1. MV Dona Paz – Often called the “Asian Titanic,” the MV Dona Paz shipwreck caused the deaths of more than four thousand people. The Dona Paz collided with the MT Vector on December 20, 1987 and is the deadliest ferry disaster in history.
2. Titanic – Arguably the most famous shipwreck of all time, the Titanic was deemed “unsinkable” before colliding with an iceberg on her maiden voyage. As a result of the overly-confident designers’ refusal to provide a sufficient number of lifeboats, more than 1,500 people lost their lives in the disaster.
3. USS Arizona – On December 7, 1941, the USS Arizona was attacked at Pearl Harbor by Japanese military forces. As a direct result of this attack, the United States entered World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial site in Honolulu, Hawaii is the final resting place of 1,102 sailors killed that day.
4. Sultana – The worst shipwreck in American history took place on April 27, 1865 when the Sultana’s boiler exploded. Of the 2,500 passengers aboard, most were freed Union prisoners of war making the journey back home after surviving exceedingly cruel conditions in Confederate camps. There were no life boats or life jackets on board, causing more than 1,500 deaths among passengers.
5. SS Edmund Fitzgerald – The November 10, 1975 sinking of the SS Edmund Fitzgerald is shrouded in mystery to this day; theories range from a structural failure to simply falling victim to the stormy traveling conditions. There were no distress signals sent before the wreck, which claimed the lives of all 29 passengers aboard. No bodies were ever recovered, compounding the mysterious and morbid allure of the legend; singer-songwriter Gordon Lightfoot even penned a hit 1976 song about the disaster.
6. RMS Empress of Ireland – 1,102 passengers of the RMS Empress of Ireland lost their lives on May 28, 1914 when the ship collided with a Norwegian craft near Quebec as a result of heavy fog. Of the 465 survivors, only four were children; the other 134 children aboard were lost in the disaster.
7. RMS Lusitania – The RMS Lusitania was struck by a German U-boat on May 7, 1915 and sank within eighteen minutes, killing 1,198 of the 1,959 passengers. The attack became a key part of recruiting campaigns and spurred U.S. involvement in World War I. Experts disagree to this day about the legitimacy of the Lusitania as a military target; despite carrying rifle ammunition and other war-time goods, there were a large number of civilians aboard.
8. HMS Victory – The flagship vessel Victory was separated from the rest of her fleet in an October 3, 1744 storm and was last spotted by the accompanying ships in the early morning hours of October 4th. Wreckage washed up on the shores of Guernsey, Jersey and Alderney, where many inhabitants heard distress signals but could not provide aid due to the stormy conditions. Each of the 1,150 sailors on board went down with the ship, which was not found until 2008.
9. SS Eastland – In an ironic twist, the sinking of the SS Eastland was caused by a surplus of lifeboats that caused the vessel to become unstable and top-heavy. Many of the 845 passengers that died in the Great Lakes disaster were trapped below deck by the sudden capsizing of the craft and the weight of the luxurious furniture on board.
10. HMS Birkenhead – The February 26, 1852 shipwreck of the HMS Birkenhead established the “women and children first” standard due to the chivalry of soldiers aboard the doomed vessel. Of the 643 passengers, 450 died as a result of the shortage of serviceable lifeboats available.

Countless books, films and television specials document the sometimes-mysterious tales of ill-fated ships. As technology progresses, diving expeditions and explorations are more successful than ever; may wrecks that were once thought to be lost forever have been discovered and thoroughly examined. These discoveries keep the fires of passionate curiosity burning, ensuring that the lives lost as a result of these disasters are never forgotten.

Leisure boats are ideal for people that like to hang out on the water with friends, family members and loved ones. Some leisure boats offer sunbathing areas and large bows with additional seating. If you are looking for a leisure boat, a consideration that you may want to make is what type of leisure boat will be best for your boating personality. Consider your boating personality before you select the boat that will best meet your needs.

