Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

Here's how far I got.
Called Gator Creek marina in Punta Gorda and found that storage there
is $9.00 a foot per month, too high for 10 months a year, but they are
a full service marina and that includes daily in and out of water.
Storage is outside since Charley tore them down, but they'll have a
3-sided barn completed soon.
Might be useful if I ever have to rent a home/condo with no dock and
just keep the boat there while I'm in Florida.
The Gator Creek fellow mentioned All American storage in Port
Charlotte so I called there and found there rates are $2.00 a foot
outside, $4.00 a foot inside. Not bad at all. The lady there said
they're at the north end of the harbor and about a 30-45 minute run to
Punta Gorda.
So the storage part of my plan is do-able. I'll have to look at the
facilities and keep location in mind with regard to hurricanes and
insurance. I'll try to check out some inland locations and see if
it's better to go that way considering costs and getting the boat
trailered to water.
The Gator Creek fellow, who was real helpful, asked if I would have a
lift, and mentioned the boat would get fouled after sitting in the
water for 3 days.
I didn't want to waste his time, so I didn't ask him a million
questions while he was on the clock.
I'll ask here.
Does fouling occur when the boat is used daily?
My next step is to call my State Farm insurance agent and see if they
will insure a boat used and stored in Florida. I have a home and 4
cars insured with them in Illinois, but that might not matter.
One thing I've noticed when looking at boats on the web is that
I keep wanting a bigger boat. I started thinking a 16' Carolina Skiff
would do, but I'm up to a 19' DLX in just one day.
What's that all about?
Same with motors. From 30hp 2-stroke to 50hp Honda in one day.
Curious.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

"Vic Smith" wrote in message
...

I didn't want to waste his time, so I didn't ask him a million
questions while he was on the clock.
I'll ask here.
Does fouling occur when the boat is used daily?
My next step is to call my State Farm insurance agent and see if they
will insure a boat used and stored in Florida. I have a home and 4
cars insured with them in Illinois, but that might not matter.
One thing I've noticed when looking at boats on the web is that
I keep wanting a bigger boat. I started thinking a 16' Carolina Skiff
would do, but I'm up to a 19' DLX in just one day.
What's that all about?
Same with motors. From 30hp 2-stroke to 50hp Honda in one day.
Curious.

--Vic

Fouling occurs much faster in Florida than up north. I am not familiar with
the area you are in, but on the ICW, boats quickly acquire the famous
"moustache". When I had my boat down there (a 52 footer) I had the hull
cleaned by a diver once a month.

Insurance is funny in Florida. They have laws that prevent out of state
underwriters to issue policies for property or cars registered in Florida.
You might have to use a local insurance company.

Eisboch

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 19:32:55 -0500, wrote:

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 17:49:33 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

Does fouling occur when the boat is used daily?
Yes but not as much as when it sits. You can get barnicles starting in
a few days of sitting. Other fouling and corrosion is an ongoing
process.

Can an anti-fouling coat be applied to a fiberglass boat like a CS,
and is it worth the cost? How is such a hull normally kept well
maintained in Florida?
On a similar note, assuming the security is equal, is it worth paying
twice the storage cost to keep a boat inside, or will a good quality
cover protect it well enough from wind/rain/sun?

My next step is to call my State Farm insurance agent and see if they
will insure a boat used and stored in Florida. I have a home and 4
cars insured with them in Illinois, but that might not matter.
Find out if they cover windstorm and flooding. That will be the thing
they want to avoid.

Will do.


If you really plan on getting out in the Gulf bigger is better. If you
are poking around in the back bays the 16 will be fine. Skiffs are not
really that good in rough water. In a nasty blow, that can come up
very fast, they can get pretty squirrely. I know some guys who flipped
a 23' Carolina Skiff.

I plan on back bay and Charlotte harbor fishing. I don't see getting
out in the Gulf, though depending on the boat I end up with a perfect
day might draw me out there a bit.
I'm wanting a bigger boat for comfort and fishing flexibility more
than anything else. There will be occasions when I'll fish with 3
others.

Boaters here in paradise have to be a weatherman among other skills.
If you stayed home every day the TV said there was going to be a
thunderstorm you won't get out much. The trick is seeing WHO is
getting the storm and knowing if you can avoid it. If you are going
very far from the dock, plan on a few places in different directions
where you can go wait it out. Sometime all you have to do is sit down
in a dockside resturant, have a burger and the storm will be gone.
That is a lot better than a knuckle biting ride, with 50' visibility
with lightning popping all around you

Good advice. I'm a safety freak, and will be asking for advice on
that score when/if I get to that point.
Still remember the time I helped a workmate sail his 34' sloop from
Michigan to Chicago. It was Memorial day weekend and the wind
was dead against us and strong the entire trip. Cold as hell and
the chop was so bad you couldn't sleep in the berths without tying
yourself down. I had traveled the same waters many times in tankers
during a merchant marine stint, but always in comfort.
So I go up to take the helm at midnight and see no running lights. I
asked Stu "Why no lights?" and he says,
"Saving the battery." I says "You won't need a battery for the ship
to shore if we get run down by a tanker or ore boat."
He says "I don't have a ship to shore." Typical Scotsman.
Sort of spoiled the rest of the trip for me.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 17:49:33 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

Does fouling occur when the boat is used daily?

