Tag Archives: fast boats

THE INTREPID COTTAGER: Riding Protected

23 Tuesday Oct 2012

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Photo by Virgil Knapp

I do most of my Sea-Doo riding in Canada, where the season can run from early May to early October, with temperatures running into the 30˚ Celsius (85˚ F +) range from June to August. We run into a variety of weather conditions, both over each month and even during some days. We rode one August morning on the Ottawa River that was only 12˚ Celsius (54˚ F) to start, but went up to 28 C (82 F) by afternoon!

Now I’m no delicate flower, but these variations are one reason I always tour totally covered. I have to chuckle every time I see a PWC promotional photo with the riders only in bathing suits and PFD’s. Excuse me, won’t they get burned to a crisp during a long day on the water?  I certainly do.

That’s why I apply a 30 SPF or greater sunscreen and wear sunglasses. It’s also why I cover up. When riding a PWC, parts of my body are especially vulnerable to sunburn, namely the ones I can’t do much to shift out of direct sun while riding: face and head, back of hands, top of thighs, points of shoulders, back of neck, and ankles and tops of feet.

So I wear a ball cap or doo-rag, plus gloves, long pants and a long sleeved shirt, and water booties. The shirt and pants are very light, quick dry material. They also provide some wind protection: even on sunny days, a light breeze combined with the wind-stream of a moving PWC can be chilly.

When extra protection is required, I wear a Sea-Doo Men’s X-Team Neoprene Riding Jacket. I wear it for warmth and to be visible on the water. I also got it a couple of sizes too large so I could wear it over my regular riding gear and PFD. This riding jacket worked great on those cool mornings when we leave on tour before the heat of the day kicks in or when the weather turns bad unexpectedly en route. Depending on the severity of the weather conditions, I either tuck the hood inside or wear it up and tied tight around my head.

Sea-Doo riding is great fun and dressing right keeps it that way. Talk to you next time!

 

BRP CONTINUES TO LEAD THE WATERSPORTS INDUSTRY WITH THE ONLY TOW SPORT-SPECIFIC WATERCRAFT – THE SEA-DOO WAKE 155 AND WAKE PRO 215

22 Monday Oct 2012

Posted by in Sea-Doo Lifestyle, Technologies

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BRP continues to push the water sports world with the only tow specific watercraft with the 2013 Sea-Doo WAKE models. The Sea-Doo WAKE models are the most versatile and performance driven watercraft, even when the tow rope is stowed. For 2013, the Sea-Doo WAKE models continue to be the official watercraft of the world class NIKE wakeskate team riders Nick Taylor, Ben Horan and Kevin Henshaw.

BRP’s Sea-Doo WAKE watercraft offer unmatched versatility by providing a first class pull and exhilarating ride perfect for both beginner and professional boarders. Learning to ride behind an iControl technologies-equipped Sea-Doo watercraft is easier, less intimidating, and more economical than behind a traditional powerboat. Both WAKE models are available with the exclusive Intelligent Throttle Control (iTC) and are calibrated using the exclusive GPS-based Ski Mode to fit wakeboarders’ and wakeskaters’ needs. This exclusive feature is engineered to make every driver an expert with the ability to program the acceleration curve and target speed for a consistent, perfect pull every time.

The WAKE 155 is built on the award-winning GTI platform that offers a playful, yet predictable ride on a smaller hull. The WAKE PRO 215 offers more power, pro caliber tracking and comfort from the longer and deeper S3 hull. Both WAKE models are equipped with Intelligent Brake & Reverse (iBR) for an additional level of maneuverability and always start in neutral for ease of loading and unloading at the dock.

2013 SEA-DOO WAKE 155

BRP continues to push watersports technology and versatility with the Sea-Doo WAKE 155 watercraft. This model includes iControl, ECO mode and Ski mode to offer the most striking and accessible tow specific watercraft on the marine market. It delivers ample low-end torque to provide a powerful pull with minimal fuel consumption. It features class leading comfort and storage with 116.6 litres (30.8 US gallons) of usable space, plus the addition of iBR and iTC systems. The WAKE 155 is equipped with the PWC industry’s only tow specific package including; Ski mode, retractable tow ski pylon, large swim platform with a fold-down reboarding step, removable board racks and mirrors.

