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The winter months bring some of the biggest RV and boat shows of the year to towns across America. These shows offer a unique opportunity to compare dozens of different makes and models in the same location. They also are a great place to learn about the latest equipment and accessories you can acquire to enhance your experience the next time you hit the road or the water. In addition, these shows typically offer educational experiences like fishing and destination seminars, as well as fun activities for the kids. For many adventure-loving families, attending their local boat or RV show is one of the highlights of the year.Whether you are in the market for a new RV, boat, marine engine, trailer, piece of electronics, gear, or accessory, you often can find a good deal for it at a show. Manufacturers and dealers typically offer “show pricing” to entice customers to make a buying decision on the spot. But many of the winter shows – especially mega-shows like the Florida RV Supershow and Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show – are so big and spread out you might miss out on finding the products and deals you are seeking if you don’t prepare for them in advance. Here are eight tips for getting the most out of your next show. 1. What’s on your wish list?  Start by making a list of all the products you’d like to see at the show. Consult enthusiast publications in print and online to learn about the latest new models and innovations. Think about electronics and gear that might improve your vehicle’s or vessel’s safety or performance. If you are shopping for your first RV, this blog can help you determine which type is right for you. If you are looking for your first boat, check out this article.  2. Make a game plan.  A week or two before the show, visit its website. Find the Exhibitor’s List and note the booth locations for each manufacturer or brand you want to see. Print out the map of the show and circle the booths you plan to visit. Then, chart a route that will take you to each booth without having to double back and waste time. With events like the Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show that have more than one location, plan to spend the morning in one location and the afternoon in another, so you won’t need to shuttle back and forth multiple times. 3. Time your visit.  Shows naturally are more crowded on weekends, so if you have the luxury to attend on a weekday, you will enjoy better access to the vessels, vehicles, and other items on your list. If you check the show’s website, you also may find discounted ticket offers for particular dates, especially if you are a veteran, first responder, or are bringing children along with you.  4. Contact a dealer.  If you are seriously interested in purchasing a particular brand of boat or RV at a show, go to the manufacturer’s website to find the local dealer. Call the dealership in advance of the show to see if it is offering any special show pricing. Ask if you can make an appointment to tour a particular model with the dealer during the show – but be sure to bring your patience. With all the foot traffic and activity at a major boat or RV show, it’s hard for anyone to adhere to a rigorous schedule. 5. Dress for success.   Before heading to the show, be sure to put on your most comfortable shoes as you undoubtedly will be getting your steps in! If it’s an outdoor venue, check the weather forecast so you can dress appropriately. If it is going to be sunny, wear a hat and pack sunblock. Check the show website to see if there are any restrictions on what you can bring with you, such as a large purse or backpack. Find out if you can take a canister you can refill at a water fountain to avoid paying show prices for bottled water! 6. Take a breather.   Check the show schedule and map in advance to find locations where you can take some time to relax and get off your feet. You might watch a seminar, enjoy a meal in the food court, or listen to music in the entertainment tent. Many shows also offer VIP tickets that include entry to a private lounge where you can find uncrowded seating and refreshments during the show.   7. Ask, “What comes with it”?  After completing your tour of the show, if you have found an RV or boat you are seriously interested in purchasing, come back for a second look. Ask the dealer what engine(s) and equipment are included in the price. Amenities like ski tow towers and sunshades are often upgrades. If you are considering buying a trailerable boat, ask if you can purchase the trailer with the vessel or need to visit a different vendor.   8. Protect your investment.    No RV, boat, or trailer purchase is complete without securing insurance coverage for our new acquisition. In advance of attending any recreational vehicle show, contact Newcoast for all your boat or RV loan and insurance needs. You also can consult with the Newcoast team in person at many major recreational vehicle shows around the country. Please see a list of winter 2024 shows below.Recreational vehicles can be high-ticket purchases, but if you do your homework in advance, you often can find valuable deals at the shows. And by working with Newcoast to secure financing and insurance for that dream boat or RV purchase, you will have the confidence of knowing your investment is well protected.

