As the Fall months creep into our calendars, boat owners in cooler climates acknowledge, with sadness, that it’s time to put the boat away. Outside Storage? It’s a thought and an option but consider that you may be threatened by snow build up, tornadoes or hurricanes. The success of storing your boat outside depends on how well your boat is protected from the conditions outdoors.                          Rinse/Flush Rinsing the outside of your boat and trailer thoroughly with fresh water will remove excess salt. Pay particular attention to your trailer’s leaf springs, wheel hubs and brakes that are constantly submerged during launching and retrieval of your boat. Flush your engine's cooling system with fresh water in line with your engine manufacturer’s salt removal recommendations. This will minimize corrosion and overheating issues come spring. Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present. Salt Watch out for salt. Buy a good salt remover to minimize corrosion. Add fuel stabilizer to top off your fuel tanks. Here is one recommended by CLR Marine. Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer & Performance Improver - 32oz *Case of 4* STA-BIL Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer is a diesel additive that keeps fuel fresh for quick, easy starts and maximized for engine performance. Designed for use with all diesel engines, and all diesel fuels, Sta-Bil Fuel Stabilizer Diesel formula prevents sludge and sediment formation, cleans and lubricates fuel injectors to improve performance and helps remove water. It is safe to use and recommended for use at every fill up, with the 32 ounce bottle treating up to 320 gallons of fuel. Batteries Remove the batteries from your boat and store in your garage or basement. Batteries should be connected to a battery charger that will give them a good charge and one that w automatically switches to a float/trickle charge to keep your batteries topped up. Match your charger to the type of battery you are charging. Using a charger manufactured for lead acid batteries to charge an AGM (absorbent glass mat) battery will cause damage to the battery. If you choose to keep your batteries in the boat, connect a solar trickle charger. These chargers will keep your batteries topped off without the hassle of removing heavy batteries from your boat. Cleaning Clean the exterior with the proper fiber glass or wood cleaner needed for your boat. Bright work can be cleaned by removing the wood or cleaning it as it is - installed. Be careful to not get the wood cleaner onto the deck surfaces. The exterior should be dried with a chamois cloth. Vinyl seat cushions and backs should be cleaned with vinyl cleaner. Hard surfaces inside the vessel can be wiped with all purpose cleaners. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Don’t forget the bottom paint. Before you store, spend the time to give your boat a thorough cleaning. CLR Marine has many products by trusted brands such as Powerhouse, Davis Instruments, Jabsco, Shurhold, and Swobbit, to help winterize and clean. You will be grateful in the spring during launch time that your boat is already clean as the new boating season begins. Cover Up If you store outside in your yard, driveway, or a boat yard, a boat cover is a must to prevent damage from winter conditions. Leaving your boat in the water is not recommended. The boat is exposed to rough weather, and has a greater possibility of sinking if you aren’t monitoring it often. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/boat-outfitting/winter-covers.html and https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/winterizing.html Circle May 21, 2022, on your calendar. The date is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water and a great boating season. In the meantime, during the cold winter months, cozy up to the fire and read your boating manuals, new safety regulations and weather information. Fair winds and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. _________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.  

Pontoon Boat Cover Support System Extend the life of your pontoon boat cover by preventing water from pocketing. This easily installed system includes two adjustable support poles (bright dip anodized-snap ends). Poles adjust from 27" to 50" maximum height. 60ft of 1" polypropylene webbing, quick release adjuster buckles and four injection molded hooks to secure to decking. 

Antifouling Systems

Boat Outfitting Equipment and Supplies When it comes time for outfitting your boat, you can get all your boating supplies and boating accessories from us. You will never need to go anywhere else for your boat outfitting, because we have all the boat supplies you need. If you're looking for anchors/chain/rope, anodes, antifouling systems or boarding ladders, we have you covered. We can also offer you a selection of bottom paint and bow thrusters to choose from. You may also want cleaning supplies that offer deck/galley options so you can get your boat sparkling and ready to enjoy. We also have display mounts and docking accessories to complete your outfitting needs.