The 2013 Sea-Doo WAKE 155 is the preferred watercraft of Team Nike wakeskater Nick Taylor. Taylor favors the Wake 155 for its economical operation and shallow water capabilities versus traditional boats and also its quick turnarounds and pick-ups thanks to the iBR system. Reliability is perhaps the most important standard feature for Taylor as he has amassed over 570 hours of saltwater use on his WAKE 155 watercraft over the past three years, an amount that would take the average owner over 17 years to accumulate.

2013 SEA-DOO WAKE PRO 215

BRP’s 2013 Sea-Doo WAKE PRO 215 combines industry leading design with the best PWC tow specific components and performance on a larger platform,making it the ultimate towing watercraft. Based on the S3 hull with a deeper V, the WAKE PRO 215 offers solid straight-line tracking during rider edging and greater comfort during extended treks over open water. It comes standard with the award-winning ECO Mode and a GPS calibrated Ski Mode. The iControl equipped WAKE PRO 215 watercraft comes with iBR which enables quicker turnarounds for rider pick-ups. Additional features include retractable ski pylon with spotter handgrips, removable board rack, fold-down reboarding step, tilt steering, high performance VTS and watertight removable storage bin.

 

Nike wake team riders, Ben Horan, Andrew Pastura, Nick Taylor, Kevin Henshaw and Silas Thurman, utilize BRP’s Sea-Doo WAKE watercraft exclusively.  They have a combined 1,750 hours of use among their respective watercraft. These riders share trick tips and their insights behind the WAKE PRO 215 and Wake 155 models in the Nike “DO IT” wake video shorts that can be seen in the Wake section on Sea-Doo.com, youtube.com/seadootv, remotewakeskates.com, and nike6.com.

MUST HAVE OF THE MONTH: Sea-Doo Boat “How-To” Video Series, Sea-Doo WAKE boats Triple Wakeboost System

22 Wednesday Aug 2012

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Curious as to how the Triple Wakeboost system works in our Sea-Doo WAKE boats?  Check out the Sea-Doo “How-To” video series…today’s feature is on the Triple Wakeboost system.  This system allows the driver to fine tune and customize the wake shape for all levels of wakeboarders so you can have the PERFECT wake for beginner to advanced wakeboarders. This HOW TO video explains how to fill and empty the boost reservoirs, the location of and how to open the boost system valves and the Sea-Doo touchscreen controls.

WELCOME TO THE WATER: “Get Started in Boating” DVD

08 Wednesday Aug 2012

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Now that summer is rapidly drawing to an end, we all fondly remember the many exciting days we spent on the water with family and friends. If you caught the boating bug this summer and are contemplating purchasing a Sea-Doo boat of your own…we have an excellent resource for you. Discoverboating.com has a FREE “Get Started in Boating” DVD that will help to educate you on how to buy a boat and much more. If you would prefer to view the DVD online, you can request instant online access.

Topics included in this engaging DVD include:

-An overview of the boat types and their uses.
-Tips on towing, trailering, safety, etc.
-5 steps to boat ownership
-Insurance and finance information

For more information or to request YOUR DVD visit:  http://www.discoverboating.com/marketing/dvd/default.aspx

 

SHE-DOO on Buying Boat Insurance

17 Tuesday Jul 2012

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Insurance…a wise and necessary investment.  As I continue on my path to boat ownership, I want to ensure that my  Sea-Doo boat will be covered in the case of an accident so I started my research and learned some very interesting facts!

Boat insurance is very similar to home or car insurance.  A boat policy will cover the boat for liability if someone is injured, coverage for damage that my boat inflicts on others (docks, boats, etc.) or coverage for physical damage for my boat if I were to hit something or run aground.  If I want more comprehensive coverage I would need to purchase an additional policy (theft, fire, flood, etc.).

One of the first things I learned is that there are two different types of policies: Agreed Value and Market Value.

-Agreed Value: the insurer and insuree agree on the value of the boat upfront, sort of like the sticker price on a car.  If something happens to the boat, then you would be reimbursed for the agreed value.