Have you been considering a loan to purchase the boat or RV of your dreams? One of the first things you want to think about is your credit score and how it affects your loan. As your financing specialist, Newcoast has answered some of the most common questions below: What is a credit score? A credit score is the numerical value of your credit history, the score evaluates a consumer’s borrowing history, and the probability that they will repay their debts. There are five main factors evaluated when calculating your credit score: 1. Payment history 2. Total amount owed 3. Length of credit history 4. Types of credit 5. New credit Your credit score affects your ability to borrow money as well as the cost of borrowing it. What is a good credit score? While every creditor defines its own ranges for credit scores, (for instance, many lenders think anything over 720 is excellent), here is the average score range: Excellent: 750 and above Good: 700 to 749 Fair: 650 to 699 Poor: 550 to 649 Bad: 550 and below What affects my credit score? There are five main factors that are evaluated when calculating a credit score. (1) payment history (accounting for 35%), (2) total amount that you owe (accounting for 30%), (3) your length of credit history (accounting for 15%), (4) types of credit (accounting for 10%), and (5) any new credit that you have (accounting for 10%). Each lender has specific criteria that they will request from the credit reporting agencies, based on the type of financing requested. How can I check my credit score? Newcoast recommends that you obtain a copy of your credit report and credit score at least once per year from www.annualcreditreport.com. You can also purchase your credit report and score directly from one of the three major credit bureaus, Equifax, Experian, or Transunion. It's always a good idea to regularly review your credit score, especially as you prepare to take out a loan for your dream boat or RV. Our professional team of loan experts are ready to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today.

For anyone considering the purchase of a boat or yacht, the best thing you can do to prepare for the process is to educate yourself on financing.  When in the discovery or learning phase, things may be a bit overwhelming, especially if you are a first-time buyer. To help ease any concerns, some essential things to consider before financing are details such as the loan’s annual percentage rate, or APR, the length of the loan, and the amount you have to use for a down payment. Those factors can change the total amount you will pay for the boat of your dreams. The more you prepare, the easier the process will be and the likelihood that your loan application will be approved. Before you start searching for your dream yacht, below are a few things to keep in mind to make the decision that is right for you:  1. Understand your Credit Status Like any other purchase requiring finance options, your overall credit standing can affect many of the loan details. A strong credit rating can positively affect the following and more:  The length of the loan The interest rate The amount you can finance Whether or not you qualify for a secured loan These days, there are a lot of ways to monitor and maintain your credit rating. Many credit cards offer services that can provide you with a monthly status report, ensuring you will know if your rating has gone up or down and why. Plus, you can get a free credit report once a year without impacting your overall credit score. Reports like these can also help you spot any issues in your credit history and repair them when necessary. Discrepancies are not unheard of, so don’t hesitate to question something negative on your credit report.  Remember, the stronger your credit rating, the better your loan terms will likely be.  2. Be Prepared and Know your Financial Position It’s always important to research and understand all the details surrounding large-ticket purchases, including your own financial position. Buying a boat or yacht can add unexpected expenses to any budget, so it’s crucial for you and the lender to know that you can carry those costs.  Your loan approval depends on the financing company’s understanding that you can repay the loan, so your creditworthiness may also come into play. Be sure to check your credit report carefully for any false or mistaken information that may need to be removed.  The more records you have up front, the easier it will be to estimate the loan terms you’ll qualify for and the amount you will need for the loan’s down payment. If you are uncertain about what is necessary, just ask! Knowledgeable agents are standing by to help every step of the way. To help prepare, click here to try out our loan calculator and get a clear picture of what’s on the horizon.  3. Understand Interest Rates and Loan Terms  If you need to borrow money to purchase your dream yacht, prioritizing your understanding of the loan terms is a must. Be sure to educate yourself on loan details such as by noting the following:  Interest rates and APR Fixed vs. adjustable rates Terms By understanding the relationships these have with each other can help you make the best decisions for your yacht loan terms.  4. Consider All the Options Carefully When financing any purchase, the amount you put down, the interest rate, and any additional costs will create the big picture about how much you’ll pay each month. A larger down payment can give you a smaller monthly commitment, but a shorter loan can increase that monthly amount.  However, for example, paying more principal per month to cut the loan length in half might make a lot of sense for some, while others might feel the interest rates are low enough that the extra funds are better put to work somewhere else.  Consider the effect the details of the loan has on the overall amount, such as on the number of payments and the ancillary costs like insurance and storage. Also, consider how the vessel’s size will affect your total costs.  Be sure you understand the loan costs, terms, and any other expenses associated with financing your dream boat. Be prepared, ask questions, and comprehend your commitment before diving in.  We Have Your Answers At Newcoast, we have the answers you need. Our financing team has decades of experience in the marine industry, and we can provide our clients with a 2-minute pre-qualification and loan approval in as little as 24 hours. We also offer competitive rates on up to 20-year loan terms.  Newcoast also provides insurance with the knowledge and experience to protect you once you’ve purchased your dream yacht. Visit our marine insurance page to learn more.  At Newcoast, we’ll get you moving and keep you protected along the way. 

