Customer Tips
Learn about boat handling, seamanship, maintenance, fishing, dining and more with these handy tips.
Boat Maintenance Tips For Fall
If you live where the temperature drops below freezing, it’s important to winterize all of your boat systems. Thanks to BoatU.S. for this general winterizing checklist:EnginesFill installed fuel tanks and add stabilizerFlush engine(s) with fresh water and applicable hose adapterStore engine(s) in lowest positionInspect/replace anodesGeneratorChange oil and filterChange fuel filters/separatorsCheck coolant level in freshwater-cooling system and add coolant if necessaryRun non-toxic antifreeze through raw water-cooling systemMake sure water strainers are filled with non-toxic antifreezeOther SystemsFlush and fill air conditioning system with non-toxic antifreezeCabin and HeadPump out holding tank and add non-toxic antifreeze to headDrain water heaterDrain freshwater system and run non-toxic antifreeze through itRun non-toxic antifreeze through fish box refrigeration cooling water supplyDrain shower sump, washdown system, and other places where water poolsRemove foodOpen lockers to airVerify bilge pump, high water alarm (if equipped), and switch operate properlyClean and dry bilgesSecure all ports and hatchesTurn off all switchable circuit breakers and battery select switchesFor more information, check with your dealer.Get a Jump On SpringBefore storing your boat for the winter, take note of any maintenance, repairs, or upgrades you’d like completed before next season. If it’s not something that has to wait until spring, consider getting it done now. Come spring, you may have to get in line for these services, thus delaying the start of your boating season.Live in a Warmer Climate?Even if you don’t experience a freezing winter, it is still good to use this time to go over your boat to ensure everything is in good working order. Here are a few things you might want to have your dealer check:Battery life/connections – Is it time for new batteries?Seacocks – Are they working properly?Overboard drains – Are they all connected and draining overboard?Electronics – Are there any updates available?Staying on top of your boat’s maintenance will ensure you enjoy more days on the water!
Read More
Know Your Boat’s Capacity Limits
A great day on the water starts with keeping everyone comfortable and confident. Knowing your boat’s capacity limits ensures smooth handling, great performance, and peace of mind for every trip.What Capacity Plates Tell YouFederal law requires capacity plates on powerboats under 20 feet. Grady-White also follows National Marine Manufacturers Association and American Boat & Yacht Council standards by installing capacity plates on boats smaller than 26 feet. Boats 26 feet and over are considered Yacht Certified, leaving the number of passengers to the discretion of the captain.Whether your boat does or does not have a capacity limit, here’s some insight to help keep you and your crew safe.Your boat's capacity plate highlights three simple limits:Maximum number of peopleMaximum total weight (passengers + gear + engine)Maximum engine horsepowerFor larger boats without a capacity plate, a simple rule of thumb is to only host as many guests as you have dedicated seats for.Remember: Gear Counts, Too!It’s easy to focus on headcounts, but don't forget that heavy coolers, extra fuel, water toys, and fishing gear all add to your overall weight.A quick way to make sure your load is well-balanced:Check the Scuppers: Your deck drains (scuppers) should sit comfortably above the waterline while docked. If they're sitting low, it may be a good idea to rebalance gear or lighten the load.Watch the Weather: Smooth conditions call for standard loading, but if rougher waters are in the forecast, running a bit lighter helps your boat perform at its absolute best.Quick Pre-Departure ChecklistCheck the Plate: Keep gear and guests within listed limits.One Seat Per Guest: Ensure everyone has a secure spot to ride.Adjust for the Sea: Lighten up when conditions get sporty.
Read More
Pro Tips for Navigating Congested Waterways
It’s the height of summer, and it feels like everyone with a boat is out on the water. While navigating a crowded creek, a busy channel, or a congested dock can test even the most seasoned captain’s patience, a few smart habits will keep your day stress-free.Here’s your quick checklist for playing defense in heavy waterway traffic:Prep Your Sound Signals: Before you untie the lines, test your horn or ensure your air horn/whistle is within arm's reach. In tight quarters, a quick blast can prevent a major headache.Deputize Your Passengers: Don't captain alone. Ask your crew to act as extra eyes to watch for sudden movements, floating debris, or hidden anchor lines. Just remind them to stay safely seated so your sightlines stay clear.Ditch the Sudden Moves: When traffic builds, slow down and keep your steering predictable. Smooth, deliberate turns let the boats around you know exactly what you’re doing. It’s also helpful to let your passengers know when you’re making a turn so if you hit a wake or a wave, they’ll be prepared.Pull Over to Check the Screen: If you need to dial in a coordinate, look at your radar, or adjust your electronics, treat it like driving a car—pull out of the main channel and idle down before taking your eyes off the water.Anchor Strategically: If you’re dropping anchor to swim or raft up, stay clear of busy channels. Give your boat, and your swimmers, a safe buffer zone from passing wakes.Practice Ramp Patience: Expect delays at the docks and boat ramps. Give yourself extra time so you don't feel rushed and always leave plenty of maneuvering room for the boat next to you.Even the most seasoned captains benefit from a quick refresher before the weekend rush.Also see our quick guide to buoys and markers to keep your navigation sharp.
Read More
Don’t Get Turned Around: Is Your Waterway Actually Open?