    Purchasing and owning a boat is a major investment. If you want to get the most from your investment, you must keep your boat in working order and in good condition.   Many new boat owners don’t know how to keep up with maintenance. Fortunately, it’s not impractical if you understand what boat maintenance entails and develop a system. Below, CLR Marine discusses some maintenance essentials to prolong your boat’s lifespan and avoid safety issues on the water!   Engines   No component is perhaps more critical than your boat’s engine. Engine failure is not only inconvenient but can also be dangerous when you’re out on the water. That’s why it’s important to prepare and repair your engine while you’re on land and have access to the necessary parts.   There are many steps to checking and maintaining a boat engine, but here are a few of the most crucial ones   ●Replace all engine filters and fluids each year. ●Inspect all hoses and clamps, replacing them as needed. ●Inspect the fuel system for leaks or damage, and replace any components that are not in tiptop shape.  ●Regularly evaluate the ventilation and exhaust systems. ●Regularly inspect the raw water pump, replacing the rubber impeller once a year.  ●Closely evaluate hoses, cables, and any other engine components.   The easiest way to keep up with the responsibilities is to use PDF files to track, update, and share maintenance schedules and duties. Use this tool to add pages to a PDF and easily modify the document as needed.   Electrical Components   Your boat’s electrical system is also challenging to maintain when you’re already on the water. Avoid leaving the radio, light, or other electrical parts on for extended periods when the engine is running; otherwise, you could face a dead battery.   Inspecting the battery and cable connection for corrosion and other damage is also a good idea. Replace the battery, cables, breakers, switches, fuses, and any other parts that need it. Further, you’ll want to ensure all the lights are functioning and that you have quality jumper cables for emergencies.   Hull, Propeller, and Motor   It’s critical to check the hull, propeller, and motor to ensure they are in top condition. Fight the temptation to procrastinate on replacing any necessary components until next season. The last thing you want to do is forget and face problems on the water.   The propellers should be properly secured, straight, and undamaged. Ensure the hull doesn’t have any distortions, cracks, or blisters, and give it a good deep cleaning. While you’re at it, evaluate your anchor and its rode to confirm they are up to the task.   Safety Gear   The importance of having a good set of jumper cables for emergencies. Several other items are necessary to protect you and others on the water. Make sure you have the following safety equipment and that they’re in working order:   ●Life jackets ●Fire extinguishers ●Carbon monoxide detector ●A basic first aid kit   ●An emergency signal kit   Cosmetics   Finally, you want to ensure your boat looks the part. This means cleaning it regularly and winterizing it for the cold months. Also, Make sure you have the right to use the right supplies and tactics to keep your vinyl upholstery sparkling and free of mildew stains.   Don’t allow your investment to go to waste. Keeping up with boat maintenance is essential for keeping your boat safe, functioning, and attractive. Coming up with a schedule and a checklist can make the difference between enjoying a long-lasting boat and paying for expensive repairs.     Would you like to read more helpful content or browse our wide selection of marine supplies? Visit CLRMarine.com today!   Written By Kelli Brewer

Type RS - Unique RS Sailboat Drive EASY TO BUY - Everything you need supplied in one box - drive, 6ft steering cable and universal connection kit. EASY TO FIT - The simple to mount installation kit and optional integrated rudder feedback make for easy fitting. COMPACT - The remote drive unit has a tiny 0.25Ft2 footprint and can be mounted in the most convenient location on your boat, horizontally or vertically. RELIABLE & SAFE - Proven, tested design. The drive unit features a manual override without having to disengage the autopilot first. COMPATIBLE WITH YOUR PILOT - The Type R Remote Drive System is compatible with all major brand inboard autopilot systems. The Octopus Remote Sailboat Drive System makes it easy and economical to install an automatic pilot on light displacement Sail Boats steered with a mechanical system from a wheel or tiller. The system is designed for the modern mid range sail boat which has restricted space to mount a standard Linear drive. The drive is very responsive and has little feedback resistance when in 'Stand by' mode making it very suitable for racing yachts. Recommended for Yachts up to 38Ft (11.5m) with a maximum displacement of 15400 Ibs / 7000 Kg. The system includes a drive unit, a steering cable and a linear drive connection kit. The drive unit Can be mounted either horizontal or vertically in any convenient location. The steering cable length is determined by the relative position of the drive unit to the linear drive connection kit.

