Monterey Boats Winter Spectacular Going on Now!

Monterey Boats is holding their Winter Spectacular right now!  This Exclusive Sales Event allows new buyers to Save Up To $25,000 on Award Winning 2014 Models.  And of course, Lighthouse Harbor Marina is participating!

Click the image above, or contact us at Lighthouse Harbor Marina, (570) 857-0220 for more information or to speak to a sales consultant.

We're Freezin' for a Reason - 2014 Paupack Plunge

Do you want to participate in the 2014 Paupack Plunge being held on February 15, 2014?

The plunge will again benefit two of our local dive and rescue teams. The Ledgedale Dive Team and the Tafton Water Rescue Team. Last year our 152 plungers raised $6,000 for these great charities and this year - we want to raise more! As always, there will be food and refreshments for all, changing rooms, restrooms, T-shirts for all plungers, music, and so much more!

The Paupack Plunge website has been updated and we are now accepting sign-ups for the 2014 Paupack Plunge. So don't delay and register today!

It's going to be a blast, or at least a chill as We're Freezin' for a Reason...again!

Will you be taking the plunge?

Start Off Your New Year at the 2014 New York Boat Show!

Lighthouse Harbor Marina will be attending the New York Boat Show, January 1-5, 2014 being held at the Jacob K. Javits Center. We will be located in the Monterey Boats Booth E-54, which won Best Overall Booth display at last year's show!

Boating and fishing seminars to family-friendly entertainment, there is definitely something for everyone. Check out some of the highlights:

• Meet Captain Dave Carraro from National Geographic Channel's Wicked Tuna
• Swampmaster Gator Show
• Fred's Shed Interactive Learning Center
• Perfect Catch—Opening Day, January 1
• Boater's Education & Hands-On Demos
• See the All-New Miss GEICO Racing Boat plus more.

We hope you start off your New Year with us at the 2014 New York Boat Show! See you there! 

Go Mobile With Lighthouse Harbor Marina!

Lighthouse Harbor Marina has just recently posted our brand new PoconoWeather.com and LighthouseHarbor.com mobile websites. 

You can visit PoconoWeather.com and will be taken directly to the mobile website if you are using a smart phone. Lighthouse Harbor's mobile website is currently accessible through a banner at LighthouseHarbor.com until we have finished beta testing of this new feature.

What do you think of our new mobile sites? 

Lighthouse Harbor Marina Gift Cards

Looking for a great Christmas or Holiday gift for that special boater or water sports enthusiast?

Lighthouse Harbor Marina's Gift Cards are available at any amount and fit perfectly in stockings. Our gift cards are redeemable for all boating related services and products including service, our ships' store and more.

Give us a call at (570) 857-0220 to wrap up all your holiday shopping early and avoid the rush as the malls.

Holiday GoPro Sale at OnlineWakeboards.com!

OnlineWakeboards.com will be running a GoPro Sale from November 29th through December 2nd!  Our regularly low price will be drastically marked down!

GoPro HERO3 Silver Editions marked down from $299.99 to $199.99

GoPro HERO3 Black Edition - Adventure marked down from $399.99 to $279.99

 GoPro HERO3 Black Edition - Surf marked down from $399.99 to $279.99.

This sale is our in-stock models listed above ONLY!  And only while our supply lasts!  Be one of the first to get this great Christmas or Holiday present at an amazing discount!

www.OnlineWakeboards.com

O'Brien, Hyperlite and HO Water Sports on Sale at OnlineWakeboards.com 40% OFF MSRP!

Featured in the latest Lighthouse Harbor Marina commercial is OnlineWakeboards.com.  Our online Watersports and Accessories store features O'Brien, HO, Hyperlite, GoPro and many more products and accessories.

OnlineWakeboards.com - Online or in person, We have a great selection at discount prices! Visit us today!

Visit us at OnlineWakeboards.com or if you are in the Pocono or Wallenpaupack area of Pennsylvania, check out our Ships' Store located at Lighthouse Harbor Marina, 969 Rt. 507 in Greentown Pa. 18426.  Give us a call at 570-857-0220.

Looking for that perfect Christmas Gift for a Water Sport Enthusiast?  You can't go wrong at 40% OFF MSRP at OnlineWakeboards.com!

Go Mobile! - LighthouseHarbor.com

Lighthouse Harbor Marina is now testing our brand new, Mobile Website!