1. Barnet Marine Center: A look at ribs and inflatable boats for leisure purposes.
2. 48 Degrees North: Part 1 of a series on how to select a cruising boat.
3. Schleiff Boatworks: Design considerations for leisure boats.
4. John’s Boat Stuff: What you need to consider when choosing an affordable cruising boat.
5. Leisure Boats: Choosing the right anchor for your leisure boat.
6. Yachting and Boating: A look at the different types of boats.
7. Boat Covers: A look at choosing the right boat cover for your leisure boating experience.
8. Captain Curt’s Marine Gadgets: A look at the different boats available and help on choosing the right leisure boat for you.
9. Lost.ws: Selection options for leisure boat seats.
10. Leisure Boating Melbourne: Looking at the boat share option if you want to try boats out before you buy.
11. The Traveler’s Notebook: Buying a boat and learning how to sail.
12. First Boat: How to buy your first boat without getting burnt.
13. Boat Test: A look at how to go about buying your first boat.
14. Bradley Boat: A look at what you need to know when buying a leisure boat or leisure boat accessories.
15. Fishing and Boats: What you need to know about lighting on your leisure boat.
16. Inflatable Boats and Rafts: Help with choosing the right inflatable life raft or leisure raft.
17. Marine Outboards: Help with choosing the right engine for your leisure boat.
18. Ask Bass Fishing: How to choose the right fishing boat for bass fishing.
19. Canal Junction: How to buy and live on a canal boat.
20. Best Boat Seats: A look at choosing the right seats for your leisure boat.
21. Solent Ribster: A collection of useful links for people trying to buy a Rib.
22. Towergate: What to know when you are choosing a sport boat.
23. Yachting and Boating World: Expert boat advice about buying and caring for your leisure boat.
24. Used Boat Yard: Choosing the right type of leisure boat for you.
25. Chanel Narrow Boats: A look at Chanel Narrow Boats as an option for leisure boating.
26. Discover Boating: A wealth of information on choosing and buying the right boat.
27. Yacht and Boat Australia: Now that you have a boating license, what do you do next?
28. Ireland Afloat: Should you buy a new leisure boat or a pre-enjoyed leisure boat?
29. Engine Facts: Understanding boat motors so that you can choose the right one for your boating experience.
30. Helpful Tips: How to choose the right sailboat for living on board.
31. Aqua Max: Inflatable boat options and inflatable boat motors.
32. Boating with Dawsons: How to buy a boat confidently.
33. By the Sea: Boat reviews written by their owners. This site gives an accurate look at the various types of boats that are available to you.
34. New Boater: How you should buy your first boat, and an introduction to boat buying.
35. Paws Aboard: A look at some of the gear that you can buy so that you can take your dog boating with you.
36. RBBI: First time buyers and boat buying tips that everyone should heed.
37. DCU Boat Guide: How to negotiate for the best price when buying a leisure boat.
38. Big Sky Fishing: A look at inflatable boat options for you to consider when buying a leisure boat.
39. Boat Auctions Info: How to find the best sources for buying boats on auction in your local area.
40. All Inflatables: A look at the different inflatable leisure boats and accessories that are available to you.
41. Dockside Reports: How to buy your very first boat, and the options that are available to you.
42. AK Mining: Information about jet boats.
43. Boatsville: What you need to know when you are buying a boat.
44. Warner’s Dock: The best seven reasons why you should buy a bass boat.
45. Mad Mariner: The best time to buy a leisure boat.
46. Bass Resource: Tips about buying and caring for a bass leisure boat.

Image Credits: sara~

Almost everyone loves boating. Each family member can play an active role in this enjoyable and exciting activity. With the variety of watercraft, there is just the right boat for every family. Embarking on a marine adventure is as easy as locating a rental establishment and making some inquiries. Perhaps kayaking or canoeing down a river sounds like fun. Lazing around on a pontoon boat as it makes its leisurely way around the lake is good for a novice boater. Maybe the thrill of a speedy Jet Ski or wave runner seems more invigorating. The boating newcomer and the seasoned sailor will both find something of interest in this list of popular boating destinations.

