5 Best Marine Navigation Apps SmartPlug July 10, 2020 9:00 am Looking for the best marine navigation app to use in your next adventure? We got you! Getting lost during a fishing or boating trip is one of the scariest nightmares a person can have. This is why a reliable navigation system is a must for any trip. But the thing is, these navigation systems can cost you a fortune. Good thing there are now marine navigation apps that you can use as an alternative. However, there are tons of apps available in the App Store. And it is hard to decide which ones are worth trying. So, here are our top picks! 1. CMAP CMAP is an app where you can plan your next sailing trips hassle-free. It gives you information about the weather, traffic, and tracks in the water. Using this app, you can prepare the safest route to take before your cruise. You can also do it both on your phone and PC. And the best part? You can download all your plans so that you can access them all offline. With this, having a poor data connection will not be a problem.You can download it here for free! 2. Polaris GPS Navigation Are you searching for an all-in-one navigation app that you can use for marine and land activities? Then this is the app for you. Polaris GPS Navigation is easy to use even for beginners who want to go on an adventure both on land and water. Aside from the compass, maps, and trail features, this app has a satellite map view. This feature gives accurate illustrations of your current location. There’s also an anchor alarm you can use that will tell you if you have already set your anchor at your preferred 3. Boating HD Marine & Lakes This app gives a nautical chart that you can use for cruising, fishing, sailing, diving, and more. There’s even a sonar chart if you prefer using that. You also get to make your own markers for the routes you are going to create on the map. It also informs you of the weather and tide conditions before and during your trip. Download the app for free here. 4. i-Boating I-Boating is an app that provides offline nautical charts, inland river navigation charts, and lake contour maps. You can use this app for various water activities like sailing, fishing, kayaking, and more. The app has a route assistance feature that will guide you according to the path you created. I-Boating even gives out tide and current predictions to help keep you from harm. Go and check out this app by clicking here. 5. SailFreeGPS This simple GPS app that was also made by a sailor has various functionalities that will help you on your trip. It displays your current position, course, speed, and distance. There’s a man on board button that allows you to memorize the position of a crew member that has fallen off. And, it includes graphs that show the current and tide conditions. Give this app a try and click here. Going on a cruise is fun, especially if you are going to do it at a place you are not familiar with. But this can also lead to disaster if your trip will only consist of you endlessly searching for the correct route to take. So, we hope that through the marine navigation apps we found, this will not be a problem. And if you want to know more about other GPS or navigation apps, then you can read all about it on Joy of Android. When you hit the water on your next adventure, don’t forget your SmartPlug! The safe, simple and most secure solution to power your watercraft. Browse the entire marine lineup here. Do you use other marine navigation apps that were not included on this list? Let’s talk about it in the comments down below. Image References: https://unsplash.com/photos/eUMEWE-7Ewg https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.isea.Embark&hl=en https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.discipleskies.android.polarisnavigation&hl=en https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=it.navionics.singleAppMarineLakesHD&hl=en https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.skiracer.nautical_astore_lite&hl=en https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.frederic.sailfreegps&hl=en
Boating During COVID-19: Tips for Safe Social Distancing
Boating During COVID-19: Tips for Safe Social Distancing SmartPlug July 7, 2020 9:00 am As Coronavirus restrictions begin to ease, we understand many boaters are eager to get back out on the water and enjoy the summer season. Many wonder -is boating during the pandemic safe? The answer is yes, so long as you continue to follow social distancing guidelines. Here are our top tips for safe social distancing while boating: Limit Passengers: The people you bring on board. Passengers should only be those you have been quarantining with. Maintain Distance: This is key to safe boating. This includes on the water, at the dock and when fueling up. Avoid rafting up and beaching your boat closely to others. Sanitize: When in social situations like the marina or fuel dock, continue to wear your mask. Be sure to sanitize or wash hands often in the event you may have touched shared surfaces at the dock or fuel pump.Don’t forget to give your boat a nice wash down too! Take into consideration, the interior and exterior as well as frequently touched surfaces. Each state has different regulations in effect as to where you can launch your boat and visit. Be sure to check the latest news in your area so you can properly prepare before you head out. If you have a boating emergency, water towing assistance fleets remain open to assist if needed. Boating is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and sunshine in a socially distant way. Follow our tips to ensure a smooth boating season. Please remember to be safe and enjoy!