Browse our new, in-stock Bennington, Monterey and Tige boats, check out our available Used Boats, view our Marina WebCam, find us on the Map, get information on Boat Storage and Service or click an icon to Email or Call us!

Look for and click the banner at LighthouseHarbor.com from your smart phone or click the banner above.  We would love you opinions!

Go Mobile! - PoconoWeather.com

Lighthouse Harbor Marina's PoconoWeather.com has gone mobile!

Looking for local, Lake Wallenpaupack weather and boating conditions?  You can't do much better than PoconoWeather.com, the Original Pocono Mountain Internet Weather Station and Live Marina WebCam site.  Well...unless you count our Brand New, Mobile version and App!

PoconoWeather.com now intelligently directs visitors to our Mobile Site where users can view our live Marina WebCam and check the local Lake Wallenpaupack area weather, temperature, wind speeds, precipitation and much more.  Since 1996, PoconoWeather.com has provided the latest area weather conditions and we continue improving upon our history, serving the Pocono Mountain region.

Check out PoconoWeather.com today!

The 2014 Paupack Plunge is Coming!

Can you believe that it is already time to start thinking about the 2014 Paupack Plunge?

Our annual event, the Paupack Plunge is coming (February 15th, 2014) and we are hoping to top the 152 plungers and $6,000 raised last year for our local dive and rescue teams.

And as the cold winds get colder, and the snow begins to fall...we will be working hard to make the 3rd Annual Paupack Plunge bigger, better and bolder for 2014! So follow us on Facebook and check our website for news, new features and other information about our charity event!  And as always...We're Freezin' for a Reason!

In the mean time, enjoy our video of the 2013 Paupack Plunge.

For more information, follow along on our updated website at PaupackPlunge.com.

Columbus Day Weekend Open House

Lighthouse Harbor Marina will be hosting our Columbus Day Weekend Open House, Saturday October 12th through Monday, October 14th. 

In addition to seeing our showroom full of Bennington Pontoons, Monterey and Tige boats, we will be serving refreshments for all who attend.

Be sure to stop by and check out our wide selection of boats, motors, and generators on display. Have some food and drink and then head on over to our Watersports Pro Shop. We will be open each day from 8:30am until 5:00pm.

We hope to see you!

2014 Tige ASR - Lighthouse Harbor Marina

Throughout history we have continually altered the world’s understanding of a great boat. To begin a new chapter, we unveiled our masterpiece: the Tige ASR, the 23-foot Apex Series Riders edition. Everything we have built our legacy on is embodied in the ASR. Throwing out ordinary concepts, our world-class engineering team started from scratch to build a boat that lives up to the name and is worthy of the Apex logo.

Boasting the Apex Hull, the next evolution of the legendary Convex V, the Tige ASR has the most technologically advanced hull design and was developed and refined by the world’s top wakeboarding and wakesurfing teams. The Apex Hull carries the capacity for 3,000 lb’s of factory in-floor ballast and hurls the wake that riders around the world have been begging for. The ASR equipped with the Convex VX will further evolve the wakesurf revolution with the ocean-size Tige wave that has set the industry standard.

Tips for Preventing Boat Fires

During National Fire Prevention Week, October 6-12, 2013; public awareness is brought to fire safety and prevention. You take steps to ensure your home is fireproof; but about your boat? Do you take precautionary steps to fireproof your boat? We bet you do. But as a reminder, here are some important steps you should follow in order to prevent boat fires.  

Make sure to inspect your boat's fire safety equipment:

• Ensure you have the proper size and type of marine fire extinguisher(s) for your boat.
• Make sure your extinguisher(s) are not out of date.
• Have your fire extinguisher(s) easily accessible so you can get to them quickly in an emergency.

Most boat fires are caused by fueling or electrical issues; avoid them by:

• Before fueling, get passengers off the boat and shut off all flames. Close all windows, doors and openings to prevent fumes from entering the boat.
• While you fuel, keep the nozzle in contact with the tank to prevent sparks. Don't overfill the tank. Wipe up any spills and properly dispose of the rags.
• After fueling, open all the windows, doors and openings on the boat and run the exhaust blower for four minutes.
• Prevent electrical problems by inspecting the electrical connections in your boat frequently; and also inspect any shore power connection lines before plugging them into your boat.