Without anti fouling paint? Absolutely.

My next step is to call my State Farm insurance agent and see if they
will insure a boat used and stored in Florida.

Frankly you would be better off with a marine policy from someone like
Boat US.

I keep wanting a bigger boat. I started thinking a 16' Carolina Skiff
would do, but I'm up to a 19' DLX in just one day.
What's that all about?

After a windy day on Pt Charlotte Harbor you will want a 35'. 16 is
too small unless you stay in the canals.

Same with motors. From 30hp 2-stroke to 50hp Honda in one day.
Curious.

Get something close to the maximum the boat is rated for. You won't
regret it.

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 19:23:16 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

Can an anti-fouling coat be applied to a fiberglass boat like a CS,
and is it worth the cost? How is such a hull normally kept well
maintained in Florida?

Yes and yes. You *must* have anti fouling paint on any boat that is
left in the water for more than a few days.

On a similar note, assuming the security is equal, is it worth paying
twice the storage cost to keep a boat inside, or will a good quality
cover protect it well enough from wind/rain/sun?

If you are not going to be around to check on it, I'd recommend
inside. Covers leak, tear and get blown off all the time.

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 20:51:17 -0500, Wayne.B
wrote:

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 17:49:33 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

Does fouling occur when the boat is used daily?

Without anti fouling paint? Absolutely.

Is the first coating there on a new boat, or will I have to do it
straight off?
What's a ballpark figure for having it done on a 20-foot CS?
How long does a good coating last?

My next step is to call my State Farm insurance agent and see if they
will insure a boat used and stored in Florida.

Frankly you would be better off with a marine policy from someone like
Boat US.

I'll call them tomorrow. Thanks.

I keep wanting a bigger boat. I started thinking a 16' Carolina Skiff
would do, but I'm up to a 19' DLX in just one day.
What's that all about?

After a windy day on Pt Charlotte Harbor you will want a 35'. 16 is
too small unless you stay in the canals.

I'll have to live with it or stay home on windy days. My wallet isn't
too fat. 15k complete will be pushing it.

Same with motors. From 30hp 2-stroke to 50hp Honda in one day.
Curious.

Get something close to the maximum the boat is rated for. You won't
regret it.

I wish I could, but maybe in another life. I'm not interested in
speed, but want the most fuel efficient rig I can get with a modicum
of comfort for 4 fishermen. I don't care if others are passing me on
the way in or out. I haven't even begun looking at and pricing them
yet. I have a lot to learn, but I do know my spending limits.

Thanks,

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 20:56:32 -0500, Wayne.B
wrote:

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 19:23:16 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

Can an anti-fouling coat be applied to a fiberglass boat like a CS,
and is it worth the cost? How is such a hull normally kept well
maintained in Florida?

Yes and yes. You *must* have anti fouling paint on any boat that is
left in the water for more than a few days.

On a similar note, assuming the security is equal, is it worth paying
twice the storage cost to keep a boat inside, or will a good quality
cover protect it well enough from wind/rain/sun?

If you are not going to be around to check on it, I'd recommend
inside. Covers leak, tear and get blown off all the time.

Got it. Thanks.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

One of my neighbors does a lot of "feeshin" in a 14' jon boat, and
always ran a noisy old Chrysler 35 hp. then when it got to be too much
maintenence, he pryed his wallet open and bought a 35 hp. Nissan 4
cycle.

His brother-in-law has about the same boat, with a 35 hp Evinrude
2-cycle. He says they will both run neck and neck , one not out
performing the other. But all of a sudden his brother-in-laws engine
quit. Out of gas (6 gal. tank). So my neighbor checked his fuel at the
same time hardly used 2quarts.


your call



Vic Smith wrote:
Same with motors. From 30hp 2-stroke to 50hp Honda in one day.
Curious.

I wish I could, but maybe in another life. I'm not interested in
speed, but want the most fuel efficient rig I can get with a modicum
of comfort for 4 fishermen. I don't care if others are passing me on
the way in or out. I haven't even begun looking at and pricing them
yet. I have a lot to learn, but I do know my spending limits.

Thanks,

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On 31 Oct 2006 18:38:52 -0800, wrote:

One of my neighbors does a lot of "feeshin" in a 14' jon boat, and
always ran a noisy old Chrysler 35 hp. then when it got to be too much
maintenence, he pryed his wallet open and bought a 35 hp. Nissan 4
cycle.

