United Yacht Sales Weblog

Author: Brooke Hayles

Here is a true story of a dream gone badly. Owning the Ranger Z22 Comanche Bass yacht was a long cherished dream for them. They saved and envisioned the day they would be the proud owners of it. Finally after many years, that day came. They bought the yacht of their dreams, all 22 feet, 300 horsepower of happiness. They were anxious to go to Lake Sinclair in Georgia to christen their new yacht, but they knew the needed to take care of a very important matter first, yacht insurance. They wanted to protect this dream and themselves from harm.

Their local yacht insurance agent stated they needed guest passenger liability, property damage, bodily injury, theft, medical payment coverage along with coverage for physical loss. Now he is the yacht insurance expert so no need to question, right? Well turns out they should not have been in such a hurry to enjoy their new yacht and taken some extra time out to protect it.

Taking solace in the fact their life long dream was protected from damage or accidents, they proceeded to enjoy the dream that had turned into a reality. A rude awakening was about to happen. They lived near the ocean in Georgia. Severe storms are not common in the early summer months, but the ones that do occur are very severe and damaging. They found themselves hit by a powerful hurricane. Their dreamyacht, the cover, trailer, and other equipment were all destroyed. They called their yacht insurance agent and their world turned upside down. They found out after many unanswered phone calls and a visit that they did not have the coverage that they needed to replace their lost dream.

Now after experiencing the fury of a hurricane and the loss of a yacht, they came face to face with the reality that a dream was lost and no hope of immediate recovery or for that matter recovery in the near future. Their yacht insurance provider did not advise them about an option of ‘natural disaster coverage’. This coverage was not standard with the company they chose. Then to top it off, they found out that nothing else was covered. The trailer, cover, fishing equipment, and other articles in the yacht were also lost for good. This was also an optional coverage, and again was not mentioned or suggested.

The reason that we bring this story to your attention is to point out the importance of researching yacht insurance policies and brokers. Even after you chose a broker, you need to discuss all the details of a policy to assure that your dream does not become a nightmare. By taking the necessary steps and finding a top yacht insurance agent, you could possibly save money. Some will offer discounts for taking safe yachting courses, if it has, a diesel engine could be some savings as well.

A few things that are essential, to completely protect your prized yacht. You want to have a yacht insurance coverage that will provide wreck and emergency removal services. Be sure it covers your equipment, motor, trailer, and of course the yacht. Also, be sure of natural disaster coverage no matter where you live. All areas of the country have natural disasters like floods, fire, hail, tornados, lightening and windstorms. You also want to be sure you are covered for acts of vandalism or explosions

Author: Paul MacIver

A yacht makes any owner proud. One can rule the ocean with ones own yacht. Commanding a yacht transforms man to pass as the ruler of the high seas and terrible winds. yachts have caught the fancy of man since time immemorial. Possessing a yacht however, is costly and has its own perils. yachts are an expensive asset, and they need to be protected. yacht insurance is one such method to protect you as the owner from damage or loss.

Constituents of yacht Insurance:

Yacht insurance has two major components; the first one being Legal Responsibility/Security and Insurance, and the second being Property Loss. The insured sum is based either on Actual Cash Value or on the Sum Agreed Over.

A yacht insurance policy is based on the agreed value; there is a certain amount of money printed in the policy, which is the sum compensated in the case of a complete loss. Limited damages are provided at new prices, implying that there is no reduction imposed, apart from high wear matter like sails and some machinery. This is the costly form of insurance. An authentic cash value policy is one where if your yacht is lost completely, you will get the existing market price, without any deductible and suitable reduction for the age and state of your yacht during loss.

Finding an Insurer:

Finding a yacht insurer online is extremely easy, with many insurers vying for this market. If you as the yacht owner are already familiar with a trustworthy company, then you can just visit the company’s website and buy the insurance online. If you go for online insurance, you may get some discounts as well, especially if you choose to enroll for seamanship training through the Coast Guard classes, or membership in one of the U.S. Power Squadrons groups throughout the country.

