Older outboards give plenty of boaters reliable service, but can require a knack to get started.

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Outboards start like a car; just tilt ‘em down and turn the key. At least newer ones do. But it wasn’t always that way. Time was when you had to know how to start your engine. Carbureted two-strokes can be fussy, especially when cold.

Now, there’s still plenty of carbureted two-strokes in service. Maybe you own one, or maybe you're considering a used boat that’s fitted with one. In either case, here’s a basic 5-step starting procedure you can use to fire-up that oldie but goodie on the transom.

Cooking Safely Onboard

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Now here’s what I like to see. The galley aboard Beneteau’s Swift Trawler 34 is U-shaped, making it easy for the cook to brace against the furniture while the boat is underway. If it gets real bumpy, there’s a sturdy pole to grab. The cooktop is fitted with potholders, which serve as well against wakes in an anchorage as they do for swells on open water.

Pull-up cleats, like those installed aboard the platform of this Cruisers Yachts Cantius cruiser, prove useful in a variety of ways.

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While entertaining, or walking between the boat and the dock loading-up, a pair of cleats mounted on the swim platform corners comes in handy. They allow you to move the crossed docklines down and aft so that you don’t have to high-step over them or scooch under them to gain access to the cockpit. And on the hook, they make a great place to belay a line for a float that you can stream aft for the safety and convenience of swimmers, especially if there’s current in your anchorage. Flush-mounted pull-up or pop-up models are ideal for this service.

Five Tips for Storm Coverage

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There are five things you need to investigate about boat insurance before you buy it. Thanks to the folks at Allstate for numbers 1, 2 and 3. Numbers 4 and 5 are things we think you should consider.

1. Watercraft Liability Insurance: Let’s say your boat sinks at the dock during a storm and releases fuel into the water. You would be responsible and possibly fined. Watercraft liability insurance can cover those costs, which can be astronomical.