Single Paddle Trim System Single paddle kit including one paddle and the brackets to attach to a tilt or to a front mount helm. For complete control of engine trim and tilt, trim tabs, jackplates, PowerPole(R) and other on board systems, the innovative Paddle Trim system is the answer. Adaptable to existing front mount hydraulic and tilt helms, the Paddle Trim is ergonomically designed to allow the driver to make precise adjustments to the attitude of the boat or other systems without removing his hand from the steering wheel. Available both in single and dual versions (for either two equal or two different outputs) Both single or dual paddle can be positioned at various angles for the most confortable choice Equipped with one water proof “MOM.ON-OFF-MOM.ON switch ( 2 switches on dual version) Max load 5 Amp @ 12VDC For loads exceeding 5 Amp we recommend the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Uflex® trim tabs require the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Suitable for any kind of steering wheel dish. Max wheel dia. 400 mm (15.7”) Easy to install on the following Ultraflex® steering systems: - front and tilt mount hydraulic helms - tilt mount mechanical helms Wiring harness, labels and mounting hardware kit are included. The mounting plate, which differs between front and tilt mount. Installation, is ordered separately

Double Paddle Trim System Double paddle kit including two paddles and the brackets to attach it to a tilt or to a front mount helm. For complete control of engine trim and tilt, trim tabs, jackplates, PowerPole(R) and other on board systems, the innovative Paddle Trim system is the answer. Adaptable to existing front mount hydraulic and tilt helms, the Paddle Trim is ergonomically designed to allow the driver to make precise adjustments to the attitude of the boat or other systems without removing his hand from the steering wheel. Available both in single and dual versions (for either two equal or two different outputs) Both single or dual paddle can be positioned at various angles for the most confortable choice Equipped with one water proof “MOM.ON-OFF-MOM.ON switch ( 2 switches on dual version) Max load 5 Amp @ 12VDC For loads exceeding 5 Amp we recommend the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Uflex® trim tabs require the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Suitable for any kind of steering wheel dish. Max wheel dia. 400 mm (15.7”) Easy to install on the following Ultraflex® steering systems: - front and tilt mount hydraulic helms - tilt mount mechanical helms Wiring harness, labels and mounting hardware kit are included. The mounting plate, which differs between front and tilt mount. Installation, is ordered separately

Class B Compact Drive Unit The Class B Compact Drive Unit works with the GHP™ 12 marine autopilot system to control your sailboat's steering system. This device is designed for use with sailboats with up to 48,400 lbs of displacement. Compatible Devices: GHP™ 12 Autopilot System WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