1. The Very Best Marina To Acquire Some Chesapeake Bay Fishing Charters: Kent Island Marina offers touring and fishing charters for family groups.
2. The Do’s and Don’ts of House boating: Practical information and tips about house boating. A short guide to California boating destinations is included.
3. House boating on Lake McClure: The details of one family’s experience renting a houseboat and spending several days on Lake McClure.
4. Lake McClure Marina: Fishing, wildlife and natural attractions make Lake McClure a popular boating spot.
5. Forever Houseboats Offers Families a Unique Vacation Filled with Relaxation and Recreation: Reasons why family houseboat vacations are well liked. The post includes a list of popular destinations.
6. Let’s Go Boating in California: The different kinds of boating opportunities in California. A list of popular waterways with brief descriptions and locations is included.
7. Wilderness Tips: Water-Isolated Destinations: Camping areas accessible only by boat. Area descriptions include special features and tips about visiting these remote places.
8. Boating Loves NYC: Presents some facts about boating in the waters around New York City. Links are included for more information on local boat rental, sailing lessons and fishing.
9. Wisconsin Boating – Wolf River – South Beach: A family’s experience boating on the Wolf River is related. Included are a map and some very nice photos.
10. Hamlin Lake Michigan: This man-made lake has much to offer the boating family. Natural beauty surrounds this lake as the Manistee National Forest and the Ludington State Park border it.
11. “Low Bridge, Everybody Down”: Chronicles a couple’s two-week boat trip through the Erie Canal. There are descriptions and photos of each stop made along the way.
12. This Summer: Discover Lake Michigan’s Beaver Island: This remote island is referred to as America’s Emerald Isle. Details of the various water-related attractions are provided.
13. Great Boating Destinations: Torch Lake Michigan: Torch Lake is part of a chain of lakes and is noted for its turquoise water. This beautiful lake draws celebrities such as Kid Rock and Christine Lahti.
14. Lake Austin Named A Top Boating Destination; But Be Safe While You’re There: This lake situated in a flourishing city make this a trendy boating spot. These safety tips will ensure a safe excursion.
15. Down the Lazy River: The pros and cons of kayaking on the Fox River are explained. Good tips are provided for the novice along with information on renting a kayak.
16. By the Banks of the Suwannee:  Natural North Florida: Boating opportunities abound on the beautiful, historic Suwannee River. Travel the 207 mile river from Georgia to the Gulf and enjoy the many accommodations along the way.
17. Tanglewood Resort Is Just the Place for a Family Boating Vacation: Situated on Lake Texoma, it has something to offer children and adults. Various types of watercrafts can be rented just 10 minutes away at Texoma Rentals.
18. Destination: New Bedford Harbor: Dock the boat and tour this celebrated Massachusetts seaport. Tour the museums, walk through the historic downtown area, enjoy a concert and choose from an array of dining establishments.
19. The Delaware Bay Lighthouse Cruise: This seven-hour cruise to view the areas lighthouses leaves mid-morning. It also provides good whale and bird watching opportunities.
20. Vermont to Long Island Just Another NY Canals Trip Reports Weblog: A family details their boat trip. Filled with descriptions of the sights along the way and the marinas where they docked for the night.
21. Visiting the Stunning 1000 Islands: This natural wonder is a most magnificent boating destination on the St Lawrence River. There are many attractions including some of the best sporting fishing. No trip would be complete without a trip to Heart Island to see the Boldt Castle.