The Importance of Safety When You Live Aboard Your Boat
The Importance of Safety When You Live Aboard Your Boat SmartPlug June 17, 2020 9:00 am A boat is an intricate vessel and while it can lend itself to a wonderful lifestyle, it’s imperative to prepare, organize and have a plan before moving on board full-time. Before you commit to living aboard your boat, it’s important you make a commitment to safety as well. Safety First Whether you enjoy boating as a pastime or commit to the full lifestyle, safety should always come first. Your boat should be equipped with CO2 and smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and personal flotation devices. Monitoring the basic boat functions is critical as well – checking the battery, bilge, and fluid levels is a must on a regular basis. Ensure your shore power connection is secure and safe. Check for signs of wear and tear, corrosion and burns. For the safest, easiest connection, install SmartPlug and never stress about your electric again. If you will be living with children or pets, ensure their safety needs have been prioritized as well. Essential Preparations Moving from a home or apartment to a boat takes a lot of organization. Keep in mind that space is limited – closets, cabinets and drawers are a fraction of the size you are used to. It’s important to declutter before bringing your items on the boat. Have a plan for what is essential to your lifestyle and find a place for it to live on your boat so that you can safely move around the cabin and exterior. Maybe consider a storage unit for items you don’t regularly need. Plan in advance to ensure a safe living arrangement and to avoid the stress come moving day! Costs Living on a boat doesn’t necessarily mean your cost of living will be cheaper. Some of the expenses you will incur including boat mortgage payment, boat insurance, slip fees, maintenance, gas, waste management, food and water. You may also need to consider WiFi connectivity as well as cable/satellite TV. Do you live on your boat full time? We’d love to hear your best tips –tell us in the comments!
SmartPlug Expands Its Marketing Team
SmartPlug Expands Its Marketing Team SmartPlug June 9, 2020 9:00 pm SmartPlug Systems, leading manufacturer of safety-focused power delivery products for boats, RVs and specialty vehicles, has hired Roger Dillon for its newly created marketing coordinator position. Ron Bailey, global VP of sales and marketing, made the announcement. Dillon is taking on much of SmartPlug’s creative and marketing portfolio. As such, he is responsible for all print and digital collateral, customer service, warranty fulfillment and developing programs to enhance the user experience. Having been a key contributor to many renowned brands, Dillon has extensive experience in marketing, social media, packaging, corporate branding and trade show management. He has a Bachelor of Arts in fine arts from Washington State University. “I’m excited about this new opportunity with SmartPlug,” said Dillon, “and being part of the team that’s pioneering the change to a safer, more secure and easier-to-use shore power system.” He works out of SmartPlug’s Seattle headquarters. Contact SmartPlug Systems, 2500 Westlake Ave N., Ste. G, Seattle, WA 98109-2262. 206-285-2990; Fax: 206-285-2981. Info@sp2024.10web.cloud; www.sp2024.10web.cloud; Facebook; Twitter.
Best Must-Have Boat Accessories
Best Must-Have Boat Accessories SmartPlug June 8, 2020 9:00 am To get the most enjoyment out of your boat, you need the best accessories! Some accessories can enhance your fishing trip, whereas others will make the boat more convenient. All, however, will increase your happiness every time you take to the water. Here are the best boat accessories to add to your boat: Fishing Features If you’re an avid fisherman, then you’ll love these custom fishing features:• Outriggers – These are long fishing rods that allow you to place many lines in the water. It is useful in catching open water fish and can be used with both lures and live bait. Radar – With good radar, you can be aware of weather conditions. This information is important to maintain complete safety over water. Fish-Fighting Chair – When a giant fish bites, you need to be ready with the right equipment, including a fish-fighting chair. This provides you the most effective leverage to pull in your trophy. Garmin Display Screens – Garmin featured some of the finest display screens for boats. When you add this technology to your boat, you will have all the information about the condition of the water in an organized and easy form. Stabilizer System – Being on the open ocean can cause your boat to rock and sway, which can cause sea overflow. To resolve this issue, a stabilizer system will be installed on your boat, decreasing rocking and increasing comfort. If you’re heading into the open ocean, ensure you’ve got a stabilizer system. Leisure & Entertainment Features If you’re planning on using your boat to entertain your friends and family, consider adding the following: Tow Hook – Whether the boat is not moving forward or you want to tow it behind a yacht, having reliable tow hooks will be a major convenience. Onboard Grill – Having a grill on your boat is an amazing feature to serving delicious meals no matter where your adventure takes you. Satellite Radio – Sometimes you just need to have fun on the boat. Few things are as important to entertain your guests as a good sound system, including access to music. Make sure that everyone on board can listen to their favorite music with this accessory. Ski Pylon – A ski pylon lifts a ski rope three feet higher than the boat’s deck. This keeps it out of the water when a skier is being pulled behind the boat, and is a safe, necessary accessory for water sports. No matter how you decide to enjoy your boat, ensure that is has the safety shore power connection available on the market. SmartPlug features a multi-point locking system and solid sleeve connection that provide 20x more electrical contact. The secure, simple design is sure to revolutionize your boating experience. Do you have a favorite must-have boating accessory? We’d love to hear about it – tell us in the comments!
