What’s true of real estate in 2009 is also true of the boating world: It’s a buyer’s market. So if you’ve always wanted to hit the open water but didn’t think you could afford it, now may be the right time to reconsider.
Prices on new boats dropped steeply in the past year as used boats flooded the market, so start your search at a boat show or local dealer, where you can find surprisingly good deals on new models. For instance, Chaparral Boats, a subsidiary of Marine Products(MPX Quote – Cramer on MPX – Stock Picks), is running a “Wow Now” sales event with cash rebates and free extended engine warranties. Marine retailers like MarineMax(HZO Quote – Cramer on HZO – Stock Picks) can help you choose and finance the right boat. By cruising shows and dealers, you can get a firsthand look at different models and ask questions about them…Â More info
Conditions were trying, very trying, with lots of thrills, spills and ditches; , equipment lost overboard, breakages on boats and sailors bodies as they struggled with huge lumpy dumpy seas and high winds which started at 18 knots from the south west and reached 24 knots by the end of the race. Only the experienced sailors made it to the finish line, but those who did enjoyed blood curdling breath taking magic reaches, if somewhat hairy with the balance (see pics).
Eighteen boats consisting of one Sailboard, two Gwen 12’s, three pacers, five lasers and seven Holdies started to contest the 5th Heat Club Championship and… More infoÂ
[ad#cor1]
LAS VEGAS – The National Park Service has reported visitation to Lake Mead National Recreation Area only decreased by about a quarter percent from 7,898,592 visitors in 2007 to 7,877,581 in 2008. The park saw an upturn in visitation this fall after a decrease over the summer months.
“Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a year-round destination. We have a wealth of inexpensive outdoor activities just a stone’s throw from Las Vegas and Laughlin,†said William Dickinson superintendent of Lake Mead National Recreation Area… More info
[ad#cor1]
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
The first day out there’s plenty of ice boaters but there isn’t any wind. The second day out, the wind is blowing gale force, but there aren’t any boaters.
Three’s a charm and so is Saturday morning, with both wind and boaters present in abundance. The puffs are steady from the west and the gusts top 46 mph — a little stiff and erratic, but otherwise a good day to sail.
Steve Bender is the fist to hit the ice with his kitewing, a hand-held sail that sends him racing across the lake. Near the shore, other boaters uncover their cockpits and rig their sails, then wait for the perfect wind before shoving off…Â More info