22. Anna Maria, Longboat Key or Sarasota – Where is the perfect place to watch sunset?: Tells the best spot to view the sunset either on land or out in a boat.
23. Fun Things to Do Off the Beaten Path in Carlsbad: Carlsbad Lagoon is just the place to learn any popular boating sport such as jet skiing, kayaking, and wave running. Rentals are available.
24. Five Great Lakes in Southern West Virginia: Names and locations of each lake are given. Their best features are noted.
25. Top 10 Best Boating Lakes: Deep Creek Lake in Maryland has been chosen as one of the top ten by Destinations for Leisure. The main draw for this lake is fishing, but recreational use is on the rise.
26. Lake George: Beautiful pictures of Lake George and the Sagamore Resort are included in this blog post.
27. Island Time – Boat Trip to the Keys – June 2009: This is the story of a family’s trip from Harbortown to the Keys and back. Details include navigational hazards and reviews of the places they ate.
28. Maiden Voyage: This family’s first voyage on the Bogue Sound in a sailboat they built.
29. Tidal Delaware Water Trail: Contains multiple posts about boating on the Delaware River. Included are kayaking programs and safety tips.
30. Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge: Features of the refuge are noted along with photos.
31. Our Trip to the Lake: Accounts are given of a family’s week long vacation on Lake Placid including their canoe trip.
32. 2010 Fishing Opener: Walleye fishing is one of the main attractions of Leech Lake in Minnesota.
33. Leech Lake Fishing: This blog features multiple articles about Walleye fishing. Leech Lake is also a popular ice-fishing destination.
34. Everything about Kayaking in Oklahoma: This is a series of posts about kayaking on different bodies of water in Oklahoma. Kayaking in different seasons, kayak fishing and choosing a kayak are some of the topics covered.
35. Harbor Springs is Filled With Summertime Fun: A complete list of the many things to do in Harbor Springs along with contact information. It details the fishing and boating opportunities along with a map of the Inland Waterway.
36. Where is the Beach? East Grand Traverse Bay, Bowers Harbor, Good Harbor, Michigan: A long list of the many area beaches is presented. Information about Power Island that can only be reached by boat.
37. Memphis: Take a Mississippi River Boat Cruise: A to-do list for trip planning and some activities to enjoy before and after the cruise.
38. Down the Mississippi: A list of 2010 Mississippi River trips with links to the associated blogs. A list of 2010 Group Paddle Trips, some of which are still open for registration.
39. Karen and Jerry’s Great Grand Adventure: A series chronicling a 3-month boat trip on Lake Superior. One of the posts explains the importance of the supplies they packed.
40. Know NY’s Boating Laws Before You Take to the Water: The clear, calm beauty of the Finger Lakes makes this a popular boating destination. It is important to be familiar with the state’s boating laws before launching the boat.
41. A Good Weekend at Beaver Lake: A weekend of diving in different spots in Beaver Lake is detailed.
42. Kayaking the Lakes of South Dakota: This is a series of blog posts each dedicated to a different waterway in the Sioux Falls area. Plenty of pictures and interesting information accompany this blog.
43. Summer Is Here – Time To Go To The Lake To Cool Off: Broken Bow Lake located in the mountains of Southeast Oklahoma is popular with boaters. Beaver’s Bend Marina has slips and rental boats available.
44. Have You Considered Lake Of the Ozarks Pontoon Boat Rentals?: Pontoon boats are good for the novice. Rent a pontoon and explore this 55,000 acre waterway.
45. Gage Lake Geneva Cruise Line: Take advantage of the Family Sundowner Special each Thursday night. Children’s birthday parties can be hosted on board for a celebration to remember.