If a fire should break out on your boat:

• Have everyone put on a life jacket.
• If possible, position the boat so that the fire is downwind. Turn off the engine and any other electrical equipment.
• Never use water on a gasoline, oil, grease or electrical fire.
• Use the PASS method for operating a fire extinguisher:
• Pull pin
• Aim at the base of the fire
• Squeeze handle
• Sweep from side to side
• Use your VHF radio and/or cell phone to call for help.

Monterey Clearance Event

Our Monterey Boats Clearance Event is going on now. There's never been a better time to get the Monterey Boat of your dreams. Save thousands now while we make room for our 2014's. Over the past two decades, Monterey Boats has established itself as a true frontrunner when it comes to designing, developing, engineering, and building superior boats for the conscientious marine consumer.

We are located on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. Stop by our showroom or visit us at LighthouseHarbor.com to view our wide selection of Monterey Boats.

Which Monterey boat model are you interested in?

4 Important First Aid Skills

Ready to spend Labor Day weekend on the water? Of course we are, as long as weather permits. Not only is the weather a concern that boaters have when heading out, so is the chance of an unexpected injury or accident. But the truth is, it's always a possibility. And then follows knowing how to deal with it. Our friends at Discover Boating recently shared some first aid skills to help you handle the unexpected.

Stock Up

Space is at a premium on any boat, but a carefully packed first aid kit needs to be the first gear you stow. Whether you buy a pre-stocked kit from a marine retailer or you assemble it yourself, you need to make sure to include the basics. That means making sure you can treat common boating ailments such as sunburn, scrapes, bruises, sprains, insect bites and even seasickness.

Evaluate The Situation

When it comes to rendering first aid, always remember that your main goal should be not to make the situation worse. If you don’t know what to do, don’t do anything and head directly back to shore. Very often, doing the wrong thing can be much worse than not doing anything at all. Of course, most of the time the problem should be pretty obvious. Wrap and ice a sprained ankle. Clean, disinfect and bandage a cut. You know the drill. Most first aid kits come with an easy reference to help you know what to do when. Just make sure and keep an eye out for any signs of the injured person going into shock such as clammy skin, labored breathing or profuse sweating.

Head Back To Shore

If someone’s got an injury or gets sick while you’re out on the water — even if it’s not a life-threatening situation — it’s probably time to head back to the shore. Whether it’s seasickness, dehydration or a bad reaction to an insect sting can get worse. For that reason, it’s a good time to call it a day. For anything more serious, it’s time to set a course back to the dock immediately. Keep your patient low in the boat and don’t hammer the throttle.

Call 9-1-1

Don’t ever hesitate to call for help if you need it. You’ll know it’s a serious episode when someone loses consciousness, exhibits signs of shock, or has difficulty breathing. If that’s the case, call 9-1-1 on your cell phone or use Channel 16 to place a Mayday call. Speak slowly and clearly, announce your position from the GPS, and describe your emergency. Maintain emergency contact until help arrives.

What other first aid skills do you think are important?

40% OFF, End of Season Watersports Sale at OnlineWakeboards.com!

Our online watersports store, OnlineWakeboards.com, is running a 40% OFF MSRP, end of season sale on Hyperlite, HO and O'Brien wakeboards, wake surfers, kneeboards, tubes and all kinds of watersports accessories. Visit OnlineWakeboards.com for some awesome prices on some great products!

This sale is for a Limited Time Only and prices have already been marked down to reflect the 40% off MSRP sale.

5 Years of Protection for Your Boat

Want to get protected? Focus on boating this summer - not cleaning. Let us handle the task of cleaning your boat for you.

With our Platinum Protection Systems you'll receive 5 Years of Protection against:

• Fading of Gel-Coat / Paint
• Loss of Shine / Gloss
• UV Damage
• Stains to Vinyl, Leather, & Carpet
• Rips, Burns and Tears
• Chalking of the Gel-Coat / Paint
• Hard Water Spots
• Interior Mold & Mildew Damage
• Interior Fading

Contact our Service Department by calling 570-857-0220 or emailing Service@LighthouseHarbor.com to schedule an appointment or for additional information.

2013 Tige R20 - Lighthouse Harbor Marina

In stock now at Lighthouse Harbor Marina is our 2013 Tige R20.  Whether you're a beginning boater or a veteran owner, there's a Tige for every activity and attitude on the water, and this R20 gets it done in style with power, towing and storage in mind. As always, our Tige boats come with the built-in peace of mind of Tige's 360 Service Plus, 3 year service plan at no cost, to keep your boat where it belongs, on the water.

