Cartography

Cartography (the art and science of making maps) has been in existence since 2300 B.C. with the invention of recorded maps of Babylon on clay tablets; however the science of cartography became much more advanced in Ancient Greece. Once the discovery of the Earth as a spherical object was discovered, map making became more precise and detailed. Soon maps were drawn by hand and new routes and places were explored and recorded.

Cartography grew into an art form during the Renaissance and the Age of Exploration of the 15th century. Map makers responded with navigation charts, which depicted coast lines, islands, rivers, harbors, and features of sailing interest. Compass lines and other navigation aids were included. Such maps were held in great value for economic, military, and diplomatic purposes, and so were often treated as national or commercial secrets--classified or proprietary maps. World maps came into existence in the 16th century and accuracy was greatly increased during the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries. During the 1970s and 1980s map making took a dramatic turn with the invention and use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) which comprise computer hardware, software, digital data, people, organizations, and institutions for collecting, storing, analyzing, and displaying geo-referenced information about the Earth. This technology led to cartography as we see it today on handheld and mounted GPS systems and boat and channel navigation devices.

Cartography opens the world around us and keeps every inch of the globe within our grasp. Today's cartography literally covers every inch of the globe including mountains, streams, streets, and waterways. With modern cartography there is no need to explore blindly and take the risk of becoming lost or endangered. Maps are now available for countries, areas, waterways, states, and can be extremely detailed and specific to your personal application. Cartography is used by the Military, Coast Guard, commercial fishing vessels, private charters, and avid outdoors adventurers.

Cartography can be categorized as General or Thematic. General cartography involves maps that are developed for use by general audiences and contain a variety of features. They exhibit many references and locations and are usually produced in a series. Garmin City Navigator Maps fall into this category and offer city and town locations, roadways including local roadways, traffic restriction and peed restriction data, and local points of interest including gas, food, and lodging.

Thematic cartography on the other hand involves maps of specific geographic themes or locations and are aimed at very specific audiences. These maps can be very detailed and can center on such items as corn production in a certain area, social data of a region, or a specific fish density of a location. Navionics Paper Me Maps of areas such as Moosehead Lake South Hotmaps give very specific information for one particular area only and the information is detailed to only one place and one topic (waterway navigation). General and Thematic maps can be combined in an Orienteering maps which is aimed at a specific user community. Garmin Bluechart G2 2Us010R Southeast Florida covers both the southeast section of the state with city markers and the waterways around the state including bays, lakes, and rivers.

< Back to Top >
< Back to Boating & Marine Articles Main Page >

Personal Flotation Devices (PFD)

The U.S. Coast Guard and Federal Regulations require the carrying and use of Personal Floatation Devices (PFD) on most vessels. All PFDs must be Coast Guard Approved, in good and usable condition, and must be of the appropriate size for the intended user. That means that new equipment or additional equipment may be needed before your next trip and there is no better place than Big T Sports. We carry all of the equipment you need at prices that will make you smile. Safety does not have to be expensive or a hassle with Big T Sports on your side.

Federal Law States: All recreational boats must carry one wearable PFD (Type I, II, III or Type V PFD) for each person aboard. A Type V PFD provides performance of either a Type I, II, or III PFD (as marked on its label) and must be used according to the label requirements. Any boat 16ft and longer (except canoes and kayaks) must also carry one throwable PFD (Type IV PFD). The Coast Guard sets about minimum rules for all PFDs which covers the basic rules, laws, and tips for PFDs. According to the Coast Guard PDFs must be:

Accessibility of PFDs on a vessel

• Wearable PFDs must be readily accessible.
• You must be able to put them on in a reasonable amount of time in an emergency (vessel sinking, on fire, etc.).
• They should not be stowed in plastic bags, in locked or closed compartments or have other gear stowed on top of them.
• The best PFD is the one you will wear.
• Though not required, a PFD should be worn at all times when the vessel is underway. A wearable PFD can save your life, but only if you wear it.
• Throwable devices must be immediately available for use

Consider Inflatable PFDs

• Inflatable PFDs may be more comfortable to wear.
• The best PFD is the one you will wear.
• Inflatable PFDs require the user to pay careful attention to the condition of the device.
• Inflatable PFDs must have a full cylinder and all status indicators on the inflator must be green, or the device is NOT serviceable, and does NOT satisfy the requirement to carry PFDs.
• Coast Guard Approved Inflatable PFD's are authorized for use on recreational boats by person at least 16 years of age.

Child PFD Requirements

Some states require that children wear PFDs:

• applies to children of specific ages
• applies to certain sizes of boats
• applies to specific boating operations

Check with your state boating safety officials.

Child PFD approvals are based on the child's weight. Check the "User Weight" on the label, or the approval statement that will read something like "Approved for use on recreational boats and uninspected commercial vessels not carrying passengers for hire, by persons weighing __ lbs". They can be marked "less than 30", "30 to 50", "less than 50", or "50 to 90".

