This article will discuss the best accessories for your boat. We’ll also discuss what these accessories are and why they are important for your boat.
We will start by listing the essential accessories for boat owners according to Victoria’s State Law. These accessories are mandatory for powerboats that navigate in Victoria’s waters.
You are now equipped with all the required safety devices, so it is time to explore the world of boat parts and accessories. This is where the fun begins. These accessories will improve your boating performance and make life easier.
BOAT ACCESSORIES SHOULD BE INCLUDED IN YOUR BOAT
1. CHARTPLOTTER / PAPER CHARTS
The mapplotter, or paper charts, is similar to a route map. It shows water depth, danger areas, location and characteristics of navigation aids, anchorages, and more. Safe navigation is possible only with the nautical chart. To plan their voyages, navigators use paper charts/chartplotters.
Although a chartplotter or paper charts are not required on a boat, most boaters own one and believe it should. A chartplotter’s main purpose is to help the skipper plot and follow a course. The chartplotter can help you navigate safely and effectively when you return to shore. This life-saving boating system is essential.
2. FISH FINDER
The Fish Finder is an instrument that detects reflected sound energy and locates fish underwater. It will tell you the number of fish present and their sizes. It also gives you information about the location where you fish, such as the temperature and depth of the water.
An underwater transducer converts an electrical impulse from a transmitter into sound waves and sends them into the ocean floor. If the wave hits something like a fish, it will reflect back and display its size, composition, shape, and other details.
Modern fish finders include GPS navigation, marine radar, compasses, and more. These devices not only help you locate fish but also aid you in finding your way. They are a great tool to find fish in low visibility areas below and above water. GPS integration allows you to see the entire area and mark points so that you can return.
This accessory will revolutionize the way you fish if you’re a fisherman.
3. ANCHOR WINCH
Anchor wins make a great investment, regardless of the size of your boat. An anchor winch is a device that holds and manipulates an anchor chain to allow it to be raised or lowered.
There are many types of winches available, including mechanical drum-style, electric, capstan-style, hydraulic, and mechanical drum-style. The performance of your anchor system may be affected by the winch design, weight, and anchor setup. Consider the size of your boat, its utility and placement when purchasing a winch. If you are unsure, seek professional advice.
4. AUTOPILOT
An electronic self-steering system that can control the boat’s direction but not its speed is called. Many autopilot systems can be connected to a GPS or chartplotter and will steer your boat to a point or route that you have chosen.
This boat supply is great at keeping the vessel on a straight course even in moderate to light conditions. It also allows for minimal helm movement. Autopilots allow you to manage your boat while also enjoying the back deck fishing, or just taking a break on long trips.
Fun fact Traveling with an autopilot to a destination will decrease gas/petrol consumption.
Safety tip It is highly recommended that you install a marine radar on your boat for safety reasons. This marine accessory detects potential collision hazards in front of your vessel and will alert you immediately.
5. DUAL BATTERY SYSTEM AND VSR SYSTEM
Two batteries are often used in boats. The first is the Start Battery, which provides a lot of current but can only be charged quickly and is not tolerant to deep discharges. The second is the deep-cycle, which can withstand repeated deep discharges and recharging without causing any damage.
The double battery is smaller than comparable-sized deep cycles. It is recommended for boats that have two identical batteries being used interchangeably to power starting and household electrical loads. Dual-purpose batteries are good for some applications. They can withstand deep discharges that could destroy a typical starting battery.
Two batteries are necessary for the primary purpose of having one battery in case of problems on the water.
6. WATERPROOF SOUND WITH BLUETOOTH
You can listen to the radio anywhere you are, it can be mounted on any surface, USB, smartphone, or Bluetooth.
Weatherband is an exclusive feature for the USA. Standard AM/FM radio stations offer weather information, but not always.
7. UNDERWATER LIGHTING
Underwater boat light‘s primary purpose is to provide lighting for the boat while it is docked or out fishing/sailing. To make underwater LED boat lights work well, they must be made from waterproof materials that are resistant to corrosion.
Tip There are many substandard water products that don’t last very long when put to the test in harsh saltwater environments with barnacles, etc.
So that you can enjoy your fishing or other water-related activities, underwater boat lights can illuminate the water below your vessel. Make sure you research all options when choosing underwater lighting for your boat. If possible, get professional advice to help you choose the right brand and type for your needs.
8. BOATCATCH
Bootcatch is a patent-pending accessory for boat trailers that makes it easy to launch and retrieve your boat from the boat ramp. Once it’s installed you’ll never need to stand on a ramp again. There will be no wet feet or slippage on slippery, muddy ramps. You will save time and avoid arguments.
Boatcatch provides safety and security when launching your boat. Boatcatch features a pin with a heavy-duty design that automatically locates in the eye when retrieving the boat and secures it on the trailer.
Some vessels may require minor modifications to ensure a properly installed system. Nautek Marine technicians are qualified to provide expert advice and a professionally installed boatcatch system for your boat.
9. BALLAST BAG/FAT SAC
The Wakeboard Ballast bags/Fat Sacs , which are inflatable sacks that can hold water and add weight, are called . To build a larger wake, you will need to increase the boat’s weight. Ballast bags are a great and easy way to accomplish this.
You should place most of your ballast towards the back of the boat and one side to maximize your wake. These ballast bags come in a variety of sizes, from 225-pounds up to 750-pounds. Your wake will be larger the heavier you are. This accessory is essential for wakeboarders.
