There’s been an entire list of things we needed (wanted) for the boat to make the boat safe and ready to go. After a lot of research, here’s some of what we’ve purchased and where we’ve gotten it.
1. A way to get the gas from our reserve gerry cans into the tank without spilling it everywhere. Plus we needed a pump when it’s time to do an engine oil change. This workhorse should do it all. It has great reviews and Sean’s excited to use it.
Siphon Pro XL - Largest Siphon for Water - Gas - Diesel - SEE VIDEO - It’s a Pump or Siphon – Get Work Done Fast! 8' & Shut off Clip - USA
2. A life ring/throwable. After researching the USCG requirements Sean determined we needed a 24″ buoy. He wanted it to be orange for better visibility and have reflective properties. We looked at a lot but settled on this one for it’s good reviews and durability.
Cal June USCG Approved Ring Buoy
- solid closed cell plastic throughout
- Soft and resilient to touch
- The Sof-Tex surface resists weather and temperature extremes
- Will not Rot or Mildew
- U.S.C.G. approval # 160.050/106/1
This one was $79.94 with free shipping (not Prime). It said it could take up to 2 weeks but we got ours in 5 days.
3. Flares. The flares on the boat were out of date and I wasn’t too keen on having something that had to be lit in an emergency. I saw a recommendation for this SOS distress light and I liked the fact that it was multi-functional. We chose this one for its award winning design, Coast Guard compliance and good reviews.
Weems & Plath C-1001 SOS Distress Light with Day Signal Flag
- USCG compliant for DAY and NIGHT use with a daytime distress signal flag (included). 33 CFR 175.130
- LED light flashes up to 60 hours on C-cell batteries (3)
- Patented lens shines horizontal and vertical beams
- Visible up to 10 nautical miles
- Safe to operate — NO danger to person or vessel
We found this one for $89.99 and free prime shipping. Sean found the same model at West Marine on sale in store only for $20 off so it may pay to check around.
4. Flashlight. Again we wanted something waterproof, rechargeable and multi-functional. This particular model was recommended by another blogger so I didn’t do much research on it since it also had great reviews.
Secur Dynamo 8 Lumen Solar Waterproof LED Rechargeable Flashlight
- The high power Flashlight comes with a built in Dynamo powered hand crank,
- Built in Solar Panel, so you can recharge via direct sunshine as well
- 3 Function LED – One LED, Three LED’s, Three LED’s Flashing
- Never needs any batteries or cables to recharge
- Rain proof and windproof up to 45 feet, so don’t worry for unexpected weather conditions
We paid $19.95 with free Prime shipping.
5. Anchor. We wanted something in addition to then 32# Danforth. Based on reviews, I decided to try this Hurricane Anchor instead of a Delta. Looks like it should be easier to free up from the muddysiltysandy riverbottom than the Danforth, too.
22 lb - Welded Rollbar - Boats 35-42 ft
6. Binoculars. A good pair of 7×50 waterproof Binocs will come in handy. A conservative 7x magnification reduces an image shake and the 50mm objective gathers a lot of light in less than ideal conditions. These Steiner’s are reasonably priced for good quality marine binoculars and get excellent reviews.
Steiner Marine 7x50 Binoculars
- LEGENDARY DURABILITY AND WATERPROOF –With shockproof and waterproof design, make Steiner’s marine binoculars with a 7x magnification and 50mm objective lens your go-to binoculars on the water.
- IDEAL MARINE BINOCULARS – Steiner’s Sports-Autofocus system puts everything into focus—from 20 yards to infinity—making these binoculars perfect for your active life.
- UNMATCHED OPTICS – See the difference that BAK-4 prisms, fully multicoated optical surfaces, and 20mm of long eye relief makes. With no moving parts, our binoculars are durable and precise.
- GET OUTDOORS WITH STEINER – Measuring 8.1in x 3in x 5.5in and weighing just 36.3 ounces, you can get outside with these lightweight binoculars that will make the most of your time on the water.