This boat includes...

Red Hull Upgrade / V.E. Barrier Coat
Depth Finder / Snap In Carpet
Cooler Bow Filler Cushion w/ Cup Holders
Transom Cushions w/ Grab Handle
Sea Deck Upgrade Swim Platform
Surf Bimini Top and Boot
Dual Batteries / SS Rub Rail
Ski Pylon / SS Cup Holders
R20 Boat Cover w/ Tower Cutouts
Board Racks / Mirror w/ Bracket

Specifications...

20 Foot Overall w/o Platform
7 Foot, 8 Inch Beam
38 Gallon Fuel Capacity
3000 Lbs Weight / 12 Seating Capacity

See our Tige R20 at LighthouseHarbor.com!

Monterey Boats Sales Event at Lighthouse Harbor Marina

Lighthouse Harbor Marina is now running our Monterey Boats Sales Event at our marina on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania.  Visit us at LighthouseHarbor.com or stop in our showroom to Save Thousands on our wide selection of Monterey boats.

Monterey Boats Sales Event at Lighthouse Harbor Marina - LighthouseHarbor.com

YAMAHA Wake Up The Summer Sales Event - Lighthouse Harbor Marina

YAMAHA's Wake Up The Summer Sales Event runs from July 15th, 2013 to August 30th, 2013 at Lighthouse Harbor Marina.  This includes a 5 Year Warranty (2 additional years on top of the standard 3 year warranty) and up to $2000.00 in Lighthouse Harbor Credit to be applied to your purchase or in our Ships' Store.

Click Here for the official details and requirements.

Another New Television Commercial - Lighthouse Harbor

Beginning Monday, July 22nd 2013 Lighthouse Harbor Marina will be running our latest television commercial on a number of TV stations.  Keep your eyes, and ears open for this one!

Tige, Monterey and Bennington Boat Commercial - Lighthouse Harbor Marina

Wally Lake Fest 2013

We are proud to announce that we have been selected as the Presenting Sponsor of Wally Lake Fest which is being held on Aug 23-25, 2013 and includes many interesting and entertaining events around the area. 

For the past three years, Wally Lake Fest has brought thousands of local residents and visitors to Lake Wallenpaupack and the surrounding area.  The festival celebrates the end of summer in the Lake Region in a unique way with something for everyone. Wally Lake Fest calls for sun, sand, water, shades, sunscreen and everything else that signifies enjoyable outdoor summer events, so let’s hope for a rain free weekend!

You can pick up a brochure listing the places and times events will be held at Lighthouse Harbor Marina or by clicking here. 

New Lighthouse Harbor Marina and Pocono Action Sports TV Commercials

Lighthouse Harbor Marina and Pocono Action Sports are proud to introduce our in-house produced commercials which will be running in various television markets beginning July 12th, 2013.

Pocono Action Sports, located on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Pocono Mountains, offers Parasailing, Boat Rentals and Jet Ski Rentals for your enjoyment.  Visit us at PoconoActionSports.com to check availability or reserve a boat using our new booking software.

 

Pocono Action Sports - Boat Rentals, Parasailing, Jet Ski Rentals and More

Lighthouse Harbor Marina sells Bennington, Monterey and Tige boats from our full service location on Lake Wallenpaupack in the Poconos.  Our sales department, service department, water sports store and amenities are available for all your boating needs.  Visit us at LighthouseHarbor.com.

Lighthouse Harbor Marina - Sales of Bennington, Monterey and Tige Boats

Hyperlite Wakeboard Clinic

Do you want to experience Hyperlite Wakeboards with Trever Maur and Lighthouse Harbor Marina? It's all happening on Sunday, July 14th from 9am till 5pm. Sign up today as space is limited to ride your favorite Hyperlite board behind our Tige Wakeboard boat. 

All participants will receive a limited edition Hyperlite Experience T-shirt as part of their swag bag. Sign up online by clicking here. 

Are you ready to ride behind a Tige?

Presenting The Tige PSA - Public Surfing Announcement

Lighthouse Harbor Marina on Lake Wallenpaupack presents Tige Boats PSA...Public Surfing Announcement.  We combine our in-stock Tige boats and Water Sports store to provide Wakeboarders, Wake Surfers and lake enthusiasts with everything they need to conquer Lake Wallenpaupack.  Visit our online store at OnlineWakeboards.com and our main website at LighthouseHarbor.com.