-Market Value: market value is for the actual market value of the boat.  If I purchase market value, the insurance company will depreciate the boat as time passes.

I chose to quote Agreed Value, since the boat will be brand new and I will be financing the boat. I also opted to include my trailer and marine electronics in my policy. This raised the rate a bit, but gives me much greater peace of mind knowing that my investment will be fully protected.

We went over the discounts available and I receive a few such as boaters license discount, original owner and I intend to pay in full.  I checked with my home insurance company and they offer a recreational vehicle option, but found a more competitive rate with another insurer.  Most companies will offer discounts when bundling insurance, but my insurance company’s discount did not mirror the rates I received with another company.

I found some excellent on-line resources that helped to educate me on the process including:

Discoverboating.com

Boatingmag.com

Sportfishingmag.com

Many companies offer marine insurance. My recommendation is to check with your home owner’s or auto insurance provider first as well as doing some competitive analysis.  Some of the most well-know carriers include: Progressive, Boat US, Allstate, Geico and State Farm.

Any insurance words of wisdom?  Any pitfalls or good things that you have experienced?  All advise welcome!

SHE DOO is actually Mrs. JA and she is indeed a full-time, working mom of three and is quickly being immersed into the boating life. She will be taking an everyday consumer approach to the entire boat buying process. SHE DOO will be a ongoing segment at OnBoard taking you with her along the journey as she progresses through the process of looking for the right boat, purchasing the right boat, learning the proper boating procedures and operations, real life experiences on the water with her family and everything else there is to know about making the most out of the boating experience and the Sea-Doo LIFE. Her immediate thoughts are how to entertain her 17, 15 and 10 year olds and friends as she sees them being on the water as a much better alternative than them being on the streets.

 

 

THE INTREPID COTTAGER: Getting Used to Riding a Watercraft

03 Tuesday Jul 2012

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Many of the people I introduce to Sea-Doo Watercraft riding are already powersports enthusiasts. Mostly, they ride snowmobiles, ATV’s or motorcycles. That helps when it comes to their first Sea-Doo ride, but sometimes what works on the snow, dirt or pavement does not on the water.

The first point I make in my orientation is that riding watercraft is not a linear activity. It doesn’t occur on a trail or road, where I mostly have to watch front and back for other traffic. Riding watercraft is a 360˚ activity, so it’s imperative to watch all around you all the time. I tell my friends that traffic can come at you from any direction on a PWC, so don’t make a move without first checking your mirrors and looking to each side. So far, no close calls, but I can never be too sure.

Next, if I say they may have to forget familiar operating habits from their other powersports vehicles. The step-by-step start up procedure on an iControl equipped Sea-Doo watercraft may be different than what they’re used to, especially if they ride Ski-Doo snowmobiles. The new iControl equipped Sea-Doo watercraft also have a finger throttle and that may take some getting used to initially. The left hand brake lever may look familiar, but on my Sea-Doo model it also operates reverse and neutral, so it’s much more than just a brake.

But the biggest surprise is the multitude of new technology options that come from iControl. This isn’t your father’s Sea-Doo! It’s a masterpiece of integrated systems that can take some getting used to. So I tell new-to-iControl riders just to relax and enjoy their first ride. Yes, they need to know how to start and stop the engine, how to use throttle, brake and reverse and learn how to steer, turn and look all around. But some of the main iControl systems, like VTS and iS, operate automatically, while others work unobtrusively in the background. Others can be learned as each rider becomes more experienced with the PWC.

With every first timer, I get a kick out of riding for the first half or the ride (or until I think they are comfortable) in Touring Mode. By this time, they are usually grinning ear to ear with the thrill of the ride and feeling pretty confident. Then I casually suggest they try the Sport Mode and hang on tight. WOW! I think I’ve seen a few jaws dislocated by mile wide smiles, and heard more than a few yahoos and yippees! Nothing like Sport Mode to ramp up the excitement. Talk to you next time!

For more information on the Intrepid Cottager visit: http://www.intrepidcottager.com/

 

 

WELCOME TO THE WATER: Get off your Dock! Guide to Boating

28 Thursday Jun 2012

Posted by in Sea-Doo Lifestyle

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Summer is here!  Time to spend as much time on the water as possible!  Discoverboating.com has an excellent e-book that is designed to help you Get off your Dock!  This online guide to boating includes chapters on finding the right boat, budgeting, operating your boat, towing your boat to exciting destinations, storage, maintenance and even includes a chapter on choosing JUST the right name for you new boat!