Navigating the process of financing an RV or boat purchase can be confusing, especially if it's your first time. At Newcoast, we make your financing experience straightforward, removing any guesswork and providing you with the necessary information. To ensure a smooth process, it's essential to be prepared with the required documentation. Here's a simplified list of what you need: 1. Personal Information: Social security number or equivalent Driver’s license or state ID If not purchasing personally, provide trust details or business identification 2. Financial Details: For loan amounts above $250,000: List of assets and debts Proof of income for the past two years For loan amounts below $250,000: A simple credit application is all that is needed in most circumstances Breakdown of the Main Loan Requirements: 1. Credit: A good credit score and history are crucial for approval and lower interest rates Check your credit report for errors Consider a cosigner if needed 2. Purchase Type: Information about the RV or boat (year, make, model, price) Newcoast can facilitate purchases for private party transactions, brokerage, and dealerships—whether the boat/RV is new or used, we can assist in the closing. 3. Current Debt: Debt to income and payment to income ratios This is one of the of most important measurements all lenders will consider. Here at Newcoast, we will pre-calculate these figures for you to ensure the right lender is chosen. 4. Loan Type: Research and choose a loan type that fits your needs Loan terms vary between 7, 10, 12, 15, 20 and 25-year terms   5. Downpayment and Fees: Prepare for a downpayment ranging between 10-20% and associated registration/title fees 6. Lender: Newcoast is a leading loan originator with experienced finance experts We work with a network of quality lenders to offer competitive rates Call (866) 639-2627 or visit newcoast.com for personalized loan or insurance plans   By understanding and preparing these elements, you'll streamline the financing process and make informed decisions about your RV or boat purchase. Newcoast is a leading insurance and finance provider in the marine and recreational industry. Newcoast offers competitive and customized boat loans and RV financing options, as well as tailored boat insurance plans and RV insurance programs with robust carrier options, industry-leading experience, and access to world-class partners. To obtain a loan or insurance plan that’s right for you and your boating or RV lifestyle, call (866)639-2627 or visit www.newcoast.com.  

While you’re out on the water, there's no reason why your meals should be anything less than delicious. With a little creativity and planning, you can quickly whip up meals that will impress your crew and make other boaters who get a glance at your menu—jealous. Tips before you get started: Plan ahead: Decide what to make before you head out, and plan for the ingredients ahead of time or use what is already in your kitchen. Keep it simple: Stick to dishes that are easy to prepare, don’t have to be served right away, and use minimal dishware to prepare. Get creative: Use fresh in-season ingredients like summer fruits and vegetables to create light and refreshing dishes. Make cleaning up a breeze: Prepare recipes that require minimal cleanup with biodegradable supplies so you can relax and enjoy your time on the water. Check out these quick and tasty boating meals from Pinterest:   1. BLT Pinwheels These quick and easy pinwheels will be everyone’s favorite to munch on while soaking up the sun. With only a few ingredients, these are not only tasty but also easy to serve with little to no mess. Serving Size: 24 Ingredients: 4 oz of cream cheese softened 1/2 cup of mayonnaise 1 oz packet of dry ranch seasoning 2.5 oz package of real bacon pieces 2 Roma tomatoes diced 1 cup of romaine lettuce finely chopped 4 large flour tortillas Instructions: Dice the tomatoes and chop the lettuce. You want the pieces to be small, so they roll easily and don’t fall apart once cut. Add the cream cheese, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, and bacon to a bowl, and mix well. Add ¼ of the mixture onto each tortilla, and spread Sprinkle tomato and lettuce all over each tortilla. Roll the tortilla up, then wrap it in saran wrap. Refrigerate for 2 hours. Remove from the refrigerator, and cut into 1-inch sections, discarding