Tige Boats PSA - Lighthouse Harbor Marina

Shop Tips: Sacrificial Anodes

Do you know the importance of replacing your outdrive anodes? 

It's very important and often overlooked service needed to prevent corrosion. Why do we need to change anodes and what is the importance of doing so? Plain and simple...corrosion. When dissimilar metals are in contact with one another and immersed in water, this destructive process begins. The type of water in which they operate can accelerate this process. That white, crusty build-up you may see developing on your outdrive, gimbal housing or prop is galvanic corrosion eating your outdrive. Changing anodes when needed can drastically slow this process.

Anodes come in different types of metal such as magnesium for freshwater or aluminum and zinc for salt water. They "sacrifice" themselves because they are more active, or easily consumed by this type of corrosion. In some more severe cases, sanding, priming, and repainting becomes necessary to prevent the eventual replacement of damaged areas. If an issue is present during the summerizing process of your boat, we will call you with an estimate.

Monterey Boats Summer Spectacular

Monterey Boat's Summer Spectacular Sales event is going on now at Lighthouse Harbor Marina.  This Summer Sale began on May 24th 2013 and runs for a Limited time.  Visit us at Lighthouse Harbor Marina on Lake Wallenpaupack for additional information or call us at (570) 857-0220.

While you are visiting our website, be sure to check out our new line of Tige Wakeboard and Wake Surfing boats and America's #1 Selling Pontoon Boats...Bennington!

Tips for Docking Your Bennington

After a fun day out on Lake Wallenpaupack, the sad part always comes: bringing everyone in. And to do this, you must dock your pontoon. Because of its shape and size, pontoons catch wind more easily and can therefore be more difficult to dock than most mono-hull boats. So here are a few tips we've picked up over the years on how to successfully dock your Bennington.







Minimize damage with fenders. Especially if you're still getting the feel for docking your pontoon, there's no harm in tying on 2 or 3 fenders to, well, fend off the dock. We'd rather have fenders hanging out than scratches from the dock, wouldn't you?



Come in at an angle. Even just knowing this is preferred will make your docking life easier. More often than not, it will be impossible to line up straight to the dock. So don't put that pressure on yourself! Once you get closer, straighten up and aim for a particular spot on the dock. 



Slow and steady wins the race. Don't race into the dock. That's a recipe for disaster. Go as slow as possible, preferably spending most of your time in neutral and bumping it into gear for seconds every so often. The best way to turn is with power, but the best way to execute a sharp turn is with the lowest amount of power possible to minimize skidding.

Use reverse. Don't be afraid to knock the engine into reverse! That's actually the best way to slide up next to the dock. Once your front end is close, turn the wheel all of the way and slide into reverse for a moment (give it a little oomph) so that the rear will slide into place.

Practice makes perfect. Every boat handles differently, so it will take awhile to learn exactly how to handle your boat in order to dock it gracefully. (Remember how long it took to learn how to back the trailer down the ramp?) Just remember: don't use excessive speed. That can cause a little mistake to turn into a big problem.

How often do you practice docking? Are you comfortable with your pontoon yet? 

How to Wake Surf

You've seen our sick Tige boats. Have you seen this video of our guys wake surfing behind one?



If you've always wanted to surf but don't have access to great waves, then perhaps wake surfing is for you. How does surfing one endless wave sound? Sounds like a lot more time surfing and a lot less time paddling or waiting to us! Wake surfing is a cool water sport, though not as accessible as water skiing or wake boarding or tubing because you can only wake surf off an inboard boat. But more on that in a bit. If this looks like something you'd like to try, check out these tips.

WARNING: ONLY USE AN INBOARD TO WAKE SURF. Stern drive or outboard engines are not appropriate for wake surfing. If you can see the propeller, do not wake surf off the boat. Exposed props can cause severe injury or even death. Only wake surf off a boat with an inboard engine set up where the propeller is tucked under the hull or rudder.

Get a wake surf board and rope. "Surf style" boards are recommended for beginniners because they are larger and thicker, and therefore stay on the wake a bit better. An old surfboard probably won't get you the results you want. A wake surf rope is a bit different than the ones you are used to - they have knots along them in case you need to pull yourself up or over to a great spot in the wave. It's also thicker than your typical wakeboard rope for this reason. Rest assured - we have all of the eqipment you need, so stop by to check it out.