Image Credits: dental ben

There is a humorous adage that says the two best days for a boat owner are the day the boat is bought and the day it is sold. Owning and maintaining a boat are complex tasks to be sure, but the rewards of sailing on a serene lake for personal reflection, taking the family for a ride on the river to that perfect picnic place or going out with friends for some deep-sea fishing far outweigh the outlay of work. For those who have purchased a boat and for those giving it serious thought, the following pages and contacts are available to give you tips and information.

1. Sailing Cruise A blog about sailing by sailors including equipment, basic information and vacations.
2. Daily Boater Tips and trends from the world of boating.
3. Paddle Sports Blog Blog from Colorado on kayaks and paddle boats.
4. TripSailor Blogs from several contributors who have sailed to various destinations.
5. Zoar Outdoor Detailed site for kayaking for the whole family.
6. Boating Safety, Tips and Tricks Blog by a Coast Guard Master and boating instructor.
7. All About Houseboats Information for those contemplating a houseboat.
8. NauticEd Blog from an online boating school.
9. Irene’s Kayaking Blog Kayaking information from an active whitewater traveler.
10. Canoeing Tips Information on enjoying canoeing while camping.
11. Divester All about dive boating.
12. Virginia Boat Club A non-profit organization that promotes safe rowing.
13. Boot Key Harbor Navigating the Florida Keys
14. BitterEnd Blog Written by an expert in towing and assisting vessels.
15. Three Sheets Northwest Boating site from the Pacific Northwest.
16. Boat Bits Blog by a filmmaking sailor.
17. Capt’n Pauley’s Virtual Boatyard Blog for the do-it-yourself boater.
18. Fishing and Boats Equipment and advice for boaters.
19. BoatFlorida.com Site for all things nautical in Florida.
20. Big Bad Boat For those who wish to dabble in powerboating.
21. A Catamaran for Two How a couple built their catamaran.
22. Scott’s Boat Pages Boating commentary on a sailor “obsessed” by boats.
23. Get Lost on Purpose A couple’s water travel blog.
24. Torresen Sailing News Sailing news for those who may be interested in nautical competition.
25. Small Craft Advisor Blog for owners of boats 30 feet and under.
26. Boating Safety Blog Information, opinions and links for boating safety.
27. Messing About in Boats A whimsical nautical blog.
28. Tugster Views from New York Harbor.
29. Sailing, Simplicity and the Pursuit of Happiness Thoughts from a school teacher turned sailor.
30. Boat Names Help for naming your boat.
31. Old Salt Blog Tales from the sea.
32. Sweetwater Cruising Blog from the Great Lakes.
33. Arctic Solo Sail A captain sails the Northwest Passage alone.
34. This Little Boat A man finds a small boat and uses it for circumnavigation.
35. RudderPosts Blog by a wooden boat builder.
36. Boatbuilding.net A community for amateur and professional boat builders.
37. Proper Course From a sailor in his 60s.
38. Craft a Craft News and tips from a boat builder.
39. All About Boats Blog about life on a cruising vessel.
40. On Kayaks Detailed blog on sea kayaking.
41. Boat Bites A photographer blogs about life on the water.
42. The Sailing Life Blog from a handyman, philosopher and sailor.
43. Full Tilt Sailing Team From the captain of a racing sailboat.
44. Soundings Blog and news for pleasure boaters.
45. Amateur Boat Building Plans and articles for boat building.
46. Sailing Anarchy A more radical approach to a sailing blog.
47. Canoe Sailing Resources for canoe sailors.
48. SailboatOwners.com Resources for owners including an owner directory.

General

Extreme Deep Sea Fishing asks—and answers—questions about lines and reels for different types of fish and conditions.

Reel Reports features tales from fishing guides worldwide, a sure source of inspiration.

Fishing Fury is a fantastic read that lives up to its billing as “a fishing blog with attitude!” Worth it even just for this.

Dan Eggertson’s Ask About Saltwater Fishing can—surprise—answer just about any question you may have about the joys and thrills of deep sea fishing.

Saltwater Fishing Tips takes you from France to the Yucatan and places in between with solid advice on making the catch.

The Bounty Fishing Blog offers up great tales about deep sea fishing, regular ol’ trout fishing, and more. Entertainment is guaranteed.

Pierpont’s Fish, by Anthony Pierpont, brings you deep sea fishing and more, with fish tales from the warmth of Hawaii to the ice of Minnesota’s lakes.

It’s all bass all the time at BassSense. Sea bass, striped bass, largemouth bass…you get the idea. They do bass the best. (Say that five times fast.)

Fishing Hotspots covers gear as well as offering tips on fishing for specific types of fish.

The Pro Fishing Blog is a great general-interest fishing blog with some good information on deep sea fishing for novices.

Northeastern Canada & U.S.

Offshore Pursuits is a great Cape Cod fishing blog full of friendly reporting and advice.

Nothing will make you want to go sportfishing quite as much as the Kayman Charters blog, with well-documented trips to catch bass, blues, and some freakin’ huge cod.

Aiden’s Deep Sea Fishing blog captures the fun of deep sea fishing; you’ll see what it’s like to catch cod, mackerel, and more off the coast of Prince Edward Island in Canada.

The Yankee Fishing Captain’s Blog covers fishing and weather conditions off of the New England coast—if you’re anywhere near, the pics will make you want to book a trip with these guys!

You’ll feel the thrill of the chase over at Erwin Heinrich’s NJ Saltwater Fishing Reports.

Maine Saltwater Fishing Reports is a great in-depth read for anyone angling for stripers or bass.

Super Fly Charters lives up to its name. From Casco to Penobscot, it brings you reports of bluefin tuna, stripers, and water conditions for saltwater fly fishing.

Land the big ones with Deep Sea Fishing New Jersey—some striper, maybe some tuna or drum fish…take a look and find out!