The new year is in full swing meaning the boat show season began the week of January 9th. The big three across the USA are the Annapolis, Chicago, and Miami boat shows, all touting the latest and greatest in gadgets, trends, and equipment. The shows draw water sports enthusiasts from fishing, kiteboarding, diving, canoeing, kayaking, rowing, surfing, wakeboarding, and more. Engines and engine technology, water safety, and equipment seminars are great learning experiences for any boater.   During the third week of January, Dusseldorf, Germany, hosts the world's largest boat and water sports show, with more than 250,000 visitors attending from 70 countries. The nine-day event showcases equipment and seminars from 2,000 exhibitors.   The International Boat Builders' Exhibition and Conference, IBEX, held in Tampa each October, is the largest marine equipment trade show in North America. This conference is not open to the public.   More knowledge about boating is the universal focus of all conferences and exhibitions, and safety and security are the front row focus now more than ever. Two of the hottest trends for boating, smart lighting and remote monitoring are at the core foundation of peace of mind when it comes to safety and security.   Smart Lighting   Most boaters already know about trendy lighting such as mood lighting, (because you are always in a mood). Underwater lighting (old school); and lit up drink holders, so you can always find your drink, have some new gadgetry as well.   For 2020, Smart Lighting is operated from a multi-function display, or better yet, your Smart Phone. You can choose the right color hue from a color pallet that creates hundreds of color combinations. You can program the on/off displays, so your boat is fully lit as you walk down the dock.  Keep a toggle light switch on board in the event that remote systems have a problem. Battery powered lanterns and flashlights should always be on board.   Remote Monitoring   Whether out at sea or sitting in your easy chair at home, boaters want to be connected. New cloud-based remote monitoring systems let you keep a watchful eye on your boat from a monitor at home or an app on your phone. How fantastic is it to check your boat battery levels from the comfort of your home, or see if the bilge pump is doing its job?   Setting up a boat security system in the form of a geofence and camera system would alert you if an unwanted visitor decides to take your boat for a ride. For skippers with added luxuries and amenities such as air-conditioning (my dad is rolling over in his grave on this one) or refrigeration, you can turn on both as you are driving to the harbor.   Soft Decking   The flooring with soft decking is a hot item this year for the added comfort of our feet, knees, and almost all body parts. Consider that while comfortable boating shoes should be the norm, lots of visitors to your boat will be barefoot, wearing flip-flops, sandals, or shoes never meant for a slippery deck. In my sailing experience, I had one woman show up in spiked high heels, and another brought her daughter along who was sporting an ankle plaster cast. Both were not invited back on board.   Good quality soft decking can add to the life of your boat, and help prevent added injury when there is a fall. Soft-touch foam is a more comfortable alternative to carpeting or nonskid material. It is softer on bare feet and still provides nonskid. The foam also stays cool and dries more quickly. Foammaker Non-Slip Boat Flooring Decking Pad and 6mm Thickness EVA Foam Faux Teak Marine Mat are just a few of the decking items causing a lot of buzz at the boat shows.   Whether you are setting sail for the first time, or you are an old salt who could circumnavigate while blindfolded, visit one of the many boat shows happening during the first quarter of 2020. Think about the added knowledge you'll gain for fun on the water, fair winds, and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/   ____________________________________________________________________________   Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com  

It's that time again when Old Man Winter is shortening or ending our sailing season. Maybe you store your boat in a garage, barn, or at a marina. Now is the time to brush up on safe and useful storage tips.   1. When packing up, clean your electronics with a microfiber cloth by wiping down buttons and screens. A soft cloth is recommended with bottled water to clean screens that may have been stained by saltwater. Screen cleaners will not do the job. You may want to document the wiring so that installation is easy when you are ready to launch.   2. Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present.   3. Remove all batteries. Charge your batteries, clean the terminals, and put a light coat of grease on the terminals. Store your batteries in a warm, dry place. Not in the boat.   4. Winterize the engine: Use fresh water to flush the engine, including the cooling system, to remove corrosion, dirt, salt, and residue Refill the cooling system with antifreeze. Warm up the engine to loosen impurities. Replace the oil and filters. Look for the residue of old oil. Remove and store all belts.   5. Fill the engine with gas and stabilizer. Run the engine for 15 minutes so that the mixture reaches the engine. If your engine uses E-10 fuel, take extra care in that it absorbs moisture ten times more than typical gasoline. (source: trailervalet.com).   6. A thorough cleaning of the boat before you store is a must, whether you have a small fishing boat or a six-cabin yacht. Soap and water will do a thorough job. Clean lockers, refrigerators, coolers, sinks, and cushions. Open all and allow to dry before you store. Next, clean the entire outside from bow to stern. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Leaving a clean boat will make the launch process a lot easier when it's time.   7. Keeping mold and mildew at bay: Mildew comes from humidity. The best way to reduce humidity is ventilation. Although some skippers button up their boats to be airtight for the winter, there has to be some ventilation source. Use products that absorb moisture such as Damp Rid or purchase a dehumidifier such as Eva-Dry Mini Dehumidifiers. Find and seal any leaks and keep the boat clean. Cover the boat with either shrink wrap or a boat cover.   8. Shrinkwrap or a canvas boat cover? Ratings and opinions from the Hull Truth Boating Forum suggest that canvas covers are a better option for durability and cost. The canvas covers can be used season after season. With shrink wrap covers, there is the cost of installation every year. One source said if you are north of Boston, shrink wrapping is preferable because snow will slide right off the plastic wrap, versus weighing down the canvas. Contributors also felt the boat stays cleaner with shrink wrap.      Remove boat cushions, or not? The jury is out about removing boat cushions. Many skippers remove all cushions and bedding. Others spray the cushion bottoms with anti-mold spray. If keeping cabin cushions on the boat, stand them up on end to reduce the chance of mold. Most important is to keep as much moisture out of the cabin, as mentioned above.   Do everything you can to keep your boat critter-free during the winter. Lock all windows. Many small, rabid animals, especially raccoons, are looking for a warm place to nest for the winter. Raccoons are drawn by any food left in boats and will chew carpeting and cushions. Once inside a locked boat, they have no way to exit since they have most likely fallen from an open window. The messes they leave, including their waste, can be very unpleasant and a costly wake-up call in the spring. Keep mice out by plugging up scuppers and vents. Many skippers use Dryer Fresh Cab rodent repellent hoping the strong scent will repel rodents.   Circle Saturday, May 22, 2021, on your calendar. That is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water for a great boating season.   Fair Winds. Smooth Sailing     To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. __________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com    