A yacht insurance policy offers broad navigational limits when a trip to distant ports is on the cards. The agreed or cash value of your yacht is covered, along with rig coverage, scheduled tenders, and outboards. Most states require at least the watercraft liability insurance coverage for every yacht. An insurance agent can usually help you out with all the necessary legal requirements and insurances. Once you get the required cover, you may buy more as per your convenience or requirement.

Since medical expense due to any yacht accident maybe very high, it is wise to buy medical coverage also. Then there is an insurance cover against uninsured yachts. This means that if you are hit by an uninsured yacht, you will still be able to get compensation for replacing the yacht or getting medical treatment.

yachts are great assets, but without proper insurance, they can be quite hazardous to own and sail in.

Most insurers have websites as well as offices. You can just simply click and buy any policy you require, or you can visit the office to speak and discuss with the insurance agents. These agents can assist in fulfilling the legal requirements of insuring your yacht as well.

Do you want to buy a yacht?
You have come to the right place: United Yacht offers catamarans, trimarans, power boats, sailing boats, monohulls, mulithulls, superyachts and boat shares for sale.

New and used boats are for sale by yacht brokers and private sellers from around the globe. Boat listings are updated by the seller making United Yacht the up-to-date source of information for the boat buyer. With inventory info and lots of photos, United Yacht is the best referenced boat sales site on the net according to our viewers. If you can’t find the boat you’re looking for you, we suggest you make use of Boats Wanted.

United Yacht Sales is one of, if not the largest Yacht Brokerage firms in the United States. We are pure Brokers. United’s policy is to not dilute our services by stocking new boats as our Brokers are tasked solely with placing Buyer and Sellers together.

Author: Willie Jones

Yachting is a great adventure on any type of yacht and is being enjoyed by many on a daily basis, but with that comes a great responsibility. It is not mandatory to do a yachting course at this time but there are some very good reasons to get your self informed about the rules of the road.

1) You will learn about safety equipment and what you are required to have on your yacht before you undertake any yachting excursion. This is very important because what you don’t have with you could make the difference between being able to handle a situation or not. Also, that outing for the day could cost you if the sheriff stops you to spot check your yacht and fines you for not having all the safety equipment required for your specific yacht.

2) You will learn that driving a yacht is vastly different from driving a car. You are dealing with air and water currents. If you have never docked a yacht you may think that it is easy, until that is, the current is pulling you in the opposite direction that you want to go. Understanding air and water currents will help you learn how to dock your yacht.

3) Knowing how to work with lines and tying knots is part of yachting. You have to be able to secure a yacht properly. If your yacht gets away, it is amazing how quickly the current will take it out of your reach and you will probably require the assistance of another yachter to help you get to it. So learn your knots.

4) You will learn what the channel markers mean. We learned the hard way the first time we went out on a yacht and ran aground outside the markers. We also had no clue what the red and green markers meant on the poles. This you also learn on the course.

5) There are speed limits on certain water ways but unlike the roads, they may or may not be posted. Ignorance may not be enough to get you out of a ticket.

6) Using charts for coastal navigation can be a life saver. It’s your road map that helps you stay away from the shallows and shows where all the markers and bridges are, and by using measurements you can calculate the distance and time it will take to get somewhere. It can be valuable tool for navigation.

7) Just like on the roads, there is the right of way. On a yachting course you will learn who has the right of way and why.

Every yacht should have a horn. You may hear one long toot or 2 short toot and so on, and you’ll learn what they mean.

9) There are yachting regulations and laws that must be followed by all yachters, for example, (and I have seen this rule broken so many times) you are not allowed to sit on the bow of the yacht with your feet hanging over board. There are many more regulations to learn and not knowing them can cost you.

10) Anchoring a yacht is not just a matter of plopping it down to the sand. There is a mathematical technique applied to anchoring that has to do with the size and length of your yacht. Knowing how to do this correctly will give you that extra insurance of knowing your yacht is going nowhere until you want to move it.

