Getting Afloat This Summer Despite the Credit Crunch!

Outdoors Articles » Boating-sailing » Getting Afloat This Summer Despite the Credit Crunch!

Getting Afloat This Summer Despite the Credit Crunch!

If like me you are worried about how you are going to enjoy this summer season afloat then why not consider these options?

Keep the big boat on the hard, in the boatyard or beside the house this summer and downsize instead. What do I mean by downsize? Well why not use the dinghy or a dinghy instead? If your present tender is too small for messing about in, then consider buying something slightly larger that you and the family can use this coming summer. I am going to keep the thirsty jet cruiser firmly in the driveway and use instead the trusty old Mirror dinghy to enjoy the water over the coming months! I have a plan to get the Mirror dinghy ready for the sea and in tip top condition. If you want to get afloat as cheaply as possible - then buy a sailing dinghy or a reasonably sized dinghy for rowing or fishing. There are always loads to choose from in local or national adverts or auctions. Once you decide roughly what type you are looking for then next think about how you are going to transport the dinghy to the water. You can either tow or use roof bars on the car.

Some dinghies for sale will come with a trailer in the sale price. However, others will require roof bars. These can be bought for around £40 as universal fitting bars that suit most cars. Once you have the dinghy and a means to get to the water, then the usual safety equipment needs to be taken as well. Lifejackets, anchor and warp, mobile phone, handheld flares etc. Always check the weather forecast before setting off and tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back. These will no doubt be short informal trips out from the shore so no need to inform the Coastguard! As long as you think of all the stuff you need to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible you will soon get into the hang of frequent journeys in your dinghy that will be enjoyable and memorable for years to come!