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Dogs and cats aren’t just pets. They’re family. It’s only natural that we want to take them with us wherever we go. If you’re considering taking your dog on a boat ride, there are some precautions and preparations you’ll want to consider. Here are six tips to make the process easier. Buy your dog a lifejacket.Animals need lifejackets, too! Even dogs who are strong swimmers can end up drowning in rough currents. Your dog’s lifejacket should be snug and comfortable. Fortunately, they come in many sizes. Introduce them to the dock and your boat.Before you embark on your boat ride, introduce your dog to the dock and your boat. Teach her how and where to get on and off. If you have a smaller dog, keep a fishing net on board so you can quickly sweep them out of the water, in an emergency. Start the boat’s engine while she’s on board to get her accustomed to the...

If you have a boat, an anchor is essential. It allows you to park your watercraft and keeps you safe during dangerous weather. Your anchor needs to be heavy enough to keep your boat secure once it’s been dropped into the water. However, there are a lot of other things to keep in mind when you’re anchor shopping.  1. Fluke AnchorsThese anchors have a shank and multiple flukes. These flukes catch in the sandy ocean or muddy river bottom as the boat floats forward and provides resistance. Flukes are great at holding larger boats without being overwhelmingly heavy. 2. Plow AnchorsThese anchors have a metal wedge (that looks like a hook) and a shank. These are great for catching hard surfaces, such as rocky areas. Plow anchors are extremely heavy, which is necessary for hooking tough ground.  3. Claw AnchorsThese anchors look similar to plow anchors but they have multiple claws instead of a single plow. This design is great for rocky...

It doesn’t have to be Valentine’s Day to enjoy a romantic evening on the town. If you’re trying to plan a sensual night out with your loved one, you’ve come to the right place! Here are five romantic restaurants that are sure to impress.  1. Beach BistroThis gorgeous Anna Maria Island restaurant is right on the beach, with stunning views of the Gulf Coast. They use only the best ingredients and serve delicacies such as lobstercargots, scallop pan roast, and steak tartare. Visit at sunset for an incredible experience. beachbistro.com 2. IndigenousSteve Phelps, the award-winning chef and owner of this restaurant, works magic with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu at Indigenous changes throughout the year based on ingredient availability, and they focus largely on sustainable seafood. indigenoussarasota.com 3. Duval’s Fresh. Local. SeafoodThis restaurant does, indeed, serve fresh, local seafood! They also pride themselves on their superb service, fine wine, and creative cocktails. Duval’s is truly a staple in Sarasota’s seafood cuisine. If...

Boating is very much a specialty hobby that requires knowledge, certifications, and experience.  But the only way to get experience is to take the plunge and get out there! If you’re a rookie boater, here are six tips to help you navigate your first boating season.  Don’t ever forget to check the weather.You can never check the weather too many times! Check a few hours before you leave, right before you leave, and while you’re out on the water. Remember that storms can sneak up on you out of the blue. If you’re a new boater, you don’t want to get stuck in dangerous weather.Layer, layer, layer.It might be warm at the marina, but if the breeze picks up on the water, it could get cold. Bring long sleeve shirts, a waterproof jacket, and more. Better to be overprepared and have whatever you need on hand than to get stuck in cold weather. Drive slow when docking. The last thing you want...

Skin cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in the United States. However, there are several steps you can take to lower your risk. If you’re planning a boat trip to sunny Florida, be cautious of too much sun exposure. If you’re lucky enough to avoid cancer, you’ll still have to deal with premature signs of aging, like wrinkles and age spots. Here are six tips to stay safe in the sun.  Protect yourself.Try to wear long pants, long sleeved shirts, and wide brimmed hats as often as possible. If you find such clothing too oppressive in the Florida heat, slather yourself in sunscreen and linger in the shade.Wear sunglasses.UV rays can cause serious eye problems, such as cataracts. Wear sunglasses that block UVB and UBA rays to protect your precious eyeballs.Limit your time in the sun.Sun rays are strongest from 10am to 4pm. Plan to be in the sun early in the morning or later in the afternoon. If you...