Massachusetts Deep Sea Fishing Reports helps you reel ‘em in, and it’s just like your buddy talking to you. Great stuff.

Southeastern U.S./Gulf Coast

The Outer Banks Fishing Report is for all you Carolina folks, with magnificent pictures.

The Florida Fisherman Information Network is a valuable boatload (get it? boatload) of information for anyone hoping for a serious catch in the Sunshine State.

The thorough Central Florida Fishing Report brings you news of migrating tarpon, tussling sharks, and more.

The Flamingo Fishing blog covers a charter from the Fort Lauderdale area with some truly fishspirational photos of sailfish, wahoo and more.

Catch ‘Em All, a fairly new blog, will inspire you to mosey on down to the Florida Keys for your next deep sea fishing fix.

Key West Fish Tales tells it like it is—and shows it too. You’ll love reading this blog and looking at the pictures of catches like sailfish, dorado, and more.

Get down to the Gulf Coast with the Orange Beach Deep Sea Fishing blog, chronicling the adventures on board the Intimidator charter boat.

The Fishing Headquarters blog out of Fort Lauderdale will help you bring back a big one, whether it’s a sailfish, grouper, or wahoo. Also discusses deep sea fishing techniques.

West Coast U.S. & Hawaii/Western Canada

The NorCal Angler covers—as you might guess—sportfishing adventures in Northern California, including striped bass, steelhead, and more.

Do some Deep Sea Fishing in Oregon with the Captain’s Reel and you might find yourself reeling in some delicious halibut or salmon. Yum…

Alaska Fishing brings you news and travel info about fishing in Alaska’s icy waves.

Black Rock Charters shows you that there’s nothing quite like fishing in Alaska…ready to go yet?

The Maggie Joe Sport Fishing Blog will float you right on over to beautiful Hawaii, ready to catch some yellowfin and skipjack.

Caribbean/Central & South America

The Caribbean Fishing Charter Adventures Blog is a sportsman’s dream—the next best thing to actually being on boat in the Caribbean.

The Pisces Fleet Sport fishing Blog is based in Cabo San Lucas and takes you through adventures in catching marlin, swordfish, and sailfish.

The Panama Big Game Sport Fishing blog will have you planning your next trip in no time.

The Panama Fishing Reports blog provides enthusiastic coverage of Panama’s fishing opportunities and some serious pics of marlin, tuna, dorado, and more.

The tempting Crocodile Bay blog covers sport fishing in Costa Rica, with images of dorado, tuna, sailfish, and more.

Europe

A Fish Blog has some great stories and pictures with a focus on fishing in Norway and elsewhere in northern Europe.

Brighton Charter Fishing’s blog reports on catches, wreck fishing, and more, with pictures aplenty to keep your fishing dreams alive.

Check out Blue Marlin Sport Big Game Fishing in Gran Canaria for a look at excursions to catch dorados, skipjack, and more.

The White Marlin blog, also out of Gran Canaria, provides cheerful updates you’re sure to enjoy.

Middle East

Ray Montoya’s Fear No Fish blog provides some great narratives about fishing off of Oman.

Africa

Check out the Fishing Report South Africa Blog for great insights into fishing off of the South African coast, including St. Lucia and Lamberts Bay.

If you’ve ever wanted to fish off the coast of Kenya, Walter Brun’s Big Game Fishing Blog is for you.

Asia/Australia/Pacific

Andrew Griffin’s Game Fishing blog is a personal look at fishing trips around Malaysia.

Get to know deep sea fishing in Vanatu’s island paradise with Crusoe Fishing.

Ocean Blue Fishing Adventures is a brilliant look at the sport fishing life.

Anyone living in New South Wales or elsewhere in Australia should check out the Mounties Fishing Club blog.

Gamefishing Fiji is a sure delight for anyone who has ever caught (or wanted to catch) a sweet yellowfin or mackerel.

The Black Marlin Fishing Blog focuses on Australia’s East Coast, with thorough reporting and stunning photos.

Iona Game Fishing offers up some great photos and fishing reports, as well as tournament coverage and more.