Prepping the boat. Most boats will need additional weight on the side of the boat the person is surfing off of. This is most often the port (left) side of the boat. Perhaps your spotter can sit in the back and be that weight, but know you might need to play around with it for a bit to see what helps you create a larger and better wake.

Accelerate slowly and stand up slowly. The driver of the boat needs to accelerate and move slowly - 10-11 mph is preferred. The speed will depend on your boat. Find the sweet spot that gives you a crisp wake. When wake surfing, don't stand up too quickly! You'll lose your balance. Instead, stand with knees bent at first to get your balance, and then slowly straighten up.

But how do you get up, you ask? Check out this video:



When will you try wake surfing?

Free Boating Safety Course

Just as a reminder: we are hosting a free boating safety course here at Lighthouse Harbor Marina on Saturday, May 18 from 9-5. A complimentary lunch is included!



Why should you take a boating safety course? Well there are lots of things that these types of courses can teach you to make you a better - and of course safer - boater. Topics often include:

• boat handling
• reading the weather
• right of way on the water
• state boating laws and regulations
• how to set an anchor
• the crucial components of any boat
• what to do in capsizing, swamping or man overboard situations
• best docking and casting off practices
• best practices when overtaking another boat
• knot tying

All boaters, whether they use sailboats, power boats or PWCs (personal watercraft, like jet skis) can benefit from these courses. They generally cover broad issues that apply to all of us. Nearly every boater we know has felt better prepared and qualified to boat after taking one of these courses. In addition, completing a boating safety course can often get you discounts on your boat insurance (sort of like safe driver auto insurance discounts).

Boating safety classes are great for new boaters, but are also great this time of year for any boater looking to brush up their skills before summer begins. Please make your reservations in advance, as we have limited seating and it will fill up quickly. Call to reserve - 570-857-0220.

We hope to see you there!

How to Take Care of Your Pontoon Canvas

Bennington pontoons come with lots of canvas. First, you have the playpen cover, which helps maintain interior cleanliness and prevent damage when your pontoon is not in use. Next, there is the bimini top, which provides some shade for those very hot days out on the lake. These two pieces of material will turn out to be very useful, so you'll want to make sure they live just as long as your pontoon boat does. Here, then, are some tips for taking care of your pontoon canvas (many taken from Bennington themselves):

PROPER STORAGE:
Store your bimini top in the radar position with the boot (bimini cover) zipped into place. This helps prevent wind, sun and bad weather damage over time. Remember: your top is comparable to a large umbrella, so keep it buttoned up when not in use!

When the playpen cover is fully installed, your Bennington will require the proper storage position of the bimini top, as the cover does not have forward strut cut-outs.

Use all tent poles under your playpen cover, and tighten them securely. The cover helps keep your boat dry and clean, but it is not 100% moisture proof and it is NOT a winter weather cover. A playpen cover is not designed to support heavy piles of snow and ice, or any other additional weight. So if you aren't going out on the lake every week or two, do check up on your Bennington every once in awhile to make sure nothing is weighing the canvas down (this is necessary even after a very heavy rain).

PROPER CLEANING:
Cleaning your bimini top and storage cover regularly will help maintain its integrity (and will keep it looking new!). They are pretty easy to clean, too - just brushing off any loose dirt or particles and hose them down with fresh water. If you've let stuff build-up, use a mild detergent (like dish soap) and fresh warm water. Never use solvents to clean the canvas.  

HAULING WITH CANVAS:
When hauling your Bennington, be sure the bimini top is locked in the radar or trailering-strut positions with the boot securely in place.

TOWING:
Bennington does NOT recommend towing with the playpen cover installed. Its purpose is more of a "mooring cover" for when the boat is at the dock or out of water on the trailer. Although you could likely tow your pontoon at low speeds and short distances and not have an issue, snap-whip from a loosened snap, snap-strain from high speed towing and various other situations can cause damage to your cover. In addition, the cover may catch in the wind in particularly windy situations, which may lessen the amount of control you have over the boat.

How often do you use your playpen cover and bimini canvas? 

The Tige MyWake Global Challenge

Have you always wanted to go head-to-head with other wake boarders (or surfers or skaters) and see how you compare? Now's your chance. And you get to compete against others around the world, not just in our area!

