Questions to answer:

• What are the fundamentals of boating that you need for a good time as the captain of the ship?
• What types of accessories are available to enhance and enrich your experience while on the water?

Alright, so we have already hit on the proper etiquette for all the ‘gilligans’ you have joining you for the day.  But remember you are the captain of the ship and need to head your day of boating in a fun and safe manner. 

Now if you have not already, be sure to look at our new user guide since we are really only covering off here on what you need for a good time Wake Outlaws style. 

Ultimate gear:
No matter your budget you can accumulate a lot of gear whether it is makeshift or purchased over your time as a boat owner.  Here are some recommendations to get the day started like a true WakeOutlaw:

Ballast:

• Did someone say ballast?  Whether it is your favorite VAB (Voice Activated Ballast) or cooler full of goodies; or if you wanna sack out your boat for a day of riding ballast is the essential must have.
• Options for ballast:
• Old fashion style:  Invite 12 – 15 of your closest largest friends on your boat (Be sure to check the maximum weight capacity of your boat for number of people and lbs. you can have…we do not encourage you to be unsafe)
• High Tech style: 
• The following are varieties of professional fat sacs you can utilize on your boat:
• Pro – X Series
• Launch Pad
• Use the ballast as directed by your boats weight limit.

Sounds:

• This ranges from tunes to speakers.  Let’s start at the easiest, the tunes.  Everyone has their soundtrack to ride to that gets them groovin’ when they are in the sweet spot or riding 70 ft back.  Be sure you have your boat tricked out with the latest “soundtrack” that will get you and your crew flyin’ for the day.  If you need some help, check out our Indie music section.
• Also, encourage riders on your vessel to bring their MP3 players to increase the variety of tunes.

Boards & Gear:

• Gear:
• Life Vests: Be sure you have an old spare riding vest for those that may be new to the sport or boating in general.  See the “new user guide” for essentials of life vests that you should already have on your boat and for additional detail as to types.
• Handles:
• Surf Rope Handle
• Boarding Handle
• Beginner Boards (Surf/Board/or Skate) whatever your poison:
• Don’t be too fast to sell your old beginner board.  This is a perfect opportunity for you to have a spare board to teach new riders or have if you are sensitive about loaning our your intermediate to professional boards.

Captain your Boat:
One of the most important parts of being the captain is ensuring your run a “smooth ship”.  You don’t need a tight ship because hey, then where is the fun in that???  But you at least need to ensure that your guests are respecting the rules of your ride.  What are some of the guidelines we suggest?

• Read How not to be a douche-bag  these are simple rules of the water your guests should be respecting.  Then ask yourself, would you invite this person back again?  If the answer is no…then lay down the law…if the rider is new…help educate them so they don’t make a faux pas.
• Are they assisting riders into and out of the water, reducing the time you need to be away from driving the boat?
• Are they being respectful of the ride?  You need to define the level of respect which is determined by the level of maintenance you want to have with your boat. 
• How helpful are they as the day draws to a close?  Be sure those that can’t contribute gas money; can contribute their time in helping wrap up for the day.  Whether you are docking it at the marina or loading back onto your tow.  Take the time to have people help you with closing up for the day.  They don’t want to be a douche anymore than you want them to be.
• Respectful of fellow riders and boaters?  Everyone has that person that may get a bit carried away during the day.  Remember it is your boat that they are riding in and is getting represented on the water.  If you have a member of your boat acting in a careless or way that endangers a fellow guest or boater, intercede immediately.

All in all, ensure the day is fun for everyone including your self.  Remember that boating is a group sport and an investment.  If you have tips or ideas you want to add, send an email to wakechick@wakeoutlaws.com.

Submitted by Wakechick