While most cover a variety of boating-related topics, we’ve tried to group them as much as possible by their main focus. You’ll find information on restoring various boat models, the logistics of boat ownership, boating safety, and, of course, plenty of inspiration for your next journey.

Specific Boat Models and Renovation

Powerboat lovers should head on over to Big Bad Boat. O’Day22 presents information about renovating a 1974 O’Day 22 on a budget. Flicka20 and Schucker Boats are great resources as well. OceanShaker is a must-read for yacht lovers, as is the Sabre Yacht blog. Catamaran42 is another good read with lots of useful information, as is Element II. If houseboats are more your speed, take a look at The Houseboat Blog. Interested in something on a smaller scale? Sate your boat cravings with a collection of RC boats.

For those daring individuals who are looking for a truly complex DIY project, there’s the Wooden Boat Blog, where you can learn everything you ever wanted to know about building wooden boats from scratch. Find more on boat building at Dave’s Boat or the Wooden Sailboat Blog. Eco-Boat is a fantastic resource for anyone interested in sustainability aboard.

Journeys and Destinations

Bill Springer’s sailing blog covers several destinations, many in the Northeast, but don’t miss his post on sailing in the Seychelles. Cruise from Chicago to Grenada with Scott and Sue, or travel the Pacific Northwest on the Katherine Jane. Read the amazing chronicle of 1000 Days at Sea. You can Sail Southern California or Puget Sound, or travel the world with John and Jean on their maritime adventure. Big Oceans lets you follow Nick as he sails solo from Holland to Australia. Get on the Mediterranean Fastrack, Get Lost on Purpose, or learn what Sailing the Northwest Passage is like.

The Quest for the Perfect Boat

One of the joys of boat ownership is the search for The One. You know it when you see it, and in the meantime you get to check out all sorts of great boats, just like Michael at The Perfect Sailboat Project. For more on buying and selling boats, check out the Boat Trader blog, an invaluable resource for anyone interested in finding the right new or used boat. Buy This Boat is a yacht broker’s blog that’s lots of fun to peruse.

Boating News

Don’t miss the latest news on boating, piracy, racing, and more at Sailboats and Sailing the World, the Boats.com blog, Torresen Sailing News, Harbour Exchange, Daily Boater, and the Yachting News blog. Discover Boating is great for newbies and veterans alike, as is Small Craft Advisor.

Weather and Safety

Marine Guard Security’s commercial blog on boat security and safety has some excellent information, as does the gCaptain Maritime blog. The New Boat Builders Boating Safety Blog is another valuable resource.

Inspiration

Some blogs indulge their audiences with gorgeous photos, thoughtful meditations on boating life, humorous takes on maritime adventures, or some combination. Not always easily categorized, they’re still well worth your attention. Messing About in Boats, Tugster, Sea Fever, and OldSalt1942 fall into this category.

If you’ve ever wanted to live on a boat—especially if you have young children and you’re wondering about the challenges of babies on boats—take a look at We Live on a Boat. (They do. In Canada, no less. Year-round. Brrr!) Want to learn how to live simply on a boat? Try Sailing Simplicity. Those interested in antique boats will spend hours on WoodyBoater. Boats Blog is a good way to discover new boating bloggers.

The Boat Name Blog is tons of fun—if you’ve ever wandered a marina and enjoyed checking out all the boat names, this one’s for you. Readers can suggest names for those who write in to the blog. A charming fundraiser for a small museum in Scotland involved paper boats sent from all over the world—take a look at them at the Paper Boats blog. The Old Salt blog reviews books, discusses maritime history, and reports on ship-related news.

Finally, you can start your own sailing blog over at Sailblogs.com. Then come back here and tell us about it!

You want to take a nice rafting trip?  You know what kind of boat you’ll be taking and you’ve heard about all the Class 4 rapids that you’ll be enjoying.

So you’ve recently packed your bag and are ready for a rafting trip through the Appalachians, you need to know what to do to have the very best boating trip possible.  You can go through your standard checklist all you like making sure that you have your trail mix, a fresh pair of socks to change into and your matches packed in a ziplock bag.

But what the hell can you do if you’ve wrecked your boat and are attacked my backwards mountain people hell bent on doing something very, very wrong with your “purdy mouth”?  Here’s a small list to help you become prepared for this very likely scenario.