His brother-in-law has about the same boat, with a 35 hp Evinrude
2-cycle. He says they will both run neck and neck , one not out
performing the other. But all of a sudden his brother-in-laws engine
quit. Out of gas (6 gal. tank). So my neighbor checked his fuel at the
same time hardly used 2quarts.


your call

I'm already pretty much set on a 4-stroke. What I said was in answer
to the suggestion I get max rating for the boat. The 19-footer I'm
looking at is rated 90hp. I'm thinking 50hp will cost less, suit my
needs, and use less gas. But I'm not sure about that.

--Vic

Vic Smith wrote:
Same with motors. From 30hp 2-stroke to 50hp Honda in one day.
Curious.

I wish I could, but maybe in another life. I'm not interested in
speed, but want the most fuel efficient rig I can get with a modicum
of comfort for 4 fishermen. I don't care if others are passing me on
the way in or out. I haven't even begun looking at and pricing them
yet. I have a lot to learn, but I do know my spending limits.

Thanks,

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 22:23:56 -0500, wrote:

I have been up in
Charlotte harbor/ Boca Grande a lot with my Pine Island buddies and we
are usually in a 23 or 26 foot boat.

I've been up there a few times in my 24 and usually end up turning
around because of the chop.

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

Vic Smith wrote:
I'm already pretty much set on a 4-stroke. What I said was in answer
to the suggestion I get max rating for the boat. The 19-footer I'm
looking at is rated 90hp. I'm thinking 50hp will cost less, suit my
needs, and use less gas. But I'm not sure about that.


Oh, I know, Vic, I was simply comparing the newer 4 cycle, to the older
2 cycle. just for comparison. Don't know about the E-TECs and the like.


Boat rated for 90 and you think 50 will do? Maybe, and maybe not. How
about splitting the difference with a 75?

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 20:22:28 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

Is the first coating there on a new boat, or will I have to do it
straight off?

Unless you pay the dealer extra it will not be done. Many people
around here store their boat in lifts or on trailers and don't need
bottom paint.

What's a ballpark figure for having it done on a 20-foot CS?
How long does a good coating last?

You could do it yourself for less than $100 but a dealer will charge
at least 2 or 3 times more. If you do it yourself, follow the prep
instructions carefully and use at least 2 coats.

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

wrote:
Usually there is not much of an advantage to a 75 compared to the 90.
They are generally the same motor as far as size and weight. The 90
just breathes better for a bit more money.

possibly. But i was wondering about the pricing difference between a 75
and a 90?
Not much?

how abotu a 50 and the 75?

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

"Vic Smith" wrote in message
...

Snip:

Have you considered a used boat? Take a look at:
http://boatstore.floridasportsman.com/

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

wrote in message
...

Boaters here in paradise have to be a weatherman among other skills.
If you stayed home every day the TV said there was going to be a
thunderstorm you won't get out much. The trick is seeing WHO is
getting the storm and knowing if you can avoid it.

This type of thing helps, too, if you take the time to learn what it means
relative to YOUR local situation. "The thunderstorms are 90 miles away" has
a different meaning here than wherever you live.

http://www.wunderground.com/radar/ra...hester%2c%20NY

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 22:23:56 -0500, wrote:

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 20:22:28 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

After a windy day on Pt Charlotte Harbor you will want a 35'. 16 is
too small unless you stay in the canals.

I'll have to live with it or stay home on windy days. My wallet isn't
too fat. 15k complete will be pushing it.

You may want to see what boat you need based on where you want to
live. See what the neighbors have, particularly the ones who go out a
lot and do the kind of fishing you want to do.

Every time I'm down there in the summer to visit my dad, who lives in
my sister's condo on a canal, there are no boats at the docks, and
hardly anybody living in the other condos. It's like a ghost town.
Guess that's why it's so cheap to rent down there. I only stay a few
days with my dad and his wife, then my wife and I head for St. Pete
Beach for a week or two..
We fish most day's on the Skyway fishing pier, but I'm getting tired
of that. It was fun and practical when we took the kids, and we used
to get a variety of fish. The past couple years it's been dead
(October versus August?) We caught more keepers in the canal behind
the condo in a few hours than we did in 30 hours on the Skyway.
Including a drum about 7 pounds.

Buying the wrong boat and taking a bath on it to buy the one you need
makes boating an expensive proposition. I don't want to be a downer
but the perfect boat in Punta Gorda Isles might not be the best choice
if you are 10 miles up into the estuary in Desoto County.

Nice splash of cold water in my face there, which is just the remedy
for boat fever that I needed, and why I'm posting here.
Really all I've seen of Charlotte Harbor is when going over 41, and it
nearly always looks flat and inviting. The only fishing I've done
there is canal dock fishing. Looking on a map at how it widens out at
the pass I can see what you mean.
You've convinced me to do some more on-site investigation before I
start looking at boats. I'll go to some marinas down there and talk
to some fisherman before I look at boats. Maybe charter what I'm
thinking of buying for a fishing trip. Thanks.

Personally I like the backwater and I do fine with a stripped down
pontoon boat but that is not really appropriate for open water and
Charlotte Harbor is very "open" down towards Boca Grande Pass.
The afternoon "breeze" off the gulf can really get that rock'n and
rollin.