Tige Boats started an annual MyWake Global Challenge last summer, and they're bringing it back in 2013. It seems pretty simple: take a few rides on the lake and show off your best tricks while you have a buddy record you. Then submit your videos online to the challenge. You can submit as many videos as you'd like! But you have to do it between June 1 and August 31. Winners will be chosen monthly.

Visit the challenge's Facebook page and watch this video to learn more about the challenge:

Using Your Phone as a Boating Tool

Are you the type of smartphone user that downloads a new app every day? Perhaps you're the opposite and you've only downloaded the few you need to get by. (Though you should make sure to have Facebook, Twitter and Google+ to keep up with us on the go!) But now, turn your attention to your nautical side and consider a few apps that can enhance your favorite hobby: boating.





New and experienced boaters alike can learn from the Boater’s Pocket Reference, an app chock full of information like U.S. and Canadian navigation rules, tips on boat handling, how to tie marine knots and much more. When your boat is out of the water, you can refer to Boater’s Pocket Reference for information on trailering and regular maintenance. Visual learners will appreciate the variety of charts, graphs and illustrations throughout the app that makes the content extremely easy to understand. While the app isn’t free – in fact, it’s $4.99 – it is highly ranked by iPhone users and includes a search function so you can quickly and easily find the information you need, right when you need it.





Keep your finger on the pulse of current weather and tide forecasts with the NOAA Buoy and Tide Data app, which accesses data from NOAA’s National Data Buoy Center. You can search for buoys by name or location and view a range of weather data, including wind speed, gusts and pressure. Tide predictions are also included, as are moon phases. The app is very reasonably priced at $1.99.







If, heaven forbid, something goes wrong on your next voyage, the free Sea Tow app can come to your rescue. You can contact their 24 hour dispatch center through the app, a handy feature if your VHF radio is on the fritz. In addition, the app contains tide and forecast information, and you can save up to seven locations for continued weather monitoring. Finally, the app features a compass and speedometer so you can always pinpoint your location on a map.







But before you can use any of these apps, you need to get your boat into the water. That’s where Boat Ramps comes in. This (free!) app allows you to search for ramps near your location, by zip code or by city. Once you’ve chosen a ramp, the app will provide you with directions. Reviews for the app, however, lament that it doesn’t provide more information about ramps, like fees (or lack thereof), restroom facilities or bait shops.





What are your favorite boating apps? How has your smart phone enhanced your boating experience, on and/or off the water?

The Revolutionary Convex VX

We brought Tigé Boats to our dealership because we knew they would bring new and different things to the table. And boy, they sure have! We know we’re not the first to write about the Convex VX, but we think you’ll enjoy it all the same.


According to Tigé, the Convex VX is the only device ever created for surf wave ENHANCEMENT. But what is the Convex VX, you ask? It’s a fiberglass hull extension device “ designed to enhance the running surface of your Tigé at wakesurf speeds.” It connects to the swim platform and can be removed whenever you don’t want it on the boat.



How does it work? Well, this is what the Tigé website says: “The center tunnel of the Convex VX effectively channels water from the propulsion system downward under and into the wave. Utilizing the power generated by the prop to increase the size, volume, and density of the Convex VX surf wave.”

What we like about it is that it makes your 20 ft boat a 22 ft-er. So in this sense, less is more! That smaller boat that’s easier to trailer is now the perfect water sports boat.

When will you try out the Convex VX? Give us a call today or visit our site at LighthouseHarbor.com!

Choosing the Best Life Jacket

You might not like to wear them, but life jackets (also known as life vests or PFDs) are an essential part of staying safe on the water. Sure, you might be an excellent swimmer on a normal day, but what happens if you hit a wave wrong, get tossed off your boat and knocked unconscious on the way in the water? Now, we don’t want to be all doom and gloom. But we do think it’s important to know how to choose the best life jacket for you.



Requirements
In Pennsylvania, all recreational vessels must have at least one Type I, II, III, or V personal flotation device on board for each person. Additionally, vessels 16 feet in length or longer must have one Type IV (throwable) USCG-approved personal flotation device on board (and it needs to be easily accessible). Any person younger than 12-years-old, in a boat less than 20 feet long, must wear a PFD. All life jackets must be in good and serviceable condition and legibly marked showing the USCG approval number. This means the life jacket must be fully functional, free of tears or defects in the material. All buckles, straps, zippers and other closures must be operable.

Finally, remember: boaters are required, by law, to wear life jackets on boats less than 16 feet in length or any canoe or kayak during the cold weather months from November 1 through April 30.



