Firstmate Controls

Just like with cars and trucks, there are a plethora of options when it comes to boats. Depending on your location, the body of water you'll be taking it out on, and the types of activities you plan to do will determine the type of boat that's right for your needs. We at Firstmate Controls love ALL boats! As long as we can get out on the water, we don't care if it's a row boat. We're game! Here are just a few of many types of boats we typically see on the rivers and lakes when we go out. Bowriders Bowriders tend to be a great family boat, with room for typically eight or more passengers spread between the cockpit and the helm. That added real estate not only adds passenger space, it creates two distinct areas for socializing. These boats can be used for entertaining friends on a shoreline cruise, joining the crew at the nearest cove or sandbar, towable watersports, stopping at your favorite waterfront eatery, even fishing! Cabin Cruisers Cabin cruisers have...

The leaves are beginning to change colors, the temperatures are dropping, and the rivers and lakes are becoming less congested as boaters wind down for the year. While you may be getting ready to stash away your summer flip flops, there’s no reason your enjoyment on the water has to end! With the feeling of fall in the air, we thought we’d delve into what we love about the fall season. Perhaps it'll entice YOU to get back out on the water and enjoy a little fall boating yourself! Picturesque Landscapes We all love being on the water in the hot summer heat and sunshine… but there’s something really special about cruising amongst the rich orange, red and yellow trees fall is known for, too! In most places, there will be a noticeable difference in the look of your surroundings in the coming months, so that’s something to look out for. Some boaters will even take their fall excursions a step further and plan a destination trip specifically to see these beautiful autumnal changes! ...

Every boat owner should have a good understanding of how their boat works, the function of each part of their vessel, how to address issues when they arise, and have a basic understanding of  boating safety . One thing that many boaters don't know, however, is common boating terminology. And some of these terms you really should know without having to put much thought into it if you're going to own a boat. Why? Because being able to properly communicate with those on your boat in case of an emergency situation is very crucial. Plus, in the event that you need to call for help, knowing common boat terms will come in handy when speaking with dock staff and even the coast guard when the need arises. So here are 15 common boating terms every boat owner should know: Common Boating Terms 1. Bow Refers to the front end of a boat. (You can remember "bow" as the front, because when you take a bow, you're leaning forward.) 2. Stern Refers to the rear end of a bo...

Make boating easier and more enjoyable by revolutionizing your hoist! Not sure what products will be best for properly  accessorizing a dock ?  Firstmate Controls  has some featured products that you'll love. We make shopping for dock accessories and  remote control systems  easy. We don't just have remote control systems, we also carry parts for servicing systems as well.  Check out our website  for more products that we have in stock. Manual Boxes Features: Full Port Valves  Handle Stops Standard Remote Features: Emergency Handles  Remote Controlled  Safety Valve Drivers Generation 3 Pro Features:  Faster Operation  Even Easier to Use  Emergency Handles  Remote Controlled  Safety Valve Drivers  Smart Controls  Lift Monitoring  Programmable Positions  Remote Lighting Option from Key Fob: Dock Lights, Ambient or Cove Theatre Lighting   *Features includ...

Boats are already a pretty expensive hobby without considering unexpected maintenance issues that might arise. These days everyone is trying to conserve money, and we don't blame them. We do the same, but in our own little ways. We're of course not going to forego our favorite pastime activity just to save a few dollars, but we do have some suggestions on how to prevent spending money unnecessarily by preserving the life of your boat engine. Take a look at the four tips  Firstmate Controls  recommends to make your boat engine last longer. 1. Idle Speed to Warm It Up  Don't get too eager to take off so quickly. Long idles are actually good for our engines. Cold oil doesn’t flow well compared with warm oil. That resistance to flow isn’t as good at protecting engine components, and believe it or not, that resistance actually puts a strain on things like the oil pump and the mechanisms that drive it. Avoid premature wear by letting the engine warm up to operating temper...