Backwaters suit me fine too.

I am south of Ft Myers on the Estero River, near Estero Bay so I have
miles of protected water to poke around in. I have been up in
Charlotte harbor/ Boca Grande a lot with my Pine Island buddies and we
are usually in a 23 or 26 foot boat. It can get ugly. The tarpon
fishing is awesome there tho.

I fished a few times off the Pine Island bridge back in the late
'70's, early '80's. I understood that was good for tarpon. Took the
kids to Waltzing Waters and such. Always stayed at Ft. Myers Beach.
I hear it's changed quite a bit down there.
My dad and uncle lived in Cape Coral, and 2 of us would go out in the
Caloosahatchee in a 14-footer with a 10hp and catch all the fish we
could eat pretty quick. Anyway, I see your point about getting a boat
meant for the water you'll be using it in, and take it to heart.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On 31 Oct 2006 20:06:22 -0800, wrote:


Vic Smith wrote:
I'm already pretty much set on a 4-stroke. What I said was in answer
to the suggestion I get max rating for the boat. The 19-footer I'm
looking at is rated 90hp. I'm thinking 50hp will cost less, suit my
needs, and use less gas. But I'm not sure about that.


Oh, I know, Vic, I was simply comparing the newer 4 cycle, to the older
2 cycle. just for comparison. Don't know about the E-TECs and the like.


Boat rated for 90 and you think 50 will do? Maybe, and maybe not. How
about splitting the difference with a 75?

Somebody might convince me on 50, 75 or 90. But it'll take some
convincin'. (-:

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 23:00:34 -0500, wrote:

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 20:59:02 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

I'm already pretty much set on a 4-stroke. What I said was in answer
to the suggestion I get max rating for the boat. The 19-footer I'm
looking at is rated 90hp. I'm thinking 50hp will cost less, suit my
needs, and use less gas. But I'm not sure about that.

My neighbor has a 50 merc 4 stroke on a 19(sumpin) Carolina Skiff. He
wishes he had the 90.

Speed alone? What I'll want to know is if the 50 will get me on plane
with the load I expect to carry. I'm never in a hurry anymore.
I'm sure I'd prefer the 90 too, but it will cost about $2000 more.
For a Honda, but I'm not sold on them. Don't know yet how the
Honda 3-venturi compares to say a Merc with EFI in fuel consumption
and maintenance. In any case the extra 2 g's for the 90 might be
better spent on electronics. I just don't know.
And depending on which 19' CS there can be quite a difference in hull
weight.
And maybe I'm missing the bigger picture about how important hp is.
And I'm getting ahead of myself anyway, since I have to look at some
other issues before I look at boats/motors.

It is about 100 lbs heavier tho. The 50 Honda
has the advantage that it is very light . I think it came in about
80-100 less than my 60 (and his 50). You can really verify these
weights on the various manufacturer web sites. It has been almost 5
years since I did the shopping.
I bought a grey market motor from a web merchant (ITG marine) It is
the back door of a big dealer near Richmond Va and I had no problems
with the local dealers, in spite of what they want to tell you. The
service department still wants your business.
Basically a grey market motor is sold at the "bundled" price you would
get if you bought a boat and motor togerther. If you are getting them
at the same time it is not an issue. It might be important if you
found a nice hull with a junk motor or no motor at all.
My previous motor (1989 75 Mariner) I bought as a boat motor trailer
and I just wanted the almost new motor for the boat I had. The hull
was pretty good but I didn''t want it and pretty much gave it away.
(traded for a PC). It is a possibility

Thanks. I'll be looking for the best deal I can find when I'm ready.
In the meantime, folks here may be interested in this, which I came
across doing some cursory googling. It's a Florida department of
Management Services site with contract prices for a variety of
outboards, and includes MSRP. Wish I could get that discount.
You can download the Complete Contract PDF or Word doc to serve as a
reference for MSRP if you're shopping, instead of jumping around the
web. Join the 2 lines.
http://dms.myflorida.com/business_op...r_information/
state_contracts_agreements_and_price_lists/state_term_contracts/boat_motors

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On 31 Oct 2006 22:32:59 -0800, wrote:


wrote:
Usually there is not much of an advantage to a 75 compared to the 90.
They are generally the same motor as far as size and weight. The 90
just breathes better for a bit more money.

possibly. But i was wondering about the pricing difference between a 75
and a 90?
Not much?

how abotu a 50 and the 75?

For the Honda it's a $1500 bump to the 75, and another $750 to the 90.
That's MSRP, so the actual bumps will be less.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 20:51:17 -0500, Wayne.B
wrote:

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 17:49:33 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

Does fouling occur when the boat is used daily?

Without anti fouling paint? Absolutely.

My next step is to call my State Farm insurance agent and see if they
will insure a boat used and stored in Florida.

Frankly you would be better off with a marine policy from someone like
Boat US.