Choosing

We like this graphic from the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission that explains the different types of PFDs:



For adults, chest size will determine what size PFD is necessary. For children, this is determined by weight. Once you’ve selected the right size, follow these steps:

• Loosen all the straps, put PFD on and zip up.
• Starting at the waist, tighten all the straps. The PFD should feel snug but not uncomfortable.
• Have someone pull up on the shoulders. If it moves up past your nose, tighten the straps. If you can’t and/or it still moves, you need a smaller size.
• If possible, test your PFD in a pool or shallow water. It should not ride up or slip over your chin while floating.

To fit a child, follow basically the same steps. Pick them up by the shoulders of the life jacket, and make sure the vest is snug overall.

We recommend:Once you’ve adjusted your life jacket to the perfect fit, leave it that way! Keep extra jackets on board for your guests. That way, your favorite jacket is always the right size.



Do not alter a PFD to make it fit - choose one that works for you. There are many different styles, and many companies make separate men’s and women’s fits. Further, automatic inflatable vests have become increasingly popular, which allow you to wear a slimmer, more minimal vest that automatically inflates if you hit the water. Choose whatever vest you will be the most comfortable in.



What suggestions do you have for anyone looking to purchase a PFD? Any tips or tricks you’ve learned over the years?

How to Survive the Paupack Plunge

You’ve signed up for our 2nd annual Paupack Plunge. You’re ready to raise money for and awareness of two important local organizations: the Tafton Water Rescue Team and the Ledgedale Dive Team. But are you ready for the plunge itself?

Here are a few tips on how to survive the Paupack Plunge:

1. Eat a hearty breakfast. It’s a great excuse to eat a calorie-laden meal! Breakfast meats, carbohydrates and sugars are all necessary to energize your body so that it can handle the shock of frigid water. Extra sugar may be beneficial. Drink water, juice or decaffinated tea - avoid caffeine until after the plunge.

2. Strip down to your plunge gear (you can make it in just a swimsuit!) about two minutes before you jump. This will give your body a chance to adjust to the cold so the shock of the water won’t be as significant. Just make sure you don’t start to shiver!

3. Jump! Don’t hesitate! In cold water, the rib cage contracts, which leads many swimmers to feeling like they can’t breath. Exhale as you jump in and the next breath will come more easily. Once you’re in, swim to shore calmly to avoid expending extra energy.

4. Have blankets/towels and warm (dry) shoes waiting for you when you get out. Wrap yourself up and top yourself off with a hat. Drinking a warm beverage will help kick start the re-heating process. 

Plunge veterans: how did you survive the plunge last year?

What To Know When Buying a Wakeboard

You’ve seen those awesomely colorful Tige Boats rolling into our marina. You’ve looked at our new website, OnlineWakeboards.com. You read our last post about those wacky terms wakeboarders use. So are you feeling the urge to become a wakeboarder?

Well, before you go back online to purchase one, here are some things you need to know:

1. Match your skill level. You can always upgrade later, so don’t go and buy a board that is way beyond you! Beginners should look for a board with squared edges, which allows for more control and stability. Most wakeboards are labeled with their skill level to help you out. 

2. Get the right size. If your board is too small, it will sink, which won’t do you any good! Most manufacturers have sizing charts for the proper weight-to-length and/or height-to-length ratios. If you’re not sure, choose the longer board, because the shorter the board, the less stability in starts and turns. Plus, you can grow into a longer board as you get better.

3. Check your bindings. Getting bindings that fit correctly is really important for increasing your learning success and deacreasing your chance of injury. You want the bindings to be snug, but not so tight you’re in pain. (Also, bindings that are too tight might not release your foot in the event of a fall - which you’ll have plenty of as you learn - and that’s never good.) So try several kinds out and pick the one that’s the most comfortable for you.

4. Find the best fin. Fins are on the bottom of a wakeboard and are used for steering and turning. In smooth water conditions smaller and thinner fins work well. In rougher water conditions a larger, wider fin helps steer the board when it bounces on the water. As a beginner, you probably want a deeper fin. You can try removeable fins to find the best, or just trust the built-in fin on your beginner board.

And last, but not least: try before you buy! You can do all of the research in the world, but at the end of the day, you’ve gotta try a board out to know if it’s comfortable for you. 

Are you a wakeboarder with tips for someone looking to purchase their first board?