SmartPlug – Proudly Made in the USA
SmartPlug – Proudly Made in the USA SmartPlug May 19, 2020 5:12 pm In these trying times our country is facing, we are proud to share that all SmartPlug products are made in the USA. From our supply chain to our headquarters, we are entirely based in America. Help the National Economy We believe that keeping our company American made will not only help our national economy but will also help to provide jobs for future generations. Supporting local businesses helps to strengthen our communities as well as our nation. Quality Control We pride ourselves on our reliable, world-class solutions. Having our products made on our own soil allows us to control the quality and ensure we are offering our customers the best possible version of the products. Reliable Shipping With our products made in the USA, the shipping process for our customers in the states is simpler and more reliable. At SmartPlug, we’re proud to do our part to keep our country moving and keep our teams employed. With so much uncertainty and so many industries being affected by the Coronavirus, we will continue to do our part and help keep our teams employed. Be safe everyone!
Retrofit with A SmartPlug to Enhance Safety and Save Money
Retrofit with A SmartPlug to Enhance Safety and Save Money SmartPlug May 14, 2020 8:13 pm For boat owners with shore power connections, the part that’s the biggest potential problem is the easiest to change: an outdated twist-type connector. With a Retrofit Kit from SmartPlug Systems,it’s fast and simple to upgrade to the safest and most thoroughly modern 30A or 50A marine power supply equipment available, while reusing the cable and saving money. Traditional twist-type shore power plugs have thin blades with very little metal-to-metal contact, resulting in a poor electrical connection. Over time, corrosion further degrades this contact. This causes high resistance, resulting in overheating and the potential for arcing and fire. The revolutionary SmartPlug is different. Its robust pin and clip design provides over 20 times more contact area to make it the safest solution available. Far easier to use than clumsy twist-type connectors that require aligning an L blade and threading a locking collar, the waterproof SmartPlug pushes straight in. Its asymmetrical design makes it foolproof to use, even one-handed in dimly-lit conditions and difficult inlet positioning. A four-point locking system ensures the plug stays connected, no matter the strain due to wind, wave or boat movement. Installing a SmartPlug Retrofit Kit is an easy DIY project with common household tools. The boat side has the same cutout and mounting hole pattern as twist-type inlets; a video is at youtu.be/M7MPd8Cd7dg. The plug is equally simple to install; a video is at youtu.be/9IcbCUKfy9s. The kit includes a black, white, grey or stainless steel inlet and connector. Contact SmartPlug Systems, 2500 Westlake Ave N., Ste. G, Seattle, WA 98109-2262. 206-285-2990; Fax: 206-285-2981. Info@sp2024.10web.cloud; www.sp2024.10web.cloud; Facebook; Twitter.
How to Prepare Your Boat for Spring
How to Prepare Your Boat for Spring SmartPlug April 13, 2020 9:00 am Spring is officially underway! For boaters across the country, that means it is time to prepare your boat for the upcoming season. At SmartPlug, we always stress the importance of being safe on your journeys. Prevention is key and we recommend taking the time now to ensure you don’t run into problems during the boating season. Pre-Launch Inspection Check engine compartment for excess water or leaks Inspect propellers for signs of wear including dings, pitting and cracks Check fluid levels: engine oil, power steering, coolant and fuel Inspect every visible hose, especially at hose clamp connections. Look or feel for cracks, splits, or weaping liquids on the underside of the hose Ensure all lights onboard are operating correctly Inspect safety equipment: smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, first aid kit, USCG Kit and floatation devices After-Launch Inspection Inspect cooling system to make sure it’s operating properly Monitor engine temperature to ensure there are no signs of overheating Take a safety refresher course to be sure you are aware of the latest safety precautions, navigation protocols, or on-water requirements Guarantee a Safe Boating Season Overheating and poor electrical conductivity are the two greatest causes of shore power failure and fires. SmartPlug is here to guarantee a safe season with our marine product offerings: Connectors: Our female to male connectors offer superior performance and ease of use. Our connectors offer 4 points of mechanical cord restraint, color coded wire guides and a water resistant cordseal. Inlets: Our inlets provide 20X’s more electrical contact area eliminating the overheating conditions seen with outdated twist-type connectors. The solid sleeve connection and weatherproof seals makes them the safest options on the market. Cordsets: Our cordsets feature a cool blue LED Power indicator light that glows when power is on. Available in a 25′ & 50’ lengths, our cords have tinned wire for long life and corrosion resistance, andSuperFlex cover materials to protect against UV and abrasion. Before you head out this season, we hope you’ll take the proper steps to ensure a safe boating season. Follow our tips and feel free to reach out with any questions you have. Happy boating!