I called my local State Farm agent who put me on to a Punta Gorda
agent, as required. Called the Punta Gorda agent and got this quote:
15k value 19' boat with 90hp
1k deductible.
2k personal property
100k liability
5k per person medical
Wind and flood is included.
$275 per year.

A coast guard boat handling license will get a discount, but I forgot
to ask how much and left a message for her to call me back.
I do intend to get that license.
Then we chatted about boating down there. Not surprisingly,
she elevated my boat fever with her talk of her own experiences down
there. Her and her husband have an 18' Mako and go through Boca
Grande pass to the Gulf often when the weather is right. The pass
itself is pretty rough, but the Mako is fine in the Gulf in good
weather. I mentioned the CS is flat-bottomed and she said "uh-oh
I forgot that on the quote.
$313 per year.

Anyway, given that quote and since I've been satisfied with State Farm
for 30 years, my inclination is to go with them. But I welcome other
opinions about boat insurance.
$21 more per year will bump the liability to 300k.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Wed, 01 Nov 2006 13:30:17 -0500, wrote:

Look at the displacement to get the basic block size. That will be the
big jumps in price. Then the difference is going to be the way it
breathes.
Fuel economy really depends on how fast you go on these new EFI
motors. They sip gas at low RPMs no matter which size you choose. The
power comes from jamming more gas down the pipe.
Old 2 strokes were not that efficient at lower RPMs.
I know some dealer mechanics and they told me they really have as much
trouble with the Honds as they did the new Merc (the dealer handled
both). The Merc is really a Yamaha design anyway. I went with the Merc
because I had good luck with my Merc/Mariner 1989 75 2 stroke. (also a
Yammy design). I had over 3000 hours on that one when I sold it and it
was still going strong. (paid $3100, sold for $500)
I have over 1500 hours on a 2002 and I am still smiling

The motor is probably going to be my biggest decision. I normally do
all my auto work, but the logistics of having a boat away from home
are going to present a maintenance problem.
EFI with good sensors and computer control might be the biggest step
in engine improvement seen, but the Hondas are still using venturis
and I've read about these giving some owners a problem.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

"Vic Smith" wrote in message
...

I called my local State Farm agent who put me on to a Punta Gorda
agent, as required. Called the Punta Gorda agent and got this quote:
15k value 19' boat with 90hp
1k deductible.
2k personal property
100k liability
5k per person medical
Wind and flood is included.
$275 per year.

Anyway, given that quote and since I've been satisfied with State Farm
for 30 years, my inclination is to go with them. But I welcome other
opinions about boat insurance.
$21 more per year will bump the liability to 300k.

--Vic

Maybe not a big issue with that size boat, but you should ask if you are
covered for fuel spills.

Eisboch

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

"Vic Smith" wrote in message
...
On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 20:51:17 -0500, Wayne.B
wrote:

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 17:49:33 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

Does fouling occur when the boat is used daily?

Without anti fouling paint? Absolutely.

My next step is to call my State Farm insurance agent and see if they
will insure a boat used and stored in Florida.

Frankly you would be better off with a marine policy from someone like
Boat US.

I called my local State Farm agent who put me on to a Punta Gorda
agent, as required. Called the Punta Gorda agent and got this quote:
15k value 19' boat with 90hp
1k deductible.
2k personal property
100k liability
5k per person medical
Wind and flood is included.
$275 per year.

A coast guard boat handling license will get a discount, but I forgot
to ask how much and left a message for her to call me back.
I do intend to get that license.
Then we chatted about boating down there. Not surprisingly,
she elevated my boat fever with her talk of her own experiences down
there. Her and her husband have an 18' Mako and go through Boca
Grande pass to the Gulf often when the weather is right. The pass
itself is pretty rough, but the Mako is fine in the Gulf in good
weather. I mentioned the CS is flat-bottomed and she said "uh-oh
I forgot that on the quote.
$313 per year.

Anyway, given that quote and since I've been satisfied with State Farm
for 30 years, my inclination is to go with them. But I welcome other
opinions about boat insurance.
$21 more per year will bump the liability to 300k.

--Vic

Check out BoatUS. You get a yacht policy. Covers oil spills, and is an
agreed value policy. They do not discount the value if total loss.

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Wed, 01 Nov 2006 20:48:55 GMT, "Calif Bill"
wrote:


"Vic Smith" wrote in message

Frankly you would be better off with a marine policy from someone like
Boat US.

I called my local State Farm agent who put me on to a Punta Gorda
agent, as required. Called the Punta Gorda agent and got this quote:
15k value 19' boat with 90hp
1k deductible.
2k personal property
100k liability
5k per person medical
Wind and flood is included.
$275 per year.

A coast guard boat handling license will get a discount, but I forgot
to ask how much and left a message for her to call me back.

$23. It's a boat safety certificate issued by the USCG auxiliary.

I do intend to get that license.
Then we chatted about boating down there. Not surprisingly,
she elevated my boat fever with her talk of her own experiences down
there. Her and her husband have an 18' Mako and go through Boca
Grande pass to the Gulf often when the weather is right. The pass
itself is pretty rough, but the Mako is fine in the Gulf in good
weather. I mentioned the CS is flat-bottomed and she said "uh-oh
I forgot that on the quote.
$313 per year.

