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BOATERS AWASH IN NEW GADGETS: Hitting the water for safe fun in great outdoors

Mar 09, 2021 06:36PM ● By JEFF LYTLE

Boating is like golf. You can enjoy it amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and just when you think the consumer product field has done it all, and every enthusiast has every piece of equipment, something new comes along. Sometimes it happens gradually, and sometimes it comes out like a new year’s car models from Detroit.

Nowadays, trends in the world of boating range from waterproof cameras to navigational high technology. Bonita Boat Center sales manager Jarrod Bishop says the dealership is “really blessed” by strong sales—and so are customers looking for the convenience and safety of new gadgets. “The advances in equipment these days are breathtaking,” he says.

Bishop points to joysticks replacing steering wheels, and autopilot systems to rival those on airplanes or cars. Simply click on a destination site on a video screen map and you are on your way, such as Auto Glide. One system, made by Garmin, tailors your route factoring in information about your boat’s height; the device is programmed to know the water depths and bridge heights along the way.

There are even infrared cameras for night vision, and guidance systems to lead you home along the route you took to your destination. Two big engine makers, Mercury and Yamaha, offer technology that will keep boats steady and in place without the need for anchors while skippers concentrate on fishing. Bishop says the progressive gear is available two ways—on a brand-new, fully tricked-out boat or bought à la carte and installed on most newer-model craft.

What about the boating industry buzz about biodiesel power for speed, fuel efficiency, sustainability (can be made from vegetable oil) and cleanliness? Bishop doubts it will get much traction in Southwest Florida, where boating activities tend to be low wake and low key, with more fishing than water skiing and racing. Center console outboard craft of up to 45 feet rule, he says.

Boaters now have a lot of choices when asked, “What’s new?” There are new developments in phone technology for thwarting boat thieves. There are new hull designs and materials for strength and safety. Customized drones are available to capture videos of boats at their best—in action on the water. Fire extinguishers and suppressant systems command the attention of pro-active boaters.

The industry catering to lots of leisure spending also tempts enthusiasts with the latest updates in galley ovens, spill-proof doggie water bowls, food and drink trays, swim platforms, floating Koozie cups and wooden sunglasses. Shopping lists also include waterproof cameras, with or without tripods; the latest in fish finders; waterproof phone cases and first aid kits.

National industry forecasts see no end in sight to boaters—stir crazy amid the pandemic—hitting the water for good, clean, safe fun in the great outdoors. Shawn Henderson, general manager of Marina Mike’s in Fort Myers, has a name for the phenomenon: “nautical distancing.”

“It’s just a great feeling to get away from the atmosphere at Publix, where the pandemic is on everyone’s mind, and go out with the family into the open air and jump in the water,” he says. Proof of the surge in boating enthusiasm is the attendance at the huge annual boat show in downtown Fort Myers. Henderson reports attendance on a par with the 2019 show, even though the 2020 expo was cut short by a full day because of stormy weather.

Leisure pontoons and fishing boats were the hot tickets with browsers and customers.

Overall in Henderson’s showroom, demand is high for two of his Bennington models, both with twin Yamaha motors of 425 horsepower and 300 horsepower, respectively. Customers are also attracted to Minn Kota trolling motors, with internal GPS, that keep anglers around the same spot without need for an anchor.

Diesels? Henderson predicts they will be popular with yachts rather than his smaller craft.

At CGT Kayaks in Bonita, co-owner John Paeno is thinking about pandemic basics: “The newest thing is not a toy, boat or kayak. It is ‘no contact’ rentals in the kayak industry.

“Everything is set up online and the kayaks are waiting for people when they arrive. We don't interact with people any more other than by phone and internet. Several other shops have followed along. People like the convenience and safety of the process.”

Beyond that, Paeno does see a mechanical shift. “I am seeing a trend toward electric motors for tour craft and individual recreational craft like kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. I also have seen larger motor boat tours introducing electric-powered craft.”

And, don’t forget: “Masks, hand sanitizer and social distancing should be in every water recreational business model and plan for the coming season,” Paeno adds.


Jeff Lytle is the retired editorial page editor and TV host from the Naples Daily News. He now lives in Bonita Springs.