Be Well,

Sam Sotiropoulos

Was it positive for you?

I’m sure it was!

special edumacation

There are basic boating courses offered by many groups, and I felt they were so general, but I suppose that’s because I’ve lived my whole life around boats. These courses cover 1% of what I think anyone on the water should know, but that 1% would keep so many people from having a day like yours, or worse. You learned much in this one day, but fortunately things didn’t turn worse. Always carry all the proper safety equipment, (anchors and a marine radio are just the tip of the iceberg.) PFDs, flares, day signals, the list goes on. Always visually confirm fuel levels. Take a new boat on some controlled sea trials first before setting out on a long trip. Always let someone on shore know where you’re going, how long you expect to be, and be on alert if you don’t return in proper time. Trust me… for decades of experience, I’m still learning, and don’t think I’ll ever stop. In regards to insurance, I’ve been with Boat US in all my boating, (fortunately never having a claim,) but never had a problem reaching a live person on the phone within a minute of calling. They insure boats. Only boats, and I know from working in the marine repair business, they’re prompt with their attention to claims.

I feel women should know all aspects of operating a boat. For one reason or another, you may find yourself at the helm, and should be able to handle the boat safely and with confidence. I’m a wife and mother, and I own a 32 foot trawler, which is MY boat. When we were buying her, the broker started talking to my husband, who told him, “Talk to her. She’s the one who knows boats.” You should have seen the look on the broker’s face. Feel free to ask me any questions or just write me.