Anyway, given that quote and since I've been satisfied with State Farm
for 30 years, my inclination is to go with them. But I welcome other
opinions about boat insurance.
$21 more per year will bump the liability to 300k.

--Vic

Check out BoatUS. You get a yacht policy. Covers oil spills, and is an
agreed value policy. They do not discount the value if total loss.

After more talk with the agent here's the upshot.
The policy is fixed value.
She didn't know about oil spills because she never encountered that
issue. Ever.
I didn't ask how long she has been insuring because I liked her, felt
she knew her stuff, and didn't want to be rude.
I told her that long-time boaters, some of whom may own big boats,
brought up that issue.
She insures *many* 30-40 footers, and it has never been an issue.
I told her that a number of boaters recommend BoatUS and she said I
should call them to cover the bases, but she gets a lot of switches
from BoatUS because of their premium hikes.
If I was still Oil King on my old destroyer pumping NSFO at 500gpm I
would be concerned about the environmental insurance. But it would
seem that that's what the liability side is all about anyway.
With a 19' outboard I'm not worried about it, unless somebody has a
horror story for me about a 19' outboard wiping out a bird sanctuary
because of an oil spill.
One thing this agent said to keep in mind is that if you want to lock
down every possible if and but you just may not get out of your own
way. Cute. And relevant.
Thanks for all the suggestions. I'm progressing in my education.
I will call BoatUS tomorrow and report back, mainly because I don't
ask for advice then ignore it out of hand.
But unless their premium is 100 bucks better, I'll stay with State
Farm because of my claims experience with them.

--Vic

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

"Vic Smith" wrote in message
...


She didn't know about oil spills because she never encountered that
issue. Ever.
I didn't ask how long she has been insuring because I liked her, felt
she knew her stuff, and didn't want to be rude.
I told her that long-time boaters, some of whom may own big boats,
brought up that issue.
She insures *many* 30-40 footers, and it has never been an issue.


That means the policy doesn't cover it. She knows it. That's not unusual.
Many people get insurance on their boat via a simple rider on their home
policy, but don't realize that it does not cover fuel spills or
environmental issues. It is not covered under your personal liability
coverage either.

My opinion is that it is a mistake not to have fuel spill coverage. A
marine insurance underwriter will know exactly what it is and it will be
included ... usually around 500K worth.

If your boat sinks or submerges and the fuel leaks, the fines can be huge.
The feds do the clean up and then come looking for you for reimbursement.

Eisboch

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

"Eisboch" wrote in message
...


If your boat sinks or submerges and the fuel leaks, the fines can be huge.
The feds do the clean up and then come looking for you for reimbursement.



BTW, Vic, you should be aware that it is technically a fineable offense to
spill as much as a drop of gas, oil, or diesel fuel .... anything that
leaves a visible sheen on the water. It's not religiously enforced, but is
still the law.

We had a boat at our marina that was leaking diesel fuel into the bilge.
The bilge pump was, in turn, pumping it into the water everytime it turned
on. The slick was obvious and the Coast Guard and Environmental Police
showed up and started laying out floating barriers to isolate and identify
the offending boat.

Eisboch

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Wed, 1 Nov 2006 17:31:28 -0500, "Eisboch" wrote:


"Eisboch" wrote in message
...


If your boat sinks or submerges and the fuel leaks, the fines can be huge.
The feds do the clean up and then come looking for you for reimbursement.



BTW, Vic, you should be aware that it is technically a fineable offense to
spill as much as a drop of gas, oil, or diesel fuel .... anything that
leaves a visible sheen on the water. It's not religiously enforced, but is
still the law.

Makes sense, and duly noted.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Wed, 1 Nov 2006 17:22:48 -0500, "Eisboch" wrote:

"Vic Smith" wrote in message
.. .


My opinion is that it is a mistake not to have fuel spill coverage. A
marine insurance underwriter will know exactly what it is and it will be
included ... usually around 500K worth.

If your boat sinks or submerges and the fuel leaks, the fines can be huge.
The feds do the clean up and then come looking for you for reimbursement.

Good enough for me. Looks like I'll be seriously checking out BoatUS
tomorrow.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Wed, 01 Nov 2006 14:59:46 -0500, Charlie Morgan wrote:

On Wed, 01 Nov 2006 13:52:46 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

On Tue, 31 Oct 2006 20:51:17 -0500, Wayne.B
wrote:


How much covereage is included for environmental fines and cleanup?

None, apparently. I'll be looking at BoatUS. Thanks.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Wed, 01 Nov 2006 12:24:17 GMT, "Fred Miller"
wrote:


"Vic Smith" wrote in message
.. .