  Jabsco offers 3 options of Oil Change Systems to help you get you ready for Winter.         The Porta-Quick Portable Oil Changer makes quick, clean and easy oil changes on-board any boat, because it uses the vessel's own power supply to operate the powerful oil reservoir mounted flexible impeller pump.       The Jabsco Oil Change System is designed to be installed in a vessel's engine room with its manifold and valves permanently plumbed to the vessel's engine oil pan or transmission sump.         The Do-it-Yourself Oil Changer will extract up to 50 weight of oil at a temperature of 160°F (71°C) through the engine's dip stick tube, usually in less than 5 minutes.       The Jabsco Flat Tank Oil Changer System simplifies the engine oil changing process, ideal for changing oil in Boats, RV's, and Lawn and Garden Equipment.     Specials    Closeouts   Remanufactured    Rebates

    Ocean Equipment - Bringing Innovation to Market NavPod - Waterproof Housing for Marine Electronics   NavPod is committed to producing high-quality Waterproof Housings for Marine Electronics. NavPod stands behind its commitment by offering a 10-year warranty on all new Gen3 NavPods. NavPod wants you to be a customer for life and is willing to earn your trust and loyalty.     For Sail and Power - NavPods are tough and rugged yet clean and attractive! NavPods protect vital Marine Electronics from the harshest of offshore boating conditions. Pre-Cut models are available for Raymarine, Garmin, Simrad, Lowrance, Furuno, Humminbird, B&G, and more!       HoseCoil Washdown Systems   The HoseCoil product line includes a range of specialty hoses, washdown nozzles, and a unique line of thermoformed enclosures. HoseCoil hoses and nozzles are designed to withstand the harsh elements boaters require and are used in many other applications including homes, pools, spas, and RVs. Coiled and Expandable hoses are available with convenient storage bags and mounting systems.       Specials    Closeouts    Remanufactured    Rebates