We all stop and check the weather before heading out on our boats. But has it ever occurred to you that a portion of your route may be closed to mariners? It might come as a surprise, but there are occasions when the coast guard closes waterways. Before you leave the dock, it’s a good idea to know if your boat travels will be impacted by any closings. Fortunately, there’s a simple way to find out.The Coast Guard publishes Local Notices to Mariners here. Just click on your region and the closings will be listed.While you’re at it, why not check the weather one more time? The National Weather Service gives you a quick overview of your weather, any marine weather hazards, and the tides and water temperatures for your state.A quick check of both these sites will lessen your chances of being caught off guard and having your day ruined by unexpected weather and waterway closures.
Read More
Teamwork Makes Boating Better
By Randy Vance Author, Power Boating for DummiesLet’s talk about boating safety. Before you all respond in a collective sigh, stay with me — this isn't just about life jackets, flares, or fire extinguishers. It's about working together, which is just as critical to a safe and enjoyable day on the water.Boating safely begins with a mentoring skipper who knows how to gauge his crew, understands their limitations and guides them calmly as the day progresses.Let's break it down.Make sure everyone on board knows what to expect as the day begins, so if unexpected moments arise, everyone knows their role and how to respond.At the dock, with crew eager to board, it's time to talk about the first line of protection: life jackets.In most states, life jackets must be worn by young crew under 13 years of age while underway in a vessel under 26 feet in length. State regulations can vary and supersede Federal rules, but where no state regulation exists, the Federal guideline is the law. Check your local boating laws here.This discussion is the skipper's responsibility and the most important part of boating safety: Communication.I once cruised with friends in Alaska, from Juneau around Admiralty Island and back along the inside passage. My shipmates were all members of the US Coast Guard Auxiliary. Before we shoved off, our skipper, Mike Folkerts, filed a float plan, letting people ashore know when we were leaving, when we'd return, and where we were going, along with a list of the crew. The more people on dry land who know your itinerary, the safer you all remain.From the moment we left the dock, crisp communication rang out. From the bridge, Mike reported his every intention as the crew moved about making ready."Permission to retrieve the forward fender?""Permission granted.""Moving forward to retrieve the fender."Your language doesn't have to be Coast Guard formal, but it should be just as concise.If your kids or other passengers want to move to the bow, remind them how important it is for the skipper to know before they move. Without that heads-up, a passenger could shift weight just as the skipper executes a course change — with real consequences. Keep everyone informed of what's coming.The captain's heaviest responsibility is keeping watch over every member of the crew and keeping them informed of intentions. A sharp turn should be announced well before it's executed. "Turning left!" is a fair call, and probably wiser than "Turning to port" when guests may not know the nautical jargon.Speed changes should be announced too. Keep your crew informed and let them know their verbal acknowledgement is appreciated.Docking is an intimidating moment for new boaters and confusing for unfamiliar crew. It can be hazardous when untrained helpers get overeager. People are very poor fenders. A hand or arm won't stop the momentum of a boat, whether it's 5,000 pounds or 15,000. Keep fenders handy and assign their placement and retrieval to specific crew members. Many Grady-White models have multiple options for fender storage, making them easy to retrieve when you need them.Before coming alongside the dock, brief your crew on how best to help. Often the answer is simply, "Please remain seated until we're secured." If you want help with fenders, call crew members by name, tell them where to place it, and ask for verbal confirmation. In an unfamiliar port, have the crew hang a fender over the side and hold the line so it can be repositioned as needed.On leadership: the dynamics of every crew are different, and on a boat things happen fast. There's rarely time for a conference before coordinated action is required. For couples who share the helm, exchanging skipper and first mate roles from day to day can be valuable. It ensures parity and, more importantly, grows the skills of both team members.Good teamwork and communication go a very long way in making the difference between a high-stress situation on the water or a relaxing day with family and friends. With boating season upon us, now is a great time to round up your crew and get on the same page with your boating knowledge.
Read More
Maintenance 101: Essential Boat Engine Care for Longevity
Keeping your boat engine in peak condition ensures every day on the water is safe, fun, and stress-free. While certified dealers handle complex mechanical services, owners play a critical role in routine care. Following these foundational steps will protect your investment.The Importance of Routine Engine MaintenanceProper maintenance is the best way to ensure the long-term performance and high resale value of your boat. For comprehensive schedules and expert tips, the Yamaha Maintenance Matters website is an invaluable resource for outboard owners.Combating Corrosion: The Engine FlushCorrosion is a primary threat to marine engines—and it isn't just a saltwater issue. Freshwater minerals can also cause internal buildup over time. To maximize engine life, it is optimal to flush your engine after every use.Grady-White simplifies this essential task with factory installed features including:Remote Engine Flush System: Standard on models from 2019 to present, a convenient hose attachment is located in the cockpit area (location varies by model).Easy Access: This system allows you to connect a standard water hose to flush your engines with ease from the cockpit, rather than having to reach around your engines or take your boat out of the water.Older Models: If you own a model produced before 2019, your owner’s manual provides straightforward instructions for manual flushing to achieve the same protective results. Key Benefits of Regular Flushing:Removes Salt & Debris: Clears out corrosive salt crystals and silt from the cooling passages.Prevents Overheating: Ensures unobstructed water flow to keep the engine running at the correct temperature.Extends Component Life: Protects internal metal surfaces from premature wear and oxidation.For a deeper dive into protecting your vessel, review these specific steps to prevent engine corrosion.
Read More