Snip:

Have you considered a used boat? Take a look at:
http://boatstore.floridasportsman.com/

Thanks for the link. Yeah, I have thought about that. Was going to
ask about it in Part 3 when I get there, but it's never too early to
learn.
I always buy used cars because I'm a good judge of them, and
can work on them. Used is always good value if you know what you're
buying.
But I know diddly squat about boats, and won't be able to work on the
boat I get. Right now I'm just plain scared of a used one. That
could change if get comfortable with the prospect. Big buck
difference. And I can find countless other ways to spend bucks.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Wed, 01 Nov 2006 16:11:09 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

I will call BoatUS tomorrow and report back, mainly because I don't
ask for advice then ignore it out of hand.
But unless their premium is 100 bucks better, I'll stay with State
Farm because of my claims experience with them.

The premium is likely to be more with Boat US but you will be dealing
with a company that writes marine insurance and understands boats.

If you ever have a claim, that makes a huge difference in how things
get handled. Many years ago I insured one of my old sailboats with
State Farm because they had good rates. Long story follows but it was
a big mistake.

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Thu, 02 Nov 2006 03:30:59 GMT, Jack Redington
wrote:

wrote:

Vic Smith wrote:

I'm already pretty much set on a 4-stroke. What I said was in answer
to the suggestion I get max rating for the boat. The 19-footer I'm
looking at is rated 90hp. I'm thinking 50hp will cost less, suit my
needs, and use less gas. But I'm not sure about that.



Oh, I know, Vic, I was simply comparing the newer 4 cycle, to the older
2 cycle. just for comparison. Don't know about the E-TECs and the like.


Boat rated for 90 and you think 50 will do? Maybe, and maybe not. How
about splitting the difference with a 75?


The problem gets to be that one does not really know how any power/boat
package is going to be until they try it and see if it performs as one
wants for the intended use. I think going with the max HP just because
one can is foolish. Unless that is what makes the package when the
purchaser wants. Of course one does not want to have a under powered
boat either. But consider this.

Lets say you know that a boat will perform the way you want with Xhp.
Plane good (no struggeling) and get you where you want to go in the
fashion you enjoy.

But the boat is also avaiable with twice the HP that you feel you would
be confortable with. You may end up paying more for gas. More for
insurance. And more for maintance only to get maybe slightly more as
resale. Beleive me most of this stuff depreciates pretty good. When one
pays say 35k for a boat package with the max hp and could have gone for
30k with somthing that would have made them just as happy. 10 years
later the price difference is not going to be that big.

So the trick is to get the combination that you need. Not what someone
else needs.

Capt Jack R..

A friend of mine owns this boat: http://tinyurl.com/y4lqo4
which, as you can see, can be powered with up to 285 hp. He has a Honda 90,
4 stroke, on it. He's happy with it, even though it's not the speediest
boat on the bay. It will plane, but not quickly. He cruises comfortable at
about 18-20 mph, and has no desire to go a lot faster. He does a lot of
trolling, gets good gas economy, and is most satisfied.

Your philosophy works.

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Wed, 01 Nov 2006 16:47:14 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:

On Wed, 1 Nov 2006 17:22:48 -0500, "Eisboch" wrote:

"Vic Smith" wrote in message
. ..


My opinion is that it is a mistake not to have fuel spill coverage. A
marine insurance underwriter will know exactly what it is and it will be
included ... usually around 500K worth.

If your boat sinks or submerges and the fuel leaks, the fines can be huge.
The feds do the clean up and then come looking for you for reimbursement.

Good enough for me. Looks like I'll be seriously checking out BoatUS
tomorrow.

I called their 800 number, talked to 2 different people who thought
they were hooking me to an underwriter but just shunted me to a dial
tone, warned the third person about that, and she shunted me to a
voice mail.
The web site wants too much info to provide a quote.
I'll try earlier tomorrow, but I already don't like them.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

JohnH wrote:
On Thu, 02 Nov 2006 03:30:59 GMT, Jack Redington
wrote:


wrote:


Vic Smith wrote:


I'm already pretty much set on a 4-stroke. What I said was in answer
to the suggestion I get max rating for the boat. The 19-footer I'm
looking at is rated 90hp. I'm thinking 50hp will cost less, suit my
needs, and use less gas. But I'm not sure about that.



Oh, I know, Vic, I was simply comparing the newer 4 cycle, to the older
2 cycle. just for comparison. Don't know about the E-TECs and the like.


Boat rated for 90 and you think 50 will do? Maybe, and maybe not. How
about splitting the difference with a 75?



The problem gets to be that one does not really know how any power/boat
package is going to be until they try it and see if it performs as one
wants for the intended use. I think going with the max HP just because
one can is foolish. Unless that is what makes the package when the
purchaser wants. Of course one does not want to have a under powered
boat either. But consider this.

Lets say you know that a boat will perform the way you want with Xhp.
Plane good (no struggeling) and get you where you want to go in the
fashion you enjoy.