the ends. Recipe: courtesy of Vickie at acrazyfamily.com 2. Summer Pasta Salad This cold and refreshing summer pasta salad is something eveyone can surely enjoy. Make this dish your own by swapping cheeses, adding in additional vegetables, or anything else your family will like. The best part is that this dish can be prepared in advance and will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 – 6 days if kept tightly sealed in an airtight container. Serving Size: 12 Ingredients: 16 ounces of pasta ¼ cup of lemon juice ¼ cup olive oil 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard 1 tablespoon minced garlic 5 ounces of feta crumbled 1 pint cherry tomatoes halved 6 leaves basil sliced thin 1/3-1/4 cup of your favorite Italian dressing Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: Cook pasta according to package instructions to al dente. Drain and rinse until cold water. Pour pasta into a bowl and add tomatoes, bell pepper, olives, red onion, and parsley. Pour the dressing over the top and gently toss to coat. Serve at room temperature or keep in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes. Recipe: courtesy of Julie Blanner at julieblanner.com 3. Antipasto Skewers These no-cook kabobs are perfect for a quick bite. Use what you have in your kitchen, buy pre-marinated items, and get creative! Your skewer can be what you make it. Serving Size: 8 Ingredients: 4 sweet banana peppers, cut in half 8 golden pepperoncini 8 artichoke hearts 8 black olives 8 marinated cherry tomatoes 8 marinated fresh mozzarella balls 8 cheddar cheese chunks 8 slices of salami 8 slices of prosciutto 8 slices of soppressata 8 wooden skewers Instructions: Take each ingredient and slide each one on the skewer. Depending on how many types of ingredients you chose for your kabob, you can repeat the same sequence again to fill up an entire stick. Refrigerate until you are ready to boat! Recipe: courtesy of Jenny Bullistron at honeyandbirch.com 4. Tuna Salad This popular dish is a no-brainer when it comes to a protein-packed easy meal on the water. Serve on crackers, bread, wraps, or even as a dip with veggies. There’s no stopping the potential of this family-favorite dish. Serving Size: 4 Ingredients: 12 oz of tuna in water (We recommend using sustainably caught tuna to minimize environmental impacts.) ½ cup finely chopped celery ¼ cup finely chopped onion ½ cup of mayonnaise 1 tsp mustard ¼ tsp salt ¼ tsp pepper Instructions: Drain and rinse the tuna thoroughly. Place all ingredients in a bowl. Mix until well combined. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Recipe: courtesy of Jennie Duncan at diaryofarealhousewife.com 5. Vegetable Pasta Salad Though this recipe might require a little more prep in the kitchen, you won’t regret spending extra time once you taste this healthy and savory recipe. Serving Size: 4 Ingredients: 1/2 pound of uncooked orzo 1 bell pepper, diced into bite-sized pieces 1 large zucchini, diced into bite-sized pieces 1/2 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved 1 small red onion, cut into bite-sized pieces 1 tablespoon of olive oil Salt and pepper to taste 1/4 cup of good-quality olive oil 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar 1/2 – 1 teaspoon of flaky sea salt to taste Optional: chopped fresh herbs Optional squeeze of lemon juice Instructions: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Prepare a large baking tray (I like to line mine with a silicone mat or parchment paper). Cook the orzo pasta according to the package directions. Once done, drain and set aside. If you’d like to serve the pasta salad cold, you can run the pasta under cold water to cool it down. Meanwhile, place all the veggies on the baking tray so that everything is spread out evenly. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper. Gently toss to coat. Roast in the oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the veggies are fork-tender. For softer veggies, bake for a few more minutes. Once the veggies are done, combine them in a large bowl with the cooked orzo. Drizzle on the ¼ cup of olive oil, vinegar, optional herbs, and additional salt. Toss to coat everything and ENJOY! Recipe: courtesy of Brita at foodwithafeeling.com Time to Eat! Get out on the water with your friends and family, enjoy great food, and make amazing memories this summer.