Happy New Year! This past year has been a time of tumultuous panoptic upsets: The pandemic, political unrest, and nature's mayhem of hurricanes, tornadoes, and fires. However, boaters still have our beautiful waterways, lakes, harbors, and our oceans to enjoy and use as an oasis of tranquility, peace, and sports. We eagerly look forward to the boat shows across the country to learn new techniques, sample new products, and get ready for a safe and fun-filled boating season. The following is a snapshot and calendar of 2021 Boat Shows going live and in-person and shows going virtual. Before attending an in-person show, please go to the show's link to find out about COVID-19 policies. The big three shows that draw national and international crowds are the Ft Lauderdale, Annapolis, and the Chicago Boat Shows. Chicago The Chicago Boat Show, usually held the second week of January, was cancelled for this year. Show promoters have told fans to plan on the in-person show from January 12-16, 2022. Annapolis, MD Annapolis, MD, promises a wonderful in-person United States Sailboat Show October 14-18, 2021, at the City Dock in beautiful downtown, historic Annapolis. This internationally acclaimed sailboat show is recognized as the world's largest and most prestigious sailboat show. Fort Lauderdale Miami -The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (or FLIBS as it is affectionately called) will be held October 27 - 31, 2021. The show claims to be the largest boat show globally, covering more than 2,992,367 square feet. The 2021 Boat Shows Cleveland Boat Show & Fishing Expo. January 15-24, 2021. Virtual Seattle Boat Show. January 28-31, 2021. Virtual  Michiana Boat & Sports Show February 19-21, 2021 The Boat Show in Springfield, IL February 26-28, 2021 Lake County Boat Show February 26-28, 2021 Akron Boat Show & Water Sports February/March 2021 Downtown Knoxville Boat Show March 4-7, 2021  World Fishing & Outdoor, Suffern, NY March 4-7, 2021  Orlando Boat Show  March 5-7, 2021 Atlantic City Boat Show April 7-11, 2021  Tampa Boat Show September 10-12, 2021 Norwalk Boat Show, Norwalk, CT September 23-26, 2021 2020 – Catalina Yachts Suffers Two Losses Frank Butler, the founder of Catalina Yachts, died in late November 2020. Frank Willis Butler, 92, president and Chief Executive Officer of Catalina Yachts, died at Westlake Village on Nov. 15, 2020, from unexpected complications from a recent illness. Butler founded Catalina Yachts in 1969 in Hollywood, CA. The company has grown to become the largest builder of fiberglass production sailboats in the United States.Long Beach Yacht Club Commodore Charles Legeman said, "Frank Butler is the one person who helped take the Congressional Cup to the top level in the world by his donation of the Catalina 37s, which were specifically built for match racing." Catalina Yacht fleets of Catalina owners sprang up across the county. Many skippers, both of us included, owned Catalina sailboats throughout our sailing history. Catalina sailboats provided sailing ease in addition to sound design and were very forgiving for the less-than-experienced sailor. Another Blow to Catalina Yachts In mid-December of 2020, the Catalina Yacht factory in Largo, FL, was hit by a tornado. The high winds did extensive damage to the factory building, and boat molds that weigh 20,000 pounds were pushed around like paper. Sharon Day is the company's president and explained, "Workers at the plant work a 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. shift, so no workers were on duty when the tornado hit." As we venture into 2021, we wish our readers safe boating, fair winds, and smooth sailing. To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. ______________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com  

A revamped DiscoverBoating.com Web site officially launches today, featuring an updated look and several new, interactive features designed to show visitors how easy it is to become a boat owner.   “All of the new tools on DiscoverBoating.com, both active and planned, are designed to generate additional boating prospects, which is especially important this year for our industry stakeholders,” Carl Blackwell, vice president of marketing communications for Grow Boating, Inc. and the National Marine Manufacturers Association, said this afternoon.   The site focuses on activities for boaters, while incorporating images of people partaking in fishing, sailing or watersports.      Consumers have the opportunity to select their activity of choice by clicking on the specific icon and are redirected to a page providing relevant information about that particular activity, including boat type selections, tips and resources.   “By increasing the focus on boating activities and making the site more interactive, we anticipate people will get that much more excited about getting out on the water and, ultimately, buying a boat,” said Armida Markarova, director of interactive marketing for Grow Boating Inc. and the NMMA, in a statement   DiscoverBoating.com also features the Boating Affordability Tool/Budget Planner, which compares the cost of boat ownership to several other popular family leisure activities.   Another new feature is the “Baby Boomer” section, which goes live this week. The Boomer section positions boating as the ideal activity to enrich a person's “Golden Years.” The Boomer section features a call to action for visitors to request a free copy of the “Get Started in Boating” DVD, experiment with the Boat Selector Tool and calculate the cost of boat ownership.   To answer pleas from wannabe boat owners, the Spousal Conversion Kit also launched this week as part of DiscoverBoating.com's overall redesign. The kit provides Web site visitors with a seven-step process to help convince their significant other that the time has come to purchase a boat.   Blackwell said recent media coverage of the Spousal Conversion Kit and our spokesperson, Mike Schmidt, a baseball hall-of-famer, has helped drive people to the Web site.   “Schmidt conducted countless interviews recalling his experiences talking his wife into allowing him to purchase a boat (eventually two boats) that were fun and entertaining,” Blackwell said. “It resulted in stations all across the country coming to us requesting interviews. The interview drove people back to DiscoverBoating.com, as Schmidt mentioned his experiences as a boater and angler and the time he spent on the Web site. The results far exceeded our expectations.”      For information about DiscoverBoating.com, contact Markarova at (312) 946-6284 or amarkarova@nmma.org.