From casual to fine dining, here are five of Sarasota’s most famous restaurants that you have to check out! 1. Bijou CafeIf you want a classic Downtown Sarasota experience, plan to stop at The Bijou Cafe before catching a show afterwards. This fine-dining spot is located right next to the Sarasota Opera House. Featuring delicious menu options such as bijou crab cakes, tuna tartare, tagliatelle pasta, and lamb shank, Bijou Cafe has experienced many talented chefs over the years.  2. Dry Dock Waterfront GrillIf you’re looking for something more casual, grab a grouper sandwich at Dry Dock Waterfront Grill. Enjoy your sandwich and the weather with a fantastic view of Sarasota Bay. You won’t regret it. 3. Ophelia’s on the BayPerfect for couples seeking romantic dining on the water, Ophelia’s features two glass-walled dining rooms and patio seating with beautiful views of Little Sarasota Bay. The menu is printed daily and features local seafood fishes and Florida-grown fruits and vegetables. Imagine...

Are you planning a boat vacation to Florida to escape the winter blues? While you might believe the beach is all sunshine and smiles, there are some dangerous things that must be taken into consideration. While you’re preparing for your tropical escape and getting your boat ready for voyage, make sure you also properly prepare for beach and ocean safety.  Wear sunscreen, and stay hydrated.Sunburn can ruin even the most well-planned, luxurious vacations. Make sure you lather yourself up with 30 SPF and reapply either after two hours of sunbathing or after swimming. While you’re at it, stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol (especially if you’ll be driving the boat), and drink plenty of water. Protect your feet.The idea of a long walk on the beach might sound romantic, but romance can quickly turn into an emergency if you step directly on a sharp edge of the rocky coastline. Pack some water shoes, such as Tevas or Chacos, to prevent cuts from...

If you’re considering buying a boat in Florida (or you already own one), it’s imperative to make sure your belongings are secured and insured. The amount of stolen boats has fortunately subsided, but Florida is still a hot spot for these type of crimes. Practice safe and smart boat ownership by taking the following steps.  1. Know your coverage.Boat insurance policies vary widely. It depends on the type of boat, the waters it will traffic, how many months of the year the boat is in use, and more. Familiarize yourself with your coverage, in case anything happens.  2. Take photos of your boat and its equipment.This is a great way to keep track of everything installed on your boat, in case of theft. Create a spreadsheet that includes the value of everything you own. This will help you decide what kind of insurance coverage to lock down. 3. Don’t leave your title or registration papers in your boat.Instead, store them in a safe...

No matter where you live, winter requires extra preparation when you’re eager to get out on the water. With colder air and water temperatures, it’s essential to have a safety plan in case of a boating emergency. Here are five tips that could save your life this winter.  1. Wear a lifejacket. Sure, they’re not very stylish. Or maybe you’re a strong swimmer, and you don’t think you need one. Whatever the case for your resistance, remember that it’s much easier to be prepared for the worst than to scramble for a lifejacket at the last second. Make sure your lifejacket fits properly and inflates correctly. Wear it at all times.  2. Have a solid method of communication.On a boat, you should have a marine-brand VHS radio and a handheld GPS. This will allow you to call for help and report your location. Don’t rely on your cell phone, as they don’t always have service in the areas you might be visiting...

Boats face a variety of potential maintenance problems. However, there’s an even higher chance of something going wrong during the off-season. Because of this, boat owners need to properly winterize and care for their boats when it’s cold outside. If it’s your first time winterizing your boat, consult both your owner’s manual and a knowledgeable professional to assist you.  1. Clean your boat thoroughly. Before you store your boat, make sure it’s clean. Pressure wash the hull, remove any stray barnacles from the propellers, and inspect every inch of the boat’s interior. Depending on your winter climate, you might need to install a dehumidifier to limit moisture levels inside your boat.  2. Change the engine oil.It’s crucial to take care of your boat’s engine, since it’s the most important part of your boat. First, check the oil levels. Your boat’s oil should be changed every 50-100 running hours. While you’re changing the oil, check for leaks and other alarming signs.  3. Take care...