Author: Frank Rom
There is nothing more enjoyable than a nice, calm voyage on the water. The fact that there are quite a number of different boating experiences, be it soothing or on the contrary exciting makes the boating world a very attractive one. Water sports in general have always been well appreciated, even by those who don’t like to get wet at all.

Boating can be enjoyed alone, in a group with some friends or with your family, it makes a great bonding experience. A group of people or family members coming together to go fishing or to go swimming or just to go quietly cruising along on the lake have a mutual interest and a mutual goal: relaxing and being free of the worlds trouble.

And for those who are not satisfied with the quiet and calm cruising there is always waterskiing or wild water rafting to prove your athletic skills and stamina. And let us not forget boat racing: a hobby that can gets a lot of excitement going. Whatever your fancy in the boating world make sure that your vessel and its power are a match for your expectation of pleasure.

Match Your Boating to Your Hobby

It goes without saying that for waterskiing you will need a rather big boat in order to carry not only the people but also all the necessary equipment. Don’t forget to bring along a lookout, to keep an eye on the skier in case he or she gets in trouble and falls. The power of the boat will have to be sufficient to get to the skier in case of emergency but not so big as to get him or her in trouble because the speed exceeds the safe limits.

If you’d rather cruise the lake, you can do with a smaller boat and less power, giving you the opportunity to savor the surroundings, gently cruising along. The power of the motor has to be big enough though to get the vessel through the water without putting too much strain. For keen fishers out there they will need a bigger boat with perhaps twin engines to get them to the fishing zones and back to the docks in no time.

The best of all worlds of course would be to have a boat for all kinds of boating fun, small enough to do some cruising, yet large and powerful enough for waterskiing or fishing. This type of vessel caters to the needs of many family members and brings fun for everyone. What could be better on a warm, sunny day than a family boating trip?

Author: Samantha Kay
Learning the proper way to trailer a boat is a necessity for any individual who does in fact trailer their boat as opposed to keeping it on a lift or at a storage facility that offers “in and out” service for their customers.

While there is no “official” data available at the current time from the government or insurance companies on the exact number of accidents specifically, that occur while a vehicle is pulling a boat, it is widely speculated that the number is on the rise for several reasons:

* Rise in the number of individuals purchasing boats and boat trailers.

* Increased use of trailer companies using low-cost imports to build trailers that unfortunately have been associated with a decrease in quality, particularly in the area of boat trailers spring suspensions.

* Inadequate maintenance of boat trailers by the owner.

* Inadequate knowledge by boat trailers owners on the proper way to hook up the boat trailer to the vehicle, trailer a boat, launch a boat (backing up a boat trailer) and retrieving a boat.

Also, improperly trailing a boat, particularly when launching and retrieval, is extremely poor boating etiquette and causes much inconsideration and aggravation to knowledgeable and studied boaters. In addition, the environment suffers as more pollutants enter into the water with a constant reversal and forward of the boat while trying to retrieve to the trailer.

With increasing your experience, rest assured your turn will come someday as you patiently wait for the inept driver making their fourth attempt at backing the boat trailer down the ramp or trying to retrieve it back onto the trailer.

All this being said, lets look at tips on the proper way to hook up, trailer, launch, retrieve and travel a distance with a boat trailer.

Hooking up a boat trailer to a towing vehicle:

* If you have a SUV vehicle, most of the hatches can be lifted up. Before you begin to back up to the boat, open and lift the hatch up. This will give you an enormous advantage in backing up to the trailer by enabling you to see tremendously better where you are backing up in regards to the trailer.

* Once the vehicle is properly backed up to the boat trailer hitch, put the emergency brake on in your vehicle and begin to crank down the boat trailer jack onto the coupler ball on the vehicle. Once the trailer hitch is all the way down on the vehicle coupler ball, continue to crank the trailer jack as far as it will go up.

* Tighten down the trailer to the coupler ball either by turning trailer hitch or locking it down, depending on which type of trailer hitch you have. It’s a good practice at this time to put a master lock through the trailer hitch. This is often forgotten and many a boater has come back to the ramp and found their trailer gone. Therefore, do this immediately after your attached and secured to your trailer.