Boating is one of the best pastimes you can share as a family. It gives you the opportunity to spend time together in nature, away from the distractions of daily life at home. For many families, a passion for boating is something that is handed down from generation to generation, creating memories that children cherish for the rest of their lives. Since children typically don’t have the same level of boating experience as adults, it’s important to follow some basic safety procedures when they are a part of your crew. Here are four tips for boating safely with kids. 1. Life Jackets – It’s the Law.  Federal law requires all children under 13 to wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket whenever the boat is under way. State regulations vary and may mandate life jacket use for older kids as well, so be sure to check the age range in your area. However, the best way to ensure your children will be safe around the water is to have them wear their life jacket at all times during a boating outing, including when the boat is not in motion, and even when they are on the dock. Adults can set a good example by keeping their life jackets on as well. Make sure your child’s life jacket fits properly, both for safety’s sake and because kids are more likely to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) without complaint if it is comfortable. 2. Work on Their Swim Skills.  Whether it’s anchoring out in a quiet cove or spending the day on a sand bar, your boat is the perfect platform to launch watersports activities from swimming and snorkeling to wakeboarding and tubing. The kids can swim with their PFD on, but they will be safer and have more fun if they are competent and confident swimmers. If your children don’t already know how to swim, consider taking them to classes at the local YMCA or pool so they can hone their skills before going out in the boat. 3. Practice Sun Safety.  When kids are having fun on the water, sun safety is usually the last thing on their mind. Make sure they wear hats and consider dressing them in UPF 50+ sun-protective clothing. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher on children, regardless of their skin tone. If you are going snorkeling near coral, look for a reef-safe formula. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day according to the product’s directions and don’t forget to keep yourself and your crew well hydrated. 4. Keep Kids Engaged.  While you might be content to sit in the cockpit or on the sunpad of your boat for hours simply enjoying the view, most children have a short attention span. Pack a bag with books, waterproof toys, and portable games. Boating also provides a great opportunity to educate your kids about nature by identifying the birds, fish, foliage and shells you see during the day. Once the kids are older, start teaching them basic boating skills like tying knots and following your route on the chartplotter. This will help them to become able crew members and ultimately share your passion for boating. If you have children, few things in life are more rewarding than including them in your boating adventures. By taking a few extra precautions each time they join you on board, you can prepare them for a lifetime of fun on the water.

The Fourth of July is approaching, and there is no better way to celebrate this festive summer holiday than by getting out on a boat. Whether you prefer sailing peacefully into the afternoon or an adventurous powerboat cruise is more your style, there are endless ways to make Independence Day unforgettable.  Before the party gets started, be sure to check out our blog on Boating Safety Tips. Once you’re all set with everyone onboard and have taken the proper safety measures, you can let the festivities begin. Here are three great ways to celebrate July 4th onboard a boat.  1. Plan a Patriotic Picnic or Barbeque and Feed your Crew If you plan to drift out on the lake or visit some secluded beach, you might want to keep things simple and safe by serving cold or pre-prepared snacks and meal options. Cold cuts, egg, potato, or pasta salad, and simple options like fresh fruits or salads make great food selections for serving guests onboard. Add red, white, and blue to the mix with colorful frosted cupcakes or cookies. Get inspired by these 5 Recipes for Stress-Free Boating Meals.  2. Join a Boat Parade July 4th parades are a common sight in big cities and small towns across the country. However, in coastal locations, the marching bands and decorative floats are often replaced by boats. Whether the events are big or small, boat parade participants decorate their vessels with flashing lights, papier-mâché, mannequins, and even costumed crew members. Events may have a specific theme or are open to the captain’s interpretation, but the results are always entertaining. Check with local sources for information on start and finish locations, parade durations, and event rules. Many even include awards for the boat with the best, brightest, most creative décor, or the loudest. Just remember to use only biodegradable and ocean-safe materials that will not harm the environment or the creatures that call it home. 3. Find the Fireworks Independence Day would not be the holiday celebration it is without the flashing lights, colorful smoke, and thunderous report that accompanies a fantastic fireworks display. Since the water is quite possibly the safest place to set off rockets and other types that make up a great fireworks show, boaters are often treated to a front-row seat to the yearly spectacle. Some cities are well-known destinations for boaters looking to watch from the water. Some of America’s best boat-accessible fireworks shows are held in the following locations: Keep six extra 20-foot dock lines on board that are the same diameter as the primary set. That will allow you to tie off at a fuel dock that doesn’t have lines, tow in a disabled vessel, or secure the boat in an unfamiliar slip to ride out a storm. Additional