PFD requirements for certain boating activities under state laws

The Coast Guard recommends and many states require wearing PFDs:

• For water skiing and other towed activities (use a PFD marked for water skiing).
• While operating personal watercraft (PWC) (use a PFD marked for water skiing or PWC use).
• During white water boating activities.
• While sailboarding (under Federal law, sailboards are not "boats").

PFD Flotation

There are three basic kinds of PFD flotation in the five types of PFDs with the following characteristics:

Inherently Buoyant (primarily Foam)

• Adult, Youth, Child, and Infant sizes
• For swimmers & non-swimmers
• Wearable & throwable styles
• Some designed for water sportsM

Inflatable

• The most compact
• Sizes only for adults
• Only recommended for swimmers
• Wearable styles only
• Some with the best in-water performance

Hybrid (Foam & Inflation)

• Reliable
• Adult, Youth, and Child sizes
• For swimmers & non-swimmers
• Wearable styles only
• Some designed for water sports

For your safety and the safety of all passengers on your vessel, make sure you follow all laws and guidelines pertaining to PFDs. There are many different choices of PFDs on the market and many different selections are available at Big T Sports at great prices. If you have any questions on PFDs or are having trouble choosing the PFD that is right for any member of your boating party, please see our comprehensive review on PFDs that we carry. It contains information that can make your selection easier.
Also view our related product reviews, 'Personal Flotation Device (PFD)'.

< Back to Top >
< Back to Boating & Marine Articles Main Page >

Boating Safety

Whether you use your boat for fishing, water sports, traveling, or just to have fun and jettison around the local lake or body of water, safety should be a priority. While no one wants an accident or emergency to happen and none of us plan to have a bad time, boating does have some inherent dangers that can be reduced or eliminated with proper planning, training, or equipment. Taking care of the essentials and adding a few extra safety precautions or extra pieces of safety equipment can go a long way in protecting everyone on your vessel. Boating is an enjoyable experience for the entire family and can be an adventure to remember. The Coast Guard has set up certain safety regulations that must be met and has made recommendations on how to make boating safer for everyone. So follow the rules and have some fun. We here at Big T Sports want all of your adventures to be safe adventures and that is why we have provided the following information for reference. We offer a wide selection of safety gear to ensure your next boating trip is exciting and safe.

The U.S. Coast Guard has set forth the following Safety and Survival tips for all boat operators to follow before their next trip onto the open water.

• Make sure the boat is in top operating condition and that there are no tripping hazards. The boat should be free of fire hazards and have clean bilges
• Safety equipment, required by law, is on board, maintained in good condition, and you know how to properly use these devices.
• File a float plan with a relative or friend.
• Have a complete knowledge of the operation and handling characteristics of your boat.
• Know your position and know where you are going.
• Maintain a safe speed at all times to avoid collision.
• Keep an eye out for changing weather conditions, and act accordingly.
• Know and practice the Rules of the Road (Navigation Rules).
• Know and obey Federal and state regulations and waterway markers.
• Maintain a clear, unobstructed view forward at all times. "Scan" the water back and forth; avoid "tunnel" vision. Most boating collisions are caused by inattention.

Following these simple tips can help assure a safe boating experience and will make sure the boat operator is in compliance with boating laws. If all boaters take the time to follow the rules and guidelines, everyone on the water will remain safe.

Federal Law requires that each vessel maintain certain required equipment for safe and legal operation of a vessel. In addition to having the required equipment onboard, it is also a great idea to completely inspect the vessel prior to departure and to test all of the equipment onboard. It does not help to follow the law if the equipment is out of date, faulty, or damaged. If you need new safety equipment to replace old equipment or if you are outfitting a new vessel, make sure to check out Big T Sports wide selection of gear at great prices that leave room for the fun stuff like fishing equipment or water toys.

The U.S. Coast Guard offers the following checklist for all boaters to make sure that their vessel has all of the proper equipment onboard prior to departure. Failure to maintain the proper equipment is not only dangerous, but it is also illegal. Take this checklist with you each time you go on a trip and you will be sure to meet all of the regulations and laws for safe operation. Remember your life and your passengers life depends on the safe operation of your vessel.

Minimum Federal Required Equipment	Yes	No
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

< Back to Top >
< Back to Boating & Marine Articles Main Page >

Five Big Boat-buying Mistakes

When buying a boat for the first time, many buyers make common mistakes that causes them endless aggravation and costs them thousands -- sometimes even tens of thousands -- of dollars in the end when they have to trade in their boat for another one. Despite the big investment, many buyers don't do the proper research necessary to avoid these mistakes, and then they don't even realize they are making a mistake until it's too late.

1) Buying the wrong type of boat for your needs.

Buying the wrong type of boat is the number one most common mistake that boaters make. Boat buying should be treated like car shopping; you need to understand your needs and desires before making an educated decision. Not every car is right for you, and neither is every boat.