* Attach the safety chains from the trailer to the vehicle making sure to cross them over one another.

* If your trailer has brakes, hook up the S-hook on the brake cable from the trailer to the hitch on the vehicle.

* Lastly connect the electrical connector from the boat trailer to the vehicle in whatever connection is on your vehicle hitch.

* Make sure the trailer winch is locked down tight on the boat bow eye. Shut your SUV hatch.

* At this time you are hooked up and ready to go, however it is suggested to take a few more minutes to prepare for launching either at home, which is strongly suggested or at the boat ramp.

Pre-launching Tips:

* Preparation, preparation, preparation. This is the key to safely launching your boat. This is not only a safety issue but an enormous courtesy to fellow boaters at the ramp. Again, most of these tips can be and should be addressed before leaving home with your boat; however, some must wait until arriving at the ramp. Read the rest of this entry »

Author: Steve Miers
With boating season about to get into full swing, it is time to think about packing up your gear and your family and heading to the lake. Going out on the boat with your family can be a fun experience that can create many happy childhood memories for your children. Growing up on the water is an experience that not all children get to have. There are some things that you can do to help add to the experience.

The first thing that you need to do is to pick a boating destination. Children enjoy riding on the boat, but they also will not want to ride around endlessly all day. They need something to look forward to. If you are a family that enjoys skiing, then board your boat and take a scenic cruise to the best skiing spot on the lake. If your children like to be pulled on a float, then make your way to calmer waters where they can enjoy being pulled on the float without having to worry about other boats. If sunbathing is a priority, then a calm inlet where you can tie floats to the boat and be lazy in the water is a perfect spot. We have an island close to us where there is a beach volley ball court and a water volley ball court set up in shallow water. This seems to be the spot for the teenagers to congregate and parents to relax together. Younger children might enjoy a nature cruise, looking for turtles, fish and flowers.

Pack plenty of food and drinks for your family. If you have a teenage son who eats and eats and eats, then have snacks available for him. A picnic lunch on the water or on the beach of an island are both good ideas. If you have access to a restaurant on the water, then take advantage of an hour out of the sun and in the air conditioning to fuel up for more water fun.

Take along games such as cards or a favorite board game. If your children need a break from being in the water, they can play a game on deck or down below. The children can play games inside the boat while you ride around leisurely, which works for both of you.

Have fun making memories with your family on the water. Whether you are swimming, skiing or relaxing in the water or on the boat, enjoy the family time that boating together gives you. In this fast paced world, being out on the water, away from it all is a good time out for everyone.
To know more about Boating visit United Yacht website.

Author: Kristy Bateman
Buying a new Yacht:
Are you planning on purchasing a new yacht? Whether you are a first time yacht owner, or have been navigating the waters for decades, there are a few steps you should take. As exciting as it is; buying a new yacht is not something that you should just jump into.

You need to decide which yacht is right for you and your needs. Take into consideration what you will be using the yacht for, who will be going with you, and where you will be taking your yacht. You can find this information buy reading articles about different types of yachts, researching yachting websites, and looking through yacht review magazines. yacht shows are an excellent way to learn about yacht styles, sizes, engines and equipment. Reading opinions and experiences that other people have with yachts may sway your decision or give you ideas.

What size should I get?Deciding what size yacht you need is important. You do not want to get a yacht that is too small for the intended use, or one that is too big for just taking you fishing. Bigger yachts will usually have more amenities such as cabins, toilets, and galleys. However, this means that there are more systems that need to be understood and maintained. Some yachts are too big to be trailered, which leads to transportation issues. They will also take more gas to operate.

New or Used?Decide whether you want a yacht that has never hit the water or one that has had a little experience. Buying both new and used yachts has its pros and cons, like anything else. Whether you are buying new or used; shop around before making your big purchase.