lines will enable you to tie up practically anywhere, and when the trip is over, tying back up in the vessel’s home slip is a simple process. Patriot’s Point (Charleston, SC) - easy river access provides a great view Hudson River (New York City, NY) - terrific view of the NYC skyline while lit by fireworks Navy Pier (Chicago, IL) - watch from Lake Michigan as the Chicago skyline comes alive Casa Marina (Key West, FL) - a week-long festival of food and awards ends with a bang Lake Union (Seattle, WA) - 8,500 lb. display visible to boaters anywhere on the lake From watching fireworks from the middle of the lake to hosting friends and family with food onboard, these are some of the very best ways to have some red, white, and blue boating fun while celebrating July 4th on the water. Newcoast is a leading insurance and finance provider in the marine and recreational industry. Newcoast offers competitive and customized boat loans and RV financing options, as well as tailored boat insurance plans and RV insurance programs with robust carrier options, industry-leading experience, and access to world-class partners. To obtain a loan or insurance plan that’s right for you and your boating or RV lifestyle, call (866) 639-2627 or www.newcoast.com. Links: https://www.discoverboating.com/resources/ways-to-celebrate-july-4th-on-a-boat https://www.premierboating.com/5-ways-to-celebrate-the-4th-of-july-on-your-boat/ https://www.marinemax.com/connect/lifestyles/holidays/fourth-of-july/top-10-boating-fireworks-destinations-in-the-us-for-4th-of-july https://www.discoverboating.com/resources/fourth-of-july-fireworks-by-boat https://www.boatingmag.com/view-fireworks-boat-2013/ https://www.google.com/search?q=americas+best+4th+of+july+fireworks+for+boaters.&rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS938US939&oq=americas+best+4th+of+july+fireworks+for+boaters.+&aqs=chrome..69i57.19987j0j15&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#ip=1 https://www.boattrader.com/research/10-best-fourth-of-july-boat-party-destinations/ https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/holidays-celebrations/g32811678/things-to-do-on-july-4th/ https://www.usharbors.com/tax_event/4th-of-july/ https://thetampariverwalk.com/events-news/events/fourth-of-july-boat-parade.html https://www.usharbors.com/tax_event/boat-parade/  

After a long, cold winter, when the air temperature begins to warm up and the days start getting longer, it’s natural to feel the urge to take your boat out of winter storage and get back on the water as soon as possible. Don’t forget to check your boat insurance policy before you do, however, as recommissioning your boat early may have an impact. “In states north of Virginia, you likely are going to have a layup period in your boat insurance policy, unless you are a hardcore angler and keep your boat out of storage so you can fish during the winter,” said Newcoast Director, Boat Insurance, Jake Hill. Many boat insurance providers, including Newcoast, offer a discount on your premium for the months that your boat is laid up in winter storage. A typical layup period typically runs from November 1 to April 1. “If you decide you want to take your boat out of storage a couple of weeks early, be sure to notify your insurance agent. You will need to pay the premium for that period. Your agent can calculate it for you,” Hill said, adding, “The same is true in the fall, if you decide to delay putting your boat into winter storage past the start of the layup period.” Before you head out on the water this spring, be sure your boat is properly commissioned for the new season. You probably will need to make an appointment with your boat service facility in advance since spring is a very busy time of year. Spring commissioning, including having your engine(s)’s fluid levels checked, inspecting all onboard equipment to be sure it is functioning correctly and your safety gear is up to date and in good condition, is just as crucial as having your boat properly winterized in the fall.  If you do decide to get a jump on the spring season by commissioning your boat early, there are a few important cold-weather boating safety precautions to consider. While the air may be warm, the wind can be chilly and the sun will set earlier than during the summer boating season, bringing colder temperatures. Make sure that you and your crew are all dressed warmly. Wearing extra layers of clothing will give you the opportunity to adjust your level of comfort throughout the day. In the early spring when the water temperature is still cold, it is essential that everyone on board your boat wear a life jacket at all times. Before heading out, discuss with your crew the procedure you will follow should anyone accidentally fall overboard, since hypothermia can set in quickly at this time of year. Keep a throwable life preserver handy, check to be sure your boat’s VHF radio is operational and keep your cellphone nearby in case you need to call for help. You also may want to bring along towels and a change of clothing in a plastic bag. You probably won’t need them, but if you should, they will be much appreciated by the person who falls in! When the weather is fine, early spring can be one of the most enjoyable times of the year to take your boat out on the water, especially after a long, dark winter. By notifying your insurance agent in advance and making sure you take the proper safety precautions on board, you can enjoy that “sneak preview” of the upcoming boating season with confidence. Newcoast is a leading insurance and finance provider in the marine and recreational industry. Newcoast offers competitive and customized boat loans and RV financing options, as well as tailored boat insurance plans and RV insurance programs with robust carrier options, industry-leading experience, and access to world-class partners. To obtain a loan or insurance plan that’s right for you and your boating or RV lifestyle, call (866)639-2627 or visit www.newcoast.com.