The first step in knowing what type of boat you need is to decide what activities you want to be able to do. Do you want to go waterskiing, wakeboarding, or tubing? Those activities require more money for a boat with extra power than if you just wanted to fish. Not all boats can tow a skier. Also, is this a boat for the family or just you? How many people do you need to fit on it? Are you going to make overnight trips? When buying, these types of questions need to be taken into consideration. If you are planning to make overnight trips, you would want to invest in a boat with a cuddy or cabin.

You should also think about where you want to take your boat. Do you want to visit various lakes and rivers? Some boats do not fit on trailers, or they require a large vehicle with a hitch to tow it. Size matters, especially when you pay more money for more space. Many buyers make the mistake of buying big when they don't need to, especially when consumer-instinct leads them to think bigger is always better. It's not always the case.

You also need to consider the types of water (i.e. ocean, river, lake, etc.) you will be visiting and the weather patterns. Take into consideration the wind and wakes. If the wind is always blowing or there are always big boats around, the wakes will be enormous all day long. Buying flat-bottomed luxury boats doesn't make much sense if you and the expensive electronics on the boat will be constantly tossed about. If you are cruising the ocean, you should consider the different parts needed. A closed water cooling system is a must in sea water because the saltwater will corrode your boat, sometimes at an fast rate.

2) Buying too quickly.

Most first-time buyers jump on the "it looks cool" bandwagon and buy before they really research into the brand and boat type. Think of it this way. Would you buy the first car you saw on the lot? No, you would narrow down the list to certain types by first assessing your needs and wants and then test driving various cars. Even if you find a "steal," you have to consider if it'll serve your purpose.

In order to know you made a good investment, you need to test drive boats just like cars, especially used ones. No one should be absolutely opposed to this, or they may be hiding something. While test driving, check the speeds and how a boat responds to wave angles and turns. Check the steering capabilities and how the boat responds to wakes. Is this what you want, or does something feel off? Test driving also ensures the condition of the boat. Run the motor long enough to make sure it doesn't overheat. You don't want to be left in the middle of a lake flagging for help. You should not buy the first good deal you come across without deeply considering the repercussions of that decision.

Also, don't get caught up in a boat's features without checking to see if they'll really fit what you're looking for. Without properly assessing the boat, you can never be sure. For example, the bed in a cabin might not be long enough, or you may not have enough room on the head to fit what you want it to. The storage space may be incompatible with your needs. Only by comparing brands and boats will you truly know if you are getting a good deal.

Consider your time commitments as well. If you or your family members have many other engagements such as soccer games or play rehearsals, perhaps you should think more about buying a boat. Making time for boating can be a difficult task with work and family obligations, but if you can fit it into your busy schedule, it will surely be worth it.

3) Spending over your budget.

First time buyers make the mistake of spending over their budget, and they don't realize it until after the bills start rolling in. The monthly payments and the final cost of the boat is not all you have to worry about. A boat has special needs, just like your car. It requires winterizing for the colder months, fuel, storage, maintenance, and repair. And you can't skip steps like winterizing or you'll run the risk of cracking or break something important, which will likely cost you much more to fix or replace than the initial cost. You will also pay property taxes, insurance, dockage, and more. Sometimes you have to purchase a trailer separately as well.

Stop and think about where you are going to store the boat and trailer. Do you already have a place in mind? If it's too big, you can't store it in your garage, and many neighborhoods won't allow you to store it in plain sight in front of your house. You might have to find a slip or storage rack big enough for your boat, and this is one of the largest expenses you can incur.

4) Buying products and features that you don't need and that don't fit your boating style.

This can fall under the wrong type of boat to fit your needs, but it needs to be stressed. To use the car example again, would you take your new, luxurious white car off-road through mud pits and on bumpy, pothole-ridden roads all the time? No, because your car probably wasn't built for that. The same applies to buying a boat with features that do not fit your requirements. If you will constantly be going in and out of the water, especially saltwater, then you are going to want to buy a boat with carpet that will not show stains and will soak up the water to prevent slipping. Or there should at least be something slip-resistant in place. Same with extra electronics; why pay for extra features that you will never use?

5) Not considering warranty and repair procedures.

Warranties and repair procedures are often ignored. Most buyers will take sellers' words about the warranty, but sometimes it's best just to make sure what's said and what's written match. When buying a boat, you should always read the warranty and decipher what the fine print really means. Don't mistake that everything is covered by the warranty or that the length of the warranty is the same for all parts. If you see the word "prorated," be cautious that aspects of your warranty coverage will decline over the time period covered. The dealer often covers only certain parts of a boat -- for the rest of the electronics, you will usually receive warranties for individual products by their own manufacturers. Also, look at and compare how long it takes to fix the boat. Some require much more time than others, and you don't want to be stuck without your boat all summer.

If you are buying a used boat, be sure to check out if the warranty is transferable. Most will be, but sometimes you will have to transfer the warranty carefully to avoid voiding it entirely. The same goes for doing your own repair work. It could void your warranty. Be careful to read all fine print and fully understand it. If you don't understand, then ask. You don't want to waste precious vacation time figuring out and fixing the boat, especially if the dealer requires weeks to do it.


< Back to Top >
< Back to Boating & Marine Articles Main Page >