Top RV Camping Destinations for 2020
Top RV Camping Destinations for 2020 SmartPlug March 15, 2020 9:00 am As RV enthusiasts, we’re always up for exploring a new camp destination. We’ve gathered some of the top RV and Airstream camping destinations across the US and are excited to share them with you! Here are the top RV camping destinations on our radar for 2020: Northeast DelawareWater Gap KOA – East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania Situated in Pocono Mountain ski country, the Delaware Water Gap KOA puts you in a region filled with a variety of activities and places to explore. Just a few hours from Hershey and New York City, you can find something to entertain each member of the family! Not to mention, the Delaware Water Gap is exciting all in itself! Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground – Vineyard Haven, Massachusetts Enjoy an RV camp on an island? Yes, please! Martha’s Vineyard Family Campground is the only RV campground on Martha’s Vineyard. Enjoy the quaint villages, scenic beaches and picturesque sunsets that only this island can offer. Southeast Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort RV Park – Lake Buena Vista, Florida If you’re a Disney fan, then camping at Fort Wilderness Resort must be on your list! Enjoy all the comforts of your RV or Airstream while visiting the “happiest place on Earth!” Major perk– you can experience all the amenities the resort has to offer, including the pools! Tallulah Gorge State Park – Tallulah Falls, Georgia If you’re looking for a wow factor, Tallulah Gorge State Park is the place to go! The 1,000-foot-deep gorge is a site that just might take your breath away. Hike the trails to take in incredible views of the river and waterfalls. The park is also home to other forests and mountains to explore as well. Northwest Mammoth Campground – Yellowstone National Park – Wyoming Mammoth is Yellowstone’s only year-round campground! While surrounded by high sagebrush steppe, there is plentiful sunshine throughout the camp which is great for those you utilize solar power. With wildlife viewing and nearby fishing, hiking and hot springs, this campground is a must-visit when traveling the Northwest. Pacific Beach State Park – Moclips, Washington If you’re more of water lover, than Pacific Beach State Park is perfect for you! Situated on 2,300 feet of shoreline, you can take advantage of all the water has to offer! Enjoy the fresh air, soak up the sun or even make a fire on the beach. Southwest Hole in the Wall Campground – Mojave National Preserve – Cima, California If you enjoy peace and quiet, then the Hole in the Wall Campground is the place to be! Referred to as “the middle of nowhere,” this camp is one of two at Mojave National Preserve. Enjoy all the great outdoors has to offer with ample hiking trails and backpacking opportunities. Devil’s Garden Campground – Arches National Park –Moab, Utah Devil’s Garden is the only campsite within the Arches National Park! Take in the striking rock formations from within camp or set out to explore the beauty of the Arches. This campsite is situated just so that you can take off hiking as soon as you exit your RV. Truly a one of a kind experience! If you’ve ever visited these camps, we’d love to hear more about your experience! Tell us in the comments and don’t be shy to share your favorite RV camping destinations too!
SmartPlug Debuts White 30a Cordsets
SmartPlug Debuts White 30a Cordsets SmartPlug March 9, 2020 9:00 am When walking through a marina, seeing distinctive SmartPlug orange cables indicates boat owners that are savvy about shore power safety. But some prefer that their electrical cords blend in with the boat deck or dock surfaces. For them, there’s the new 30A/125V White Cordset. It has all the impressive features of the standard SmartPlug system, but in a pleasing traditional marine color. It debuted at the Miami International Boat Show, Feb. 13–17, booth C349. The revolutionary SmartPlug replaces an outdated, 83-year old invention: the twist-style shore power connector. With double side-locking clips and an asymmetrical shape, it’s easier to use. The unique design allows the assembled plug and inlet to absorb the force of an impact; there is no load or stress on the electrical connection. With more than 20 times the metal-to-metal contact, it provides greater protection against corrosion, resistance and overheating—the leading causes of power failure and boat fires. Available in 25′ and 50′ lengths, the 30A White Cordset retains the high-visibility orange plug ends for safety and ease of locating. A cool blue LED power indicator light glows when electricity is flowing. Contact SmartPlug Systems, 2500 Westlake Ave N., Ste. G, Seattle, WA 98109-2262. 206-285-2990; Fax: 206-285-2981. Info@sp2024.10web.cloud; www.sp2024.10web.cloud; Facebook; Twitter.