If you are the lucky owner of a plot next to a large pond, then it will be useful for you to get a boat or a boat for walking on the water or fishing. But even the smallest vessels have their own nuances in possession. Let’s figure out together how not to lose and choose the “right” boat for ourselves.
Various subtleties
To date, it is possible to register a watercraft via the Internet. Three working days after submitting the application, you will receive a ticket, as well as the identification number of your vessel – it must be applied to the boat. In addition, you will have to pay a transport tax for the registration of a motor boat, the amount of which depends on the engine power.
As experts explain, once every five years it is necessary to undergo a technical inspection. If you are buying a vessel from a private person on the secondary market, be sure to check the serial number of the engine with the data entered in the seller’s ticket. If the last inspection was more than five years ago, you need to pass it immediately after registration, which you need to put a mark on the ticket. Otherwise, you may get a fine. Also, you need to present life jackets, a first aid kit and paddles.
The right to drive a small vessel
In addition to registration, rights are needed to use larger watercraft. They are issued by the same inspection. To get a license to drive a boat, you need to go through a process similar to studying at a driving school – pass theory and practice.
The categories of rights include jet skis and small vessels, which are divided into:
- motorboats and boats;
- sailing and motor yachts;
- other vessels with a special design.
Which boats can be used in the country
Having decided on the registration of the vessel, you can start choosing a boat according to the main criterion – the material of the hull.
Boats and boats (both motor and rowing) are mainly made of the following materials, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages:
- PVC (inflatable)
The cheapest, they can be blown away and folded to store in winter or transported in the car. However, they are naturally the most fragile. There is enough sharp stone to get a hole.
- Plastic (fiberglass)
They have an aesthetic appearance, about 30% cheaper than similar metal boats. However, fiberglass is afraid of harsh operating conditions, it can crack, for example, with constant contact with a rocky bottom. And even in the absence of damage, it gradually swells and begins to “bubble”. Such a boat should be stored in a warm garage or boathouse in winter.
- Metal (duralumin or aluminum-magnesium alloy)
They are durable, not so afraid of temperature changes, shocks, etc. They are easier to repair, but they are more expensive, in some cases heavier, and also require regular painting.
- Wooden
Nowadays, these are exclusive handmade piece vessels, which are mainly made to order by small private companies. Unless you buy an old second-hand boat on occasion, such a vessel will cost quite a lot.
What you should pay attention to when buying a ship by hand
Bubbles on the surface of the case are a sign that water has penetrated under the protective coating and is destroying it. Gently tap the case: a dull sound indicates the presence of bubbles and voids in the coating.
It is also necessary to pay attention to the deck. If it is warped, it means that the vessel was stored incorrectly in winter, and therefore there may be problems with the hull. The deck should not slip under your feet, at most – spring along the entire length.
If you notice star-shaped cracks on the hull, this is an absolute sign that the boat or boat has survived a blow or collision. A fresh coat of paint should also alert: perhaps this is how the current owner is trying to disguise the chips. Unpleasant odors indicate that the vessel is damp or leaking. Check if there are mold spots in the corners, inspect the portholes – it’s better to do this after the rain to make sure they are tight and there is no condensation.
Alternative to a boat or speedboat
If you are not a fan of fishing, and all the difficulties listed above frighten you, you can consider buying very small watercraft. If you want to make mainly tourist trips on the water, an alternative to a boat can be a SUP surfboard, as well as a kayak, kayak or canoe.
The differences between the last three types of watercraft are not very obvious, but they are there. Kayaks most often have aprons and skirts for additional protection from cold and water.
In addition, the canoe is controlled with a single-bladed paddle, which gives greater maneuverability, but also requires a few more efforts. However, today kayaks or canoes have a great many varieties and hybrids. They also come in inflatable, frame, wooden, plastic, etc., and some models even allow you to install a removable motor.
Well, how is it? Have you already made a decision? Or are you still in doubt because the accompanying difficulties frighten you? Don’t be scared! After all, owning a boat is no more difficult than owning a car. But what a sea of pleasure awaits you and your loved ones when the newly acquired watercraft glides across the pond at your dacha! Fishing, walking, proximity to nature… You will see that it is worth it!
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