, then you can get a fiberglass one that has a boathook on the handle. It is a good compromise combination for smaller boats. You might also get a throwable life ring and line.

 

[shorts&chanclas]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

everything said before + Small first aid kit, flashlight, small tool kit (screwdriver, crescent, etc), an extra quart of gear lube, extra fuses, owner's manual, log book. I would go with 3 bumpers and at least 4 dock lines.

Depending what you are into - Binding slime, waterproof camera, sunblock, lip balm, hand held marine radio, oh and don't forget those water cannons or supersoakers. next to the ladder they are probably the most used accessory on my boat.

Congrats on the new boat. Consider scotchguarding (or whatever the products are out there) all of your carpets to give it just a touch more water repelling capability.

 

[cbavier]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

it really depends on the type and area you are boating. always good to have 2 fenders, 3 dock lines. and atleast 40 feet of bow line when launching and loading.

I have a 50 ft 3/4 inch dock line ( shore to tree), two 100 ft anchors lines with rodes and anchors All of the next ropes are all half inch ropes. Two 50 ft extra lines. Two Dock to cleat lines One about ten ft long and one about five ft long for tying off to dock. Five fenders. Two between the boat and the dock and three if I need them to keep irresponsible boats (boaters boats) away from my boat. One Orange launch and retrieve rope about 40 ft long. The Dock Lines I tie up and leave on the dock all summer. I also have a 100 ft Life ring Toss rope. The Anchor lines I coil in a One gallon Ice cream pail and I also have an extra one gallon ice cream pail. A P pail a necessity. I have 6 Adult Life jackets and three Kids ( under 90 Lbs) life jackets.
One oar. Flashlight, Rechargeable Spotlight, Cold Weather Gear for two and rain gear for me. Extra prop, nut and washer. 12 volts car vac. Hand Bilge pump for emergency in case Auto bilge fails. Trash can. An emergency first aide kit, all safety Coast Guard items. I think that about covers it. Plus all my fishing equipment and that's a full boat.

 

[BamaAlum97]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

Thanks for all the great suggestions...I guess I should have listed off the things that I already have...

Four 15' .5" braided dock lines
2 six inch fenders
5 adult PFDs
3 child PFDs
1 throwable PFD

I am in the process of trying to select an anchor. We will mostly be on a Lake with a muddy bottom. We've rented a slip w/a lift at the local marina.

 

[woosterken]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

you should throw in a fire extinguisher or two also.

woosterken

 

[BamaAlum97]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

you should throw in a fire extinguisher or two also.

woosterken

I have the fire extinguisher that came with the boat...I have thought about a second one, but have not purchased on yet...

 

[jennis9]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

May not be the type of accessory you think if first: your certificate from the boaters safety course.

You may also want to consider trying to "float" your keys... at home. Test your key ring out in a deep sink and make sure that it floats like it should and you don't have too much weight on it. I also like to have a weathertight case for my fishing license, registration card and cell phone on the dash.

 

[BamaAlum97]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

May not be the type of accessory you think if first: your certificate from the boaters safety course.

You may also want to consider trying to "float" your keys... at home. Test your key ring out in a deep sink and make sure that it floats like it should and you don't have too much weight on it. I also like to have a weathertight case for my fishing license, registration card and cell phone on the dash.

That's a great idea about testing the floating key ring...I will most definitely do that...

I've already taken the boaters safety course...made my wife take it also.

 

[brandonsb22]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

small toolbox with the essentials

 

[WTL]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

Always have some tools, I take 2 pair of vise grips, knife, scissors, duck tape, jb weld, spark plug tool and a flashlight for starters. Working on stuff without the right tools is bad enough on land.

Oh, and ROLL TIDE!!! UA Class of '06 right here.

 

[204 Escape]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

The state law here, as I'm sure everywhere requires a secondary sounding device (another horn). We bought one at Bass Pro, that is re-chargeable. Nothing new right ?? BUT, it is re-chargeable with air from your air compressor !!!!!!!!! AND, it cost about the same as the others. (It'd save you $$ down the road)

We got some really nice dock ropes from LARSON, I believe they are 15' ropes. Very nice ropes !!!!!

 

[Varago]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

Something you may want to think about is NOT getting a non-streach dockline. Back in my sailing days I lost a cleat to a braided dacron dockline. Docklines as well as anchor lines should streach and the best for streach is 3 strand nylon. Let the line take the shock and not your cleat (they do rip out).

Dave L

ps rope what is a rope ??

hmm sorry my old sailing days just dont stop

 

[orion25]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

A good cooler to hold the snacks and beverages...............

 

[ziggy]

Re: Accessories for a new boat?

this is a checklist from the us powersquadron.

Boater?s Pre-Departure Checklist
Know your vessel. Before departure, always be sure your vessel is in good working
condition and properly equipped for emergencies. Avoid inconvenience and potential
danger by taking a few minutes to check the following:
Minimum Federal Required Equipment
State Registration Documentation
State Numbering Displayed
Certificate of Documentation
Lifejackets (PFDs) - one for each person
Throwable PFD
Visual Distress Signals
Fire Extinguishers (fully charged)
Proper Ventilation
Backfire Flame Arrestor
Sound Producing Device(s)
Navigation lights
Oil Pollution Placard
Garbage Placard
Marine Sanitation Device
Navigation rules
Any Additional State Requirements
Besides meeting the federal requirements, prudent boaters carry additional safety
equipment. The following additional items are suggested depending on the size, location
and use of your boat:
Recommended Equipment
VHF Marine Radio
Anchor and Tackle
Chart(s) of Area & Navigation Tools
Magnetic Compass
Fenders and Boat Hook
Mooring Lines and Heaving line
Manual Bilge Pump or Bailing Device
Tool Kit
Spare Parts (fuses, spark plugs, belts, etc)
Spare Battery (fully charged)
Recommended Equipment (Cont.)
Spare Propeller
Extra Fuel & Oil
Alternate Propulsion (paddles/oar)
Flashlight & Batteries
Search Light
First Aid Kit
Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Mirror
Food and Water
Extra Clothing
AM - FM Radio
Cellular Phone
Binoculars
Safety Checks and Tests
Test Marine Radio (voice call)
Test Navigation and Anchor Lights
Test Steering (free movement)
Test Tilt / Trim
Test Bilge Pump
Check for any excessive water in bilges
Check Fuel System for any leaks
Check Engine Fluids
Ensure Boat Plug is properly installed
Check Electrical System
Check Galley / Heating Systems
Check Gauges (i.e. batteries)
Check Fuel Amount
Ensure Anchor is ready for use
Check load of vessel and secure gear from shifting
Ensure passengers know Emergency Procedures and
Equipment Location
Everyone put on a Lifejacket to check for proper fitting.
Check the Weather Forecast
File a Float Plan with family or friend