Blogs

Becoming a Better Boater: My Experience Learning with BoatClass

I’m Stefanie, the Founder of Black Girls Boat. Ripl gave me the chance to take the beginner's course through BoatClass at Freedom Boat Club - check out my experience!

Everything you need to know about PFDs [Video]

Hear from Pro Angler, Brian Latimer about the importance of PFDs (Personal Floatation Devices).

Overview of Off-Season Boat Storage Options

Storing your boat properly for the off-season is an important aspect of boat ownership, depending on where you live. Knowing all the options available is helpful when making that decision.

WWBD (WHAT WOULD BOATERS DO)

Advice for boaters, from boaters

15 SECOND CHALLENGE | WHAT TO BRING ABOARD

How many items can you name?

Video | Spinning vs. Baitcasting Gear

Professional Angler, Brian Latimer, walks us through how to choose the right angling equipment.

Fear and Loathing of Bananas

A long-standing superstition has it that a banana on board is unluckier than stepping on a crack on Friday the 13th

Top 3 Fears of New Boaters (and How to Get Over Them)

Practical steps to get over common fears of new boaters.

Video | The Basics of Boating at Night

Here’s how to boat safely after sunset.

Video | The 10 Items to Have on Every Boat

Stow and stock these essential supplies on your boat before every outing.

Video | Breaking It Down: Docking Essential Steps

Ride along with a pro captain as he walks through the steps for learning how to dock.

Video | Let's Power Down: How to Anchor

Learn how to safely drop and retrieve your anchor.

VIDEO | All Tied Up: The Basic Boat Knots

Get a professional captain’s tips on tying the essential knots for boating.

Boating Etiquette, Part 2

Additional etiquette tips and reminders so you know what to do in common boating situations to ensure you're a courteous boater to those around you.

All About Anchoring

Anchoring is a critical skill for any boater. Not only does it allow you to enjoy a day swimming or a night sleeping under the stars, it can save your boat from drifting in case of an engine failure.