Hurricane season officially begins June 1st in the Atlantic Basin and runs through the end of November. Now is the best time for boat owners – particularly those with boats located along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts – to form a plan of action to follow if a hurricane or other named storm should threaten the area. Here are five basic tips to help ensure you will be ready the next time the forecast calls for a major storm. 1. Make sure your boat is insured.  If your boat or engine should be damaged or destroyed by wind, debris or flood waters during a storm, the resulting repairs or replacement could cost you far more than an annual boat insurance policy. It’s important to protect your boat just as you would any other valuable asset, such as your home or car. 2. Review your insurance policy’s requirements.  When it comes to hurricanes and other named storms, different marine insurance carriers have different requirements. If you live in Florida, for example, some companies may write into the policy that you must move your boat out of state during hurricane season in order to maintain your insurance coverage. On the other hand, some carriers won’t require you to move the boat as long as you have a good hurricane plan in place.  “It’s largely dependent on the insurance company and the value of the boat,” said Jake Hill, Newcoast director, boat insurance.  Another line item to doublecheck in your policy is the amount of the deductible it specifies if your boat is damaged or totaled. “Most marine insurance policies will have a separate higher named-storm deductible,” he said. 3. Make a formal hurricane plan. Whether or not your insurance company requires it, it’s important to have a formal, written plan in place for your boat when hurricanes and other named storms threaten. Be sure to share your plan with your insurance provider. “Insurance companies always need to know the exact mooring location where the boat is going to be during hurricane season,” Hill said. “If it is a full-service marina with a dockmaster, security and staff who will be there 24/7 watching it, then insurance companies are more inclined to allow the boat to stay there.” If you plan to have your boat hauled out when a storm is forecast, check your insurance policy to see if the provider will pay for some or all of the haul-out. “Depending on your insurance policy, if it won’t reimburse at 100%, many of the companies will share in the cost,” Hill said. 4. Designate a backup hurricane plan executor.  If you are a snowbird or live far from your boat’s location, designate a responsible person who is nearby to carry out your hurricane plan for you. In some cases, your insurance company may require this. “If it’s a larger vessel, say worth more than $500,000, and the insured is an absentee owner and the boat is not kept at a full-service marina, then insurance companies will want to see an absentee-owner questionnaire indicating who is going to be watching over the boat and responsible for prepping it if and when a named storm strikes,” he said. 5. Remove your valuables from the boat.  Typically, mounted electronics, appliances and equipment that are permanently installed in your boat are included in the vessel’s value and are covered by your insurance policy. “But if there is a named storm approaching it’s common procedure to remove any kind of loose items, any personal effects, all the canvas and the cushions beforehand,” he said.  When it comes to hurricanes and other named storms, the best policy is to hope for the best but be prepared for the worst. Having a good boat insurance policy and a solid hurricane plan in place can ensure your boat will survive the storm, or it does not, you will be able to recoup some or all of its loss. Newcoast is a leading insurance and finance provider in the marine and recreational industry. Newcoast offers competitive and customized boat loans and RV financing options, as well as tailored boat insurance plans and RV insurance programs with robust carrier options, industry-leading experience, and access to world-class partners. To obtain a loan or insurance plan that’s right for you and your boating or RV lifestyle, call (866)639-2627 or visit www.newcoast.com.