The e-book is available online, can be downloaded and printed, or they will send you a CD.  So, what are YOU waiting for? Get off your dock!   We will do everything WE can to help you!

 

SEA-DOO X-TEAM FINISHES 1-2-3 ON RXP-X WATERCRAFT AT ROUND THREE OF IJSBA NATIONAL TOUR – MacCLUGAGE WINS

19 Tuesday Jun 2012

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PRO STOCK WINNER CHRIS MacCLUGAGE

The Sea-Doo X-TEAM sweeps the PRO STOCK podium at the third round of the IJSBA National watercraft racing tour with MACC Racing’s Chris MacClugage claiming another overall win in Racine, Wisconsin on his MONSTER ENERGY/RIVA Racing Sea-Doo RXP-X.

“The RXP-X is so much fun to race,” said MacClugage.  “It reminds me of racing sport (class) early in my career when I had the most fun racing. The fact they came in 1-2-3 shows how good this watercraft is.”

Racers aboard the new Sea-Doo RXP-X finished 1-2-3 in the highly competitive Pro Stock class as Snyder Built/Riva Racing Racing backed Troy Snyder and the RIVA Racing/Red Bull RXP-X of Erminio Iantosca filled the second and third spots on the podium behind MacClugage. All three racers are utilizing the same Sea-Doo RXP-X watercraft* that musclecraft enthusiasts can purchase directly from an authorized BRP/Sea-Doo watercraft dealer today. MacClugage continues to show how the new RXP-X T3 hull’s tight-turning capabilities allow him to run tighter and faster lap times than ever before.

Further proving the off the floor racing capabilities of Sea-Doo watercraft, Georgia’s Jeff Dyckowski and Florida’s Brent Venderley won the Expert Stock and Novice Stock respectively.

Runner up Troy Snyder on RXP-X

For more information about watercraft racing visit the IJSBA website.

WELCOME TO THE WATER: Looking for a boat ramp? Look no further than DiscoverBoating.com’s Marina and Ramp Locator

14 Thursday Jun 2012

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Summer time is here and many of us are looking forward to spending many fun-filled hours on the water.  If you are planning on towing your boat or watercraft to explore new lakes, rivers or oceans, we recommend Discoverboating.com and Takemefishing.org’s Marina and Ramp Finder.

This online (and mobile) tool is designed to help you discover the best places to launch your Sea-Doo boat or watercraft.  It also includes information on: boat facilities, bodies of water, fishing pier locations, public docking, picnic areas, food and beverage locations, family hot spots, camping, etc….. it is a useful one-stop tool to help you with planning your vacation, weekend or day get away on the water!

It is simple and easy to use…

If you are online, go to www.discoverboating.com and click on the Marine and Ramp Finder button. This will lead you to the online application. Once there, click on your intended state destination and continue with the process to drill down to your intended location.

You can also take the application with you on your smart phone.  The application is also available as a free download for both iPhone and Andriod devices.  To quickly find out the location of the mobile downloads visit www.takemefishing.org/gomobile

Enjoy your summer out on the water!

Sea-Doo Test Ride Tour—Riders LOVE the On-Water Brakes!

13 Wednesday Jun 2012

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The Sea-Doo Life Test Ride Tour is in full swing and we are making our way across the US. During the past two weeks the Test Ride Tour has stopped in Long Beach, Calif., Lake Cumberland, Ky., Atlanta, Ga., and Fort Worth, Texas.

Riders are raving about Sea-Doo‘s on-water braking system, acceleration and roominess in our Sea-Doo boats.  Check out what riders in Lake Lanier and Lake Cumberland had to say about their Test Rides!

The Sea-Doo Life Test Ride Tour is headed to Charlotte, NC at the Pier 49 Marina and Houston, Texas at Clear Lake at the South Shore Marina this weekend…..reserve your Test Ride Tour Stop time today by visiting www.SeaDooDemo.com.