But the boat is also avaiable with twice the HP that you feel you would
be confortable with. You may end up paying more for gas. More for
insurance. And more for maintance only to get maybe slightly more as
resale. Beleive me most of this stuff depreciates pretty good. When one
pays say 35k for a boat package with the max hp and could have gone for
30k with somthing that would have made them just as happy. 10 years
later the price difference is not going to be that big.

So the trick is to get the combination that you need. Not what someone
else needs.

Capt Jack R..


A friend of mine owns this boat: http://tinyurl.com/y4lqo4
which, as you can see, can be powered with up to 285 hp. He has a Honda 90,
4 stroke, on it. He's happy with it, even though it's not the speediest
boat on the bay. It will plane, but not quickly. He cruises comfortable at
about 18-20 mph, and has no desire to go a lot faster. He does a lot of
trolling, gets good gas economy, and is most satisfied.

Your philosophy works.

Nice looking boat - And thanks :-)

Capt Jack R..

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

Vic Smith wrote:

I called their 800 number, talked to 2 different people who thought
they were hooking me to an underwriter but just shunted me to a dial
tone, warned the third person about that, and she shunted me to a
voice mail.
The web site wants too much info to provide a quote.
I'll try earlier tomorrow, but I already don't like them.

Don't judge too quickly. As I recall they gave me an
accurate quote from the web site. When I had a claim they
were responsive and generous.

-rick-

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Thu, 02 Nov 2006 20:03:21 -0800, -rick- wrote:

Vic Smith wrote:

I called their 800 number, talked to 2 different people who thought
they were hooking me to an underwriter but just shunted me to a dial
tone, warned the third person about that, and she shunted me to a
voice mail.
The web site wants too much info to provide a quote.
I'll try earlier tomorrow, but I already don't like them.

Don't judge too quickly. As I recall they gave me an
accurate quote from the web site. When I had a claim they
were responsive and generous.

I'm forging ahead on the phone. The website is lame for my quote.
Wants my address 1200 miles away from where the boat will be,
has a nine-yard app, including DOB, drivers license number, etc.
Surprised they didn't want scars, tattoos and fingerprints.
And they call it "Quick Quote." ............
Just talked to somebody there and my notes are
19' CS 75hp
15k value
150 deductible
1000 hurricane deductible
500k fuel spill
300k lia
5k pers inj
300k uninsured boater
Premium is $867 per year.
10% discount for boat safety course.

I now see salvage and towing wasn't mentioned.
They will send the quote info in the mail, and maybe
it will be explained in that package.


I've got a call in to a different State Farm agency where
I'll ask about the fuel spill, salvage, uninsured info I didn't get
at the first agency. Don't have high hopes there, but will cover it.

I'm also going to call RVAmerica.
Anybody used them? Or recommend a different marine insurer?

I'm in no hurry, so expect to become to become well versed on insuring
a 19' CS with 75hp in Charlotte Harbor.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Fri, 03 Nov 2006 14:03:16 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:


Premium is $867 per year.
10% discount for boat safety course.

I now see salvage and towing wasn't mentioned.
They will send the quote info in the mail, and maybe
it will be explained in that package.


I've got a call in to a different State Farm agency where
I'll ask about the fuel spill, salvage, uninsured info I didn't get
at the first agency. Don't have high hopes there, but will cover it.

I know this is OT, but thought something boat related might cheer up
a group becoming more and more morose because of the up-coming
election. But since this about insurance, that may be an oxymoronic
statement.
I've found in heavy googling indications that State Farm boaters
insurance covers environmental cleanup in the liability portion of the
policy. Here's one instance related to a Tacoma marina disaster
that some may find interesting.
http://www.goboating.com/cgi-bin/ult...c;f=1;t=005604

Nothing I've found is conclusive, and I'm waiting for more policy info
to nail it down before I make my decision on boat insurance.
At present, I think I can do better than the BOAT US policy with
a different marine insurer, but won't look into that until I get my
State Farm answer.

--Vic

Advice needed on storing boat in Florida - Part 2
 

On Sun, 05 Nov 2006 13:07:24 -0600, Vic Smith
wrote:


I've found in heavy googling indications that State Farm boaters
insurance covers environmental cleanup in the liability portion of the
policy. Here's one instance related to a Tacoma marina disaster
that some may find interesting.
http://www.goboating.com/cgi-bin/ult...c;f=1;t=005604

Nothing I've found is conclusive, and I'm waiting for more policy info
to nail it down before I make my decision on boat insurance.
At present, I think I can do better than the BOAT US policy with
a different marine insurer, but won't look into that until I get my
State Farm answer.

According to a Florida State Farm agent, who talked to an underwriter
for me, the State Farm boat policy covers the spill/enviromental only
up to the insured boat coverage, and then only if caused by casualty,
not mechanical failure. In essence, no coverage, since the casualty
itself will wipe out the insured amount.
The homeowners umbrella liability mentioned by the insured in the link
above may or may not be an option for spill/environmental. Somebody
on the net saying his agent told him so doesn't float my boat.
I will continue my quest of the golden fleet. Since I don't golf,
got nothing better to do.

--Vic