Get the most from your new powerboat from day one!

There’s nothing like the thrill of skimming over the waves at the helm of a fast powerboat. And the thrill is even greater when you’re driving the boat that’s right for you and handling it with skill and confidence. This third edition of Getting Started in Powerboating gives you all the information you need to select the boat of your dreams, maneuver it like a master, and understand the rules and conventions of powerboating.

Thoroughly updated with new developments and technologies, this new edition of the bestselling guide in its field covers all powerboats—big and small; single-engine, twin-engine, outboard, and sterndrive; trailerable and nontrailerable. You’ll discover the difference between a planing hull and a displacement hull, learn to compensate for the effects of wind and current, and master high-speed techniques. Plus this third edition features new photographs that illustrate key techniques and maneuvering sequences, including turning, backing, docking, and more. Must-have information includes:

• The latest on four-stroke outboards
• Jack plates, jet drives, and bow thrusters
• Piloting and navigation basics
• Anchors and anchoring techniques
• An updated market survey of popular powerboats
• State licensing requirements