Monthly Archives: November 2019

For most boat owners, your boat holds a special place in your heart—which means it deserves a worthy amount of TLC (tender loving care). From engine maintenance, to general upkeep on your stainless steel boat parts, rail fittings and anchor rollers, to your steering wheel and the countless other critical components that make up its construction. While routine maintenance and regular cleanings are important for every boat regardless of age, there will come a time when your boat will need some upgrades.

One of the easiest ways to upgrade your boat is to invest in new boat hardware, specifically in items like hidden fasteners and flush mounted rod holders. You’d be surprised what a set of shiny, new marine hardware can do for a boat’s overall aesthetic. If you’re ready to give your boat a sleek, updated look, read on to learn more about our recommendations.

Why Should You Upgrade Your Boat Hardware?

On most boats, space is limited—including deck space. This means that any opportunity

As the self-appointed captain of your boat, the helm is the center of your universe when you’re onboard and underway. As we discussed in How to Choose the Right Steering Wheel for Your Boat, your boat’s steering wheel is a critical piece of equipment that’s directly related to the successful operation of your vessel.

There are many different components that make up a boat’s steering wheel, and when things go wrong or damage is done, you’ll want to move quickly to make necessary repairs and replacements.

In addition to the steering wheel itself and the control cables, another important piece of its construction is the steering wheel cap. What is a steering wheel center cap, you might ask? Well, it’s precisely what you’d think it is: the center piece of the wheel that’s almost always in the shape of a circle and often displays the boat’s logo.

When you need to replace a boat steering wheel cap, there’s a few factors you’ll want to consider.

Set Screw vs. Snap-In

As we often discuss,

Your boat’s anchor is one of the most essential pieces of equipment you have onboard. When you’re ready to drop anchor, you expect it to work quickly and effectively. Many boat owners utilize an anchor well or other storage compartment for housing their anchor when it’s not in use; but unfortunately, this type of anchor storage is not the most efficient—requiring the additional task of pulling the anchor out of storage, and then attaching it to the bow of your boat. This is where an anchor bow roller can help.

Let’s examine a few different factors to keep in mind when choosing an anchor roller for you boat.

What is an Anchor Roller?

Starting with the basics, the purpose of an anchor roller for a boat is to provide a permanent surface on the front of the bow for storage, deployment and retrieval of your anchor. Benefits of using a bow roller include easier retrieval of your anchor, as well as quick access and fast deployment.

An anchor roller wheel functions similarly to a bow pulpit

When you think about your boat, the last thing on your mind is likely your boat rails. A critical piece of safety equipment, your boat railings not only provide a protected perimeter around the exterior of your vessel, but they also serve as a support system as you move-about the deck. Along with the rail itself, the rail fittings are just as important in keeping these essential pieces of equipment securely fastened to your boat.

When it comes time to replace your boat rail fittings, you’ll want to ensure you’re choosing the right size, style and material that meets the functional needs of your boat.

Boat Rail Material Types and Sizing

Most rail fittings for boats come in two common sizes: either 1” or 7/8” in diameter. Deciding between the two is basically determined by the overall size of your boat, with 1’’ being more suitable for larger sailboats and powerboats.

Similar to other vital boat parts, a good majority of rail fittings and boat handrail fittings are made of stainless

Whether you’re anchored in the middle of the ocean or floating in a small cove on a lake, most boaters can agree that a reliable Bimini top is a lifesaver on a hot summer afternoon. Regardless of how much SPF you apply (and how often you reapply), sometimes the only escape from the beating sun is a cool, shady area onboard. If your boat doesn’t have a t-top or a hardtop in its construction, the next best solution is a Bimini top.

If you’re in the market for a Bimini top for your boat, you’ll need to decide what type of hardware is ideal for your boat type.

Bimini top hardware comes in three main styles:

• 2 bow Bimini tops
• 3 bow Bimini tops
• 4 bow Bimini tops

Let’s take a closer look at these three options.

Comparing 2, 3 and 4 Bow Bimini Tops

The primary Bimini top parts to be aware of are the bows, the tie down straps and the canvas covering. The bows, in particular, refer to the frame that connects directly to the sides of your boat. These frames are generally made of stainless