If you buy a new yacht, you know that it does not already have problems or repairs that need to be made. If anything goes wrong with the yacht once you own it, it is under warranty. Buying new also allows you to custom order according to your specific needs and wants. There are financing options when buying a new yacht, which allows for better interest rates and deals. If you buy new, make sure that you address any problems that come up while the warranty is still in effect.If it is a seasoned yacht that you are looking for; than buying used is your best option. Used yachts are good for yachters who are not sure what they want to do on the yacht. If you are on a budget, buying used in less expensive than new. You may not find exactly what you want in a used yacht, which leads to added expenses to customize later. Before buying your used yacht, get a marine survey and have the yacht inspected. This will check for structural damage or mechanical problems that the owner failed to mention, or may not have known about. They will also be able to detect whether the yacht will need repair in the near future. With this information you can make an educated decision on whether buying used will really save you more money.

Make sure that the dealer you are buying your yacht from is reputable. Checking around and asking advice will only help you in the long run. It is very important to check the dealer/seller for proof of ownership. You do not want to buy a yacht that is stolen. If you feel as though you need help researching and purchasing your yacht, you may want to hire a yacht broker. They will help you determine which yacht is best for you, negotiate deals and arrange financing.

Test Drive:

Like a car, a yacht should also be taken for a test drive. Once you think you have found the yacht that you would like to purchase, it is a good idea to see how it handles on the water. Here you can see if you enjoy the way that it rides, and if it is right for you. There are certain tests that you should do while out on the water. Check to the engine to see if they are warm before turning on the ignition. If it is, the owner may have started it up prior to your arrival. This would be done to hide the fact that the yacht may have trouble starting. The bilge should be checked at the beginning and end of the test drive for any oil leaks. While in the dock, maneuver the yacht around in forward and reverse to check for response time. Check for bow steering while at slow speeds, and record how long it takes the yacht to plane at high speeds. Take several turns; wide and tight at various speeds. If the bow of the yacht bounces on straight runs, adjusting the trim should be able to fix the problem. Check to see how smoothly the yacht handles waves and wakes. You do not want side to side rolling. You should also be observing how well the gauges and instruments are working, as well as the oil pressure. The engine should be run long enough to check for overheating.

Purchasing the yacht:

Make sure to check around for prices and follow blue book pricing guides. This will help you negotiate the best price for your yacht. Once you have the price you are satisfied with, have the owner put it in writing. This will eliminate any problems with price changes before the sale is complete. This agreement should also list terms, as well as the accessories that are included in the price. If you are buying a new yacht, contact several lenders to get the best deal on financing.

A few more things after the purchase:

It is a good idea to take a yachting safety course. Even if you are familiar with the water, and have been on numerous yachts in the past; you should take the course. There are safely tips to follow to make sure that you have a fun and safe summer on your yacht.You are now the proud owner of a yacht that is new to you. When insuring your yacht, it is very important to include the survey and inspection if you have one. Register your yacht and apply for a new registration sticker. Title your yacht in your own name; if it was previously owned it will need to be re-titled. Pay your sales taxes. Get your yacht inspected by the local Coast Guard and display the sticker on the port side window.

Preparing yourself by setting a budget is important. Owning a yacht can get expensive. Plan out what added expenses you feel are necessary for your yacht, and don’t forget the cost of fuel. Following money saving tips will help you stick to your budget.

If you are not an experienced yachter, your first trip on the water should be with one. They can show you helpful things like turns, docking and trailering. They will help you to feel more comfortable and confident enough to be on your own. Make sure you are equipped with the necessities. Keep a tool kit, first aid kit, documentation, light bulbs, fuses and manuals on board.

Get out on the water and enjoy your new yacht!
For more information about United Yacht visit http://unitedyachts.us

Author: Kristy Bateman
What type of boat is best for my lifestyle?
Maybe you are an avid fisherman who spends endless summer days searching for that fish that will give you ultimate bragging rights, or want to spend summer afternoons slowly cruising with a group of friends on your pontoon, or possibly have a fascination for speed and water sports. Whatever your passion, there is a boat out there that is made specifically for your needs and desires. However it isn’t always easy to know exactly which boat you should choose. It is easy to be overwhelmed by the enormous variety of boat types and models. There are several different boat choices based on what they would be used for.What will I use the boat for?
You should first decide what you anticipate using the boat for. There are boats for fishing, water sports, cruising, sailing, entertaining, or taking long trips. Some are designed for multiple purposes.
Once you know what you want to do with it, decide who you are going to be taking with you? You may not want a pontoon boat the fits 12 people if you are only going to be fishing with a buddy. You also don’t want to overload your boat because of safety.
Consider where you will be enjoying your boat; up and down the calm river, on a sheltered lake, or an open ocean with high waves and rough seas. If you will be taking trips you will want your boat to have a cabin.