1.  DON’T TAKE ANYONE WHO LOOKS ANYTHING AT ALL LIKE NED BEATTY WITH YOU

The first rule of Mountain Men kidnappers is “grab the slow chubby ones.”  Sad but true.   If you have anyone resembling Ned Beatty riding along with you he’s sure to be prime bait.  I would suggest that when you roll out, make sure that the guys in your wolfpack can all handle themselves.  Fit, fast and athletic guys are the only travel companions you should have for boat rides through the mountains.  If you find yourself saddled with a cousin, brother-in-law or friend of a friend who is doughy and slow get yourself prepared for the eventuality that he might get caught.  Resign yourself to the fact that if he does get caught you’re going to have to let him go.  Remember that Ronny Cox tried to help out Ned Beatty and look where that got him.  No amount of psychotherapy can erase those images.

2. DO NOT ENGAGE ANY LOCALS IN MUSICAL COMPETITIONS

I cannot overstate this rule enough and it doesn’t just apply to banjos either pal!  If you find yourself face to face with backwoods locals who are interested in your fancy ‘city-slicker’ novelties such as pants and shoes you should probably run.  If you can’t exercise that option, then you should probably just speak in monosyllabic words and try to avoid eye contact.  If you’re still unable to do these things and you find that some savant mountain boy has a musical instrument by his side, one that you play and play well, DO NOT engage him in a competition.  There is no, I repeat NO good that can come of this.  Whether you win or lose you will not earn his respect.  The only thing that you can do is draw attention to yourself and your party.  Word travels fast in these parts and you might put a target on your back compadre’.  And if you find ignoring this rule and you did have a musical duel understand that even if mountain boy smiles with glee he is seething internally.  To illustrate this, attempt to shake his hand in congratulatory admiration and watch what happens.

3. LEAVE YOUR L.L. BEAN APPAREL AND BMW AT HOME

Seriously this isn’t the suburbs, you’re not trying to keep up with the Jones’s here.  The less conspicuous you make yourself the better you’ll be.  Don’t trick yourself into thinking that you can pass for a local because you cannot.  The simple fact that you have a full set of teeth in your mouth and not stashed in a cigar box under the bed is a dead giveaway.  But you’re still better off trying to adhere to the “when in Rome” philosophy.  If you wear your Lobsterman’s Pride Cashmere sweater in Oatmeal color because you think it looks sporty, well then you’re just asking for trouble.  Rolling up in your 350i to the launch isn’t a good idea either.  Your best bet would be to try and go a few days (at least) without a shower and show up in a car that you got off of Craigslist for $150 and a pack of smokes.  You’re never going to fool the locals but you might just trick them into thinking that you’ve never paid $5.00 for a coffee.

4. BRING SOMEONE WHO REMINDS YOU OF 70’S ERA BURT REYNOLDS

Do you know someone who can kill and butcher his own deer?  You know, the guy that offers you “Venison Jerky” every Winter?  Yeah?  Bring THAT GUY with you for sure.  He’s not a luxury for such a boat trip, he’s a necessity.  If you think that because you’ve seen a bunch of UFC fights in your life that you’ll be able to handle yourself in a man on man combat situation then you’re sadly mistaken.  You need to have some guy who can not only pick off Mr. Woodsman with a bow and arrow from 25 yards out, but will do so without thought or reservation.  This is a must.  It’s like the old adage says “It’s better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.”  Trust me when I tell you that you’re really going to wish that guy is with you when your own $75 Aligator skin belt has been used to affix you to a tree.  Also, when he sets up for his shot, don’t give away his position by making eye contact.  Just be sure to thank him later.

5. DON’T GO ON A RAFTING TRIP UNLESS YOU FOUND YOUR GUIDE ON TRAVELOCITY

Seriously buddy, what are you doing traveling down through the mountains on your own anyway?  You’re better off finding out about a nice guided trip in some non threatening part of the country from a well dressed upwardly mobile friend of yours.  If you want to take a nice risky vacation, try bungee jumping in Myrtle Beach.  Don’t tempt fate by traveling amongst the mountain folk without knowing what’s truly in-store for you.