Choosing the right engine for my boat:
Now consider the propulsion needed when deciding on an engine type. The horsepower and weight are very important factors in the performance of your boat. An engine that is not powerful enough will cause your boat to work harder than it should and lead to a great deal of maintenance and excess use of fuel. You need to consider the size and weight of your boat, including gear and passengers. There are six different propulsion types with varying factors to consider when choosing a system for your boat.

Outboard Motors (2 types)
Outboard motors are detachable and mounted on the stern of the boat, with horsepower ranging from 1HP to over 300HP. These engines can be used in all types of water. The 2 types of outboard motors are 2 stroke and 4 stroke.
2 Stroke: better acceleration, no need to change oil, better fuel efficiency, lower priced, weighs less, quieter
4 Stroke: lower emissions, excellent fuel economy, electronic ignition systems, good acceleration, oil added to engine not fuel

Diesel Inboard Engines
These engines range in size and horsepower, and rely on compression for power. They are designed for boats over 35ft because they produce torque and weigh more than gas engines.
No carbon monoxide in cabins or back, non-explosive fuel, low running cost, excellent torque, long life expectancy

Gas Inboard Engines
These engines are used for a variety of different sizes and types of boats, and range in horsepower from 90HP to 1000HP. It is located in the middle of the boat with the drive running through the bottom of the boat to the propeller. The rudder is separate for steering.
Simple drive system, quite, hidden, lower maintenance, low running costs

Jet Propulsion
These systems do not include a propeller, which make it safer for water sports. They are inboard engines that take in water which flows through a pump that is powered by an impeller. The high pressure caused by this, propels the boat forward. However, steering is only possible when power is being applied. Things can also be sucked into the water intake, and shouldn’t be used in shallow water.

Stern Drive
This is often called an Inboard/Outboard and consists of an engine and drive connected through the transom of the boat. The engine is inside and the propulsion is outside of the boat. This drive can be trimmed up or down. There are many different types of functions depending on what they will be used for. They can be used with one or two propellers, as well as two drives on one boat with one or two propellers.
Low maintenance, ease of control and steering, used on gas or diesel engines, quiet

Choose the right boat for your favorite activity:
There are different types of boats for a variety of activities and intended use. Below are examples of what boats are used for with lists of boat types best suited for that activity. You will find that there are several boats that are intended for more that one activity. For example, if you like fishing, water skiing, and plan to sleep on board; you can choose between a Stern Drive Cruiser and Cuddy Cabin.

Different types of boats
Fishing
Inboard Cruisers, Houseboats, Sedan Bridge, Sportsfishing Boats, Center Console, Fish and Ski, Flat Boats, Bass Boats, Fishing Boats, Jon Boat, Deck Boat, Multi-Hull Cruiser, Multi-Hull Power Boat, Closed Bow Runabouts, Walkaround, Bowriders, Cuddy Cabins,
Water Sports
Fishing Boats, Fish and Ski Boats, Bass Boats, Stern Drive Cruisers, Bowriders, Closed Bow Runabouts, Cuddy Cabins, Deck boats, Inboard Ski Boats, Inboard Wakeboard Boats, Jet Boats
Entertainment
Pontoon, Deck Boats, Motor Yachts, Inboard Cruiser
Cruising/Trips
Cuddy Cabins, Motor Yachts, Sedan Bridge, Inboard Cruiser, Sportfishing Boats, Stern Drive Cruisers, Trawlers, Cruising Sailboats, Multi-Hull Cruising Sailboats